Charles Leclerc will not use Ferrari's upgraded Formula 1 power unit at the Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid this weekend. The decision follows concerns that his engine may have been damaged in a heavy crash at Monza last week.
The incident occurred on the second lap of the Italian Grand Prix, when Leclerc lost control of his SF-26 at the high-speed Parabolica and slammed into the barriers. Although the Monegasque escaped largely unscathed, the team has opted for a conservative approach by reverting to an older-spec power unit.
According to Crash.net, Leclerc will run the older Ferrari PU, while his teammate Lewis Hamilton retains the new ADUO2 engine. This could leave Leclerc at a power disadvantage, though the 22-turn Madring circuit is less power-dependent than Monza.
In opening practice, the impact appeared minimal as Leclerc set the third-fastest time, outpacing Hamilton and trailing only the Mercedes pair of George Russell and championship leader Andrea Kimi Antonelli.
Speaking to the media on Thursday, Leclerc provided insight into the after-effects of his crash. He admitted to feeling tightness and neck pain on Monday, but vision problems were brief. "I felt tightness and probably a bit of pain in the neck on Monday. But in terms of vision it was very short," he said. "All the checks I did were fine."
The decision to use the older engine also reflects Ferrari's caution in managing power unit components over the long season. Nevertheless, Leclerc's FP1 performance suggests he remains competitive, and the team will continue to monitor the crash-damaged engine.
With Madrid's circuit placing greater emphasis on chassis balance and downforce, Leclerc's power deficit may not be as pronounced. However, if he performs strongly, it will further underline his quality as a driver. Meanwhile, Hamilton with the new engine could have an edge on the straights, which may prove decisive in qualifying and the race.
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