Mar.26 (GMM) Charles Leclerc has played down the apparent closeness between Ferrari and Mercedes, insisting the gap at the front is “not as close as it looks”.
Although Ferrari has emerged as the clear second team behind the dominant Mercedes outfit after the opening two races of 2026, Leclerc says the on-track battles have been misleading.
“I think the battle at the front isn’t as close as it looks. We’re not as close as people think,” he said at Suzuka.
“In the first few races, we saw some battles at the front, which is obviously great. But if you’re slightly off with the energy management in these cars, you lose a lot of time.
“That gives you the opportunity to put pressure on the leaders. However, they show their true pace as soon as they have a clear track.”
Leclerc estimates the real deficit is already clear.
“And then there’s the difference of four or five tenths of a second per lap, which we already saw in the first races. That’s quite a lot,” he said.
“But I won’t let that discourage me. We have a few things in the pipeline that will hopefully help us. And we mustn’t overdo it, which can easily happen when you’re in this situation. We have to concentrate on ourselves.”
The Ferrari driver still believes the gap can be reduced over the course of the season, particularly in the early development phase of the new regulations.
“The season is still young, and I think it’s possible. However, it’s also a huge challenge and anything but easy,” he said. “Because Mercedes isn’t resting on its laurels either and is pushing hard.”
Leclerc pointed to the power unit as the main area of difference.
“A lot can be achieved simply by optimising the power unit. I think that’s the biggest difference between us and Mercedes,” he said.
“But of course, there are also areas in the chassis where we can improve. Even though I think we already have a pretty strong chassis.
“The big difference to Mercedes is in the engine.”
The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!
SHOW PACKAGES
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, a fan favorite on the F1 calendar. The city comes alive for race week packed with energy, events, and unforgettable nightlife. This year, the action shifts to Memorial Day weekend (late May), part of F1’s new, eco-friendly schedule. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the atmosphere where motorsport meets Montreal magic. Book your spot now this one sells out fast!
SHOW PACKAGES
Grand Prix Tours delivers the ultimate 2026 Belgian Grand Prix experience on July 19 at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps. Famed for its stunning setting, rich racing history, and iconic corners like Eau Rouge, Spa offers one of Formula 1’s most thrilling weekends, complete with unpredictable weather and nonstop action. With only a one-year contract in place, this could be your last chance to witness F1 at this historic circuit.
SHOW PACKAGES