Antonio Giovinazzi: “The main thing is that Ferrari wins”

Antonio, what are your impressions of the circuit since the July tests and the resurfacing that has taken place since then? Does it make a big difference behind the wheel?

Yes, there are some things to consider, for sure. In particular, the first corner was really difficult to negotiate in the July test. The back straight was also quite bumpy. In terms of feeling, it's better now, more comfortable. The grip wasn't really there in Free Practice 1, but it was better in the second session.

Has the resurfacing made a dramatic difference to lap times since testing or is it just a matter of feel?

Just a better feel. As I mentioned, it's more comfortable to ride.

How will this circuit look in terms of traffic compared to other places we've seen this season? 

Traffic is always difficult, whether it’s Imola, Le Mans or here. It’s always the tricky part of this championship, but also one of the good things because at the end of the day it makes the race really different. You have to overtake at the right time and in the right place. So it makes it trickier for the driver, who also has to try, in Free Practice, to find the best corner to overtake. When you come across a GT, especially in the snake (sector 1. Ed.), you have to wait until the end of that section to overtake the car.

It's very hot here. How difficult will it be for the drivers in the cockpit during the race?

You spend two hours, let's say, per driver in the car. The problem is that there is never enough air. You are inside the cockpit and it is always very hot. When we find ourselves in this situation, it is really very difficult. We train for this too, but in the end it is part of the game.

Do you think that with these conditions some teams will try single relays per driver?

I don't think so. It's not really practical in terms of strategy, but you never know.

How do you see the race going for you? Will you adopt a supporting role for the #50 which is better placed in the championship? Or will you run your own race?

The main thing is that Ferrari wins. So it's not about #50 or #51. Let's see what happens. If we need to help the guys in #50, we'll help them. If they need to help us, it's the same thing. We're one team. The important thing is to put two cars up front, which will make the race easier.

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