Thursday: Räikkönen aims for pole, Grosjean overdid it
Romain Grosjean finished his day earlier than expected today after hitting the barrier; the Frenchman is disappointed and acknowledges his mistake. After a difficult start to the day, Kimi Räikkönen is satisfied with his tests and would like to start from pole position on Sunday, even though there is still work to be done to achieve it.
Kimi Räikkönen – 11th and 6th:
« I was much happier at the end of the day than this morning. We spent the first session getting the steering properly adjusted as it wasn’t great at the start, then we made some changes to the car and it was much better. We still have some areas to improve, but it got better with each stint today. To be on pole, we need to make the car faster and I need to drive better, and we’ll see if that happens. »
Romain Grosjean – 3rd and 7th:
« After a good start to the day, it’s really a shame to finish things so early. I didn’t have the grip I hoped for in the corner, but there was nothing wrong with my car: my braking and entry speed were not at all correct and I ended up in the barrier. I didn’t have the chance to release and go into the runoff area; I was in my turn so that’s how it was. We have a very good car here and it gives you the confidence to attack, but unfortunately, I attacked a little too much. I’m sorry for the team and I owe them a round for all the work needed by Saturday. The grid seems very tight, but we seem in good shape and I can’t wait to get back on track and fight for the top positions. »