With just three races left in the 2024 Formula 1 season, Ferrari is mounting a late charge to close the 36-point gap to McLaren in the constructors’ championship. Charles Leclerc believes the Las Vegas Grand Prix could play to Ferrari’s strengths, offering a prime opportunity to claw back crucial points in the fight for second place.
Ferrari’s Late-Season Resurgence
Ferrari has hit its stride in the closing stages of the season, securing three wins and three pole positions in the last six races. The team’s recent form has reignited hopes of overtaking McLaren, who have been consistent throughout 2024 but have struggled to match Ferrari’s recent pace.
Leclerc is confident but cautious, emphasizing the need for focus and discipline. “The target is to beat McLaren, and we really think we have a shot at it this year,” Leclerc said. “We’ve been particularly strong in the last three races, but we can’t rely on past results. We’ve got to stay focused and maximize every opportunity.”
Las Vegas: A Ferrari-Friendly Circuit?
Ferrari stunned the F1 world at last year’s inaugural Las Vegas Grand Prix by taking the fight to Red Bull, a team that had dominated the 2023 season with 19 wins from 20 races. Leclerc secured pole position and finished a close second to Max Verstappen after a thrilling battle, demonstrating that Ferrari’s car characteristics suited The Strip Circuit.
Heading into this year’s race, Leclerc believes Ferrari’s car is again well-suited to the high-speed straights and tight corners of Las Vegas. However, he acknowledges that tire management, particularly in cooler conditions, could be a challenge.
“We know we’re better on tires this year, less aggressive, but that also means slower warm-up,” Leclerc explained. “On a track like this, where tire warm-up is crucial, it could be tricky. Still, I think we’re in a good position. On paper, our car characteristics fit this track.”
The McLaren Threat
Despite Ferrari’s strong form, McLaren remains a formidable opponent. Both teams are tied on five wins this season, but McLaren’s consistency and strategic execution have kept them ahead in the standings. Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri have been instrumental in maintaining McLaren’s edge, even as Ferrari mounts its late-season challenge.
With Ferrari narrowing the gap, McLaren must capitalize on every point in Las Vegas. The team’s strong performances in street circuits earlier in the season suggest they won’t give up their lead without a fight.
High Stakes in Las Vegas
The Las Vegas Grand Prix marks a pivotal moment in the constructors’ championship battle. Ferrari must continue their upward trajectory, while McLaren will aim to defend their lead with tactical precision. Adding to the drama, the race is one of three remaining opportunities to score points, with Qatar’s sprint weekend offering an additional chance to shake up the standings.
For Leclerc, the mentality is clear: “There are still lots of points to grab this weekend. We’ve just got to stay on it and stay focused to the end.”
A Fight to the Finish
Ferrari’s late-season form and Las Vegas-friendly car setup make them a real threat to McLaren’s hold on second place. Meanwhile, McLaren’s consistency and resilience will be tested under the bright lights of The Strip Circuit. As the two teams go head-to-head, fans can expect a thrilling battle that could define the 2024 constructors’ championship.
In Formula 1, every point matters—and in Las Vegas, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
