Interview with Pastor Maldonado

What do you think of the new car?

I am quite happy. The car is quite good. We have gathered quite a lot of data. I confirm that there is improvement compared to last year. The car is very comfortable. We did not look for performance because the car is new and our goal was to complete as many laps as possible. I am happy to start this way with many laps and without encountering any problems. Apart from that, good performance at the same time.

Is the car better than last year’s?

Yes. It’s a step in the right direction. We still have to work because it’s a new car. We have to try different settings, different things to better understand how the tires work. There’s still a long way to go, but we have already made progress. The feeling is completely different. The FW35 is easier to drive, but that doesn’t mean it’s fast. We still have to wait to get the most out of it, but it seems pretty good. To be honest, I’m very happy with the car because it’s the best I’ve had compared to previous years. The reliability seems good too.

You tried different front wings today.

We tried different aerodynamic configurations on the car. We tested two different wings. There is a clear difference between the two, even though we still need to analyze the data.

What are your expectations for the next season?

We hope to have a fast car from the start. Already in the simulator, I had a good impression. It’s confirmed here in Barcelona. It’s always difficult because you cannot simulate track conditions. I think the car responds well to setup changes. We just need more mileage.

You said the car was easier to drive. Will that influence your aggressive driving style?

Usually when the car is easy to drive, you try to make it more complicated. Sometimes last year the car was difficult to drive but at the same time it was also very fast. The feeling is completely different. I still need to adapt to this car even if after two laps I was already looking for the limit. It is good on the braking, traction, in the corners.

What do you think about tires?

The tires have changed. They are completely different. They are more sensitive and there is more graining. I think everyone had it here because of the temperatures. We need to work on that. After two or three laps, there is a big drop in performance. But I think we are going to improve. Last year it was the same, but I remember some races with only one stop.

A comment about the exhausts?

We know the rules and we will fight for a good position in Melbourne.

From our special correspondent in Barcelona.