Charles Leclerc has hit back at Max Verstappen’s cheating accusations, saying he has “no clue” what goes on at Ferrari.
After weeks of being the car to beat in qualifying, Ferrari lost pole position to Mercedes at the United States GP.
It was the Scuderia’s first race since the summer break that they weren’t on pole.
Their pace woes continued in the grand prix with Charles Leclerc finishing 45s off the the podium.
Ferrari’s fall from grace came just days after the FIA issued a Technical Directive highlighting Article 5.10.5.
That states that “any device, system or procedure the purpose and/or effect of which is to increase the flow rate or to store and recycle fuel after the measurement point is prohibited.”
Verstappen reckons Ferrari’s performance in Austin is a clear sign that they had been cheating.
He told Ziggo Sport: “That’s what happens when you stop cheating, of course. But yeah, they had a good look at it. So now we have to keep a close eye on it, of course.”
He added during the post-race press conference:
Max: "Not surprised at all about it after what came out so… that explains everything."
We need to see this piece of paper. pic.twitter.com/liouLB0mur
— Ky (@FiftyBucksss) November 4, 2019
Leclerc has hit back, calling Verstappen’s accusations a joke.
“I think it is a joke to be completely honest,” Leclerc told Autosport.
“He has no clue. He is not in the team.
“We know exactly what we are doing. I don’t know why he is speaking. He doesn’t know anything about us.”
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