Saturday: Complicated but satisfactory debut for Marussia rookies
Jules Bianchi and Max Chilton experienced their first Formula 1 qualifying session today, and it was not easy given the weather conditions. However, both Marussia drivers were satisfied with their performances, although they believe they could have done a little better.
Jules Bianchi – 14th and 19th:
« These were very difficult conditions for my qualifying debut, especially since none of my brief pre-season test sessions with the team took place on wet tracks. I can’t deny that it was disappointing – and a bit intimidating! Yesterday’s dry running showed great promise, so it would have been nice to get a better feel for where we are in terms of performance, but we were able to make the most of what we had. In the end, I’m still happy with the work we did today and our final position. Clearly, we weren’t able to show our full potential, and we finished in the right place compared to the cars around us – both ahead of the Caterhams and very close to the cars in front. So I’m looking forward to a return to dry conditions – that’s what I hope to see tomorrow – and my first Formula 1 Grand Prix. To be honest, no matter what the weather brings, it will be an exciting moment for me and a moment I’ve been waiting for a long time. »
Max Chilton – 21st and 20th:
I’m rather happy with how the day unfolded, especially when you take the circumstances into account. I didn’t really expect to stay in the garage for 30 minutes watching a river form on the track outside when I thought about my first F1 qualifying session. That being said, I’m encouraged by our performance. With conditions starting to improve a bit in the last minutes of Q1, I knew everything rested on that last lap. We were improving in every sector, so I knew it would be okay; it’s a bit disappointing that my last lap was affected by a yellow flag. Now, I’m thinking about tomorrow and I’m looking forward to it, whether it’s sunny or rainy.
