[Saba Sports News] The Miami Grand Prix could have been Ferrari’s best result of the season, but a late-lap mistake by Charles Leclerc cost him a podium chance he had in his grasp. After the race, the Monegasque driver admitted outright that such an error was unacceptable, taking full responsibility upon himself rather than blaming team strategy.
Starting from third place, Leclerc once again showed his strong race-start pace this season. He surged into the lead at the opening stage, heading off Lando Norris and Andrea Kimi Antonelli to command the race. Although the FIA adjusted energy management rules for the start procedure at this round, the Ferrari car maintained its competitive edge as before. Mid‑race, the decision over an early pit stop became critical. Leclerc expressed frustration with the team’s call to pit before any rain arrived, believing communication had been insufficient. As the race unfolded, the predicted rain never came and track conditions settled down. Leclerc fought back into podium contention and overtook Max Verstappen again during the strategic pit cycle.
The turning point came late in the race. Under relentless pressure from Oscar Piastri, Leclerc was overtaken on the penultimate lap. On the final lap, he attempted a bold counterattack into Turn 3, but an overly aggressive commitment sent him out of control. He spun and hit the barriers.
Though he managed to avoid retirement, the car sustained substantial damage. Struggling for pace for the rest of the lap, he was overtaken by George Russell and Max Verstappen. Leclerc made it clear after the race that regardless of any strategic disagreements, his final-lap error alone was enough to ruin his podium hopes. He said he would first reflect on his own performance before discussing strategy with the team.
In my opinion, Leclerc’s post‑race self‑criticism reflects his pursuit of perfection, yet it also lays bare the challenges he faces in mental resilience. Moving forward, Ferrari needs to strike a balance between nurturing his competitive ambition and easing his psychological pressure.