Ferrari eyes stronger qualifying at the Monaco GP, with Vasseur pushing for improved one-lap pace to aid Leclerc and Hamilton’s chances.
Ferrari is hoping for a better weekend in Monaco than in Emilia-Romagna, and that will require stronger qualifying performances. Fred Vasseur, the Scuderia’s Team Principal, explains how the team has focused on one-lap pace to avoid the issues faced on Saturdays in Imola, Miami, and Jeddah.
“The Monaco Grand Prix is a unique race. We know how crucial qualifying is on this circuit, and over the past few days, we have been working specifically on improving our performance over a flying lap, as in recent races we haven’t been able to extract the full potential of our package on Saturdays,” Vasseur noted.
“This weekend, the sporting regulations have been modified specifically for this race, which presents a new challenge for all teams. Each driver will be required to make at least two pit stops, with the aim of placing greater emphasis on strategy and creating more excitement on track.”
“Of course, it’s also Charles’ home race, which makes the event special for the entire team. We are fully committed to putting Lewis and Charles in the best possible position to maximise their performance.”
On the sidelines of the Monaco round of the calendar, Ferrari gave the floor to one of its development drivers, Arthur Leclerc. Also a local, the brother of the Scuderia’s race driver shared his thoughts as a spectator of the Monaco Grand Prix and as a family member of a Ferrari driver.
“As a Monegasque, it’s incredible to watch the Monaco Grand Prix. I’ve been watching this race for many years—actually, since I was born—and it really is something special for all our friends and family,” Leclerc said.
“Obviously, seeing Charles behind the wheel always adds something more. Last year, he managed to achieve his dream and win the race, so in a way, it feels ‘complete,’ but it’s always a magical day when F1 comes here.”
Long before his brother Charles won his home race last year, the Monaco Grand Prix had already become a tradition in the Leclerc household: “My first memory of the Monaco Grand Prix is watching the race as a kid with my parents and brothers. That was a long time ago!”
“We were at the swimming pool corner, and I remember the F1 engines back then were so loud that I started crying! My parents had to buy me earplugs because my ears hurt. Can you imagine? It’s funny, but that’s honestly my first F1 memory!”
The Monegasque believes the race will be more exciting thanks to the mandatory two-stop rule: “I think it’s a good thing to have two mandatory pit stops, because it will bring a bit more action and unpredictability to the race, and it will also allow drivers to push their tyres harder.”
“The last few races have been all about tyre management. This year, I think this will add some strategy into the mix. Nevertheless, Monaco being Monaco, I think in the end qualifying will remain key to having a good race. I’m looking forward to seeing what happens.”
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