Charles Leclerc described the emotion of winning the Italian Grand Prix as “10 times stronger” than his maiden victory seven days ago, as he ended Ferrari’s losing streak on home soil.
Leclerc edged the Mercedes drivers to take pole position and remained at the head of the pack throughout, resisting a threat from Lewis Hamilton before repelling Valtteri Bottas.
Leclerc rarely had more than a second in hand but, despite a wide moment at the first chicane, largely remained calm under pressure, as he took his second win in as many weeks.
Italian GP: Drivers' Standings | Constructors' Standings | Race Result
It marked Ferrari’s first win in Italy since 2010.
“I’ve never been so tired in my life,” said Leclerc. “It was a very difficult race because I really wanted to do well here for the team, for the tifosi as well.
“To win here is a dream, it was a dream too last week for the first win, but in terms of emotions to win here is ten times stronger. Thanks to everybody – I have no words.
“The race was very, very difficult, the biggest gap was maybe 1.7s ,1.8s and I knew that Lewis rarely does a mistake so obviously I had to stay on it.
“I did a few mistakes which never cost me a position, once was very, very close, it was crazy, finally in the last 2 laps I started to believe the win was possible.”Leclerc added: “Finally going on the line, I let go all my emotions on the radio.
“I don’t think you can understand anything I said on the radio!
“The podium is going beyond all the dreams I had since childhood, to see people singing for one team it’s amazing.”
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