At the end of qualifications wet from the Belgian GP on the legendary Spa-Francorchamps circuit, Ferrari celebrates an important result. Charles Leclerc he obtained Pole Position thanks to an impeccable performance, placing immediately behind Max Verstappen. The Dutchman, despite having set the fastest time, will have to serve one penalty by 10 positions on the grid, climbing to eleventh position and allowing the Monegasque driver to start from first. A precious opportunity for Ferrari, which will have to try to capitalize on the maximum in the race to get closer to McLaren, now second in the standings. Frederic Vasseur, Team Principal of the Scuderia, commented positively on the qualifying result in Belgium, highlighting the excellent work of the entire team and Leclerc's performance.
Vasseur's words at the end of qualifying in Belgium
“There will certainly be a chance to win, but it's too early to say. Qualifying is very important in this sense, but you have to be careful in Spa. There will be many overtaking opportunities, today there is nothing done even if the result was excellent for the whole team and for Charles,” declared Vasseur. His words highlight his awareness of the pitfalls that the Belgian circuit can hold, despite the euphoria of the pole position.
Another crucial point touched by Vasseur concerns Leclerc's motivation and confidence. “He doesn't need an extra injection of confidence. I'm surprised anyone would imagine he wasn't motivated enough. Charles is more than motivated,” underlined the French manager. This statement serves to dispel any doubts regarding the determination of the Monegasque driver, whose fighting spirit was more than evident in qualifying.
However, the performance of Carlos Sainz, who only achieved eighth position, reminds us how subtle the balance is. The Spaniard found less grip with the new tires than with the used ones, concluding a particularly disappointing decisive session. Despite this, the SF-24 showed good pace on the race pace and found a good balance, which could make it difficult for Leclerc's opponents to overtake him, despite the first straight advantage.
Vasseur: “We are optimistic for the race”
Vasseur then spoke about the prospects for the race: “In the race simulation the pace was good so we can be optimistic, even though we know that the McLarens and Max will be strong. We will have to concentrate on doing our race and in the end we will see how it goes, but it was a good start to the weekend.” The team principal's optimism is justified by the performances demonstrated in the race simulations, but is well tempered by the awareness of the strength of the opponents.
Finally, Vasseur urged caution for the race, underlining the importance of a good start and optimal management of the car and tyres: “I don't want to make predictions about what will happen in Turn 1 or Turn 5. The objective will be to start well and concentrate on your car and your tires, not on others.” This approach reflects a careful and targeted strategy, essential for tackling a complex and unpredictable circuit like Spa-Francorchamps.
The race, which promises to be dry, will see Leclerc start from Pole Position, a significant but not definitive advantage. Ferrari will have to make the most of this opportunity, remaining focused and ready to respond to the challenges that will inevitably arise during the race.
Source statements: sky sports f1
