In an unexpected twist at the Imola race, Charles Leclerc almost veered towards a daring soft tire strategy.
- Leclerc and his engineer debated over a potential soft tire switch, facing a choice between worn mediums and fresh softs.
- Communication mishaps emerged between Leclerc and his team amid strategic tensions at Ferrari.
- Despite his pit stop dilemma, Leclerc asserted his stance against team cues based on Hamilton’s actions.
- Ultimately, Leclerc continued the race on worn tires as Hamilton opted for a pit stop, finishing behind him.
The Imola race was poised for an intriguing development as Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc found himself on the verge of a strategic gamble. With limited tire options left – exhausted mediums and no fresh hards – Leclerc considered switching to softs during a crucial safety car period. His engineer, Bryan Bozzi, had differing views, advising against the move due to remaining laps that the soft tires might not endure.
As strategies across the track were reassessed, Leclerc and Bozzi engaged in a lively exchange, weighing the pros and cons of new softs versus staying out on well-used mediums. “I am boxing,” Leclerc firmly stated, but Bozzi countered with the longevity concerns of the soft tires, leading Leclerc to express frustration over the condition of his current tires.
Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton and his engineer were having their own discussion. Hamilton, curious about the advantages of pitting, was told by his engineer that he would lose three places. Yet a miscommunication arose within Ferrari, confusing strategies among teammates. Bozzi hinted that Hamilton preferred staying out, to which Leclerc gave his memorable retort, “I don’t care! We are speaking about ourselves.”
Leclerc’s decision not to follow Hamilton into the pits was sealed when he saw his teammate heading in. “Why? I haven’t pitted, Lewis has pitted. I’m not going to wait behind and lose more positions anyway,” he remarked. With the course set, Leclerc continued without a tire change, ultimately wrapping up the race in sixth place, two spots behind Hamilton.
Leclerc’s resilient mindset showcased his determination to focus on his race, despite mixed signals from his team.
