After Iran’s initial strike on Bahrain, authorities closed the nation’s airspace, effectively grounding flights across large parts of the region. Mercedes, McLaren and Pirelli are now working together to explore every available option to bring their personnel home or ensure they can travel on to the Australian Grand Prix, although — much like the many tourists currently stranded — departing the country remains impossible for the time being.
Sources close to the situation indicate that safely repatriating team members is the overriding concern. However, the contingency plans being evaluated are intentionally being kept confidential for security purposes.
At the same time, all three organisations recognise that assisting Formula 1 teams and drivers in leaving the country is not currently a top priority for local authorities.
Photo: Race Pictures
What had initially seemed like speculation has since gathered real momentum. A subtle but telling change on Instagram — with the Ferrari driver’s partner updating her name to Alexandra Leclerc — has all but confirmed that the ceremony has taken place, even in the absence of an official announcement.
The pair first went public during the Monaco Grand Prix weekend in May 2023, when Alexandra was repeatedly spotted alongside Leclerc throughout the event. From that point on, they became a regular sight in the paddock, evolving into one of the most recognisable and well-liked couples on the Formula 1 scene.
Charles Leclerc and Alexandra Saint Mleux