Leclerc on Monza hopes: 'Don't have a chance'

Published: Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 6:27 pm

Leclerc Dampens Hopes for Repeat Monza Victory

MONZA, Italy - Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc has tempered expectations for the upcoming Italian Grand Prix, expressing doubts about his ability to secure a second consecutive victory at Monza. Leclerc qualified fourth for Sunday's race, placing him behind Max Verstappen, who secured pole position, and the championship-contending McLaren drivers.

Leclerc, who has previously won at Monza in 2019 and 2024, acknowledged the superior pace of Red Bull and McLaren during race runs. He stated that, based on pure speed, a win appears unlikely. However, he remains hopeful, referencing past unexpected results at the circuit, including wins by Pierre Gasly and Daniel Ricciardo.

The Ferrari driver also expressed concern about the Mercedes drivers, George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, starting on the third row. Leclerc indicated that a podium finish would be a positive outcome, given the current pace deficit.

Adding to the intrigue, Ferrari's qualifying tactics raised questions. Despite Lewis Hamilton qualifying behind Leclerc, the team opted against using Hamilton to provide Leclerc with an aerodynamic tow, a strategy that could have potentially improved Leclerc's lap time. Leclerc suggested that this strategy was not implemented, stating it was not a major factor in the outcome. Hamilton, who has a grid penalty, also downplayed the need for such a tactic, emphasizing his focus on maximizing his starting position for the race.

BNN's Perspective:

While Leclerc's assessment of Ferrari's chances is realistic, the unpredictable nature of Formula 1, especially at Monza, cannot be discounted. The team's strategic decisions, or lack thereof, will be under scrutiny, and any opportunity to gain an advantage will be crucial.

Keywords: Charles Leclerc, Ferrari, Monza, Italian Grand Prix, Max Verstappen, McLaren, Qualifying, Race, Lewis Hamilton, Formula 1, F1, Pole Position, Strategy, Aerodynamic Tow

Full Story