British Grand Prix – Silverstone,
Qualifying session
Jean Todt: “This was a closely fought
qualifying session the outcome of which was only decided in
the final second. As we expected, the two top teams are very
evenly matched as can be seen from the very small gaps between
the times. When assessing this qualifying, we obviously have
to consider the usual unknowns as regards strategy. Tomorrow,
the decisive factors will be the work of the team and the
drivers, the timing of the pit stops and car and tyre performance
over the distance. For our part, we will do our utmost as
usual. This race is a key moment in the fight for both championships
and with all our heart we want to bring home the best result
possible.”
Kimi Raikkonen: “I can’t hide
my disappointment. I made a mistake at the exit of the final
corner on my second run in Q3. I finished up slightly on the
grass and lost traction, which cost me a lot, cost me too
much time. But it’s not worth spending too long thinking
about it. What’s done is done and it cannot be changed.
Now we only have to concentrate on the race. Clearly, starting
on the dirty side of the track is not exactly an advantage
but we know we have a good pace over a long run. A lot will
depend on the start and the strategy worked out by the team.
It’s not over yet. We will do our best to bring home
the best result possible.”
Felipe Massa: “A very close qualifying
session with hardly any difference in the lap times for the
top four runners. My final run was reasonably good but I lost
time in the second sector, especially at Turn 7. We know our
car works well in race trim and tomorrow afternoon’s
race will be a long and difficult one with strategy making
the difference.”
Luca Baldisserri: “Yet another very
exciting qualifying, decided at the death. A shame for Kimi
who made a small slip right at the end which probably cost
him pole position. The race looks to be very open. We have
a very quick car, especially over a long run and that means
we can be confident about the final outcome of this Grand
Prix.”
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