Ferrari has made significant strides in 2024, positioning itself as a serious contender for the F1 Constructors’ Championship with just three races remaining. Charles Leclerc, who has been with the team for several years, recently shared insights into the areas where Ferrari has improved since his arrival.
Leclerc, who joined Ferrari in 2019 alongside Sebastian Vettel, has faced five seasons without a title, but the team’s progress this year is noteworthy. Ferrari currently sits just 29 points behind leaders McLaren, making a late-season push for the championship.
Reflecting on the changes at Ferrari, Leclerc noted several key improvements. “When I arrived, there were a few weaknesses,” he said. “Tyre management was a challenge for me back then, but now it’s actually one of my strengths.” Leclerc emphasized that Ferrari has significantly improved in terms of teamwork and collaboration over the years, with “small steps in the right direction” making a notable difference.
He also praised the team’s strategic evolution, stating, “We are in a much better place today. Ravin Jain and his team are doing an exceptional job.” Leclerc’s comments reflect a more cohesive and efficient Ferrari outfit, which has benefitted from stronger leadership and improved execution on race weekends.
A key factor behind the team’s growth, according to Leclerc, has been the appointment of Frederic Vasseur as Ferrari’s team principal in 2023. Leclerc believes Vasseur’s arrival has been pivotal in stabilizing the team’s direction. “The really good thing about Ferrari is the passion inside the team,” said Leclerc. “People are willing to go above and beyond because they love their job so much. Fred is very emotionally flat, and that’s exactly what we need — a boss with a clear vision who isn’t affected by outside perceptions.”
While Ferrari has made impressive gains, Leclerc is clear that the team is not resting on its laurels. “There’s still a lot of room to improve in the next few years, but we have a clear vision of where we are now and where we want to go,” he explained. Leclerc and the team are determined to continue their progress, with their eyes set firmly on winning both F1 titles.
With these key improvements and a focused vision, Ferrari is setting itself up for future success, with Leclerc aiming for a championship win this year to kickstart a new era of dominance for the team.