Leclerc Targets Hamilton Data to Cure Canadian GP Struggles

Charles Leclerc admits the Canadian Grand Prix weekend was the toughest of his Formula 1 career, confirming he will study Lewis Hamilton’s race data to diagnose his performance struggles.

Why it matters:

Ferrari’s search for consistency remains critical as they trail Mercedes in the Constructors’ Championship. Closing the gap with Hamilton directly impacts their title trajectory. The team must address these setup vulnerabilities immediately to avoid falling further behind the field and to maximize the car’s potential across all circuit layouts.

The Details:

• Track-Specific Deficits: Leclerc cited Montreal and Melbourne as historical weaknesses. The cornering rhythm at Gilles Villeneuve misaligns with his driving style, leaving him without car feel throughout the weekend.
• Setup & Tire Management: Friday brake issues disrupted the baseline setup. Saturday saw consistent tire window struggles. While Hamilton found an optimal rhythm, Leclerc could not replicate the lap times despite identical compounds.
• Race Outcome: A fourth-place finish relied heavily on strategic opportunities. George Russell’s retirement and McLaren’s misplays allowed Leclerc to climb the order. He finished over thirty seconds behind Hamilton, who capitalized on superior tire management to secure Ferrari’s best result since joining the team in 2025.
• Simulator Disconnect: Hamilton bypassed the team simulator, citing poor real-world correlation. This independent approach yielded immediate pace, highlighting a growing divergence in how the drivers approach car setup.

Looking Ahead:

Ferrari will implement targeted simulator upgrades and refine tire strategy ahead of the next races.

• Leclerc holds third in the standings, three points ahead of Hamilton, while Ferrari trails Mercedes by 72 points.
• Resolving the feedback gap between both drivers is essential for mounting a sustained championship challenge.