Saturday: Ricciardo reaches Q3 and Vergne falters in the Toro Rosso camp
Toro Rosso hoped to see its two drivers in Q3, and while Daniel Ricciardo managed to do so, it was not the case for Jean-Eric Vergne due to a mistake in his fast lap in Q2. However, the Frenchman remains optimistic for the race and hopes to fight for points, just like his Australian teammate.
Daniel Ricciardo – 15th and 10th [9th on the grid]:
I think that reaching Q3 was already a great success, after the difficulties encountered with the car to make it how I like it on Friday and even during the last practice session today. My lap in Q2 was very good, but not the best, so I went into Q3 thinking I could improve in several areas. We decided to make a slight adjustment to the tire pressure, which turned out not to be the right decision, as I had to work even harder to get the tires up to temperature. The lap itself wasn’t too bad, but the time never came. The heat? It’s only a problem when you get out of the car because inside the cockpit you have air, so it’s fine.
Jean-Eric Vergne – 10th and 14th [13th on the grid]:
« Everything went well in Q1 and also in Q2, I managed to improve my time even with worn tires and I was heading for a very good time on my last attempt, but I locked the wheels at turn 8 and it canceled out the advantage I had. It’s really a shame because everyone worked so hard yesterday and last night to give me a good car, I was really happy from the start of free practice 3. I have to raise my hand and say I made a mistake. I wanted too much and pushed too hard. The positive point of the day is that I have been on pace all weekend and we are fast here. So, with a good strategy, I’m looking forward to the race, where I’m convinced we can make up for tonight’s disappointment. »
