Chapter Text
Max Verstappen's driver's room wasn't very big, nor was it very well equipped. In fact, there was only a not-large wardrobe for clothes, a small table and a plush couch that seemed to invite everyone to take a breather. Charles Leclerc lay on the couch, his breathing finally steadying after the panic attack that had struck him like a tidal wave in the Red Bull garage. Exhausted, he had fallen into a deep, restless sleep, his mind a battlefield of frustrations and fears.
Christian Horner sat nearby, watching over him with a mixture of concern and contemplation. He had seen many drivers struggle with the immense pressures of Formula One, but witnessing Charles's vulnerability had struck a chord. It's like a repeat of 2022 when he lost the championship because Ferrari couldn't do their job. It was hard for him then. The young Ferrari driver was immensely talented, yet the weight of expectations and recent strategic blunders had pushed him to the brink.
A soft knock on the door interrupted Christian's thoughts. Max entered quietly, his usually confident demeanor replaced by a worried look. He glanced at Charles, then back at Christian.
„Christian, what's going on?" Max asked in a hushed tone. „I heard from the mechanics that Charles had a panic attack. Is he okay?"
Christian stood up and gently guided Max out of the room, closing the door behind them. „He's okay now, Max. He just needed some time to calm down and rest. It’s been a tough few races for him, and it all caught up with him today."
Max nodded, his concern evident. „I get it. The pressure can be insane, especially when things don't go your way and it's not even your fault.. Is there anything I can do?"
Christian placed a reassuring hand on Max's shoulder. „You've done enough by letting us use your room. I'll talk to him when he wakes up. For now, let's give him some space to recover."
Max hesitated for a moment, then nodded. „Alright. But let him know I'm here if he needs anything."
Christian watched as Max walked away, then returned to the room. Charles was still asleep, his breathing even and calm. Christian sat back down, reflecting on the challenges that came with being in such a high-stakes environment. The pressure to perform, the relentless scrutiny, the constant battle against not only opponents but also one's own demons.
Half an hour passed in silence, the room a cocoon of tranquility. Eventually, Charles stirred, his eyelids fluttering open. For a moment, he looked disoriented, then his eyes focused on Christian, and he remembered where he was.
„Christian... I'm sorry," Charles said, his voice hoarse. „I didn't mean to cause all this trouble."
Christian shook his head. „There's no need to apologize, Charles. You needed help, and I'm glad I could be there for you. How are you feeling?"
Charles sat up slowly, rubbing his eyes. „Exhausted, but better. I just... I don’t know what happened. One moment I was in the debriefing room, and the next... it felt like the world was closing in on me."
Christian leaned forward, his expression serious yet compassionate. „It's okay to feel overwhelmed. You've been under a lot of pressure, especially with the way things have been going at Ferrari lately. Panic attacks can happen to anyone, Charles. It doesn't make you weak."
Charles looked down, his fingers tracing patterns on the couch. „I feel like I'm letting everyone down. The team, the fans, my dad... Jules. I promised I'd win with Ferrari, and now it feels like that dream is slipping away. The championship is getting further away from me with every race. Again."
Christian's eyes softened at the mention of Jules Bianchi, Charles's godfather and inspiration. „Jules would be proud of you, no matter what. He knew how tough this sport is. He would understand the struggles you're facing."
Charles's eyes filled with tears. „I just want to do him proud. I want to win the championship with Ferrari, but... sometimes it feels like it's not worth it. The strategies, the mistakes... it’s so frustrating."
Christian sighed, understanding the turmoil within Charles. „Ferrari is a legendary team, but they're not infallible. You've given them everything you have, and that’s all anyone can ask for. But you need to take care of yourself too. You can't drive your best if you're constantly on the edge."
Charles wiped his eyes, his resolve hardening. „I know. I just don't want to walk away. I feel like I owe it to Jules to see this through. Even if it seems impossible."
Christian nodded. "Your loyalty and determination are admirable, Charles. But remember, it’s not just about honoring Jules’s memory by winning. It’s about being the best driver and person you can be, no matter where you are."
Charles took a deep breath, the weight of Christian’s words sinking in. „You're right. But it's hard to see that sometimes when things keep going wrong."
