Ferrari drivers “very happy it’s over”

In unison. Once is not custom, Sebastian Vettel et Charles Leclerc came out of the last grand prix of the season with the same feeling: relief.

For the German in particular, this Abu Dhabi GP marks the end of an ordeal season and an adventure with Ferrari below his hopes. The quiet farewells at the dawn of the race confirmed that it was time to turn the page.

On the track, Vettel was never able to aim for the points. “I'm really happy it's over, that's all I can say,” he commented as he got out of the car. “It’s been a very difficult race and year. It's a bit sad for all the guys when you think about what we've been through this year and it's a shame to end this special day like this. »

The German can at least say to himself that the grass will be greener Aston Martin, his new destination. On the other hand, Charles Leclerc continues his lease with the Prancing Horse in 2021. The Monegasque had a good qualification on Saturday, before falling, as usual, during the race.

Ferrari made yet another surprising choice by leaving it on the track during the virtual safety car with its worn medium tires rather than putting on hard tires like the majority of competitors. “Quite honestly, it was intentional” according to Charles Leclerc. “We tried something different because we knew that we couldn't get a result on a regular basis. It was a gamble, and surprisingly it didn't work. »

Leclerc also feels relieved. “I'm disappointed to end this way, it was a complicated season and I'm very happy that it's over. »

The Monegasque wants to remain positive about the outlook for 2021. “We expect good improvements, I promise we will be in a much better position. » Worse, it will be hard. Ferrari concludes its worst season in 40 years, in sixth place in the constructors' championship.