David Coulthard highlights the ideal Charles Leclerc moment he loved this season
Yesterday at 05:09 PM
Scuderia Ferrari Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc will undoubtedly reflect on a 2024 Formula 1 season that promised much but ultimately left him without the results he might have hoped for.
Charles Leclerc began the year with a stunning victory at his home race, the Monaco Grand Prix, which seemed to position him as the leading challenger to Max Verstappen for the Drivers' Championship. At that stage, the Monegasque driver trailed Verstappen by just 31 points, with Red Bull inexplicably losing their dominance on the grid.
However, Ferrari's fortunes took a downturn following a major car update introduced at the Spanish Grand Prix. Rather than improving their performance, the team experienced a significant drop in competitiveness.
It wasn't until four races later, at Spa, that Charles Leclerc returned to the podium, and that result only came after George Russell's disqualification. Two more races passed before Charles Leclerc claimed another victory, this time at Ferrari's cherished home event in Monza.
By then, any hopes of catching Max Verstappen in the Drivers' standings had faded. Yet Ferrari still had a chance at the Constructors' Championship. Leclerc and his teammate narrowed the gap to just 21 points heading into the final race of the season in Abu Dhabi. Unfortunately, events at the Yas Marina Circuit conspired against them, dashing Ferrari's hopes of securing the title.
David Coulthard Praises 'Perfect' Charles Leclerc After Stunning Abu Dhabi Start
The Monegasque driver’s chances at the season finale were further hampered by a mistake during qualifying, compounded by a 10-place grid penalty for installing a new energy store. This left him starting the race from the back row. Despite this setback, Charles Leclerc delivered a moment of brilliance during the opening lap, which left Channel 4 commentator David Coulthard in awe.
Charles Leclerc's remarkable start saw him go around the outside of turn 6, overtaking four cars in one bold move while skillfully avoiding the collision between Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas.
Reflecting on the incredible maneuver, co-commentator James Hinchcliffe, reviewing the replay, remarked: "Four positions just on the run down to turn 6! Absolutely carving his way through the field, position after position. Eventually ran out of tyres and had to do the undercut on George Russell, but an unbelievable first stint from the Ferrari man."
David Coulthard added: "Yep, he's been definitely on form. Fired up by having to deal with that penalty and that pass as you mentioned down into six, well it's the perfect display of fortune favouring the brave!" – the former Formula 1 driver pointed out.
Charles Leclerc recognizes that defeating Lewis Hamilton in Ferrari's intra-team battle could pave the way for him to claim the 2025 F1 World Championship.
Ferrari made impressive strides toward the end of the season, frequently matching McLaren's pace depending on the circuit. However, their mid-season slump proved costly, as it dashed their hopes of capturing their first Constructors' Championship since 2008. Despite this setback, the team has every reason to feel optimistic about their driver line-up heading into next year.
Carlos Sainz delivered a standout performance for Ferrari, with his victories in Australia and Mexico City showcasing his skill and consistency. These achievements earned him significant praise and highlighted the depth of talent within the team.
However, the arrival of Lewis Hamilton is expected to elevate Ferrari even further. Hamilton's reputation for meticulous decision-making—especially when it comes to team switches—has often been vindicated, and his presence could provide the team with a fresh edge. Known for his high standards and ability to drive development, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion brings a wealth of experience that could make a tangible difference.
Yet, Lewis Hamilton may face a formidable challenge from Charles Leclerc, who is in outstanding form. At 27, Charles Leclerc demonstrated his peak potential with standout performances in Las Vegas and Abu Dhabi, proving he still has what it takes to contend at the very highest level.
If Ferrari can maintain their development trajectory and Leclerc continues to perform at his best, the internal duel between him and Hamilton could determine more than just team bragging rights. The driver who emerges victorious in this rivalry may well find themselves lifting the World Championship trophy by season's end.
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