Spanish GP qualifying analysis: Charles Leclerc loses in last corner. The main differences between the top four cars in qualifying for Spanish GP.

By analyzing the telemetry data, let’s try to understand the main differences between the top four cars, which were within three-tenths in the qualifying session of the Spanish Grand Prix.

Norris vs Verstappen

As we can see from the graph below, Verstappen’s RB20 achieves greater straight-line speed and tackles the last corner of the track flat out.

Lando Norris’s McLaren, on the other hand, makes the difference in the medium-low speed corners (orange circles overlaid), achieving a minimum speed consistently higher by 4-5 km/h compared to the Dutchman, but using “only” 90% of the throttle in turn 14.

This aerodynamic load advantage should allow the British driver to manage the tires better, a fundamental factor in tomorrow’s race.

Leclerc vs Hamilton

Now let’s analyze the image below, which compares the performances of Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton.

At first glance, we can see that the two laps are very similar, except for the following sections: in turn 11, the Ferrari has a higher cornering speed of 9 km/h at the apex (red circle overlaid), while in turn 5, the Mercedes responds with an advantage of 5 km/h (small aqua green circle overlaid).

However, particular attention should be paid to the last corner, which Lewis Hamilton tackles with 90% throttle, while Charles Leclerc uses “only” 72%: there, the Monegasque loses those crucial milliseconds – about 50 – that drop him to fifth position instead of third on tomorrow’s grid.

Both drivers beat their respective teammates, Russell and Sainz, by a matter of milliseconds. They managed this by being more conservative with the tires in the first sector, making up for the deficit in the other two sectors by keeping the tires in the optimal temperature window.

In summary, tomorrow’s Grand Prix looks to be quite interesting, as on paper, four teams could find themselves fighting for the win. Lando Norris and Max Verstappen are the favorites, but with potentially unpredictable weather and the importance of managing the Pirelli tires, twists and turns could be the order of the day.