P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Charles Leclerc has admitted that choosing the wrong set-up direction and a strategic mistake unravelled Ferrari’s podium hopes in F1’s Sao Paulo Grand Prix.
Ferrari struggled to maintain its winning streak at the wet Brazil Grand Prix where Leclerc finished in the top five while Sainz crashed out, unable to match their previous performance. Leclerc, running behind Tsunoda’s RB, pitted on Lap 24 for new Intermediates but the decision proved to be incorrect as conditions worsened causing a red flag. The red flag allowed non-pitters like Verstappen and the Alpines to change tires and retain their positions. Leclerc admitted the pit stop was a mistake and that Ferrari should have avoided it, realizing they lost positions due to the longer wet pit lane times. Despite the challenges with the car’s setup and difficult conditions, Leclerc managed to overtake Norris and Russell but eventually lost fourth place to Russell after a wide moment. Leclerc found some satisfaction in beating the McLaren drivers to keep Ferrari’s hopes alive in the Constructors’ Championship standings, as they look to close the 36-point gap.
