Charles Leclerc fended off multiple attacks from Max Verstappen, including a restart after a short safety car period, to take the first win of the season at the Bahrain Grand Prix, as well as scoring the extra point for the quick turn.
Following Red Bull’s double retirement late in the race, in which both Verstappen and Sergio Pérez suffered engine failure, Carlos Sainz completed the Ferrari one-two after overtaking the Dutchman seconds before retiring.
This result is a relief for Ferrari after some difficult seasons, taking the team’s first victory since the 2019 Singapore GP, when Leclerc finished second behind then-Maranello home driver Sebastian Vettel.
Leclerc praised Ferrari ‘s work with F1’s new technical regulations and the switch to ground effect cars which seem to have caused a big change in the pecking order on the grid.
“I’m very happy. The last two years have been incredibly difficult for the team and we knew this was going to be a great opportunity,” Leclerc said. “The guys have done an amazing job to get and build this amazing car, so for now it’s starting in the best possible way: win from pole, fastest lap and one-two today with Carlos.”
“We couldn’t have hoped for anything better, so yes, thanks to everyone who has supported us over the last two years. It hasn’t been easy, but it’s amazing to be back on top.”
When the race restarted behind the safety car, Leclerc pulled away from Verstappen , gradually securing victory after battling the Dutch driver in the early stages of the race in a duel that left great images.
Although it became an anecdote given Verstappen’s late retirement, Leclerc was very proud of his defense against the world champion to maintain his lead and top spot.
“I didn’t want a safety car at the time, but then I did a great start and that gave me a bit of leeway to then manage my race to the end,” he said.
Sainz said he saw Verstappen struggling with a mechanical issue on the restart and knew he could take on the Red Bull driver to complete a perfect race for Ferrari.
“On the restart, I had a great opportunity, but he defended himself well, and all of a sudden I started seeing red flashing lights on the back of his car. And I said, ‘Okay, this is my opportunity,’ and I went to for her”.
“It was unfortunate. I think today he was driving well enough to get second position, but I was able to overtake him and then he had to retire. So it is what it is and it’s a good thing for Ferrari,” Sainz concluded.
