F1, Bahrain GP: Charles Leclerc explains the choice in Q3

Charles Leclerc approves the choice of Ferrari

Charles Leclerc commented to Sky Sports microphones on Ferrari’s choice not to make the last lap attempt in Q3: “I am more mature than last year, but it still hurts to give up the last lap in Q3. I am convinced it is the right choice for tomorrow. We talked about it in the briefing and looking at the gaps at worst from second I could start fourth. I agree with the team, it is a good choice for the race pace because on degradation we suffer.”

“I always want to look ahead, but you have to be honest,” the Monegasque driver continued, “Red Bull seems stronger than us on the race pace and Aston Martin as well. If there is a chance to win I will try, but the important thing is to score maximum points. Then in the next races it will be better, but here we have to do the best we can.”

“I never sign to be second to a tenth but looking at the tests it was a nice surprise to be so close. I could have done better. The first run was a good one, but in Turn 9/10 I could do better. The car had the potential in the second run to go to pole, but then I wouldn’t necessarily have made it. We still don’t know if we will start tomorrow with the new tire right away, but it will certainly give good grip,” Leclerc concluded.