Charles Leclerc, Ferrari Formula 1 driver, trusts that the tough times at Ferrari has progressed him towards a better driver.
The Italian team and Monégasque has a difficult season, with sixth and fifth on the respective standings.
The “toughest moment” has turned to be a blessing in disguise for Leclerc. He has learnt restraint, improved handling tyres and advanced the team engagement.
During 2019, he proved to be a right choice by Ferrari, when he won races for the team. But, at times, he struggled to find a place in Q3 this season.
However, despite SF1000 miseries, Leclerc has outperformed his team mate Sebastian Vettel.
“I’m happy, I’m satisfied with the way I have improved as a driver since the beginning of the season,” he said.
“Especially race tyre management wise, I think that was one of my weakest points last year. I put quite a lot of effort in that, and it seems to be better now.
“So this is a positive, and then also, I think it’s in the toughest moments that you get even closer with the people that are working with you. And I think this is exactly what is happening.
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“So we are trying to help the team as much as possible to come back where we want to be. And I think this is creating some strong links for me and, and the future with the team. So this is good. And I hope this difficult situation will be as short as possible.”
He responded to question that which car, fast or slow, has assisted his learning. He conceded that it was impossible to judge.
“Well, it’s a matter of fact, the car is weaker this season,” he said. “So I can’t speak about [what would have happened] if the car will have been better. But anyway, I think it has made me a better driver, for sure.
“Because in difficult times, I’ve found my determination in other ways, focusing on myself, trying to improve, even though it’s not to fight for podiums, or wins, we are fighting for lower positions.
“But at the end it matters as much for me, and then in terms also of patience I don’t think I was a very patient guy in the past, but now I have to be in the situation I’m in now.”