Ferrari powerless against Mercedes in Las Vegas

Charles Leclerc finished the Las Vegas Grand Prix in fourth position, an identical place to the one he occupied on the starting grid. Despite a gradual improvement throughout the race, the Monegasque failed to do better, largely due to a difficult first stint.

From the first laps, Leclerc showed good pace, but tire management proved problematic.

“The first laps were intense. I had speed, but we saved tires less well compared to the others. It cost us dearly, because I quickly lost performance on the first stint” he told Canal+.

The situation improved during the next two stints, but the damage was already done. Leclerc was unable to make up the lost time and had to settle for fourth place, a disappointing position for him on a track where Ferrari was hoping for better.

Ferrari facing competition

Despite the frustration, Leclerc admits the Mercedes were simply faster in Las Vegas.

“We didn't take enough points back from McLaren, and that's disappointing. It was a circuit where we should have been competitive. But the Mercedes were in great form today. If we take that into account, On balance, I think we got the best possible result.” he added.

This realistic analysis reflects the challenges Ferrari faces in the fight for the podium in the constructors' championship, where the rivalry with McLaren remains bitter.

A cold reaction to Verstappen's coronation

At the end of the race, Leclerc learned that Max Verstappen had just won his fourth world title. His reaction, tinged with a certain indifference, made some fans smile:
“Ah yes, I had forgotten that detail. Bravo to him. It was inevitable. He had an exceptional season and deserves his title.”

For Charles Leclerc, this Las Vegas Grand Prix illustrates the ups and downs of a complicated season for Ferrari. If the Monegasque continues to give his best, the Scuderia will have to redouble its efforts to compete with Mercedes and McLaren in the last races of the year.