Formula 1 returns to the Shanghai circuit with a fierce internal battle at Ferrari, where Charles Leclerc has set victory as his main goal for Sunday’s race. The Monegasque driver will start from fourth position on the starting grid, just behind his teammate, Lewis Hamilton, who secured third place in the qualifying session.
Read more F1: Norris sees McLaren progress, but admits disadvantage to Mercedes
Despite not achieving the ideal position on the starting grid, Leclerc revealed that his strategy was designed for the long term. The Ferrari driver explained that the setup chosen for his car prioritizes race pace over single-lap performance. This tactical decision demonstrates the Italian team’s confidence in seeking a significant result in the Grand Prix.
“The setup I chose should work better in the race, tomorrow the goal is to win,” Leclerc declared in an interview with Sky Italy after qualifying. The Monegasque admitted he couldn’t put together a perfect lap and acknowledged that the Chinese track has never been one of his favorites throughout his career in the category.
Still on his performance at the Shanghai track, Leclerc was sincere about his historical difficulties at the circuit. “In qualifying on this track I am really bad, it’s not like I’m not trying, but after so many years I have to accept that it’s simply the case,” the driver explained, highlighting the team’s evolution relative to their rivals.
The Monegasque also highlighted the positive points of the weekend so far, noting the reduction in the gap to Mercedes. “What is certainly positive is that we went from eight tenths behind Mercedes to three tenths, although Russell had problems, so we don’t really know where he could have finished with a clean session,” Leclerc analyzed.
Read more F1: Antonelli makes history with record pole in China
Regarding the direct battle with his teammate, Leclerc praised Hamilton’s performance. “On this track, being just a few thousandths behind him is not bad, although the goal is obviously always to be the best Ferrari driver. He did a better job than me and deserved third place,” the Monegasque concluded.
For his part, Lewis Hamilton also remains optimistic for the race, even while acknowledging the challenge of overcoming Andrea Kimi Antonelli’s Mercedes, who will start from pole position. The seven-time world champion believes that factors such as pit stop strategy, the start, or unforeseen race circumstances could create opportunities for Ferrari to fight for the win.
To stay in contention for the top positions, Hamilton emphasized the need for precise driving and careful tire management. The British driver knows that consistency will be key to trying to unseat the Silver Arrows’ favoritism and secure a good result for the Maranello team on Sunday.
Read more Bahrain and Saudi Arabia expand the history of cancelled F1 GPs. See list
