Leclerc on pole after nail-biting qualifying: 'Still disappointed'

Charles Leclerc was fastest in qualifying for the Las Vegas Grand Prix, and may start the race from pole position. Teammate Carlos Sainz followed in second place, but will have to start in the midfield on Sunday due to his grid penalty. Among other things, Leclerc said he could have been even faster.

"I'm happy. To take the first pole in Las Vegas, it's an incredible event," Leclerc began after qualifying in Nevada. "To be starting from pole is great. However, I'm a bit disappointed about my laps in Q3. I didn't do a good enough job but it was enough for P1 and that's all we need."

Leclerc has achieved pole position many times this season, but never managed to cash in on it this season. Max Verstappen will start alongside the Monegasque on the front row of the grid. The Ferrari driver stressed how important the race is for them. The Italian Scuderia is battling Mercedes for spot two in the constructors' championship.

"Now it's full focus to try and put everything together for the race," the driver with number 16 on the car said. "Normally, that's where we lack most performance so I hope we can put it all together and win here," Leclerc concluded.