Charles Leclerc raises 'destroyed' concern over lost F1 limit

Charles Leclerc has explained how F1 drivers are getting "destroyed" on straights in qualifying if they attempt to push to the limit through corners.

The Ferrari driver fears that going full tilt over one lap is a lost art under F1's new regulations, as doing so results in slower lap times due to the proclivities of energy management with the new power unit rules.

Drivers are left with a difficult needle to thread, as attacking corners too much, especially as they usually would in Q3, means slower top speeds on straights.

In China, the eight-time grand prix winner detailed how he was now being less rewarded for taking risks in qualifying, which is something he has become known for.

He could not conceal his anger whilst still in the cockpit of his SF-26, but managed to calm down before speaking to the press.

When asked at Suzuka whether he felt his driving skills and talents were being limited, he addressed the broader issue.

"I mean, I feel like it would be quite arrogant to say it like that, but surely, I think for everybody, going into Q3 is just not the nicest feeling, because we want to be at the limit of these cars," Leclerc told Sky Sports F1.

"And whenever you play with those limits, not only do you pay the price of a small snap, but you also pay triple the price on the straight, and this is very frustrating, because qualifying is all about us trying to find the limit and to play with the limit."

The Monégasque driver believes this is currently more detrimental to Ferrari than its Mercedes-powered rivals, like the Brackley-based squad itself and McLaren.

His remarks come after he was out-qualified by Oscar Piastri for the Japanese Grand Prix, in which he will start fourth.

"At the moment, whenever you play with the limit, you get destroyed on the straight," he added. "So you've got to stay right underneath it, which is an art in itself.

"And all the good drivers used to make the difference anyway, but I think it's less rewarding for the drivers that like to really push over it, and most of the time in Q3 that's paying off, but not with these cars."

Who do you think will take victory in the Japanese Grand Prix? Let us know by voting below in the latest poll by RacingNews365!