Leclerc Faces Challenges Ahead of Monaco GP
Monaco, 2024 — Charles Leclerc has expressed concerns regarding Ferrari’s ability to replicate last year’s success at the Monaco Grand Prix due to ongoing issues with low-speed corner performance in the SF-25. After securing his first win from pole in front of a home crowd last season, expectations are tempered as Ferrari struggles against competitors like McLaren and Mercedes.
Leclerc’s remarks underline the stark reality: "If you want an honest answer, then low," he said when asked about his prospects for another victory. "Our car hasn’t been particularly strong in low-speed corners, and there’s only low-speed corners here in Monaco."
Ferrari’s performance dipped notably after a promising start to the 2023 season, as they failed to meet development targets for their 2025 car. Despite this, Leclerc remains hopeful for a surprise performance during qualifying, identifying the unique characteristics of Monaco’s track as a potential equalizer: "Monaco is so unique. On paper, it doesn’t look promising, but we might have a good surprise."
Historical context reinforces Leclerc’s cautious outlook. In 2021, he dramatically secured pole under similar expectations, showcasing the unpredictability of Monaco. "There’s been years where we definitely did not expect to be on pole,” he noted, suggesting that sometimes a lack of pressure leads to extraordinary results.
As Ferrari gears up for qualifying, the team has focused on a setup tailored for low-speed performance, a strategy that may yield unexpected gains. "We’ll try and put the car in the best place possible for low-speed corners," Leclerc confirmed. With upcoming upgrades imminent, Ferrari’s technicians remain hopeful that the unique track could help unlock performance vital for the team’s campaign.
The Monaco Grand Prix, set against the backdrop of a tight championship battle, promises to be a significant event for Ferrari and Leclerc as they seek to navigate their current challenges.
