Pierre Gasly: ​​“A good working base”

What conclusions do you draw from your tests?

We completed a lot of laps every half day. I think the car is well born, we can feel that there is potential. The engine is a little better than last year. So overall, there are plenty of good things to take away. We have a good working base.

Have you noticed an improvement compared to last year at this time?

It's difficult to say, because we are slower with changing regulations. What is certain is that I was not satisfied with the car at the same time last year. There, I can feel that we benefit from a better balance.

La car responds well to the settings we opt for. Afterwards, knowing if we can start to ignite is too early, because we do not know the quantities of fuel (of the adversaries. Editor's note), we do not know the engine modes used, etc. We will have to stay calm until the first race. We will have a better idea on Saturday evening after the Bahrain qualifier.

How does the hierarchy look in the middle of the grid?

It will be very tight. Last year, I think we were all within 3-4 tenths of 3rd to 7th place in the Manufacturers' standings. I hope that will be the case again this year… but with us a little further ahead. We finished P7 in 2020, if we can get a 5th place, that will be great.

What impressions does your new teammate leave you with? Yuki tsunoda ?

He is fast. He wants to do well. So far, working with him is pretty easy. Afterwards, it's a little early to judge, because there were only two half-days of work. It's complicated to have an opinion, but his attitude is good.

What is your program between now and the Bahrain Grand Prix?

I'm going back to work at the simulator Milton Keynes. I'm staying there for a few days and then I'll go to Dubai before Bahrain to be already in the region and adapt to the schedules and the heat.