Leclerc minimizes Ferrari's progress as the ADUO decision approaches.

      "Others are bringing large packages."

      Charles Leclerc has tempered expectations regarding Ferrari's significant upgrade in Miami, indicating it may not immediately lessen the gap to Mercedes. "It’s unusual to see so many updates from various teams. Almost everyone here will present a new car. The five-week break has pushed the departments to their limits," he stated. "One thing I’m unsure about is whether the technical innovations will dramatically alter the hierarchy from the beginning of the year." This comes despite championship leader Kimi Antonelli acknowledging that Mercedes has introduced "virtually nothing new" in Miami. "Just minor updates, while the others are providing substantial packages," the Italian noted.

      However, while Leclerc is optimistic about Ferrari’s advancements, which include the much-anticipated ’Macarena’ rear wing, he clarified the current standings. "Mercedes is still significantly ahead. I don’t believe these upgrades will be sufficient for us to close the gap," he remarked. "It will be crucial for us to measure ourselves against McLaren, which is very close. I hope the updates enable us to keep pace." He also emphasized that a more substantial improvement might come from the engine side, dependent on the FIA’s regulatory decisions regarding the ADUO scheme. "Then we will assess the engine aspect, which I believe hasn’t been confirmed yet regarding its availability – I hope it is confirmed – and if so, we’ll see what progress that could allow us to make."

      "That second step is different, as if the situation unfolds as we anticipate, our competitors won’t have the opportunity to make that advancement. That’s a gap we could potentially bridge." "In terms of chassis and aerodynamics, I expect everyone to bring what essentially amounts to a new car here, and everyone is pushing very hard – so we’ll find out if that will be enough for us to close the gap with them."

      On the recent rule adjustments in Miami, Leclerc maintained a measured perspective. "I was pleased with the simulator," he said. "Now I can drive much more instinctively." "However, other issues remain unresolved, such as energy management when exiting corners. Let’s wait for the two qualifying sessions to see how it goes." He articulated how the changes enhance drivability, though not entirely. "As a driver, I felt my feedback and requests were acknowledged," Leclerc commented.

      "There were software filters and strange behaviors where going flat out and then lifting would result in something unexpected. Now that’s been addressed, allowing us to return to instinctive driving, although clearly, there will be more work required throughout the season."