Leclerc, who began Saturday’s 24-lap sprint in ninth position, faced fluctuating weather conditions. The race started under intermediate conditions but concluded on a drying track.
In the middle of a divide between those drivers who chose to stay out on intermediate tyres and those who swapped for slicks, Leclerc was amongst the latter group. However, he confessed to being “significantly off the rhythm” with slicks on the wet track.
The driver from Monaco fell from the top 10 to finish 12th, trailing the Red Bull victor Max Verstappen by 50 seconds.
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“Currently, whenever the conditions are semi-dry, semi-wet with slicks, I’m lagging significantly,” admitted Leclerc. “We must analyse this because it’s the third consecutive race where we face such conditions and I continue to struggle.
“It seems like there is something about my driving style that isn’t helping the car and leading to a loss of confidence. Subsequently, I’m finding it extremely challenging. It’s disappointing, but I am committed to working harder than ever to improve in these conditions as soon as possible.”
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari SF-23, Lando Norris, McLaren MCL60
Photo by: Mark Sutton / F1 Flow Images
When asked by F1 Flow.com to clarify his primary concern, Leclerc responded, “It’s primarily the balance towards the end of braking, or at the corner entry, where I struggle the most. Especially at high speeds, I’ve had a few near misses where I almost lost control of the car and faced significant struggles.”
Leclerc will get another opportunity in Sunday’s main grand prix, where he qualified second, just half a tenth behind Verstappen in his upgraded Ferrari. He expects the race to stay dry, which would enhance his chances for a podium finish.
“Indeed, a podium is achievable. However, claiming victory is a different matter as I anticipate Red Bull and Max to be more competitive, but a podium is certainly possible,” Leclerc stated. “If the conditions are completely dry or entirely wet, I know we are competitive, and I feel confident. But it’s in these mixed conditions where we are faltering.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Charles Leclerc’s Struggle in Mixed Conditions
Why was Charles Leclerc struggling in the F1 race?
Leclerc was struggling due to the changeable weather conditions in the race. He was unable to match the pace with slick tyres on a semi-wet track.
What was the result of Leclerc’s struggle with mixed conditions in the F1 sprint race?
As a result of the challenging conditions, Leclerc dropped out of the top 10 to finish in the 12th position, 50 seconds behind the race winner Max Verstappen.
What is Leclerc’s main issue according to his own analysis?
According to Leclerc, his primary problem is maintaining the balance of the car towards the end of braking or at the corner entry, especially at high speeds.
Does Leclerc have a plan to improve his performance in mixed conditions?
Yes, Leclerc stated that he is committed to working harder than ever in order to perform better in mixed weather conditions.
What are Leclerc’s prospects in the upcoming main grand prix?
Leclerc has a good chance to finish on the podium in the upcoming main grand prix, given that he has qualified second on the grid. However, he expects Red Bull and Max Verstappen to be more competitive in the race.
More about Charles Leclerc’s Struggle in Mixed Conditions
- Charles Leclerc’s Profile
- Understanding F1 Tyres and Weather Conditions
- Latest F1 News
- Max Verstappen’s Profile
5 comments
Bit of a letdown for ferrari fans…leclerc can do better, jus needs to find the balance in mixed conditions. On to the next race!
Man, feelin for Leclerc. Wet track with slicks is tough, hope he sorts it out soon.
Its a rollercoaster ride in F1, 1 day youre on the podium, next day youre trailing. i’m sure leclerc will figure it out, he’s a great driver.
you can’t blame it all on the weather, Leclerc needs to up his game. Verstappen was in the same conditions and look where he ended up!
Good to see Leclerc owning up to it and working harder, thats the spirit! Looking forward to seeing him bounce back.