The final triple-header has kicked off in the Sin City with a three-way battle for a Constructors’ title. Charles Leclerc is looking ahead with measured optimism as Ferrari prepares for the F1 Las Vegas GP.
The SF24 has shown impressive tyre management throughout the season—a stark contrast to its predecessor. However, this strength could turn into a challenge under cold track conditions, such as those expected in Las Vegas. Speaking to the media, Leclerc addressed concerns about tyre warm-up issues potentially impacting Ferrari’s performance:
“Yeah, I do still think that this could be the case. However, we don’t exactly know how much did that change from last year. I mean, it’s very difficult to compare, obviously a completely different car. However, we know that we are better on tyres, that we are less aggressive on them, which means that the temperature builds up a little bit slower.”
Leclerc pointed out that tyre warm-up was an issue for everyone 12 months ago and might be even more challenging now. Despite these hurdles, he remains confident and believes it will be a positive weekend for Ferrari.
“I think on paper it seems that our car characteristics are fitting this track, I think. And I think we should be fast,” he said.
Leclerc delighted about Monaco GP’s extension but insists it shouldn’t be compared to Las Vegas
Earlier this month, F1 confirmed an extension of its Monaco GP agreement with ACM (Automobile Club of Monaco) through 2031. Starting in 2026, the race will move to the first weekend of June to better align with the calendar, with the Canadian GP scheduled for late May. The Monegasque also shared his thoughts on this saying:
“Obviously, I’m extremely happy that the contract is extended because Monaco means a lot to me. I think it means a lot for absolutely every driver because it’s such a special track and there’s such a special energy around the weekend there.”
Charles Leclerc shared that his passion for the sport started as a child watching the F1 Monaco GP race, and now he’s won on home soil.
“But me, growing up in Monaco, seeing my first ever Formula 1 race in Monaco, that’s where my passion started for racing, and that’s where my dream of becoming a Formula 1 driver started as well,” he said.
While comparing Monaco to Las Vegas, Leclerc pointed out F1’s evolution toward greater entertainment. He shared that Las Vegas makes it an ideal location to showcase the sport’s growing spectacle-driven appeal.
“I don’t think you can compare Monaco and Vegas. They are very special for different reasons. I think Monaco is the glamour part, but then there’s also the legacy and history of the Monaco Grand Prix, whereas here it’s a new Grand Prix, but it’s very special for different reasons. I think it’s the home of entertainment.”
Monaco, despite debates over its race excitement, remains a historic F1 cornerstone. On to this weekend, Ferrari faces track temperature challenges but stays optimistic on a favourable circuit. To overtake McLaren, they must outscore them by 12 points per race, aiming for their first Constructors’ title in 16 years.
