With McLaren as the main rival and tricky starting positions, Ferrari is banking on an aggressive start and impeccable strategy to save valuable points in Qatar.
Charles Leclerc claimed a modest fifth place in qualifying for the Qatar Grand Prix. A performance which leaves the Ferrari driver wanting more, despite a good feeling on the track.
He now pins his hopes on the race pace of the SF-24 and is aiming for a good start to overtake at least one McLaren and defend his team's constructors' championship ambitions.
A good lap, but a Ferrari limited in qualifying
Leclerc did not hide his disappointment after the qualifying session. Convinced of having made the most of his car, he points out the Ferrari's weaknesses on a fast lap.
“Honestly, my tricks were very goodhe explained. I couldn't do better. This is the maximum the car could offer. We lack a little performance in qualifying, but we are more competitive in the race. Unfortunately, on this circuit, getting back up is complicated.”
Despite this observation, the Monegasque remains optimistic and determined:
“We're not giving up. The constructors' championship is still at stake, and we're going to do everything we can to put pressure on McLaren. The start will be crucial to try to overtake at least one of the two cars.”
Leclerc believes in Ferrari's ability to reverse the trend in racing, where the SF-24 seems more at home: “In race pace, we are slightly faster than the McLarens. It was already visible during the Sprint, but I was stuck behind Lewis [Hamilton]. If I can overtake a McLaren at the start, it will open up opportunities for the future.”
Carlos Sainz shares the statement of his teammate
Carlos Sainz, qualified two positions behind Leclerc, also pointed out the limits of the Ferrari on a fast lap:
“We made some adjustments, but the car is reaching its limits. Charles set a 1'20'8, I did 1'21'0. I missed the slipstream on my last lap, which could have helped me, but overall we are where we expected.”
Sainz, however, remains confident for the race: “It will be a long battle. Our race pace is solid, but overtaking remains a challenge here. We will have to be perfect in the execution of our strategy.”
With McLaren as the main opponent and delicate starting positions, Ferrari is therefore banking on an aggressive start and an impeccable strategy to save precious points in Qatar.
Related News :