On Sunday November 2, in an Instagram post that has over 6.3 million likes at the time of writing, Charles Leclerc announced his engagement to long-term parter Alexandra Saint Mleux.
A familiar face in the paddock, Alexandra is often seen cheering on her Ferrari-driver partner Leclerc from the garages. But beyond the world of F1, Alexandra is an art historian, influencer, and fashion icon in her own right.
So, who is the future Mrs Leclerc?
Alexandra’s early life
Born in Calais, France, in 2001, Alexandra has both French and Mexican roots. She pursued a degree in Art History at the prestigious Ecole du Louvre, where she specialised in the 20th-century art, studying the works of artists including Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keeffe, Andy Warhol, and Henri Matisse.
Before her relationship with Charles Leclerc brought her into the F1 spotlight, she kept a modest online presence, where she occasionally shared moments from her life and travels while studying in Paris.
One of the couple’s first public appearances was at Wimbledon in 2023, where the pair sat with friend Pierre Gasly and his partner, Francisca Gomez. And the rest, as they say, was history.
How Alexandra is making a name for herself
Known for her polished highly styled online presence, Alexandra maintains a carefully considered approach to social media. Her posts often highlight her interests, such as fashion, art, and travel, as well as appearances at events with friends and fellow paddock regulars, including Rebecca Donaldson, partner of Carlos Sainz.
Her passion for art history continues beyond her studies, and is evident on her dedicated Instagram account, @alexandramalenart, where she shares artwork and exhibitions that resonate with her. Professionally, she serves as Art Coordinator & Public Relations lead at Kamil Art Gallery in Monaco, reflecting her commitment to the art world.
Alongside her art career, Alexandra has become increasingly recognised within the fashion space. She has collaborated with brands such as Meshki, Rhode, and Nina Ricci, and has appeared in publications such as Vogue, People Magazine, and ELLE.
In the ELLE interview, Alexandra promoted her charitable fund, Corazones Unidos, which supports children across Mexico by providing access to quality education. Here, she spoke about the importance of giving back and explained that social media has given her “a sense of independence”, and that with that came a desire “to turn gratitude into action”.
The acknowledgement of the privilege that comes with her platform, and her commitment to using it for a positive impact, has resonated strongly with fans who admire both her talent and her purpose-driven outlook.
Art imitating life: Alexandra’s top fashion moments
Alexandra is undoubtedly a fashion force to be reckoned with. Her style is effortless, chic, and elevated. Her fashion sense is the perfect mix of aspirational and attainable; you could imagine yourself wearing something similar at half the price. Alexandra also uses fashion to pay homage to the location she is in.
She regularly nods to local tradition or takes inspiration from cultural icons such as Frida Kahlo or Grace Kelly, weaving her art-historian’s perspective into her approach to fashion. Here are some of her top fashion moments so far.
The apple of her eye: Leo Leclerc
No story about Charles and Alexandra would be complete without mentioning their dog, Leo. The miniature long-haired dachshund joined the couple in April 2024 and has since become a familiar face in the paddock and on social media.
Whether he’s running about the paddock on a race weekend or relaxing at their home, Leo is very much a member of the Leclerc-Saint Mleux family, even playing a small role in Charles’ proposal!
Here are some of our favourite Paddock Pup moments.
The story of Alexandra and Charles’ engagement
After nearly three years of dating, Charles proposed in a romantic candlelit setting surrounded by red roses. The proposal included some thoughtful and personal touches – even Leo was part of the moment, adorably sporting a tag announcing “Dad wants to marry you!”
Since the announcement, the news has been met with joy and well-wishes from fans, friends, and others in the paddock. Drivers such as Carlos Sainz, Oscar Piastri, Esteban Ocon, and team mate Lewis Hamilton have all publicly congratulated the couple.
