Leclerc’s Bitter Admission: “Not Racing to Win Hurts, But I Drive for Ferrari!”
In a dramatic showdown at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Charles Leclerc found himself positioned in the third row, securing the fifth-fastest time during qualifying. This result starkly highlights the intense struggles faced by Ferrari this season, especially as seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton shockingly crashed out in Q1. Leclerc’s performance has been a beacon of hope amidst a tumultuous year for the Scuderia.
When confronted by Sky Sports about the haunting dreams of championship glory – represented by the illustrious trophy on display during the press conference – Leclerc candidly expressed the pain of not competing for the top spot. “Not racing to win hurts, it hurts a lot,” he admitted, revealing the emotional toll of competing without the chance for victory. Yet, he maintained a sense of pride, emphasizing, “I still have to remember that I am racing in F1 and driving for Ferrari.”
Reflecting on his qualifying performance, Leclerc noted the complexity of navigating Q2, expressing satisfaction with his run that ultimately propelled him to Q3. Despite this, he couldn’t help but acknowledge the disappointment of a fifth-place finish. “We knew this would be a challenging season as we shifted our focus from the SF-25 early on to prepare for 2026,” he said, demonstrating both realism and resolve.
As the F1 world watches with bated breath, Leclerc’s resilience shines through. With the upcoming season on the horizon, he remains tight-lipped about his expectations, hinting at a cautious optimism. “Before the first qualifying of next year, I don’t want to say anything,” he stated, leaving fans and pundits alike wondering what the future holds for the talented Monegasque driver.
As the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix approaches, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Can Leclerc channel his frustrations into a performance that will reignite Ferrari’s legacy? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the heart of a racer beats fiercely within him, and the quest for victory is far from over.
