Despite limited participation in the second practice session, Charles Leclerc believes that Max Verstappen and Red Bull are ahead of the Scuderia.
Ferrari has high expectations for the race. The Italian team arrived in Suzuka after an incredible victory in Melbourne. They were confident in their ability to challenge both Verstappen and Red Bull throughout the season. However, Leclerc made a confession after Friday’s free practice.
Verstappen and Red Bull led the timing sheets in the first practice session, while Leclerc finished in sixth place. Rain in FP2 resulted in only five cars setting times throughout the session.
Leclerc stated that he would do his best to surprise the paddock with an impressive result, despite the lack of data on Friday. However, he emphasized the importance of Ferrari being fully prepared for qualifying.
The 26-year-old driver admitted that Ferrari was a bit slow when it came to fighting for pole position. Leclerc mentioned that Verstappen and Red Bull looked incredibly strong in the first practice session, indicating that there was still work to be done by Ferrari. However, he expressed hope in securing pole position for the race.
Leclerc described it as a mediocre day for Ferrari after the two practice sessions. The team focused on certain aspects in FP1 to find the ideal setup, but the rain in FP2 hindered their progress, especially for dry track practice.
Leclerc hoped for clear weather in the final practice session on Saturday. He stated that Ferrari would take advantage of this opportunity to learn and experiment with the setup before qualifying.
The whole grid failed to obtain useful data from FP2 in Suzuka. Despite Ferrari’s confidence in their prospects this weekend, Verstappen remains the favorite to win the Japanese GP. However, the lack of practice and the possibility of variable conditions could lead to significant changes in the standings. Fans eagerly await the result of pole position this weekend.
