Leclerc puts Verstappen on notice: 'We're similar in terms of pace'

Charles Leclerc is confident he can challenge Max Verstappen during the Miami Grand Prix. The Ferrari driver claims he has a similar pace to the Dutchman, who will push for his fifth win of the year. Leclerc's teammate Carlos Sainz isn't ruling out playing a supportive role in the strategy to beat Verstappen.

Verstappen will start on pole position, and Leclerc will lead the Ferrari drivers from second. Sergio Perez failed to beat either Ferrari driver in qualifying, so they will start from fourth place. 

Leclerc targets Verstappen in Miami

"Today we need to do one step better, and we'll target the win for sure. We've got both of our cars in front so I hope we can have an opportunity to pass Max. I think we are more or less similar to them in terms of pace. We just need to have a good start. Yesterday was close. I hope today I can make the overtake," Leclerc said during the drivers parade. 

With both drivers breathing down Verstappen's neck on the grid, Ferrari have the chance to play a strategy game. Sainz is prepared to play this game if the Ferrari cars don't overtake Verstappen at the start.

"I think we are in a good position. Statistics say that Max is always difficult to beat when he's starting on pole, but we're going to try our best to get him at the start or get him with strategy. We'll do everything we can," Sainz added. Verstappen himself agrees that Ferrari are closer in terms of pace around Miami.