Vergne: “I am confident”
Jean-Eric Vergne had a productive day today in Catalonia. The Frenchman completed 78 laps without encountering any issues and finished the day in 5th position between Button and Webber.
First day of testing in Barcelona for Jean-Eric Vergne, who takes over from Daniel Ricciardo. The Frenchman had a busy day and is satisfied with the work accomplished.
« We drove with mediums all day to get a good idea of the car’s balance as we were able to focus on other things and do some important small tests, » declared Jean-Eric Vergne during a press briefing in Barcelona.
In the afternoon, JEV notably trained in the particularly important exercise of pit stops.
« We would have liked to do a bit more, but we had a red flag (Editor’s note: caused by Webber), but I think it’s important for a rookie. It’s important for me and also for the team; it’s been a long time since they’ve done it, and it’s something that’s part of the race that can make you gain or lose a place, » the French driver tells MotorsInside.
On this first day, only medium tires were used, but tomorrow the Italian team could fit different specifications on the STR07.
« I don’t know yet, I suppose. We will wait to analyze the data, see a bit what information we have gathered, and we will make the program accordingly for tomorrow, » Vergne explains to us.
We usually say that a car that performs well on the Catalan circuit will do well everywhere else. After the initial tests in Jerez, the trip to Barcelona is therefore an important step in preparing for the new season.
« Barcelona is somewhat the reference point to know if we have a good car or not. I was a bit afraid we wouldn’t have the same balance, but in the end, we end up with the same car, so it’s rather a good thing. I think we really have a good base. Now we just have to work and go in the right direction. »
On a circuit that is part of the world championship calendar, the Frenchman admits to paying more attention to details that can make a difference compared to his first outing in Jérez de la Frontera.
I think that in Jerez I was more focused on the car and working with the team than on the track itself. In Barcelona, all the small details are important.
Three days of testing remain for JEV, and he is quite optimistic for his first season in Formula 1.
« I am confident. Now, to say where I stand compared to the others, I think it’s impossible, but honestly, I am confident, » concluded the Toro Rosso driver.
From our correspondent in Barcelona.
