Charles Leclerc feels Ferrari drivers are “passengers” in the current car and is preparing for a tough end to the F1 season.
Ferrari narrowly missed out on winning last year’s constructors’ championship in the final race of the season, but has been unable to build on that form. Ferrari, currently third in the standings, are the only team in the top four yet to win a grand prix this year, and Leclerc says sixth place at the Singapore Grand Prix is likely to result in them making it to the final six races.
“Unfortunately, we don’t have the race car to compete with the guys in front of us,” Leclerc said. “Compared to the beginning of the year, McLaren always gave us the same difference. Red Bull took a step forward from Monza and was on the same level as McLaren. Mercedes is now on the same level as McLaren and Red Bull, and here we are.”
“Of course, it’s not easy, because we want to fight to get a better position. But at the moment we are like passengers in a car and we can’t get more out of it.”
“I don’t think there’s anything special. The situation we’ve seen is going to be what the rest of the season is going to be for us.”
With just eight points separating Ferrari and fourth-placed Red Bull, Leclerc admitted it was difficult to cope with being less competitive compared to last year, but insisted he was using it as a driving force for future improvements.
“I wouldn’t say it’s the most difficult. I think every time you’re not fighting for wins, it’s difficult. But obviously coming from a year like last year, where you’re fighting for the World Constructors’ Championship. And… you have to lower your expectations from the beginning and you don’t even see progress throughout the year. It’s not easy.”
“It takes a lot of energy, but it doesn’t dampen my motivation. In fact, I’m much more motivated to turn things around. But it’s very tough, especially after a race like[Singapore]where you can’t even fight for a podium. You have to deal with a lot of problems. It just doesn’t feel good.”
