Dominating Performance at the Melbourne Grand Prix

Melbourne 24 March 2024

Scuderia Ferrari orchestrated a flawless weekend in Australia, with Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc clinching the team’s 86th one-two finish, marking their 244th victory in Formula 1. The team harvested the maximum 44 points, with Leclerc securing an additional point for the fastest lap of the race. This achievement extends Ferrari's streak to 59 consecutive seasons with at least one win, placing them just four points behind the championship leader. In the Drivers' standings, Leclerc trails Max Verstappen by the same margin, while Sainz, despite missing a race, sits 11 points adrift.

Sainz's performance was nothing short of extraordinary, securing his third Formula 1 victory, all of which have been with Ferrari. This achievement propels him to the ranks of Formula 1 legends, joining the likes of Juan Manuel Fangio, Mike Hawthorn, Phil Hill, and Jody Scheckter on Scuderia Ferrari's all-time winners list. Remarkably, Sainz displayed resilience despite undergoing an appendectomy just 16 days prior, immediately applying pressure on Verstappen. Seizing an opportunity on lap 2, he overtook the Dutchman and maintained a relentless pace throughout the race, demonstrating exceptional tyre management over three stints. Even amidst the chaos of George Russell's crash, Sainz kept his focus, emerging unscathed and earning the accolade of "Driver of the Day" from fans.

Leclerc delivered a solid performance, securing a well-deserved second place, crucial for the championship battle. Starting from fourth on the grid, he executed a flawless undercut on lap 9 to overtake Lando Norris. Despite pressure from Norris in the final stint, Leclerc defended his position, ultimately setting the fastest lap of the race and securing an additional point.

As the Formula 1 circus embarks on its longest journey of the year, all eyes turn to Asia for the Japanese Grand Prix at the iconic Suzuka circuit. With Ferrari riding high on their Melbourne success, anticipation mounts for another thrilling chapter in the World Championship saga.