La Ferrari he tried, this is not in the least in dispute. Charles Leclerc, despite the two poles conquered between yesterday e today, fails to bring home the first Sprint of the year. The Monegasque closes behind Sergio Perez, but in front of Red Bull by Max Verstappen.
Ferrari, Vasseur: “We don't have pace problems. We grew up"
However, there are signs of great improvement. This was admitted by Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur, who spoke exclusively to the microphones of Sky:
How do you rate this first Sprint?
“We didn't have the usual problem, but after all we didn't have any problems with the pace in Melbourne either. We need to understand exactly where we can improve, but tomorrow will be different."
Why will it be different?
“Because the temperature of the asphalt is different, as is that of the compounds. We will have at least two stints, so we have to play strategy. I think degradation can harm you more when you are behind another. We'll see"
Are you more confident considering that you had never used averages?
“Friday wasn't a long stint, but it's true that we didn't test the mediums. We were a bit blind in this respect for the Sprint, but the yellows were the right tyres”.
What did you understand in these three weeks of rest?
“That the car has improved in any case and we already saw it in Melbourne, even though we didn't score any points. Carlos' pace wasn't bad. Now we have to be more opportunistic: the pace is there, we took pole and it's impossible to deny that we haven't improved compared to Bahrain and Jeddah”.
About tomorrow's race
Can you fight for victory tomorrow?
“We know it's a challenge and even though we were quicker than Red Bull in qualifying, they are the favorites in the race. In a race like the one in Baku, top speeds are essential and they fly on this aspect. We will be fighting."
Do you think the format could have changed as far as parc fermé is concerned?
“Yes, but if the parc ferme regulations were opened, one could also have a car prepared for qualifying and one for the race, which would be very expensive. We also have to look at the prices. I think the main problem was with tire management, and that's where we need to improve."
