F1: Ferrari seize ‘big opportunity’ – Gulf Digital News

F1: Ferrari seize ‘big opportunity’ – Gulf Digital News

Charles Leclerc of Ferrari gave a masterful driving display at the Formula One 2022 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, winning the first outing of the season in sensational style.

Leclerc’s team-mate Carlos Sainz also drove a memorable race, finishing in second place to make it a fantastic night of double delight for the Prancing Horse.

“Let’s go, lettttt’s gooooo,” 24-year-old Leclerc was heard yelling on the team radio as he crossed the finish line. “That’s exactly how we should start the season. One, two, Baby! Whoo! Mamma Mia!”

Starting in pole position, the 24-year-old from Monaco never relinquished the lead, except for half a lap halfway through the 57-lap race when closest rival reigning world champion Max Verstappen, who had started in second place, briefly overtook him.

The night ended in heartbreak for Verstappen and his Red Bull colleague Sergio Perez when both were forced to drop out within minutes of each other, moments before the race ended because of suspected battery issues.

While Verstappen managed to make it to the pit even as he was losing power, Perez’s car came to a shuddering halt on the track in the second-last lap, forcing the other drivers to swerve around him.

As a result, Mercedes’ seven-time