Charles Leclerc criticizes Max Verstappen over qualifying interference at United States Grand Prix
Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc expressed frustration after feeling that Max Verstappen had disrupted his final timed lap during qualifying for the United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas. The incident added tension to the intense rivalry between the two drivers as they prepared for the 53-lap race in Austin.
Charles Leclerc will start the race from third on the grid, while the Dutchman secured pole position, continuing his dominant qualifying form. The Monegasque’s frustration stemmed from a last-minute encounter with Verstappen on track. Charles Leclerc had spun at the final corner during his initial run and needed a clean lap to maximize his grid position. However, Verstappen, who was on an out lap and had not yet reached the start/finish line for his own final attempt, inadvertently impacted Leclerc’s run.
This situation mirrored a previous incident in Singapore, where Verstappen himself had expressed irritation at Lando Norris for affecting the clear track ahead of his Red Bull RB21 during a cooldown lap. Max Verstappen had abandoned his final run and ended up second on the grid behind Mercedes’ George Russell, noting afterward that he would “remember” the incident.
Charles Leclerc felt the Dutch driver’s actions at COTA were hypocritical, highlighting the inconsistency in Max Verstappen’s complaints about traffic on cooldown laps. After qualifying, the Ferrari driver conveyed his disapproval to his team via radio, criticizing Max Verstappen for not maintaining the space necessary for other drivers during crucial final laps. Charles Leclerc emphasized that while Max Verstappen had complained about interference in Singapore, he had caused similar disruption at Austin.
The 28-year-old driver also expressed his disappointment at losing optimal track conditions due to traffic during his final lap. Although race engineer Bryan Bozzi reminded him to activate DRS on the back straight and confirmed his third-place start, Charles Leclerc reiterated his frustration, noting that he was fully aware of the procedure and focused on the lap despite the repeated reminders.
This incident underscores the growing intensity between Ferrari and Red Bull’s leading drivers, particularly as both teams aim for championship points in the closing races of the 2025 season. Charles Leclerc’s concerns also highlight the fine margins in Formula 1 qualifying, where even minor track interference can have significant implications for grid positions and overall race strategy.
The United States Grand Prix is set to take place in just a fw hours and the focus will also be on Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen, not only for their performance on race day but also for how their ongoing rivalry impacts the competitive dynamics at the front of the grid. Managing traffic, clear air, and strategic laps remains critical for both drivers in securing top positions and maximizing points for their respective teams.
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