Larini Praises Leclerc’s Fire and Ferrari’s Strategy in Saudi GP

"Leclerc had a powerful race, he really wanted the result and managed the situation very well.

He fought tooth and nail against a rather nervous and struggling Norris, likely due to having a teammate like Piastri who's doing extraordinary things.

With a more aggressive-than-ever Norris behind him, Charles managed to keep up a pace that no one expected," said Nicola Larini, former driver and official Ferrari test driver from 1991 to 1997, as a guest on Radio Anch'io Sport on Rai Radio 1, discussing Ferrari’s first podium of the season in the main race — third place for Charles Leclerc at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, CE Report quotes ANSA.

Ferrari Pit Wall: "Good strategy brought an important race result, giving hope for the European rounds. It shows the car is there — even if it's still missing a few tenths."

On Hamilton's struggles, Larini added:

"Lewis is suffering — for sure, he doesn't have Leclerc's speed or determination. He’s got a few world titles under his belt, but this isn't an easy situation. He’s now got a teammate who wants what he’s already had. It'll be a very tough season for him."

Andrea Kimi Antonelli:

"I've known him since karting days — he was already a category above where my youngest son raced. I've always seen him as a real talent, something special even at 11 or 12. What he’s doing now just confirms what he began as a child. He’s mature and incredibly fast — already consistently just 1–2 tenths off someone like Russell. When the European races start, I’m convinced he’ll be able to beat him. We’re in for a show."

Norris-Piastri rivalry a concern for McLaren?

“These dynamics are nothing new — like the Senna-Prost era at McLaren, or Williams. It makes it more fun for us. Two drivers battling in the same car — currently the fastest on the grid. But don’t forget Verstappen, who would’ve won 100% yesterday without the penalty.”

Three-way fight for the Constructors’?

“The Constructors' Championship seems a bit one-sided to me — McLaren has two top drivers, Verstappen is alone. In terms of manufacturers, McLaren shouldn’t have trouble winning unless something changes mid-season.
The Drivers’ Championship is exciting and competitive — there are 3 or 4 drivers who can win it. McLaren is #1, but Verstappen can still make the difference even without the best car. And Ferrari, like Mercedes, can still get in the mix.”