Charles Leclerc stays confident ahead of Miami, aiming high despite Ferrari’s current pace gap to Red Bull and McLaren in 2024.
Charles Leclerc is keeping his hopes high heading into the Miami Grand Prix, even though he knows Ferrari isn’t quite ready to fight for wins on raw pace. The Monegasque driver is staying patient, believing progress is coming—even if it takes a little more time.
“It hasn’t been the start to the season we wanted, but it’s the one we got,” Leclerc admitted. “Now the focus has to be on what’s ahead. We’ve made some good steps forward in the last three races, and we need to build on that to fight for our first win as soon as possible.”
While Ferrari continues to develop, Leclerc remains realistic about the current pecking order.
“Right now, I don’t think we have the car to beat McLaren or Red Bull when they’re at their best,” he said. “But we’re going to take every opportunity, score every point we can, and when the car’s ready to win, we’ll be there. That said, I’m still showing up this weekend to fight for the win.”
Leclerc is also a fan of Miami’s unique vibe, both on and off the track.
“I love the different energy each place brings,” he said. “Miami definitely feels like the American version of Formula 1, and I really enjoy that. But make no mistake—the competition is just as serious.”
There’s reason for optimism at Ferrari, especially with the Sprint format returning this weekend. Leclerc believes it could play to the team’s strengths.
“I really enjoy Sprint weekends because every day matters, starting with Friday’s Sprint qualifying,” he explained. “With only one practice session, I feel like we’re in a good position. Our prep work back at the factory really pays off in those situations.”
He pointed to the recent Shanghai Sprint as a good example, where Lewis Hamilton took the win despite Mercedes’ overall struggles.
“That weekend showed how being sharp early can make a difference. Our rivals maybe weren’t fully on it in the Sprint, but by Saturday they’d found more pace than us. That’s something we’re working to improve.”
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Leclerc Targets Miami Victory, But Knows Ferrari Isn’t There Yet
Leclerc Targets Miami Victory, But Knows Ferrari Isn’t There Yet
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