Charles Leclerc claims Ferrari ‘pushed’ McLaren to make mistakes and lose the Italian GP
Charles Leclerc admitted that his stellar victory was surprising considering the pace advantage enjoyed by McLaren.
Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc (via IMAGO)
Charles Leclerc emerged victorious in the Italian Grand Prix for Ferrari, doubling his win tally this season. The Monegasque driver, who had already claimed a win at his home race in Monaco, added another triumph at Ferrari’s home race in Monza. Despite starting from fourth on the grid, Leclerc managed to finish first, attributing his win to mistakes made by McLaren.
Charles Leclerc was surprised by his victory in Monza, especially considering how fast the McLarens were expected to be on track. McLaren had demonstrated their speed and strong performance at the Dutch GP, where Lando Norris won with a 22-second margin. However, they couldn’t replicate that level of performance in Italy. Despite McLaren being faster on paper, the Leclerc managed to outperform them and secure the win, which he found unexpected.
It was a very big surprise. McLaren was faster on paper.Charles Leclerc said.
Charles Leclerc believed that he pushed both Norris and Piastri into making mistakes which gave an advantage to Ferrari. This mistake worked in Leclerc’s favor to help him and Ferrari win the race. He highlighted how they succeeded not just because of speed, but because of smart tactics and good decision-making during the race.
We pushed them into a mistake on strategy although we didn't have the fastest car, but we did a good job.Charles Leclerc added.
Charles Leclerc: It was a very big surprise. McLaren was faster on paper, and we pushed them into a mistake on strategy although we didn't have the fastest car, but we did a good job.
— Junaid #JB17 (@JunaidSamodien_) September 1, 2024
Fred Vasseur claims Ferrari turned its tire weakness into a significant strength in Monza
Fred Vasseur explained that last year, Ferrari’s tires were their biggest problem, but now they have become one of their strengths. The team had worked hard to improve their tire situation and it was evident during the Italian GP. Vasseur highlighted that the entire team played a part in this improvement and did a great job.
Last year [the tyres] were our biggest weakness, now it is a strength. Honestly, everyone in the team played a role and did well.Fred Vasseur stated
Fred Vasseur: Last year [the tyres] were our biggest weakness, now it is a strength. Honestly, everyone in the team played a role and did well.
— Junaid #JB17 (@JunaidSamodien_) September 1, 2024
Therefore, Ferrari’s greatest weakness has become one of its strengths, providing a significant advantage in winning their home race and securing their third victory of the season. The Scuderia’s passionate fans were thrilled to see their team win on home soil in Italy. The support from the crowd was not in vain, as their encouragement helped the team in success.
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Gaurang Kadam
(239 Articles Published)