Saturday: Two Saubers in the top 10
Austin is almost a home race for Esteban Gutiérrez: the young Mexican did not disappoint his supporters with an entry into the top 10. Nico Hülkenberg confirms his excellent form at the moment with a 4th place.
Nico Hülkenberg – 4th and 4th
I felt comfortable in the car throughout the weekend, but it was different in Q1 and Q2 due to the stronger wind compared to the third practice session this morning. It was a tailwind coming out of the first corner and thus in sector 1 and part of sector 2. It was tricky because our cars are quite sensitive to the wind. But we made some changes and put everything together in Q3. I think it was the best we could achieve today, and I’m happy with my lap. P4 is a good place to start tomorrow.
Esteban Gutiérrez – 12th and 10th [20th on the grid]
« In general, it was a good qualifying. With the wind change, it was difficult to choose how to heat the tires to get the most out of them. We discussed several strategies but, in the end, we decided to do an out lap and then push. It was quite difficult and it wasn’t an optimal lap but making it into Q3 is a good thing, especially here in Austin. With all the support we have from our fans, it’s great to have two Mexicans in the top 10. »