F1 champions McLaren remain team to beat, says Leclerc

Formula One champions McLaren are expected to remain the team to surpass when the season commences in Australia next week, according to Ferrari's Charles Leclerc, who made this statement on Tuesday.

Last season, McLaren secured the championship title, edging out Ferrari, now featuring seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, by a margin of 14 points, marking their first championship in 26 years.

Data from Formula One testing revealed that the Woking-based team demonstrated superior speed compared to Ferrari on low fuel, with a marginally reduced advantage in race pace, during the recent tests in Bahrain.

"Today I feel like McLaren remains the team to beat," remarked at an event commemorating 20 years of collaboration between Ferrari and the sports brand Puma at the team's historic headquarters in Maranello, Italy.

"Nonetheless, it is challenging to ascertain the true competitive landscape based on testing results, as we are unaware of the fuel levels they are utilizing and other variables."

"Our testing went pretty well, we went through our programme which is the most important and we didn’t have any bad surprises which is good as well," added the Monegasque driver.

"However, the actual performance will be revealed next week when we arrive in Australia for qualifying." Leclerc expressed admiration for his new teammate, who is pursuing a record eighth title at the age of 40.

"Obviously with Lewis there was quite a lot of attention around the team this winter break but it’s great, it’s normal I mean he is a legend of the sport and joining the most iconic team of the sport," he said.

"I have concentrated on my own preparation as much as possible during the winter break to ensure I am ready for this year, and I feel prepared. Everyone appears to be highly motivated, so I am eagerly anticipating the season."

SportsLigue