Saturday: Vettel on Top, Webber Takes a Gamble

Sebastian Vettel – 1st and 1st:

« We are surprised by our competitiveness here and thought the gaps would be tighter. We weren’t sure whether the tires would be better on the first fast lap or the second, but I made a small mistake on my second lap. On my second attempt in Q3, I had a bit more experience, plus I had one or two cars in front of me, which always helps here for slipstreaming. We didn’t have the difficulties we might have encountered in the past two seasons here. This year the car is good everywhere and I’m really happy about it. »

« Apart from the optimization of the wings, the most important thing to have here is the balance of the car, and that is what we are improving on this year. I felt confident with the car, there is no secret, you have to go all out… »

Mark Webber – 2nd and 5th:

« I think what we did today regarding the relay organization made things difficult for the team. My laps were always in traffic, so it’s not my best Q3… The tires seemed to perform well during my first lap, but I couldn’t take advantage of that for a second run… We also had to worry about the KERS, which had some issues at the beginning of my last lap… All this is not ideal, and in the end, we are 5th. We know that the first lap tomorrow will be particularly important, so I will push to the maximum. Wait and see. »

Christian Horner – Team Principal:

« Securing pole at Monza is superb and especially unexpected. It was a splendid last lap from Sebastian Vettel to secure pole position. Mark Webber adopted a different strategy but failed to exploit it fully. Two runs in hindsight might have ensured a better position. Nevertheless, he will have a set of fresh tires for the race tomorrow, and we hope he makes good progress in the standings. It’s a very good start to the weekend here. »

Cyril Dumont – Renault Coordinator (Engine):

The pole at Monza is a great result. The pace is very good. We didn’t think we would be at this level, so we are all happy.