Charles Leclerc is approaching the Mexico GP with realistic expectations – despite his phenomenal Pole Position in the SF-23.
For the fitfh time in the last eight races, Scuderia Ferrari claim Pole Position in Formula 1. Charles Leclerc finished ahead of teammate Carlos Sainz to claim the P1 grid slot, an unprecedented result for the team. However, last weekend’s Grand Prix was a reminder that starting position does not determine end result.
Ferrari have corrected some of their weaknesses on race day, which were hugely limiting when 2023 began. The SF-23 is also more drivable, which is especially welcome to Charles Leclerc – who struggled with the car’s inherent understeer. Unfortunately for the Maranello outfit, this may not be enough to keep Verstappen and Red Bull at bay.
Leclerc realistic ahead of Sunday
The Dutchman’s race simulations were considerably faster than the Ferrari duo on Friday. Today’s Pole sitter is well aware of this fact, discussing his chances candidly to the media:
“It’s a very difficult race here. Everything can happen, especially with the cooling. Whichever car is behind will do a bit more management, so that can play in our favour. But for that we need to do a good start.
“And starting first here, it’s always tricky to keep that position into the first corner, but we’ve had pretty good starts this year.
“So I’m confident we can keep that first place into Turn 1 and then we’ll try and do our best race.”
Mercedes compromised by qualifying
Although the aim in F1 is always to secure victory, perhaps the more realistic target for Ferrari to overcome is Mercedes. The Silver Arrows should be more competitive on race day, but their starting positions give the Maranello outfit a fighting chance. Depending on their operational efficiency (pit-stops, strategy, etc.) there is chance to close the gap to 2nd in the standings.
Additionally, reliability will be a crucial factor. The altitudes of Mexico City have traditionally forced the Italian team to run a lower engine mode. It remains to be seen how successfully performance is balanced with reliability. The run into turn 1 will be of huge importance, and Ferrari have a chance to control the pace – thanks to their starting positions.
Once again, there is pressure on Fred Vasseur’s personnel to prove they can optimise their machinery.
