Charles Leclerc holds off Max Verstappen: “The Virtual Safety Car saved me”

Charles Leclerc holds off Max Verstappen: “The Virtual Safety Car saved me” | F1 Mexican GP. Charles Leclerc secures second place at the F1 Mexican GP.

Max Verstappen (Red Bull), Charles Leclerc, race start 2025 F1

A determined Charles Leclerc successfully kept Max Verstappen at bay in the closing laps, securing second place at the F1 Mexican Grand Prix. At the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, the Monegasque driver confirmed his excellent form. Following a third-place finish just a week ago in Austin, the Ferrari driver climbed another position to claim his second podium in as many races. Below are Charles Leclerc’s comments following the Mexican GP.

“I am very happy with this weekend,” Charles began. “The United States went very well for us, but we didn’t know what to expect this weekend, and finishing on the podium again is a great surprise. I’m very pleased to be on this fantastic podium once more.”

For the Monegasque, the start immediately brought a moment of tension. At the first braking zone at the end of the main straight, the two Ferraris, Lando Norris, and Max Verstappen arrived almost side by side. It was truly a minor miracle that all four cars emerged unscathed. Charles, who cut the chicane to avoid damage, still managed to maintain second place, and from there his race continued relatively smoothly.

“I was quite happy with the Virtual Safety Car at the end. My tires were completely worn, and I could see Max catching up on the Soft tires. So it was tough, and I think the VSC saved me in the end,” he added at the end of the 2025 Formula 1 Mexico City Grand Prix, which was held at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez.