Charles Leclerc highlights 'cheeky' FIA employee after surprise decision

Charles Leclerc has highlighted how "cheeky" it was of the FIA's official F1 starter to make the lights go out so quickly at the beginning of the Australian Grand Prix.

Leclerc started the season-opener at Melbourne's Albert Park from fourth on the grid, but led into the first corner following a tremendous launch.

He battled with eventual race winner George Russell in the opening stages, although he fell behind both Mercedes drivers after not pitting during two Virtual Safety Cars.

While not pitting during the VSCs ended any hope of finishing first or second, Leclerc held on to secure a podium for Ferrari in third.

"It was a very, very tricky race," said Leclerc. "Obviously at the start, I don't think any of us knew what to expect with the fights and the energy, and then it's even more tricky when overtaking or defending.

"You don't really know when your engine or your battery is going to cut on the straight. So while defending, there are massive speed differences. It's been quite challenging, but I was happy to get out of that battle in first.

"Unfortunately, that didn't help us for the rest of the race, but it was a fun first part. P3 is the best we could do today."

Fast start shock

It was expected ahead of the lights going out that Leclerc would make an exceptional getaway, based on what was seen during pre-season testing.

For 2026, the F1 start procedure has been changed to allow the cars to build enough energy in the turbo—a process that takes longer due to the removal of the MGU-H.

While the new start procedure did take place, what caught Leclerc by surprise was how quickly the lights went out, something he believes worked in Ferrari's favour.

When pointed out his opening corner move on Russell was done on the brakes rather than acceleration, Leclerc responded: "Yeah, and I think the person who switches off the lights was quite cheeky, because for the first start of the season with these cars, to go lights out so quickly took everybody by surprise. We're always very much on the limit with the power units.

"So I think that played a little bit into our hands, but it's part of the game."