Leclerc learned twice as much fighting Alonso in Spain

Charles Leclerc believes that the battle he had with Fernando Alonso during the Spanish Grand Prix was a huge learning experience for him. The young Ferrari junior driver has impressed the Formula One paddock so far in his debut season.

"It was great to fight with Fernando," he said. "In Baku we fought quickly on different strategies, here we were on the same strategy. 

"It's always an honour for me to fight with such a big name in F1. I learn twice more fighting with him than other drivers, so it was great. 

"To be honest in the helmet you don't think you're fighting with Fernando Alonso. 

"When I put on the helmet every driver is the same for me, trying to keep them behind like any other." 

"At the end it was very difficult to keep him (Alonso) behind."

Leclerc has scored all but two of Sauber's points this season and scored a very impressive sixth place in Baku.