Formula 1 motorsport director Ross Brawn was impressed by how Charles Leclerc handled the “devastating” loss at the Bahrain Grand Prix.
Last weekend in the desert saw the Ferrari driver plant his flag firmly in the ground at the front of the grid by claiming a first pole and dominating the race on Sunday.
That was until a loss of power from the engine saw a 12-second lead evaporate, allowing Lewis Hamilton to win and Mercedes claim another 1-2 finish.
“F1 can be a really cruel sport,” Brawn commented post-race. “After being fastest at almost every stage of the weekend – with the exception of a short period after the start yesterday – Leclerc was living the dream.
“It [the engine issue] was a devastating blow for both driver and team, but especially for Charles. However, his fall to third place doesn’t take away from what was a brilliant performance the talented Monegasque youngster delivered.”
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Brawn was left in awe of every aspect of Leclerc’s handling of the race and is confident success will very quickly head his way.
“The way in which he regained the lead after a handful of laps, the skill with which he managed his tyres in what was a particularly difficult race due to the blustery sandy conditions, was majestic,” the former Ferrari technical director noted.
“I also appreciated how composed he was in dealing with what happened at the end of the race, that showed a great deal of maturity, a trait that will serve him well in the future.
“Charles truly deserved a win and the consolation of this first podium finish and I am sure he will be back on top very soon.”