MIAMI, FLORIDA – MAY 5: Max Verstappen, from the Netherlands, driving the (1) Oracle Red Bull Racing RB20, leads Charles Leclerc, from Monaco, driving the (16) Ferrari SF-24 on the track during the Formula 1 Grand Prix of Miami at the Miami International Speedway on May 5, 2024 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
Red Bull has been facing challenges from McLaren and Ferrari since the Miami race, and now Mercedes has also joined the competition in Canada. In Canada, George Russell secured pole position and finished third. However, Leclerc understands that defeating Red Bull will not be easy. He believes that on a track like Barcelona, where the RB20 performs well without the need to ride the curbs, Red Bull will regain its strength. This factor has played a crucial role in races like Miami, Monaco, and Canada. During a press session in Barcelona, Leclerc shared his expectations for Red Bull this weekend. He personally believes that Red Bull will perform well, just as it did at the beginning of the season. He anticipates a quick recovery from Red Bull at this track. Leclerc also acknowledges that the previous races, from Miami to Canada, relied heavily on riding the curbs, which is not one of Red Bull’s strengths. Therefore, he expects Red Bull to return to a high level of performance this weekend.
Leclerc hopes that the updates to his SF-24 car for this weekend will allow Ferrari to compete with Red Bull. He sees the introduction of new parts as a positive sign for the race, as the characteristics of Barcelona often reflect the rest of the season. Leclerc believes that if they can be competitive here, it is a good omen for their performance in future races. When asked if he was downplaying Ferrari’s chances at the Spanish GP, Leclerc clarifies that he actually expects Red Bull to have the advantage, especially in race conditions. He expresses his belief that Red Bull will have the advantage on Sunday, but the extent of their advantage is still uncertain. Leclerc acknowledges the progress Ferrari has made as a team and remains optimistic for the future, but he honestly admits that they are slightly behind Red Bull for the next race. However, he anticipates a tighter battle during qualifying.
Leclerc’s victory in Monaco made him the third driver, alongside Max Verstappen, to win a race in 2024. His teammate at Ferrari, Carlos Sainz, won the Australian GP in Melbourne, and Lando Norris won in Miami.
