P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Charles Leclerc has explained his thinking behind his F1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix tactics to concede track position to Sergio Perez in a failed attempt to help Ferrari overhaul Mercedes.
Leclerc sacrificed his second place in order to help Perez, who had a time penalty, stay ahead of Russell. This was a strategic move to secure a higher position for Ferrari in the constructors’ championship. Perez needed to finish more than five seconds ahead of Russell to secure third place, but he fell short by 1.1 seconds. As a result, Mercedes claimed second place in the constructors’ championship by just three points. Leclerc’s sportsmanlike behavior was praised by both Russell and Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff. Russell expressed gratitude to Leclerc for keeping their battle clean, while also recognizing the hard work of the Mercedes team throughout a challenging season.
