Charles Leclerc and his wife, Alexandra Saint Mleux, are expecting their first child. Ferrari does not expect the Monegasque driver to miss a Grand Prix because of this. However, GPblog understands that a potential replacement has been named as a precaution.

Leclerc will not become Formula 1 world champion this season either, but it is set to be a wonderful year for the Monegasque driver nonetheless. The Leclerc family is about to welcome a new addition. As the exact timing of a birth cannot usually be predicted, there is, in theory, a possibility that the baby could arrive during a Grand Prix weekend.

Although Saint Mleux's due date is not known, Ferrari does not expect Leclerc to miss a race because of the birth of his first child. The Monegasque driver is also said to have indicated that he does not expect to sit out a race.

Beganovic would replace Leclerc at Ferrari

Of course, that possibility can never be ruled out entirely. In that case, Ferrari will need to name a replacement for Leclerc. GPblog understands that Dino Beganovic would step in as Lewis Hamilton’s teammate. The Swedish driver, who has Bosnian roots, has yet to compete in a Grand Prix, but has taken part in several free practice sessions as a rookie.

Beganovic is currently a Formula 2 driver, is still part of the Ferrari Driver Academy this season. Next season, he will be promoted to become the Scuderia’s full-time test, development and reserve driver. So, should Leclerc be unavailable because of the baby’s arrival, Beganovic could already step in this season.

By naming Beganovic as a potential replacement, it is also clear that Oliver Bearman should not expect a temporary return to Ferrari. The Briton is under contract with the Italian team, but he is racing for Haas for a second consecutive season.

The American team will therefore not have to race without the increasingly impressive youngster. Antonio Giovinazzi, who is listed as a Ferrari reserve driver, would also miss out on the chance to fill in temporarily.