Charles Leclerc signals Ferrari mood after latest boost: 'This is not enough'

Charles Leclerc has signalled Ferrari is aware its pace is “not enough” to satisfy the team despite the recent boost from a rear suspension upgrade.

Ferrari introduced the new component last weekend at the Belgian Grand Prix to widen the set-up window of the car, which has posed challenges to Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton this year.

The event at Spa-Francorchamps was a positive weekend for Leclerc, who crossed the line in third to bag his fifth podium of the season.

The Monegasque driver was forced to fend off Max Verstappen for much of the race and highlighted the new suspension played a key role in the battle.

“I’m pleased with the steps forward we are doing, and I think we should all be proud about that,” he told media including RacingNews365.

“I know that behind that, there’s a lot of work behind the scenes from the people back at home for us to have this upgrade here.

“It definitely helped us to get the podium when you see how close it was with Max.”

Ferrari has been unable to challenge at the front of the field this year, having entered the campaign hoping to progress on its strong 2024 form, where it narrowly missed out on a title.

While Leclerc stated Ferrari is satisfied with the race result, he asserted it holds much higher ambitions.

“We are all aware that this is not enough, and we need to keep pushing in order to be closer to the McLaren,” he said.

“This is very clear for the whole team. It doesn’t change that we shall be satisfied with what we’ve done this weekend.”