Ferrari's Formula 1 pairing of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz experienced an unexpected pre-race drama when their private jet was forced into an emergency diversion en route to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
The Scuderia stars were travelling from Nice to Baku ahead of this weekend's race when their aircraft developed a technical issue mid-flight. Pilots made the decisive call to divert to Trabzon in Turkey, where the jet landed safely.
Mid-Flight Drama Forces Unscheduled Landing
According to aviation sources, the issue was related to the aircraft's pressurisation system, prompting the precautionary landing. Both drivers and their accompanying personnel disembarked without incident while engineers assessed the situation.
"It was definitely an unexpected start to the race weekend," an insider close to the team revealed. "Safety is always the priority, and the pilots made absolutely the correct decision. The drivers remained calm throughout."
Race Preparations Disrupted by Travel Chaos
The diversion caused significant disruption to the drivers' carefully planned schedules. With first practice sessions beginning on Friday in Baku, every hour of preparation is crucial for the competitive Ferrari team.
The incident highlights the intense travel demands facing modern F1 drivers, who criss-cross the globe throughout the marathon season. Private jets have become essential for maximising limited time between races.
Team Confirms Drivers' Safe Arrival in Baku
A Ferrari team spokesperson later confirmed: "Following the technical issue with their original aircraft, alternative travel arrangements were made. Both Charles and Carlos have now arrived safely in Baku and are focused on the race weekend ahead."
The Monegasque driver Leclerc will be hoping to put the travel disruption behind him as he seeks to build on his strong performance in Australia, while Sainz looks to continue his consistent points-scoring form.
