Leclerc: “It’s Sunday that the points will be awarded”

It only took two qualifying sessions aboard the Ferrari SF90 so that Charles Leclerc clinches pole position. The 2 Formula 2017 champion will start the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix Sunday March 31. 

“It’s extremely complicated to beat drivers who have been established for some time, explains the Monegasque. Sebastian (Hag) is an excellent pilot, I learned a lot of things alongside him. But this time, I'm happy to be on pole! »

Charles Leclerc dominated his German teammate throughout this qualifying session. At only 21 years old, the former Sauber driver becomes the second youngest pole-sitter in the history of the discipline, and the 99th man to reap the benefits of a best time in qualifying.

The first of many… #BahrainGP #F1 pic.twitter.com/JVjLSUlhel

— Formula 1 (@F1) March 30, 2019

However, this remarkable performance does not take his feet off the ground. “It’s Sunday that the points will be awarded, continues Charles Leclerc. I hope to continue like this tomorrow, the goal will be to have a race as strong as the qualification. I achieved my three best sectors during my last lap of Q3, which was what I wanted. »

The prospects for the race have something to rejoice about. “The long stint simulation in Friday's free practice was satisfactory, especially with the soft tires. (red flanks). We will see during the debriefing whether we will head for one or two pit stops. »

The wearer of number 16 has also not forgotten his mishap during the previous race weekend. “During the last race, I was not happy with myself, I had made mistakes in Q3 (in Australia. Editor’s note). I worked hard to avoid repeating these mistakes today. » The work paid off.