Sunday: The points went up in smoke right from the start for Sauber
After excellent qualifying sessions, the Sauber drivers were unable to capitalize in the race. Kamui Kobayashi and Sergio Pérez were both involved in the start-line accident that forced the Mexican to retire, while the Japanese driver finished in 13th position with a car bearing the scars from the first corner.
Kamui Kobayashi – 13th:
« It’s a terrible race result after we did so well in qualifying. There was nothing I could do when a car flew over mine at the start. I had to stop the first time for repairs and a second time after seven laps due to a slow puncture.
During the race, I didn’t really know the extent of the damage to the car, but I could see a tire mark on the cockpit the whole time. Then, in Parc Fermé, I understood why I was so slow, as the pontoon and other parts of the car were damaged.
Apparently, before the departure, my car was attracting a lot of attention because of the smoke. The brakes were too hot, but I was still able to finish the race with them. I don’t know why, but I also experienced much more skidding than expected, so we’ll have to look into that.
Sergio Pérez – Retirement:
« I am very disappointed for myself and for the team as it was such a good opportunity for us to fight for the victory. First, Pastor Maldonado jumped the start. I went inside on Fernando Alonso [then] approached the first corner, I braked and suddenly the cars behind hit me and it was a big mess. Now, I’m looking forward to the next race, in Monza. »
