If you happened to miss the thrilling race at the historic Monza track yesterday, there’s no need for regret. The intense adrenaline rush from the high-speed action might have been too much to handle, either forcing you to step away from the screen or leaving you with a racing heart. You might be wondering why we’re emphasizing this. Well, let’s delve into what transpired. Ferrari’s star, Charles Leclerc, gave his all, as he always does, in an attempt to secure a podium finish.
In the process, his performance brought both fans and his teammate to the edge, even causing a scare for the Scuderia team principal. However, soon after the race, Leclerc apologized for the action on the racing track and went straight to team boss, Frederic Vasseur. But why?
Charles Leclerc switches roles to assist his team boss as a doctor
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Following a remarkable performance in Monza qualifying, where Carlos Sainz edged out Max Verstappen for pole position, fans anticipated an exhilarating race. And this is what exactly occurred. In his debut Monza race weekend as Ferrari team boss, Frederic Vasseur granted both his drivers the freedom to compete for the final podium position. As during the closing laps, the Red Bull duo overtook the polesitter, the two Ferrari drivers engaged in thrilling wheel-to-wheel battles.
With tire smoke billowing, Leclerc aggressively pursued Carlos Sainz. However, the Spanish driver, who had displayed excellent form since Practice 1, ultimately secured the final podium spot. The intense battle carried a substantial risk of both Ferraris retiring or one losing points. Fortunately, nothing of the sort occurred, but the thrilling fight left fans’ hearts in their mouths. Following the race, Leclerc issued an apology to the fans, but before that, he also told his experience of the race.
In an Instagram video posted by Scuderia Ferrari’s official account, Leclerc said, “P3 and P4 for the team today. I’m glad that Ferrari is on the podium. Today, we gave it our all. We fought it like crazy with Carlos, which was fun for both of us. He was on the limit of defending, and I was on the limit of attacking, but that’s what F1 should be.”
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While adding further, he said, “It was really fun. I mean, it was probably better with Max today. And to have a Ferrari on the podium is always great. And yes, thank you very much for your support, and see you guys very soon. I’m sorry for the heart attack.” Later, a more lighthearted moment emerged during the post-race interviews. While being interviewed, Leclerc spotted Frederic Vasseur, who was also giving his interview. Leclerc walked over to the Ferrari principal and jokingly checked his pulse on his neck.
This playful act indirectly emphasized the intensity of the battle they had just experienced. However, the primary concern for the team principal remained accountability. With the intense on-track battle, Ferrari’s team principal must now engage in a conversation with his drivers.
Frederic Vasseur is seeking clarification regarding the fierce on-track battle between Ferrari boys
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The strategy of attack and defense at the Italian Grand Prix could have turned a fantastic day for Ferrari into a catastrophic one. Nevertheless, after granting permission for their drivers to battle, the team boss was left bewildered by why both drivers were risking their DRS by fighting each other.
Initially, Vasseur remarked, “It was a great feeling. I told them no risk. The notion of no risk is always relative, but I really appreciated the last couple of laps.” However, later, the Frenchman declared he would be holding both of his drivers accountable. Wrapping up the conversation, he mentioned, “As you can imagine, we’ll have the discussion after the race, but perhaps not tonight. Tomorrow they are in the factory. I don’t want to see it tonight. I will watch it tomorrow.”
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