Charles Leclerc expressed his concerns regarding the “significant” difference in performance compared to McLaren during the sprint qualifying session of the Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix, even with the enhancements from Ferrari’s updated rear suspension.
Oscar Piastri, the championship contender, secured pole position with an advantage of nearly half a second over Max Verstappen. Despite opting for a higher downforce configuration than Red Bull, which resulted in a slower initial sector, Piastri matched Verstappen’s pace exiting Malmedy and subsequently gained a 0.4-second lead through Les Fagnes and Stavelot.
Ferrari also seemed to be employing a lower downforce setup compared to McLaren, as evidenced by a decreasing gap along the Kemmel Straight. The difference between Leclerc and Piastri expanded from 0.05 seconds at the commencement of sector two to 0.561 seconds by the conclusion of the intermediate section. Ultimately, Leclerc trailed Piastri by 0.768 seconds at the lap’s end.
Leclerc mentioned that Ferrari’s recently introduced rear suspension package had enhanced the feedback from the rear of his Ferrari. However, he admitted that the substantial gap created by McLaren diminished the positive impact of the upgrade.
“I could perceive the modifications, but the issue is the considerable disparity today,” Leclerc stated. “I’m confident we’ve made progress, but for some reason, McLaren appears even quicker than usual at this circuit. It’s somewhat disheartening in that aspect.
“However, I believe we achieved the objectives we sought with these enhancements. It’s unfortunate to encounter such a challenging qualifying session, particularly concerning the time differences.”
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Photo by: Sam Bagnall / Sutton Images via Getty Images
Leclerc elaborated that, subsequent to the alterations made to the rear suspension, the primary concern now revolved around achieving sufficient grip, whether through mechanical solutions or aerodynamic downforce.
The driver from Monaco positioned his vehicle fourth on the starting grid for the Spa-Francorchamps sprint race, situated between Lando Norris and Esteban Ocon, who capitalized on an extremely low downforce aerodynamic configuration.
“Once more, the sensation was quite favorable, which evokes mixed emotions. On one hand, I’m pleased that the car feels improved. Conversely, despite the car’s generally positive feel, we remain seven-tenths behind, which is a substantial margin,” he commented.
“Indeed, it’s a lengthy circuit, but it still represents a significant time difference. Consequently, considerable work remains to be accomplished, without a doubt.
“We simply require additional grip for this vehicle. I don’t believe we’re making any particular errors, but we currently lack the necessary grip.”
His teammate, Lewis Hamilton, was eliminated during the initial segment of sprint qualifying due to a series of unfortunate events. He entered Stavelot at excessive speed on his initial attempt, narrowly avoiding the gravel trap, and subsequently encountered a rear locking issue on his final lap.
Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari
Photo by: Dimitar Dilkoff / AFP via Getty Images
The car’s rear end rotated as he attempted to apply the brakes for the final chicane, resulting in the Ferrari driver sliding into the runoff area.
“Tomorrow brings a fresh opportunity; I’m understandably quite frustrated, given the extensive effort invested, and being in this position isn’t ideal. Hopefully, tomorrow will yield better results,” he expressed.
