The French GP was another disappointing affair for Charles Leclerc; the Monegasque had to retire from the race after crashing out on lap 18. This just landed another blow to his already dwindling title hopes with Max Verstappen increasing his lead atop the driver’s standings.

This ordeal has left Leclerc fuming at his luck as after the race he said, “I haven’t looked at the data yet but it was a mistake. I’d say it was a mistake.” He further added, “It’s my fault and if I keep doing mistakes like this then I deserve to not win the championship,”

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Multiple such instances of misfortune have marred Leclerc’s season as he watches his title hopes fade in front of his eyes. However, team principal Mattia Binotto disagrees with Leclerc’s take that the Monegasque does not deserve to win the championship. The Italian has come out in full support of his driver after a difficult race at Paul Ricard.

Mattia Binotto defends Charles Leclerc after his crash at the French GP

Charles Leclerc crashed out of the French GP in a rather bizarre fashion. The Monegasque was comfortably leading at Circuit Paul Ricard before suddenly losing the rear on lap 18 and careering into the wall. This has left Leclerc dejected and fuming after another disappointing result.

In the meantime, Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto has come out to support his driver. The Italian disagreed with Leclerc’s claim, “I keep driving like I don’t deserve to win”. Refuting Leclerc’s statement, Binotto said, “I don’t agree with what Charles said. He lost many points in other ways.”

He added, “He drives like a champion and must keep doing that.” Binotto is already looking forward to the next race in Hungary and said, “The car is competitive, we’re already looking at next week in Hungary. I don’t even want to talk too much about the mistake of a champion.”

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However, this retirement will cost Leclerc dearly in the title race with Max Verstappen. The Dutchman pulling further ahead in the title race this season. Leclerc will be hoping that fortune starts favoring him if he has any shot of clinching the title.