Charles Leclerc does not believe that F1 drivers are able to grasp the "full implications" of where they are struggling and how to fix it, given the complexity of the new 2026 cars.
The Monegasque started the season strongly with podiums in Australia and Japan, but struggled when the season resumed and branded the Canadian GP as one of the worst of his career, such was his struggle on the brakes.
However, a breakthrough was made at the British GP on Friday night at Silverstone, which allowed Leclerc to grab his first victory since 2024, following that up with second in Belgium.
Detailing the tightrope drivers are walking in trying to understand where performance is in the complex new cars, which require a new driving style as opposed to the old ground effect machines, Leclerc explained how the matter isn't as "black and white" as it may seem and that uncovering the truth when struggling is not easy.
"I think it depends on the power unit and the way everything is set up, and that is why it is so difficult with these cars," Leclerc told media, including RacingNews365.
"There are so many variables that it is not like it is in the past where you could look at the data and say: 'This is clearly where I am losing, this is clearly where I've got to change with my driving.'
"If you are changing your driving, but the programming is going the other direction, you end up being a lot worse than you were at first, so there are many different variables.
"You've got to be open-minded, and I've seen that. I started the season being at ease with the car, and very strong, but in Montreal and Monaco, I struggled a lot, and then it's come back after changing quite a few things.
"But I don't think it is black and white so much with these cars. There are many different variables, and to understand the full implication when you are a little bit off is more difficult than it seems.
"I don't agree that being particularly aggressive with these cars works, at least not with our cars, but it might do for another car."
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