Romain Grosjean prepares his farewell to Lotus in a complicated context

At the time of the traditional Thursday press conference, all the teams were finalizing their last preparations for Friday’s sessions. All except one: Lotus. Indeed, like many races since this summer, Lotus received its equipment very late. The paddock lanes were still filled with the team’s equipment. To be ready on time for the first practice session on Friday morning, the mechanics are preparing for a long night of work.

The Frenchman could only regret that it happened again: « It’s something we’ve experienced in the past. We’ve always managed to be on track on time. As long as the car is ready for the second practice session, I’m happy. »

Above all, he mentions the impact it has on his mechanics: « It’s just more work for the guys, who don’t deserve it. They will still give their best and from there, we will try to score good points. »

But this season finale holds particular importance for the driver, who is about to leave a team he joined in 2005: « This is the first time in my career that I will have to change teams in Formula One. So it’s something new. The first time I went to Enstone was in September 2005, as a development driver. I learned everything there. »

The emotional burden is therefore expected to be significant: “Turning off the car on Sunday, getting out of the E23, and thinking that it will be my last race with the team is certainly going to be difficult.”

He therefore has only one mission left, namely to enter the top 10 to reward his team: « I really want to push hard throughout the weekend to score points, get a good result, thank the guys for their support in the good times and in the tough times. I think we’ve all learned from these years. It was a great experience. »

He will then be able to fully focus on his new life with Haas.

From our special correspondent in Abu Dhabi