Charles Leclerc is the F1 Fantasy MVP in Austin

Charles Leclerc on the United States Grand Prix podium (Photo: Greg Kallman/FanAmp)AUSTIN, Texas — An unlikely hero on Sunday, Charles Leclerc claimed P2 at the United States Grand Prix and led all drivers with 53 fantasy points. Earning the honor of FanAmp's F1 Fantasy MVP, Leclerc was the 2X Boosted driver on just 8% of teams in the Global League Top 500 — a huge differential for players that kept their faith in a driver with a terrific record in Austin.Ferrari announced four upgrades on Friday, the most of any constructor, headlined by changes to the floor body, floor board, and sidepods. This significant aerodynamic change was underscored by Lewis Hamilton on Thursday, who said, "We have a very, very small upgrade this weekend. It's less than a tenth. It's like half a tenth."The results on track confirmed the package was a significant step forward. After topping the time sheets in all three practice sessions, sportsbooks and F1 Fantasy simulations had high hopes for Ferrari entering the weekend, with Leclerc reaching as high as P2 in most models ahead of Qualifying.The Ferrari duo disappointed in Q3, with Leclerc qualifying P4 and Hamilton right behind him in P5. Both drivers were outqualified by Isack Hadjar, who said during Free Practice 3, “I don’t know where is my car. I don’t know what’s happening.”On Sunday, Leclerc overtook Hadjar in the opening sequence and chased down Lando Norris and Max Verstappen to secure his third straight podium in Austin.Leclerc impressed after his second pit stop, posting several flying laps on his new Hard tires. He set the Fastest Lap several times, earning the award for the fourth time this season. His impressive overtaking and surprising form in the Grand Prix also earned him Driver of the Day.His six overtakes were tied for the sixth most on Sunday, and contributed to his best F1 Fantasy performance since his win at Silverstone.After the race, Leclerc discussed his renewed confidence in his car. "These cars are very specific and unique, and I feel like, over the last two or three races, I've unlocked something again in terms of driving, and particularly the set-up with my driving."When asked about the possibility of winning races, Leclerc expressed optimism. He told reporters, "Whether it's in Singapore or here in Austin, we were quite close, so I'm confident that we'll have a shot at winning a race before the end of the season."Looking ahead to the Mexican Grand Prix, Leclerc's form in recent seasons suggests another strong F1 Fantasy performance awaits. He stood on three straight podiums at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, with a career-best P2 in 2025.