Pascal Wehrlein continues his F1 apprenticeship
After eight races, Pascal Wehrlein is already a third of the way through his first F1 season, but he's still learning and adapting after his DTM title last season.
Pascal Wehrlein does not have an ordinary path for an F1 driver as he did not go through the various single-seater junior series but focused on DTM, where he eventually won the title last year.
However, the transition between the two worlds is not obvious since driving these touring cars is radically different from that of a single-seater: « There is a big difference, the cars are different, the tires are different, the engines are even more different, the driving styles are different. I still have a lot to learn, this is only my first season in Formula One. For now, I need to learn the circuits, the fastest way to drive the car. »
The young driver also faces the same challenges as his competitors regarding all the buttons on his steering wheel and managing the various engine modes: « The settings and modes are quite easy. The problem is that there are a lot of buttons on the steering wheel. On certain circuits like Monaco, it’s impossible to look at the wheel. So it can happen that you press the wrong button at the wrong time. »
He is still able to compete with the Saubers and even the Renaults, which is an improvement compared to last season for Manor. However, it’s a change for a driver who was fighting for victory last year and is now seeking every opportunity to gain a few places and get closer to the points.
But many areas can still be improved, notably the car’s balance and tire management. For this work, he can also rely on his role as a Mercedes reserve driver: « It was a very good thing to have a test day with Mercedes in Barcelona, three days after the race. I know how this year’s car operates as well as last year’s. So I have a good basis for comparisons and it helps me to progress. »
He therefore only has to anticipate his first weekend almost at home, with many German fans who have traveled to Austria. This gives him a taste of what he will experience at the end of the month in Hockenheim.
From our special correspondent in Spielberg
With the participation of www.racingbusiness.fr
