Mercedes: Lewis Laughs, Nico Cries
Only the two Mercedes driven by Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg emerged from the water, but they experienced different fortunes. The Briton set the two fastest times in the sessions, while the German hit the wall after losing control of his car at the start of FP2.
Will the Formula 1 seasons follow one another and look alike? Judging by the scenario of this first day in Melbourne, one might think so. While Lewis Hamilton was setting the best times, Nico Rosberg was struggling with his driving, even sending the front of his car into the wall during FP2.
On the British side, confidence is high: « It was a good day! The car was working well, and even if we didn’t have many laps, it was very instructive. I was also lucky to have the opportunity to do a few laps in dry conditions and to get a sense of the car’s balance in those conditions. »
The excitement was therefore at its peak for the triple world champion, as he readily confirms himself: « When I was sitting in the garage, I found myself like a child waiting to open their Christmas presents! »
Naturally, on the other side of the garage, the statements are somewhat different. Rosberg’s off-track excursion in FP2 deprives him of crucial running time and already forces him to apologize for his mistake: « It wasn’t a good start to the weekend for me. Track conditions were difficult. It’s a shame to have lost control of the car in FP2. I just accelerated a bit too much on the exit of turn 7 and hit the wall. The guys will have a bit more work tonight. I apologize to them and already thank them for their excellent work. »
