On the panel of today’s FIA press conference at the Yas Marina circuit, Charles Leclerc professed he is determined to end the season on a high note. “I think the situation should be different to Qatar and I expect we will be back at our more normal level of competitiveness,” he affirmed. “As for me, I’ll be giving it my all to the last corner of the last lap to get the best possible result for me and the team.”

Focused on himself. Leclerc was asked how he would deal with the situation if he found himself battling with the three title contenders. “To be honest, I’m not interested in what happens between Lando, Max and Oscar. I will only be concentrating on my own race and if I find myself able to attack one of them, I certainly won’t hold back and the same goes if they are attacking me. They will have to earn the position.”

Precious little things. Charles was also asked to sum up his performance this year and what useful insights he might have gained for the future. “I think I had one of my best years when looking at the way I’ve driven. I almost always achieved the maximum result possible and I think I further refined my driving. I don’t think there’s anything in particular from this season that I’ll take into 2026, but there are several small lessons, many improvements, even tiny ones, that could prove valuable for the future. I really can’t wait to get fully stuck in to 2026.”