Charles Leclerc arrived in the renovated Hungaroring paddock on a high, following his podium finish in Belgium last Sunday. He was also happy at the news that Team Principal Fred Vasseur has extended his contract with the Scuderia. “I was in no doubt this was going to happen but at least now, we can put an end to the speculation and get back to concentrating solely on our work at the track,” he commented. “We know how important stability is in Formula 1 and I think this is the best thing that could have happened for the whole team.”

Looking for a first podium. Leclerc then spoke about this track. “Many people compare the Hungaroring to Monaco without the barriers and yet, unlike at my home track, I’ve never had a good result here. Recently we have made good progress in terms of competitiveness and it would be great to finally make it onto the podium at a circuit where I’ve never had much luck (Editor’s note: two fourth places, a sixth and a seventh being his only points finishes).

Performance level. Charles also said he was pleased with the team’s current performance level. “I think we’re having a very good season if we look at my performance as a driver. Of course, a few poor races can happen and here of course I’m talking about Silverstone. But in general I think I can be satisfied,” he said. “For the second part of the season we are all working with the aim of always fighting for the podium places, trying to consolidate second place in the Constructors’ and that job starts as from tomorrow’s free practice.”