Charles Leclerc ‘s third place in the Dutch Grand Prix left a bittersweet taste because, although he was able to get on the new podium, he saw again how Max Verstappen flew solo to a new victory that brings him closer to his second world title .
The Red Bull driver was unbeatable, thus confirming the superiority of the Max-RBR duo, already seen at the last Belgian Grand Prix. However, Leclerc’s race at Zandvoort was one to forget, and only the safety car saved him from missing out on the podium.
Leclerc had to work harder than expected to claim third place and, thanks to Mercedes’ decision to keep Hamilton on track on medium tyres, he was able to outwit the seven-time world champion and win the battle for third place.
“Honestly, I think it was difficult to finish higher,” said a dejected Charles once he left the cockpit of his Ferrari . “We had some bad luck with the Virtual Safety Car , but I don’t know if anything would have changed because Max was so quick today.”
Leclerc went on to point out the choice to mount hard tires as one of his biggest mistakes. The F1-75, in fact, did not get along with the hardest compounds, unlike what was seen with Mercedes, which appeared reborn in Zandvoort.
“The Mercedes were flying on the hard tyres, while it was hard for us to find the good feeling. We have to accept this third place.”
The Ferrari Monegasque explained how he managed to overtake Lewis Hamilton . The strategic advantage proved decisive for Leclerc to make his way to the third step of the podium.
“Lewis was struggling, while I had a bit more grip and managed to overtake him. However, they managed the tires well in the last few laps, but in the end it was enough.”
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