Leclerc's speed not enough for the win in Singapore despite DHL Fastest Lap

Charles Leclerc was always one step behind in Singapore. He was among the Top Three in every session, but it was never enough for first place. He finished third in the Sprint and secured P2 on the grid in qualifying. In Sunday's race, he was determined to finally take the lead.

Starting from second place, he got off to a better start than pole-sitter Max Verstappen, but the Dutchman immediately moved across, leaving him just enough room, though not enough to brake late into the first corner. Leclerc had to back off and let his former karting rival pass.

Leclerc stayed hot on the Red Bull's heels for another ten laps, but tire wear on the Ferrari was too severe, and he had to drop back. On lap 24, the team brought him in for his first pit stop and attempted an undercut, which unfortunately didn't work out. On lap 39, Leclerc pitted again under the VSC and picked up another set of soft tires.

He set out once more to chase down Verstappen. On lap 41, he clocked a time of 1:35.202 minutes, securing the DHL Fastest Lap. Ultimately, it wasn't enough to challenge Verstappen for the win, and he crossed the finish line more than seven seconds behind the Red Bull driver.

After the race, he regretted his hesitation at the start: "I could have been more aggressive there, but that's just the way it is. I gave it my all and believed it was doable until the very end." Second place was a consolation prize for him, but at the same time, it also marked his first podium finish since the Belgian Grand Prix.