F1 | Leclerc and that characteristic of Baku that can change Ferrari’s weekend
Charles Leclerc has shared his thoughts on why the Baku City Circuit brings out the best in his driving style. As Formula 1 returns to Azerbaijan, Ferrari heads into the weekend with high expectations, hoping the unique layout will highlight the strengths of the SF-25.
The Scuderia arrives with optimism, as the long straights and mixed technical sections of Baku may suit Ferrari’s package. By contrast, McLaren could find it harder to capitalize on their car’s usual advantages, since this track has fewer high-downforce corners and is expected to generate limited tire degradation. Another variable to watch will be the constantly evolving grip levels, which traditionally change dramatically from the opening free practice sessions to the final moments of qualifying.
The advantage of Leclerc
Charles Leclerc has taken the last four pole positions in Baku with Ferrari, but none of them converted into a race win. In 2024, Oscar Piastri’s successful undercut strategy proved decisive, denying the Monegasque his best chance to claim victory on this street circuit. Despite those setbacks, Charles Leclerc made it clear that he remains confident, pointing out how well the track matches his driving style.
He noted that over the years he has often been especially competitive in Azerbaijan compared to his teammates. For Charles Leclerc, there is something about the unique demands of Baku that fits perfectly with the way he drives. He emphasized that street circuits in general suit him, but this one in particular gives him a special feeling. What frustrates him, however, is that despite his strong pace, he has not yet managed to turn that into a long-awaited race win here.
The different sections of the track
Charles Leclerc was also asked which parts of the layout he enjoys most. Surprisingly, he admitted that the famous castle section is not among his favorites. Instead, he explained that it is not about one particular corner but rather the sensations the entire circuit creates. The intensity of braking zones, with no margin for error and walls waiting at the exit, demands absolute concentration. For him, this constant risk and razor-thin margin are what make Baku so thrilling.
The Ferrari driver added that qualifying is where the circuit becomes even more exciting, because taking risks is essential to fight for pole. That adrenaline rush, according to him, is what makes the track special and helps explain why he has been able to perform so strongly in Baku in past years. On a street circuit like this, confidence is everything, and securing a good grid position can completely transform the outcome of the race.
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