Leclerc calms things down after successful winter testing: “That doesn’t necessarily mean we will win a lot”

Although it is almost impossible – or too risky – to draw conclusions at the end of these winter tests, we can nevertheless draw some lessons and, above all, several dynamics. We therefore go forward without pressure and say that Ferrari made a strong impression during these three days of testing at the Sakhir circuit in Bahrain. There Team achieved the best absolute time of these pre-season tests with Carlos Sainz, in 1'29″921, while Charles Leclerc set the best time in the Friday session.

Beyond pure performance, reliability (416 laps completed, second best team behind Haas) and above all the driving sensations were there. Charles Leclerc reports a car that is easier and more predictable to drive than its predecessor. “From the first lap on the simulator, we had the impression that the car was easier to drive when we were driving in the wind. Likewise on the circuit, from the first laps, the sensations were good. We managed to be consistent straight away, which will help us for the races. »

The competitiveness of the Ferrari SF-24 is there?

Reading the winter tests, it seems almost obvious to place Ferrari as the main opponent of Red Bull – while keeping in mind that the teams often play lying poker during these first collective tests. However, Charles Leclerc prefers to delay and calm expectations from the outset: according to him, the good results of the tests in Bahrain provide no assurance on the competitiveness of the SF-24 compared to Red Bull.

“Drivability and competitiveness are two very different things. Last year we had a lot of trouble being consistent because the car was a little unstable whenever there was wind. But that doesn't necessarily mean we'll gain a lot from this, especially in qualifying. And that doesn't mean anything compared to Red Bull.", underlines the Monegasque.

“So we still have to work a lot and we will see how competitive we are next Friday, he adds. But I am convinced that we have taken a step forward in terms of tire management, because when the tires are used more, the weaknesses of the car are more apparent, you can feel them more. With the features of this car, it should be a little better. »

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