Source:REUTERS/Edgar Su
[Saba Sports News] Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc angrily criticized the Mercedes W16 car as a “Mars rover for turn 12” during the Chinese Grand Prix. During the race, Leclerc roared through team radio: “The traction of Mercedes in turn 12 is simply unbelievable,” pointing out that the opponent had “over half a second advantage” in key corners. This explosive remark shook the paddock but was quickly countered by harsh reality, as both Ferrari cars were disqualified due to technical violations, making the Ferrari team the biggest loser of the Chinese Grand Prix. After the race, technical analysis by experts indicated that Leclerc’s “Mars rover” comments exposed the fatal shortcomings of the Ferrari team. The astonishing traction of the Mercedes car in low-speed corners is due to its innovative hydraulic suspension system, while Ferrari sacrificed corner stability for straight-line speed, ultimately losing competitiveness and falling into a crisis of violations. Ironically, the Mercedes team questioned by Leclerc ultimately saw George Russell stand on the podium. In response, some fans noted that Leclerc’s transition from attacking his opponents to exposing his own team’s flaws reflects the strategic confusion within the Ferrari camp and the failure of car tuning, foreshadowing an early end to the championship chase in the 2025 season.