Charles Leclerc Reveals Disheartening Goal For 2023 F1 Season
It's been a rough start to the 2022 Formula One season for Charles Leclerc. The Ferrari driver has retired from two of the opening three rounds and has amassed just six points as a result. Last season, he had collected 68 points after winning two of the first three races. Now, the Monegasque has given a fairly disheartening aim for the season.
Leclerc's new priority is simply to finish a race without any penalties or issues, he said:
"For now, instead of thinking about long-term targets, I think just finishing a race without any penalties or issues whatsoever is a priority."
Leclerc's rough start to the season began in Bahrain, where he was forced to retire due to a power unit issue. He then took a 10-place grid penalty in Jeddah after the team fitted a third control electronics unit component, which put him beyond the prescribed limit of two for the season. And in the most recent race in Australia, Lance Stroll made contact with his Ferrari, sending him into the gravel and out of the race.
Speaking after the race in Melbourne, Leclerc explained:
"I'm frustrated, obviously it's the worst ever start of the season. I mean, only six points, so it's frustrating."
Leclerc's lowered targets are a reflection of the challenges he's faced so far this season. But the young driver is not one to give up easily. He remains focused and determined to turn his luck around and get back to the podium.
Leclerc's talent is undeniable, and his previous success is proof of that. With his sights set on simply finishing a race without any issues, he may just surprise us all and climb back up the ranks. It's still early days in the season, and anything can happen in the world of Formula One.