Leclerc ‘very happy’ with unexpected podium finish in Spain as he outlines clash with Verstappen

Charles Leclerc secured a somewhat surprising third-place finish at the Spanish Grand Prix, marking his second consecutive podium. The Monegasque driver benefited significantly from a late Safety Car period that bunched up the field, putting him directly behind Max Verstappen. Verstappen, on fresh hard tyres, struggled for grip out of the final corner, allowing Leclerc to capitalize and execute an overtake. Despite brief contact during the move, which prompted a strong reaction from Verstappen, Leclerc dismissed it as "normal racing" and maintained his position. Verstappen's subsequent 10-second penalty for a separate collision with George Russell further solidified Leclerc's podium spot. Leclerc admitted he had lower expectations for Ferrari's performance in Spain compared to Monaco, where he narrowly missed pole and victory. His strategic decision to sacrifice a second flying lap in Q3, starting P7 but preserving an extra set of tyres, proved to be a masterstroke, especially with the unexpected Safety Car. He expressed optimism upon learning Verstappen would be on new hard tyres for the final stint, correctly anticipating a struggle for grip and a potential opportunity, which he seized perfectly.