Charles Leclerc smacked with a HUGE grid penalty in Abu Dhabi amidst Ferrari’s fight against McLaren
Charles Leclerc has opted for a new energy store (ES) for which he will serve a 10-place grid penalty at the Abu Dhabi GP.
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Charles Leclerc (via IMAGO)
Ferrari’s chances of securing the constructors’ championship have taken a major hit as Charles Leclerc has been handed a grid penalty for the Abu Dhabi GP. Leclerc has opted for a new energy store (ES) in Yas Marina for which he will have to serve a 10-place grid penalty.
McLaren and Ferrari head into the last race of the season separated by just 24 points. The two teams therefore require to bag the most points at the Abu Dhabi GP. The Woking-based team now holds the edge over the Maranello-based unit because of Charles Leclerc‘s penalty.
Formula 1 drivers are allowed a total of two energy store chances over the course of a season. Leclerc previously used up two of his ES during the campaign, which compels him to serve a penalty. The 27-year-old faced issues with his energy store during FP1 in Abu Dhabi, which made Ferrari opt for a change.
New battery for Charles which means a 10-place grid penalty :/ pic.twitter.com/rCvKhPE8uw
— tami. (@Vetteleclerc) December 6, 2024
The Monegasque driver now has the mammoth task of making up a significant number of places on Sunday. His hopes will rest on his team providing a good package in order to ace the qualifying and then the main race.
Charles Leclerc and Arthur Leclerc make history in Abu Dhabi
On Friday, Charles Leclerc and his brother Arthur Leclerc became the first sibling duo to drive for the same team in Formula 1. Arthur is currently a development driver for Ferrari and was part of their academy till 2023.
Charles topped the FP1 times at the Abu Dhabi GP while his brother finished P18. Irrespective of the result, what truly stands out is the historic moment for the two. They were even seen waving to each other at the end of the session as well.
Charles has been in fine form this season, winning three times and finishing on the podium 12 times. He has shown grit and determination for the Maranello-based team all year long. The finale in Abu Dhabi will be a final test for the 27-year-old ahead of the winter break.
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Yashraj Chowdhury
(599 Articles Published)