It was clear from the outset that this would be a challenging weekend for the Scuderia. The points gap to McLaren is significant, and the Maranello team would need a flawless Sunday to achieve what would be a near-miracle. While Carlos Sainz delivered and will start from third, the Abu Dhabi GP qualifying session did not go as planned for Charles Leclerc, who will avoid an additional penalty following internal discussions at Ferrari.
The Monegasque driver failed to make it into Q3 after exceeding track limits. Combined with the ten-place grid penalty for installing a new battery, Leclerc will start from the back of the grid.
Will there be a new penalty?
Ferrari has decided not to install a new power unit on car number 16. Therefore, Charles Leclerc will not face any additional penalties for the Abu Dhabi GP.
A new engine might have offered Ferrari an opportunity to push to the maximum throughout the race. Charles Leclerc is tasked with an uphill battle, crucial to keeping Ferrari’s hopes alive in the Constructors’ Championship.
However, a double victory on the Yas Marina Circuit will not be enough for the Scuderia. To reclaim the championship title for Maranello, they need to gain 21 points on a McLaren team that has appeared very comfortable so far.
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