Charles Leclerc is content for now but clamors for news
Charles Leclerc leaves Suzuka with a bitter but satisfied smile: third place in the Japan Grand Prix 2026 counts as a small personal victory. On the technical track of Suzuka, the Monegasque defended the podium with determination, fending off the assaults of George Russell, despite a particularly competitive Mercedes.
In the post-race, interviewed by Damon Hill, the Ferrari driver lucidly analyzed his race: “I defended the podium and it’s definitely a good result. It is one of those placings to take home, at least until we have the best car: a lot will depend on developments. Today I had to struggle quite a bit to keep behind George Russell and, in addition, the Safety Car did not help me: I lost a few positions and was forced to change my approach to the race. From there on, tire management became crucial and I tried to preserve them as much as possible.”
“From that moment I knew I would have to go and pick up Lewis Hamilton and Andrea Kimi Antonelli, but I didn’t get discouraged,” he added, “I kept pushing, while at the same time trying to manage the tires to get into the final in the best condition. Once I passed Russell, I was aware that in the last laps he would try in every way to take back the position, but I think I defended myself well. It was an intense and even entertaining duel, which allowed me to stay on the podium. Overall we saw a more competitive McLaren, while we lacked a bit of pace.”
