Charles Leclerc retains his pole position in Australia

It's a sigh of relief that grows Charles Leclerc and the whole clan Ferrari. Summoned by the race direction after the end of qualifying for a possible violation of article 33.4 of the regulations for having “driving slowly” without necessity, the Monegasque will ultimately not be penalized, we learned. He was notably criticized for not having driven below the 1'36 requested from the drivers during the briefing.

« Leclerc started a lap that was supposed to be a cool-down lap, not a comeback lap (at the stands), which would therefore not be subject to the minimum time restriction of the regulations. Halfway through the tour, the decision was made to return. During the lap there was a lot of traffic and Leclerc made efforts to ensure that he did not hinder the other drivers on their flying lap. His efforts slowed his lap time considerably. Therefore, the minimum time was not respected. The stewards accept the reasons given by the driver to justify his actions, they consider that he acted reasonably in the circumstances and, therefore, take no further action » we can read in the decision published by the race direction.

Very good news for Charles Leclerc who indeed retains his pole position and will lead the peloton this Sunday during the Australian Grand Prix.

The start of the Australian Grand Prix is ​​scheduled for 7:00 a.m. (French time) and will be followed in live text on AUTOhebdo. 

Leclerc's summons to the race direction.

The race management's decision regarding Leclerc

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