David Beckham 2022 Miami Grand PrixGetty images

Beckham plays football with Formula 1 driver LeClerc ahead of Miami Grand Prix

David Beckham put Ferrari driver LeClerc through his paces with an impromptu game of football before Sunday’s Miami Formula One Grand Prix.

The former England captain, now part-owner of MLS side Inter Miami, was among a galaxy of stars watching the race, which was being held in Miami for the first time.

Beckham spent some time pre-race walking through the paddock and after visiting the Ferrari garage decided to have a kickabout with LeClerc, who was preparing to begin the race on pole position.

Article continues below

Watch David Beckham play football with Charles LeClerc

Speaking to Sky Sports about the race coming to Maimi, Beckham said: "I think it’s great for everybody. Bringing the race here has been incredible. The excitement around Miami has been incredible.

"Everyone talks about the show [Drive to Survive] and the excitement that has brought to F1 especially in the US. So I think today is going to be incredible. Miami is Miami. It is an entertainment city and a sporting city.

"I think the race will be close. With [team principal] Christian [Horner] and Red Bull and Ferrari it is going to be a tight one and an exciting one."

It proved to be a frustrating afternoon for Leclerc though, with world champion Max Verstappen overtaking early on his way to a third Grand Prix win of the season.

Further reading

Advertisement