Melbourne – Charles Leclerc expressed a mix of optimism and realism after securing a third-place finish in Sunday’s season-opening Australian Grand Prix, admitting he was “positively surprised” by Ferrari’s performance, while acknowledging the significant gap to a dominant Mercedes.
Starting from fourth on the grid, Leclerc produced a lightning start, surging past polesitter George Russell and his Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli. The early laps saw a thrilling battle for the lead, with positions changing multiple times before Mercedes’ superior pit-stop strategy and sheer race pace allowed them to pull clear and secure a commanding 1-2 finish.
Positively Surprised
“Very pleased is maybe a big word, but I am positively surprised, for sure, after qualifying yesterday,” Leclerc said. The Monegasque driver finished just ahead of his new high-profile teammate, Lewis Hamilton, who came home in fourth.
“I think yesterday we were not in our optimum window, but we are still very, very far off the Mercedes in qualifying. In the race, though, we seem to be closer,” Leclerc analyzed. “It doesn’t mean we are the fastest car, but we are more reasonably behind. So lots of work to be done.”
The Race That Got Away
The race’s pivotal moment came early when a Virtual Safety Car (VSC) period was deployed. Both Mercedes drivers pitted immediately, while Ferrari made the strategic choice to keep Leclerc and Hamilton out on track. When the Ferraris eventually made their stops, they re-emerged behind the Mercedes duo, gambling that Russell and Antonelli would need another pit stop for fresh tyres. The gamble didn’t pay off; the Mercedes pace was strong enough to go the distance.
Despite the strategic defeat, Leclerc stood by the decision. “I don’t regret it. It was a conscious choice,” he stated firmly.
The Long Game
Looking ahead, Leclerc is focused on the bigger picture. With the regulations stable, he recognizes that the championship will be defined by the relentless development race throughout the season.
“And I think this championship, anyway, will be won by development and upgrades,” Leclerc predicted. “We’ve got plenty coming. I’m sure all the others do too, but hopefully we are on the better side of things.”
While Mercedes left Melbourne with the maximum points haul, Leclerc’s podium finish offers a solid foundation for Ferrari as the season heads to future races.
