Leclerc expressed his dissatisfaction with Sainz’s aggressive overtaking maneuver during the first qualifying session, stating that it was not the ideal approach. He acknowledged that his own radio message may have been overly aggressive due to the rush of adrenaline in the heat of the moment.
Both drivers admitted that they had overreacted, attributing their actions to the intense pressure and tension of the session. Leclerc clarified that the decision to swap positions was predetermined, with each driver having priority in different races. He chose to be in front this time, but due to the tight timing, Sainz decided to overtake. Leclerc emphasized that the incident had no impact on the overall outcome and would be discussed internally.
Leclerc believed that Sainz would quickly understand the situation after a brief discussion. Sainz acknowledged that it was not an ideal situation to let Leclerc pass but stated that his teammate had priority, which he believed was the appropriate arrangement.
Sainz attributed the confusion to traffic at the end of the session, mentioning that a previously established “gentlemen’s agreement” had been completely forgotten. He clarified that he didn’t think the FIA needed to intervene but expressed concern about the diminishing respect for such agreements among drivers. The absence of the four-second gap between cars meant that he risked not setting a lap time unless he took immediate action.
In conclusion, the incident between Leclerc and Sainz during the qualifying session led to a brief disagreement, fueled by the pressure and time constraints they faced. Both drivers acknowledged their overreactions and recognized the need for internal discussions to address the issue. The absence of a gentlemen’s agreement and the increasing disregard for such arrangements among drivers were cited as contributing factors to the confusion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about qualifying
Q: What led to the tense remarks exchanged between Leclerc and Sainz during the qualifying session?
A: The tension arose when Sainz aggressively overtook Leclerc on track despite Leclerc having priority in the session. Both drivers later admitted their overreactions, attributing them to the adrenaline and high pressure of the moment.
Q: Why did Leclerc and Sainz have a discussion about swapping positions?
A: In the pitlane, it was expected that they would swap positions to better manage the cars. However, on the track, they had a disagreement about the timing. Leclerc chose to be in front, but due to the tight timing, Sainz decided to overtake, leading to the discussion.
Q: Was the incident between Leclerc and Sainz significant in the overall outcome?
A: No, both drivers clarified that the incident had no influence on the overall outcome of the qualifying session. They considered it a minor issue that would be discussed internally.
Q: Why did Sainz mention a “gentlemen’s agreement” and its absence?
A: Sainz blamed the confusion on traffic at the end of the session and mentioned that the previously established “gentlemen’s agreement” had been completely forgotten. The lack of adherence to this agreement meant that the four-second gap between cars was not respected, jeopardizing Sainz’s ability to set a lap time.
More about qualifying
- Formula 1 Official Website
- F1 Flow.com
- [Ferrari SF-23 – Image by Steven Tee / F1 Flow Images](image source)
- [Bottas set to be disqualified from F1 British GP qualifying](article source)
- [Hamilton: Red Bull lookalike McLaren an F1 wake-up call for Mercedes](article source)
- [Verstappen explains F1 British GP qualifying pitlane incident](article source)
