Charles Leclerc at the FIA ​​gala: “It’s hard not to be frustrated”

He arrived at the party a little tired, after having traveled around Italy all week and got back behind the wheel of his car for a day of testing. “It was quite strange to find the car again for a final session, was having fun Charles Leclerc.

It's been a short break since Abu Dhabi, but mentally I had disconnected despite everything and I had to get back into the swing of things. However, everything went well and we did a lot of tire testing. »

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- Charles Leclerc (@Charles_Leclerc) November 20, 2022

Important tests in view of 2023 but on this Friday evening, it was still the 2022 financial year which took the spotlight. A season that leaves him with a bit of a bitter taste. “ I'm not completely satisfied, confided the pilot Ferrari without detour. Overall it was a good season, especially if we look at the progress made since 2020 and 2021. It was not a given that we could take such a step forward, and finish 2nd in the Drivers' and Manufacturers' championships. is very positive.

But, obviously, it's hard not to feel a little frustrated if you look back at the middle of the season where we couldn't put it all together on Sunday. So, in the end, my feelings are not very shared. Second is good, but I hope it's just a step and that we'll be a step above at the end of next season. »

This frustration is especially evident now. “ In the heat of the moment, when the GPs came one after the other, it was going, Leclerc whispered again. It was more at the end of the season that it was felt. »

A frustration all the more understandable as the nine pole positions acquired could – should have – led to much more than three victories.

« On new tires and with little fuel, agreed the Monegasque, the car was very good. On the other hand, it was more difficult on Sunday because of the degradation. We paid the price of a fast car on Saturday and more difficult to understand on Sunday. »

Confident for 2023

If the regrets are there, the confidence is just as much. “ We work hard to eliminate weaknesses, he insisted. Mattia (Binotto) is always there to help the team be ready for 2023. Since the start of the 2021 season, we have never stopped working in the right direction and that gives me confidence for next year.

Obviously, the last few weeks have been difficult, and we are in a period of transition. But I believe in John (Elkann, big boss of Ferrari, Editor’s note) and Benedetto (Vigna, executive director, Editor’s note) to make the best decision. Certainly 2023 will be the opportunity for a new step forward. »

A new season which will therefore take place without the resigning Italian manager. “ Mattia (Binotto) called me to let me know his decision, explained Leclerc, who was said to be on bad terms with the former main team since the summer.

I respect her. I can only thank him: he believed in me from the start, brought me back with a long contract and, before being the director of sports management, was a long servant of the Scuderia. He contributed to the success of the team. I wish him the best and now it's up to us to focus on our destiny and make the right decisions. »

Absolutely not worried about the uncertainty that the arrival of a new boss could cause, he says he is very calm.

« I have never experienced such a scenario, he pointed out. I suppose it will probably take a little time for the new team principal to settle into the Ferrari organization, but if it's done the right way, I don't think it will be a handicap. I don't think there will be any repercussions on the track. In fact, I see a smooth transition! »

Waiting for Vasseur?

Does this displayed serenity come from the fact that Frédéric Vasseur, his former boss at Alfa Romeo Racing, is being considered for the position?

« No, affirmed Leclerc firmly. I'm focusing on working in the simulator to have the best car possible next year. The choice of the new boss is not mine. Once again, it is up to John (Elkann) and Benedetto (Vigna)! »

However, if he were to be chosen, would the French manager make a good director of sports management? “ Scuderia Ferrari is very different from all the other teams, concluded the Monegasque, before going to receive the vice-champion trophy F1 2022.

I can only speak about my experience with Fred (Vasseur) which has always been good. I worked with him in the junior categories where he always believed in me, and during my first season in Grands Prix. Our relationship has always been very good. He has always been very upright, direct and honest… We will see in the coming months who is chosen. »

Or rather in the coming days, or weeks at the latest.