Charles Leclerc admits Ferrari didn't expect poor China GP pace: "Now we need updates for SF-24"

Scuderia Ferrari is left in the dark in China, as Charles Leclerc confirms what already seemed evident: “We didn’t expect McLaren’s pace.” The two red cars finish fourth and fifth position at the 5.451-kilometre Shanghai International Circuit, in a race that could easily have turned into a nightmare. All eyes are now on the Miami Grand Prix, where McLaren are expected to bring a significant first package of updates. The SF-24 EVO will hit the track only at the Imola circuit.

The Chinese Grand Prix was decidedly bitter for the Maranello team. After a poor qualifying session on Saturday, the common expectation was a strong race performance, aiming for the podium. However, McLaren’s race pace dashed Maranello’s hopes, relegating Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz to fourth and fifth positions. It’s a disappointing result that puts their second place in the Constructors’ Championship under scrutiny.

The SF-24 likely needs the updates planned for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix weekend. A comprehensive package that should revolutionize the Prancing Horse’s car. The problems are clear, difficulties in getting the tires to work – especially at low temperatures – are primary among them.

“Today, fourth place was the best possible result,” Charles Leclerc admitted in front of the Sky Sport microphones at the end of the Chinese Grand Prix – “Unfortunately, McLaren had better pace, which was a surprise, while we knew about Red Bull. We didn’t perform badly with the medium tires, but with the hard ones, we were half a second slower. We need to analyze because the pace we’ve shown since the beginning of the year wasn’t there today, especially on the hard tires.” – the Monegasque driver pointed out.

“We were aiming for the podium, but the surprise was McLaren, especially Lando [Norris],” the Monegasque continues. “If Oscar [Piastri] hadn’t damaged the floor, it would have been difficult to finish fourth. The updates in Imola will be crucial and we need them; they will set the direction for the rest of the year. I’m confident because the team has done a great job so far.” – Scuderia Ferrari Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc concluded.

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