Charles Leclerc admitted emotions were running high as he completed his first test day as a Ferrari driver in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday.
The Monegasque made an impressive debut by posting the fastest time across the two days, even if the Scuderia was the only front-running team to attempt relatively fast laps on the new Pirelli tyres.
It was a first taste, however, that will only continue to raise expectations ahead of Leclerc’s big moment next season and the 21-year-old couldn’t help but get caught up.
“Of course it was emotional because driving a Ferrari is special and because this was a day I had been waiting for, for so long without being sure if it would ever happen,” he said.
“I am pleased about that and with the work we did. We got through all our programme which centred on comparison testing between this and next year’s tyres.
“For me, it was important because I also got to know the team better, although some were no strangers to me given my time with the Ferrari Driver Academy.
“Over the next few weeks, I will work to be in the best possible shape and to learn from everyone in the team and my teammate. I can’t wait for next season to start…”
Neither can we Charles, neither can we.