Charles Leclerc's Story Behind His Pokémon Obsession

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We’re just weeks away from the 30th anniversary of the release of Pokémon Red and Blue. If you managed to miss it during the big gaming event this week, The Pokémon Company International has just dropped a new ad titled 'What’s Your Favorite'. Featuring a line-up of stars like Lady Gaga, Trevor Noah, Charles Leclerc, Jisoo, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Lamine Yamal, and Young Miko, each partnered with their chosen Pokémon.

We spoke to Leclerc about what Pokémon means to him, his favorite way to interact with the franchise, his involvement in the campaign, and a lot more. Read his interview below and stay tuned for updates on the 30th anniversary of Pokémon, especially leading up to Pokémon Day on February 27.

The Pokémon Company International

What drew you to join the 30th anniversary of Pokémon?

Pokémon is a brand I truly love, and it had a huge part in my childhood. The brand inspires young people around the world, and collaborating with a brand that has brought so much joy for 30 years feels incredibly special.

You're featured in this campaign alongside icons from various fields. What does it mean to be part of the same list as them, in your personal opinion?

Pokémon is very inclusive; it brings together fans of all ages, backgrounds, and interests. For this campaign, they brought together people from vastly different worlds. Being part of that group is a huge honor, and it feels amazing to be connected through something we all loved since childhood.

“Being part of that group is a huge honor, and it feels amazing to be connected through something we all loved since childhood.”

Pokémon is a cross-generational brand. What does it represent to you?

To me, Pokémon represents playfulness, excitement, and imagination. It’s a world full of characters that captivate you, stories that stick with you, and memories you share with others. I grew up with Pokémon, just like many people around the world, and that’s what makes this 30th anniversary celebration so meaningful.

Still remember the very first Pokémon that left a lasting impression on you?

Pikachu, of course. In those early years, it really captivated our imagination. But that’s the beauty of Pokémon – there are so many diverse characters that each person can find one they feel close to. The Pokémon world is rich and creative.

You’ve chosen Arcanine as your partner for this campaign – what made this Pokémon feel like the obvious choice for you?

It's fast and loyal – two qualities I really admire. Speed is a big part of my life, both as a passion and as a necessity, so that connection felt immediate. Besides that, Arcanine is caring and protective, and it reminds me of my much larger dog, Leo, which made this choice feel even more personal.

“It’s fast and loyal – two qualities I really admire. Speed is a big part of my life, both as a passion and as a necessity, so that connection felt immediate.”

Are you more drawn to Pokémon's power, personality, or design?

Honestly, it’s all three. Pokémon is a world that’s incredibly creative; there’s something for everyone. If I had to choose, I'd say personality and design are most important to me. I also love the names – they’re really funny and clever.

According to you, why is Pokémon still so relevant and loved 30 years on?

Pokémon is fun, inclusive, and incredibly rich as a world. There are so many diverse characters and so many ways for people to interact with it. It’s one of the few brands that can talk to anyone, regardless of age, and that’s why it remains incredibly iconic.

Many fans enjoy Pokémon in different ways – through games, trading cards, anime, collectibles, and more. How do you prefer to enjoy Pokémon?

For me, it’s always been through cards. Collecting them was a big part of my childhood, and there are so many strong memories tied up with that: opening packs, finding new Pokémon, and sharing those moments with friends. Those experiences really stick with me, and to this day, they remain very special memories for me.