Charles Leclerc just one step away from pole position
Charles Leclerc finished second in the qualifying session for the 2023 Formula 1 Austrian Grand Prix, just 48 milliseconds behind pole sitter Max Verstappen at the 4.318-kilometre Red Bull Ring in Spielberg. This result, combined with Carlos Sainz’s third place, seemed almost like a mirage for Ferrari in the early part of the season, but it turned into reality at the Red Bull Ring, the home circuit of the Anglo-Austrian team. The Maranello team, prior to this event, worked diligently to bring further updates that, judging by the qualifying result, seem to have paid off.
50% happy
The first to acknowledge the work done by the men of the Prancing Horse was Charles Leclerc himself, grateful for these interventions but personally “disappointed” for narrowly missing pole position. “It’s difficult to explain how much work has been done at the factory,” he commented to Sky Sport F1. “The guys have done an incredible job and pushed like crazy. It made a difference, and the feeling is good. I’m never happy with second place, but I am happy with the team’s impressive work.”
Hopes for the race
Delving further, the Monegasque driver pointed out the major difficulties encountered in qualifying, without completely ruling out hopes for the outcome of the race. “I struggled more in Q1 and Q2, while in Q3 I gave it my all, especially in the crucial lap, so I’m pleased,” he concluded. “Four milliseconds is a good starting point, and on Sunday we’ll give it a try. Although we can’t hide that Red Bull’s race pace is really strong, I’ll do everything I can, and if Max gives me an opportunity, I’ll try to seize it.”
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