Charles Leclerc, Ferrari driver, finished third at Suzuka after fending off George Russell, Mercedes driver, as the 2026 regulations' boost and overtaking mode produced larger speed differentials that shifted focus to energy management.
The new rules can generate speed gains approaching 20–25mph and, on Suzuka's three consecutive straights, drivers often maximized energy between the Spoon curve and the final chicane to mount overtaking attempts.
Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes driver, said after the race it was difficult to pass Leclerc because the two drivers ran “completely different deployments,” and Antonelli had also found Leclerc hard to pass earlier in the stint.
The Suzuka outcome underlined that the Mercedes W17 retains an advantage in clear air and tyre management, while Charles Leclerc's defensive energy use secured his podium.
Read the full article at motorsport.com.
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