Why Leclerc let Perez slip into second place at the end of the Abu Dhabi GP

The Monegasque driver suggested that Ferrari made this move at the end of the Abu Dhabi GP to make it easier for the Czech to build the 5-inch lead he needed over Russell to keep his place ahead of the Mercedes Englishman after applying the Penalty.

This was crucial for the Scuderia, as it would deduct three points from Russell, meaning second place in the final Constructors’ Championship would go to the Italian company – rather than Mercedes, who eventually won it (along with an additional ten million dollars out). the constructors’ championship). Distribution of television rights for the season).

Leclerc himself was confident that he would stay 5 inches behind Perez, so that the final result would see him back in second place overall, with the penalty applying to the RBR driver. But Russell managed to get within 5 feet of Perez at the checkered flag, securing 3rd place on the podium and 2nd place in the championship for Mercedes.

Commenting on his decision, Leclerc – who also offered Perez the slipstream so he could move faster – said: “We had to help him so that he could somehow finish five seconds ahead of George. I tried to give it to him DRS And slipstream [στις ευθείες]but unfortunately that wasn’t enough.”.

The 25-year-old continued: “It’s a shame that we came third in the championship. That was the only thing that mattered to me at the end of the season and we didn’t make it. Of course I wanted to try to take the lead at the start of the race [από τον Φερστάπεν] But we also knew that our race was a bit lacking in speed compared to theirs.

Even if I overtook Max there, he would probably overtake me again three or four laps later. Besides, my only goal was to win her Mercedes, So I didn’t want to waste too much of my tire rubber and time fighting Max. But yeah, it was fun. closed the Monegasque.

For his part, Russell emphasized: “In the end it was close with Czeko. I thought Charles would try to hold me back in the end, but I really appreciate him staying clean.” Second place is of immense importance. There are so many people at the factory in Brackley [τομέας σασί]in Brixworth [τομέας κινητήρων]who worked hard to achieve it.

It was a season full of great challenges. I’ve let the team down a few times this year, so I’m happy to finally get this result today.”concluded Russell a day after saying that this year may be the worst season of his racing career based on results.