Charles Leclerc mentioned he was “positively shocked” by Ferrari’s efficiency after coming third in Sunday’s season-opener in Melbourne however admitted loads of work was wanted to reel in Mercedes.
The Monaco driver began fourth on the grid however had a lightning begin to surge previous pole-sitter George Russell and his Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli.
It sparked an exhilarating battle with the lead altering palms a number of occasions earlier than Mercedes had a greater pit-stop technique, then used sheer tempo to drag clear and take the highest two locations.
“More than happy is perhaps an enormous phrase, however I’m positively shocked, for certain, after qualifying yesterday,” mentioned Leclerc, who noticed Ferrari teammate Lewis Hamilton end a spot behind in fourth.
“I believe yesterday we weren’t in our optimum window, however we’re nonetheless very, very far off the Mercedes in qualifying, within the race, though we appear to be nearer.
“It doesn’t suggest we’re the quickest automotive, however we’re extra fairly behind. So numerous work to be completed.
“And I believe this championship, anyway, might be gained by growth and upgrades.
“We have loads coming,” he added. “I am certain all of the others do too, however hopefully we’re on the higher facet of issues.”
The Melbourne race was primarily gained when each the Mercedes pitted throughout an early digital security automotive section and the Ferraris stayed out.
When the Scuderia pair made their stops, they emerged behind Russell and Antonelli, playing that the Mercedes pair would wish to go in once more for recent tires.
However they saved going and there was no manner again for Leclerc.
“I do not remorse it. It was a aware selection,” he mentioned.
