Formula 1 News: Leclerc Admits Ferrari Struggling to Keep Pace at British Grand Prix
Ahead of the Formula 1 British Grand Prix, Charles Leclerc has conceded that Ferrari is struggling to keep up with the top contenders, citing the team’s ongoing issues with bouncing and inability to optimize their upgraded car.
On Friday, Leclerc’s Ferrari was seen dancing on a knife’s edge, particularly through high-speed corners, as the Scuderia continued to grapple with their capricious package. The Monegasque driver finished eighth in FP1 and fifth in FP2, a significant six-tenths off the pace set by McLaren’s Lando Norris.
When asked if Ferrari could challenge for top honors on Sunday, Leclerc was realistic about their prospects. “I don’t feel like it’s the case, personally,” he said. “Unfortunately, it feels like Red Bull and McLaren are a long way ahead this weekend, but let’s wait and see, I hope I’m wrong.”
Leclerc’s difficulties with the rear of his Ferrari stepping out were evident throughout the day, highlighting the team’s ongoing struggles with their upgraded spec car, introduced two weeks ago at the Spanish Grand Prix. Ferrari has resigned itself to the fact that Friday was a process of discovery, as they sought to understand how to optimize their package.
“It’s been a tricky day, but we’ve learned a lot, and I hope, I mean, now it’s going to be all about analyzing the data of both cars and taking the best decision for tomorrow,” Leclerc explained. “Obviously, there’s lots of data to look at, and everybody is flat out on them to try and take the best decision for tomorrow.”
Leclerc’s teammate, Carlos Sainz, echoed his sentiments, acknowledging that McLaren has set the benchmark for the weekend. “Definitely, McLaren seems to be a step ahead, like over the last couple of weekends,” Sainz said. “You know, McLaren has been a clear one or two steps in front of us, and I feel like it’s the same this weekend.”
As the Formula 1 schedule moves forward, Ferrari’s focus will shift to analyzing data and making the necessary adjustments to stay competitive. However, for now, it appears that the Prancing Horse will have to settle for a lower position on the Formula 1 standings.
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