Leclerc Frustrated with Ferrari's Pace and Strategy After 'Slow' Las Vegas GP
Ferrari's Charles Leclerc voiced strong dissatisfaction with his team's performance and strategy during the Las Vegas Grand Prix, describing the car as "very slow" and questioning pit stop decisions. Despite moving to P4 after post-race disqualifications, Leclerc's frustration highlights Ferrari's ongoing battle for consistent pace and strategic clarity, especially as Mercedes gains a significant lead in the constructors' championship.
Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc expressed significant frustration with his team's pace and strategic decisions following a "slow" Las Vegas Grand Prix, despite ultimately moving up to P4 after post-race disqualifications.
Why it matters:
Leclerc's candid remarks highlight ongoing concerns within Ferrari regarding their competitiveness and race management. As Mercedes extended its lead over Ferrari in the constructors' championship, these issues underscore the challenges the Scuderia faces in securing second place and building momentum for future seasons. Consistent performance and optimal strategy are crucial for a team with championship aspirations.
The details:
- Leclerc finished the race in sixth place but was promoted to P4 after Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri's double disqualification.
- Despite the improved position, Leclerc felt it was "still very frustrating to only finish P6 when you start P9" and noted the team was "very, very slow on the straight."
- He described his race as "a bit of a crazy race" where he had to take "massive risks to overtake" due to the lack of straight-line speed.
- Leclerc was particularly puzzled by the pit stop strategy, stating, "I don't really understand what happened around the pit stop, but it seems that we've lost quite a few places."
- He specifically recalled being surprised to find Oscar Piastri ahead of him after his stop, believing Piastri was behind him before pitting.
- The disqualifications also benefited Mercedes, with George Russell and Kimi Antonelli promoted to P2 and P3, respectively, significantly widening Mercedes' lead over Ferrari in the constructors' standings by 53 points.
What's next:
Ferrari plans to conduct a thorough review of both their car's pace and strategic calls ahead of the upcoming Qatar Grand Prix. Addressing these fundamental issues will be critical if Ferrari hopes to close the gap on Mercedes and secure a stronger finish to the season, as well as set a more competitive foundation for 2025.