Leclerc Reveals Ferrari's Strategy Dilemma as Verstappen Closed In During Mexico

Charles Leclerc has shed light on Ferrari's crucial strategic discussions during the Mexico City Grand Prix, where a surging Max Verstappen nearly cost him second place. Leclerc, starting from second on soft tires, endured a slow launch but recovered to maintain his position after a Turn 1 skirmish with Lewis Hamilton and Verstappen. No penalty was assessed for his off-track excursion, allowing him to settle into second.

Why it matters:

Leclerc's revelation highlights the intense pressure and split-second strategic calls teams face in F1. Despite a seemingly comfortable second place for much of the race, the unexpected pace of Verstappen on a different tire compound forced Ferrari to consider a high-risk two-stop strategy, underscoring the razor-thin margins at the pinnacle of motorsport.

The details:

• Initial Stint & Recovery: Leclerc started on soft tires alongside Lando Norris. A poor start saw him battling Hamilton and Verstappen into Turn 1. He went off track but rejoined in second without a penalty.
• Second Stint Tire Choice: Ferrari opted for medium tires for Leclerc's second stint, while Verstappen, who had been significantly behind, was on softs.
• Verstappen's Incredible Pace: Verstappen, over 20 seconds adrift, rapidly closed the gap, consistently logging laps in the 1m 21s for 30 consecutive laps. His pace was markedly stronger than Leclerc's on mediums.
• VSC Intervention: A Virtual Safety Car (VSC) was deployed in the final laps to retrieve Carlos Sainz's car, effectively neutralizing Verstappen's charge and allowing Leclerc to secure second place.
• Strategic Consideration: Leclerc confirmed that a two-stop strategy was seriously considered due to Verstappen's relentless pursuit. He admitted that without the VSC, Verstappen would likely have overtaken him.
  • “I was very happy to see the Virtual Safety Car coming out in the last two laps,” Leclerc stated. “I think without it, there was more chance of Max getting past than me staying in front.”
  • He added, “Especially with those medium tyres, the feeling was just not there from the beginning to the end. I was definitely tempted by the two stops, but I don't know.”

Between the lines:

Leclerc's candid remarks reveal the vulnerability felt by the Ferrari pit wall and driver, even when seemingly in control. The struggle with the medium tires' performance and Verstappen's blistering pace exposed a strategic fault line that was only saved by external circumstances. It underscores how critical tire management and understanding compound performance are, and how quickly a comfortable lead can evaporate in F1.

What's next:

Ferrari will undoubtedly review the data from Mexico to understand the performance discrepancy between tire compounds and how to better manage similar situations. This strategic lesson will be crucial as they continue their development push and aim to challenge Red Bull more consistently in upcoming races and seasons, ensuring they are not caught off guard by rivals' unexpected pace.