Bahrain Grand Prix – Qualifying: Reactions from the Top 3
The first top 3 of the season is known! Charles Leclerc has surpassed the reigning world champion, Max Verstappen, and his teammate at Ferrari, Carlos Sainz.
Charles Leclerc (pole position)
« It feels good! We have experienced difficult years and we had high hopes that this new regulation would allow us to return to the forefront. We finally have a chance to fight at the front. I wasn’t completely satisfied with my driving, but in the end, I have the pole position! I tried different methods of driving, given the big difference compared to last year. We will have to be cautious. The pace is there, but a lot of things can happen!
»
Max Verstappen (2nd on the grid)
« It is difficult to measure ourselves against Ferrari. During Q2, I didn’t have any difficulties, but in Q3, I struggled a little with the balance of my car. The new car doesn’t react fantastically, but it’s not so bad. Otherwise, we wouldn’t be here! We’ll have to pay attention to certain details and make sure of our race pace. The tires are going to suffer a lot here. I’m a little disappointed that the Mercedes are not in the mix!
»
Carlos Sainz (3rd)
Charles found a tenth where I didn’t find it. But I am happy with the progress of the car and the team during the weekend. I was happy to be able to fight for pole position. I would have liked to find that missing tenth, but Charles totally deserves his first place, he dominated the whole weekend. I have never started from so far behind. I need to free my mind a little more, but this third place is a good thing.
