Running in second place behind leader Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc made a bold move in the final laps of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Leclerc attempted to give third-placed Sergio Perez a slipstream to help him gain an advantage over George Russell, who was on course to secure second place for Mercedes in their fight against Ferrari.
Leclerc’s Strategic Move
Sergio Perez had been handed a five-second penalty for a clash with McLaren’s Lando Norris. To secure his position ahead of Russell, Perez needed to finish five seconds clear of the British driver. Recognizing this opportunity, Charles Leclerc decided to play a strategic role by assisting Perez in his quest to secure third place.
The Slipstream Plan
Leclerc, running comfortably in second place, allowed Perez to benefit from his slipstream. By doing so, Leclerc aimed to give Perez an additional speed advantage, allowing him to make up the required time gap and secure a podium position behind Verstappen.
A Momentous Battle
The final laps of the race witnessed an intense battle between Leclerc and Perez. The two drivers fought hard, with Leclerc strategically positioning his car to create the perfect slipstream for Perez. As they maneuvered through the twists and turns of the Yas Marina Circuit, the crowd was on their feet, witnessing a thrilling end to the season.
The Outcome
In the end, Leclerc’s plan proved successful. Perez managed to finish more than five seconds ahead of Russell, which secured his third-place position despite the penalty. This turn of events provided Ferrari with a positive end to the season, outperforming Mercedes in the battle for second place.
The Importance of Teamwork
Leclerc’s decision to assist his teammate showcased the spirit of teamwork within the Ferrari camp. Despite being direct competitors, Leclerc understood the significance of helping Perez achieve the best possible result for the team as a whole. This act of cooperation emphasized the unity and determination within the Ferrari team.