During the recent Qualifying for the Qatar Grand Prix, drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton encountered significant challenges. Both struggled to maintain competitive speeds, ultimately finishing far behind their rivals. While teams like McLaren, Mercedes, and Red Bull were vying for pole position, Ferrari found themselves off the pace.
Qatar Grand Prix Qualifying Performance
In the 19-lap Sprint, Leclerc secured P13 and Hamilton followed in P17. Hamilton, who started at the back in the pit lane, managed to move up one position but was ultimately eliminated in Q1, placing him in 18th on the grid for the race. Facing overtaking difficulties at the Qatar circuit, Hamilton acknowledged the uphill battle to score points.
Poor Form from Ferrari
Hamilton expressed his frustration, noting that his car felt worse than during Sprint Qualifying, where he finished in P18. He emphasized the need for better performance, stating, “I was generally feeling better. We made changes and I was feeling better, but just wasn’t quick.” This season has been particularly challenging for him as he adjusts to his first year with Ferrari.
- Lewis Hamilton: Finished Qualifying in P18
- Charles Leclerc: Finished Qualifying in P10
- Ferrari’s position: Significant gap from pole time
Leclerc, Hamilton’s teammate, also faced disappointment. He ended Qualifying in P10, over a second behind pole-sitter Oscar Piastri. A spin in Q3, attributed to persistent oversteer issues, left him pessimistic about improvements for the race. “Incredibly difficult day, incredibly difficult weekend,” Leclerc remarked. “I don’t really know what to say. It’s been extremely difficult to drive this car, to keep it on track.”
Looking Ahead
Despite the challenges, Leclerc hopes to reset and improve during the race day. He shared, “I hope it will work better tomorrow, but nothing that I’ve felt with this car makes me think that I will have a better feeling tomorrow.” He added that luck, possibly through Safety Cars, might offer a glimmer of hope for the forthcoming race.
As both drivers aim for recovery, the upcoming race will test their resilience under pressure and the capabilities of the Ferrari team.
