Could Leclerc have taken pole from Verstappen? Vasseur answers

We had not yet seen much from Ferrari in terms of fast runs during the test days and in free practice, but qualifying in Bahrain means we know how good the SF23 is. Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz drove the third and fourth times, so the formation from Maranello is in fine shape.

"Qualifying went quite well. We didn't know where we stood compared to the other teams, although nobody had a clear picture," Vasseur told Sky's Italian branch. That Leclerc did not do a second run in Q3 was a conscious decision. "With Charles, we decided to save the new tyres for tomorrow. We will have a very good start on the second row."

Leclerc ready earlier in qualifying than usual

Ferrari will be hoping to embark on Sunday with victory and a double podium finish. Red Bull will be strong, but anything can still happen in the Grand Prix. "The points will only be awarded tomorrow. The most important thing is to prepare well for the race. Together with Charles, we chose to sacrifice qualifying for the race."

Whether a pole position would have been possible if Leclerc had been sent out once more on fresh tyres in qualifying? "Charles might have been able to challenge him at a second attempt. We just chose a different strategy. It is not an attack or defence strategy, we have to think of ourselves.
I am happy [with this result], but the balance sheet will not be taken until Sunday."