Russian Grand Prix – Sauber’s Charles Leclerc finished as ‘best of the rest’ by claiming P7 at the chequered flag in Sochi.
The Sauber driver underlined why he has been signed to Ferrari for 2019 by driving a combative race in Sochi. Having started from P7, Leclerc was able to make the most of the Sauber being quite kind on its HyperSoft tyres to make a tremendous overtake around the outside of Haas’ Kevin Magnussen through the long Turn 3. This proved crucial, as Magnussen then essentially acted as a cork in the bottle for the two Force India drivers as the strategies played out.
While Leclerc could do nothing about the much faster Red Bull drivers overtaking him as they recovered from their lowly grid positions, he was able to finish as best of the rest behind the three leading teams and moves up to P15 in the Driver’s Standings on 21 points.
“I am very happy with the result today. It was a great race, with a strong strategy, and a car that felt very good to drive. The overtakes at the beginning of the race were on the limit but they helped us to finish the race in P7.”
“To score such a result for the first time this season feels amazing, and is a good reward for all of the hard work we put in week after week. I am glad to have scored some more points and can’t wait for the next race in Japan.”
