Charles Leclerc believes Ferrari can overthrow Max Verstappen’s dominance in 2023

Ferrari’s last F1 victory was secured by Carlos Sainz at the 2022 British Grand Prix.

Charles Leclerc believes Ferrari can overthrow Max Verstappen’s dominance in 2023

Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc (Image credits: formula1news.co.uk)

In 2023, Red Bull’s supremacy in Formula 1 is exemplified by Verstappen, clinching eight straight Grand Prix victories for 10 wins this season. Meanwhile, Ferrari’s Leclerc has attained three podiums in the first half. Despite this, he maintains high hopes for the Scuderia’s performance in the ongoing championship.

Charles Leclerc remarked that Max Verstappen could indeed be defeated, citing their past accomplishment in achieving it. He emphasized the responsibility on their part to diligently put in the effort and close the gap with both Verstappen and the Red Bull team. “He can be beaten, we have already achieved it. It is up to us to get down to work to regain the distance with him and Red Bull,” Leclerc said.

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Acknowledging Ferrari’s fluctuating performance, team boss Frederic Vasseur conceded to the team’s inconsistency. Following demanding outings at Silverstone and the Hungaroring, Ferrari staged an impressive recovery, culminating in a podium triumph at Spa-Francorchamps, secured by Charles Leclerc.

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Entering the 2023 season, Ferrari harbored optimistic aspirations for a formidable challenge against Red Bull. However, a swift reality check arrived as their own array of issues surfaced. While their rivals exhibited remarkable strength right from the outset—this outcome was notably at odds with the Italian manufacturer’s expectations.

Also read: F1 reportedly set to implement a DRS rule change that could put a dent in Red Bull’s 2023 domination

Ferrari face unforeseen challenge amidst intense competition from Red Bull this season

lec and charles
Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz (Credits: Total Motorsports.Com)

Initially eying Red Bull, Ferrari found themselves in a direct contest not just with Mercedes but also with Aston Martin. As the summer hiatus sets in, Ferrari currently occupies the fourth spot in the standings, trailing Aston Martin by five points and Mercedes by a substantial 56 points.

Significantly trailing Red Bull, Leclerc acknowledges the considerable gap between their projected ambitions and their present reality. Alongside intermittent reliability concerns, their struggle has been compounded by a lack of consistency and challenges with tire degradation. All this contributed to their sluggish performance this 2023 season.

The 2023 season witnesses Red Bull’s commanding domination as they surge ahead in both world championships. With an immaculate record of 12 consecutive victories, they have set an unparalleled precedent heading into Formula 1’s mid-season pause.

While notable drivers like Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes and Charles Leclerc of Ferrari have occasionally secured pole positions, it’s the RB19’s unmatched race pace that stands out prominently. Max Verstappen’s substantial winning margins throughout the campaign further underscore the team’s exceptional performance.

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