Ferrari drivers expect strong Red Bull: 'They may have an advantage here'

Both Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc expect a strong performance from Red Bull Racing in the Australian Grand Prix. The Ferrari drivers think Albert Park's revamped layout will suit the RB18 of Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez better than their own F1-75.

"Red Bull seemed to have a better balance between top speed and cornering in Jeddah," Sainz told Sky Sports Italy. "So considering how long the straights have become here in Australia, maybe they have the advantage." Nevertheless, the Spaniard is confident that his team can achieve a good result in Melbourne.

Charles Leclerc agrees with his teammate's words, adding that the revamped Albert Park is not the most ideal circuit for Ferrari. "I think the old layout would have suited us better," admits the Monegasque.

At the Australian Grand Prix, Leclerc says "smart racing" will again play a major role. Pointing to the four DRS zones, the Ferrari driver expects a lot of overtaking again in Melbourne. "Basically all straights have a DRS zone, so overtaking will be a thing," Leclerc said.