Ferrari is the only team that has seen both of its drivers emerge victorious in races this season. Recent updates to the car have generated speculation about a return to the top of the podium after a disappointing double retirement in Canada fifteen days ago.
Carlos Sainz, who recorded the second fastest time during Friday’s practice sessions and the fastest time in the final Saturday session before qualifying, expressed his initial hopes of competing for pole position. However, during Q2, when all teams maximized their performance, it became evident that Ferrari was missing two tenths of a second.
“Two tenths at this circuit equates to a significant amount of lap time. I managed to complete two respectable laps, and Charles also delivered two exceptional laps. I don’t believe we could have achieved much more today,” commented the Spanish driver, who triumphed in Australia in March.
Meanwhile, Charles Leclerc, who secured victory in his home race in Monaco, also expressed disappointment. “We find ourselves further from pole position than we expected. On the other hand, my team and I were able to completely revamp the car’s setup from yesterday to today, which helped me regain the right feeling. However, the pace simply wasn’t there.”
The team boss, Fred Vasseur, expressed confidence in the team’s ability to make a strong comeback from the third row. He revealed that both drivers chose to preserve a set of soft tires for race day, hoping that this would give them an advantage.
“We know that the championship will be fought until the end, with ups and downs. Therefore, our goal should always be to secure points. A realistic target for tomorrow? The podium,” concluded Vasseur. (Reported by Alan Baldwin)