Christian leaned back, giving Charles a moment to collect his thoughts. „It’s important to have perspective. And to know that there are always options. You’re a phenomenal driver, Charles, and you have the talent to succeed anywhere."
Charles looked at Christian, a flicker of curiosity in his eyes. „Are you saying...?"
Christian smiled gently. „I’m saying that the offer I gave you two years ago still stands. We believe in your potential, and we would be honored to have you with us. But the decision is yours, and yours alone. Whatever you choose, know that you have support."
Charles sat in silence, contemplating the weight of the offer. He had always dreamed of winning with Ferrari, but the allure of a team that consistently fought at the front was hard to ignore. Yet, his loyalty to Ferrari and his promise to Jules pulled him in the other direction.
„Thank you, Christian. That means a lot," Charles finally said. „I need to think about it, but for now, I think I need to focus on getting my head straight and finishing this season strong."
Christian nodded in understanding. „Take all the time you need. We’re here if you ever need to talk or need support in any way. Just remember, you’re not alone in this."
Charles managed a small smile, feeling a sense of relief he hadn't felt in weeks. „Thanks, Christian. I really appreciate it. And please thank Max for me too, for letting me use his room."
Christian stood up and extended his hand. „Will do. Take care of yourself, Charles. We'll get through this together."
Charles shook Christian’s hand, feeling a renewed sense of hope. As Christian left the room, Charles leaned back on the couch, closing his eyes for a moment. The road ahead was still uncertain, but he knew he wasn't facing it alone.
As he drifted off into a much-needed rest, the thought of Jules watching over him brought a small, peaceful smile to his lips. No matter what the future held, he would continue to fight, both for his dreams and in honor of those who had inspired him.
Charles resting in Max’s room, feeling a sense of support and solidarity that he hadn't felt in a long time. The future held many possibilities, but for now, he could breathe easily.
***
As Christian exited the room, he found Max waiting in the corridor, leaning against the wall with a pensive expression. The young driver straightened up as Christian approached, concern etched on his face.
Max and Charles shared a unique bond on the starting grid, a blend of fierce rivalry and genuine camaraderie that set them apart from their peers. Though not the closest of friends, they had an unspoken understanding and respect, forged through years of battling wheel-to-wheel. Max had always been the one closest to Charles, both literally and metaphorically, offering a nod of encouragement before races and a shoulder of support during tough times. Their relationship was a testament to the duality of Formula 1 – competitors on the track, yet allies in the shared journey
„How is he?" Max asked.
Christian gave a reassuring nod. „He’s better. He needed some rest, and he's thinking things through. It’s been a rough time for him."
Max sighed, running a hand through his hair. „I can imagine. Ferrari’s been all over the place with their strategies. I’d be frustrated too."
Christian placed a hand on Max's shoulder, their relationship evident in the casual but supportive gesture. „You know, Max, this sport can be incredibly taxing, not just physically but mentally. You've had your fair share of tough times, and you've always pulled through. I’m proud of how you've handled everything."
Max gave a small smile, appreciating the fatherly tone in Christian’s voice. „Thanks, Christian. It means a lot coming from you. And I get what Charles is going through. I’ve been there. If he needs to talk or anything, I’m here."
Christian nodded, grateful for Max’s maturity and understanding. „I know you are, Max. And that’s why you’re not just a great driver, but a great teammate. We’ll give Charles the space he needs, but it’s good to know he has people like you in his corner."
Max looked down the corridor, deep in thought. „Do you think he’ll join us?"
Christian shrugged, a smile playing on his lips. „That’s up to him. But whether he does or doesn’t, what’s important is that he need to find his balance again. This sport is as much about mental strength as it is about driving fast."
Max nodded, absorbing Christian’s words. Their relationship had always been built on mutual respect and trust, with Christian guiding Max through the highs and lows of his career, much like a father would.
„Well," Max said, breaking the silence, „I’m heading to the hotel. Let me know if there’s any change."
Christian watched as Max walked away, feeling a sense of pride. Max had grown so much, not just as a driver but also as a person. The father-son dynamic they shared had only strengthened over the years, making their partnership in the high-pressure world of Formula 1 all the more resilient.
Returning to his office, Christian couldn't help but reflect on the complexities of their world. The glamour and excitement often overshadowed the immense pressure these young men faced. But in moments like these, the humanity of the sport shone through.