Charles Leclerc has revealed his disappointment at Ferrari’s sudden drop off in pace at the Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix, as well as the “big surprise” of McLaren’s resurgency.
Leclerc and Ferrari aimed to continue their strong start to the year as best of the rest behind Mercedes in Japan following a competitive start to 2026.
However, the status quo ended at Suzuka, as a resurgent McLaren emerged as a threat, the two Ferraris split by Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris in qualifying.
McLaren’s surge continued in the race, Piastri jumping into the lead at lights out, and holding on until the pit stops, Leclerc unable to match his pace.
The Monegasque’s battles were consigned to teammate Lewis Hamilton, as the duo battled hard once again, though was able to beat Norris to secure third at the chequered flag.
Charles Leclerc disappointed with Ferrari’s Japanese GP performance
After the race, Leclerc reflected on his early race pace passing both Mercedes, revealing his disappointment at being unable to challenge Piastri’s McLaren in the closing stages.
“I mean, I was happy,” the eight-time Grand Prix-winner said to media, including Motorsport Week.
“Then I was obviously focusing on Oscar, but Oscar was very strong, actually, especially in the first lap.
“In the first lap, I was very surprised at how much he pulled away, and yes, after that, I was just trying to be as close as possible to him, but he had a bit more pace, and I thought also that free air was making a big difference,” he said.
“But I was just trying to wait for later on in the race, but it didn’t happen.”
Ferrari’s lack of pace in Suzuka will be a wake-up call to both Leclerc and the team. In a year where car development is critical, Ferrari has just had its first taste of falling behind. Bouncing back in Miami will be crucial.
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