Despite the limited running in the second practice session, Charles Leclerc believed that Max Verstappen and Red Bull were in front of the Scuderia.
Ferrari has high expectations for the race. The Italian team arrived in Suzuka after an incredible victory in Melbourne. They were confident in their ability to challenge both Verstappen and Red Bull throughout the season. However, Leclerc has made a confession following Friday’s free practice.
Verstappen and Red Bull topped the timing sheets in the first practice session, while Leclerc finished in sixth place. The rain in FP2 resulted in only five cars setting a lap time during the entire session.
Leclerc stated that he would do his best to potentially surprise the paddock with an impressive result, despite the lack of data on Friday. However, he emphasized the importance of Ferrari being fully prepared for Qualifying.
The 26-year-old admitted that Ferrari lacked some pace when it came to fighting for pole position. Leclerc mentioned that Verstappen and Red Bull appeared incredibly strong in the first practice session, indicating that there was still work to be done for Ferrari. However, he expressed hope in securing pole position for the race.
Leclerc described it as a mediocre day for Ferrari after the two practice sessions. The team focused on certain aspects in FP1 to find the optimal set-up, but the rain in FP2 hindered their progress, especially for dry running.
Leclerc hoped for clear weather in the final practice session on Saturday. He stated that Ferrari would use this opportunity to learn and experiment with the set-up before heading into Qualifying.
The entire grid failed to gather any useful data from FP2 in Suzuka. Despite Ferrari’s confidence in their prospects this weekend, Verstappen remains the favorite to win the Japanese GP. However, the lack of running and the possibility of changeable conditions could lead to significant changes in Qualifying. Fans eagerly await the outcome of pole position this weekend.