Lando Norris, Max Verstappen, and Charles Leclerc are the names of the individuals.
Charles Leclerc says Ferrari need to figure out a “weird” trick which Red Bull and McLaren are using with energy deployment, which is their ticket back to the top step of the podium.
Ferrari had gone into their home race at Imola hoping to contend for the victory, but ultimately that battle was reserved for Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and McLaren’s Lando Norris, Verstappen getting the job done as he withstood the late charge from Norris to win by just seven-tenths.
Ferrari need to work out Red Bull and McLaren energy trick
Leclerc crossed the finish line with a little over six seconds ahead of Norris’ teammate Oscar Piastri, but fell short by 14 seconds to secure the victory. Nonetheless, Leclerc remains self-assured in his understanding of the areas where Verstappen and Norris are gaining the advantage.
Leclerc is of the opinion that their ability to compete for victories will depend on Ferrari’s effective management of energy deployment from their power unit.
Inquired by Sky F1 about whether he believed there was any room for further improvement in his race at Imola, Leclerc responded, “To be honest, I don’t think so.”
“We were obliged to take over Oscar’s role during the initial phase. It is imperative that we do not compromise our position on a challenging track like this. Therefore, we had to make a pit stop.”
“In the initial laps of the race, Oscar’s aggressive pushing put me in a challenging position to effectively manage the durability of my hard tires.”
After realizing I was gaining on Lando, I thought to myself, “Alright, maybe I should start putting some pressure on him.” However, as soon as I closed the gap a little, they began to accelerate and unfortunately, I lost sight of Lando for the rest of the race.
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“They displayed great strength, but I firmly believe that the key factor today was track position. Our race pace, on the other hand, is remarkably formidable.”
“Reflecting on the qualifying session, I am feeling more optimistic today compared to yesterday. It has become evident that this is the aspect where we need improvement during weekends like these.”
“I find optimism in reflecting on the data, as it appeared we were struggling in Turns 2, 3, and 4, which I initially attributed to tire issues. However, upon closer examination, it became evident that our setbacks were primarily in the straight sections, where McLaren and Red Bull seemed to have implemented some peculiar energy engine strategies.”
“We need to investigate the matter thoroughly, but it is definitely something that can be changed. Therefore, we will thoroughly examine it. Once we resolve the issue, I believe we have a strong chance of reclaiming the top spot on the podium.”
Leclerc has improved to P2 in the Drivers’ Championship after his Imola podium, moving ahead of Verstappen’s Red Bull team-mate Sergio Perez.
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