Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc has responded to George Russell's theory regarding his lack of pace at the Hungarian Grand Prix, stating the situation was "a lot more complex" than the Mercedes driver suggested.
Why it matters:
Leclerc's struggles in Hungary, where he started on pole but faded to fourth, fueled speculation about Ferrari's performance limits. With Ferrari still winless this season, clarifying these issues is crucial for the team's championship aspirations and morale.
The details:
- Hungary Performance: Leclerc led early but lost significant pace after his second pit stop, ultimately finishing behind Oscar Piastri and Russell.
- Russell's Theory: George Russell implied Ferrari might have deliberately compromised its car's performance to avoid a technical breach related to plank wear.
- Leclerc's Response: Ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix, Leclerc declined to comment directly on Russell's claim, calling it "a lot more complex" than portrayed. He emphasized that the team is working to fix the underlying issue, which is not a quick solution.
- Ongoing Challenges: Leclerc acknowledged this wasn't the first time Ferrari faced such a problem and likely won't be the last. The team, despite five podiums for Leclerc, has yet to secure a victory this season.
The big picture:
Leclerc expressed confidence in Ferrari's direction, highlighting team principal Frédéric Vasseur's contract extension as a positive step for stability. He believes Vasseur has a clear vision, and the team is aligned in pursuing it.
What's next:
While the intrigue around Budapest remains, Leclerc's focus is on Ferrari's long-term strategy and improving performance, starting with the upcoming Dutch Grand Prix.