Leclerc’s Last-Minute Engine Drama Ends in Pole Position Triumph at Monaco GP

Charles Leclerc discloses "eleventh-hour" engine troubles before qualifying

Charles Leclerc mentions that Ferrari had to swap out his engine just before the qualifying round in Monaco.

Charles Leclerc disclosed that Ferrari had to undertake an unexpected engine swap just before the qualifying round at the F1 Monaco Grand Prix.

Local favorite Leclerc, who had been the standout performer throughout the weekend, secured the highly sought-after pole position for the race in Monte Carlo's narrow and winding roads, edging out McLaren's Oscar Piastri by a mere 0.154 seconds during an intense qualifying session.

Ferrari experienced a moment of concern after identifying a problem with Leclerc’s engine following the last practice session on Saturday, leading them to take preventive measures by swapping out the engine.

"Leclerc described the experience as a whirlwind, noting that the weekend was phenomenal up until a problem with his engine emerged after FP3."

"A last-minute engine replacement occurred, which was rather challenging. Luckily for me, it didn't impact my weekend in any negative way."

In response to a question about his progress during qualifying, Leclerc said, "No, no. Q1 proved to be quite challenging."

"I grabbed the sponsor decal during a crucial lap which significantly reduced our speed. After that, we entered the pit stop, removed the sponsor emblem from the front wing, and resumed the race."

"Thus, navigating that situation was quite challenging since, during the Monaco qualifiers, the goal is to simply hit the track and perform standard laps. My hope was to avoid any red or yellow flags following that moment. Personally, I found it manageable. However, during Q2, we encountered some difficulties adjusting the car's balance; we just couldn't achieve the proper sensation."

"However, during the third quarter, we made several changes, particularly to the front wing and equipment, along with adjustments to my driving technique. This helped me regain my speed. I felt somewhat more content during the third qualifying session. Yet, for some reason, my performance felt smoother during the second and third free practice sessions."

Leclerc has secured pole position three times in Monaco, yet he hasn't achieved a victory or even reached the podium in any of his races at this local circuit.

"He expressed, "It's just as exhilarating as the initial victory. In Monaco, the surge of emotions and the level of anticipation before stepping into the car surpasses any other event throughout the season."

"Absolutely, when you complete a circuit and learn that you've secured the pole position, it's an incredibly unique sensation. Though, it's possible that in the past, those feelings lingered a bit more."

"Clearly, after securing the pole position twice and failing to clinch the win, which ultimately is the most important aspect, my focus is currently on preparing and doing everything within my power to change that outcome.”

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