Charles Leclerc launches a scathing rebuke on ‘sh*t’ minimum qualifying lap time rule at the Qatar GP
No driver was fined during the qualifying for breaching the minimum lap-time.
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Charles Leclerc (Credits: IMAGO)
Charles Leclerc faced a challenging evening at the Lusail International Circuit, as his Ferrari SF-23 grappled with wind sensitivity issues, leading to off-track excursions and tire degradation. Despite these setbacks, he secured a fourth-place start for the upcoming Qatar GP. Amidst the qualifying chaos, Leclerc voiced scathing criticism against the minimum lap time rule instituted by the FIA race director
The minimum lap-time regulation, not confined solely to in-laps, encompasses “any laps” during and after qualifying, aiming to maintain safety standards and ensure an orderly progression of events. The specified minimum lap time of 1 minute and 41 seconds, measured between the Second and First Safety Car Lines, serves as a stringent guideline.
Drivers breaching this limit, whether on in-laps or out-laps, face scrutiny for potentially ‘going unnecessarily slowly’. The FIA’s objective is to prevent traffic congestion during Monza qualifying, with violations subject to post-qualifying investigations and potential penalties. This proactive approach underscores the FIA’s commitment to a controlled and secure environment at Monza. Leclerc was noted for impeding this rule at the Italian GP without facing penalties.
In navigating the Monza track, all drivers, including Leclerc, had to carefully adhere to the minimum lap time rule. Leclerc found himself in a brief duel with Fernando Alonso’s Aston Martin, carefully avoiding rule infringement. However, as he wheeled into the pits, Leclerc expressed frustration on the team radio, stating, “That’s the shit thing with minimum lap time. Whenever we are in the car, then we cannot do anything. They are fighting in qualifying just because I need to respect this minimum lap time.”
Charles Leclerc explains his move on Fernando Alonso into turn one
Ferrari opted for two cool-down laps to navigate the fine line between securing a safe passage through Q1 and avoiding any risks. In executing this tactical approach, Charles Leclerc found himself in the penultimate turn, with Fernando Alonso ahead of him. Alonso, while allowing the Ferrari to overtake, cunningly cut inside and reclaimed the position before the final turn, electing to commence the lap ahead of Leclerc.
During the push lap, Leclerc raced Alonso into turn one and repassed the Spaniard. Realizing Ferrari and Aston Martin were secure for the next qualifying stage, they opted to abandon the lap. This move unintentionally affected his minimum lap time. Leclerc acknowledged the situation, saying, “Fernando then let me pass and then overtake me, so of course I’m not going to let him go like this. It’s just a bit reckless, but anyway.”
As the chequered flag fell, Leclerc qualified sixth but moved to fifth due to Lando Norris‘ lap time deletion. The looming presence of the Mercedes pair ahead adds complexity to Ferrari’s quest for the runner-up spot in the constructor standings, diminishing their chances. The challenges faced in qualifying highlight the delicate balance drivers must strike between competitive racing and adherence to stringent regulations.
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