Formula 1 fans have more than just racing news to celebrate this weekend.
Ferrari star Charles Leclerc has officially announced his engagement to 23-year-old model and influencer Alexandra Saint Mleux.
The couple shared the exciting news on Instagram, posting romantic snapshots captioned “Mr and Mrs Leclerc,” complete with their miniature dachshund, Leo, who is fast becoming a fan favorite in the F1 paddock.
A Love Story That Began in Paris
Leclerc and Saint Mleux first sparked romance rumors in early 2023 when they were spotted together at Paris Fashion Week in March.
Their relationship became more public later that year, with the couple attending Wimbledon hand-in-hand, confirming their status as a high-profile pairing in the sporting and fashion worlds.
A Ring Worth Every Penny
The engagement ring has certainly turned heads. Alexandra’s dazzling oval-cut diamond sits on a platinum pavé band, estimated at 5 to 6 carats.
Laura Taylor, a jeweller specializing in engagement rings at Lorel Diamonds, told the Daily Mail that the piece could easily be valued at $525,000.
“The diamond is exceptionally bright, of top-notch quality,” Taylor said, noting that it is worth every penny of the Formula 1 star’s reported $125 million net worth.
Leclerc’s High-Profile Past Relationships
At 28, Leclerc has been in the public eye not just for racing but also for his relationships.
He previously dated Italian model Giada Gianna for four years before splitting in 2019 and then architect Charlotte Sine until December 2022.
Leclerc described his split from Sine amicably, saying, “Charlotte and I have shared so many great moments, and she will always be a very special person to me.”
Keeping Romance Out of the Spotlight
Leclerc and Saint Mleux have generally preferred to keep their romance private.
However, the couple has appeared together at public events, such as the red carpet premiere of the F1 movie in New York last June.
Leclerc even jokingly admitted in October that Saint Mleux often borrows his clothes while he travels for races, making him overpack to prepare for every occasion.
Leo the Dachshund Steals the Spotlight
The couple’s beloved miniature long-haired dachshund, Leo, is almost as famous as they are.
F1 rival Alex Albon once joked that Leo lives a more luxurious life than most drivers during the racing season.
Leclerc himself calls Leo his “best friend,” noting that the pup has become a familiar face in the paddock and even doesn’t require a race pass anymore because everyone knows him.
Back to Racing Soon
While this engagement is a personal high point, Leclerc’s professional life resumes soon.
He will be back behind the wheel for Ferrari at the Brazilian Grand Prix in Sao Paulo next weekend, carrying both his racing focus and a heart full of celebration.