Saturday: Kobayashi is not in Q3 for the first time in 2011
For a change, Kobayashi was outpaced by his teammate Sergio Pérez today in qualifying. The Japanese driver did not make it into Q3 for the first time this season. However, the Sauber drivers are satisfied with their performance and even though the positions are not representative due to the red flag caused by Petrov, points are achievable in the race tomorrow.
Sergio Perez – 13th and 12th:
« Most often, we make changes to the car before qualifying and I feel more comfortable with the car. This explains the improvements between Friday and qualifying compared to Malaysia. Q1 went well, and then in Q3 the team did a good job to allow me to set a time before the red flag. Then the temperatures dropped, and I couldn’t go out again. It’s a shame because the modifications made for my last stint could have been rewarding! »
Kamui Kobayashi – 12th and 13th:
I’m disappointed not to have made it into Q3 for the first time this year. I was stuck in traffic and then I was the last car to pass through the traffic to set my time. Then I had an issue with my soft tires which severely lacked grip. During my last stint, after the red flag, I couldn’t get the best out of the car. Overall, the car’s performance can be better, and that’s why I believe points are possible tomorrow.
James Key – Technical Director
« In general, the improvements we make to the car for qualifying are effective, but we had some problems this time. Q1 was okay but very close. When Kobayashi set his time, only two-tenths separated the 8th from the 17th. We could have made it to Q3, we had the pace, but Petrov’s red flag also penalized us. Nevertheless, the grid looks good, and I am confident we will score some points. »
