Vasseur: “It should be better in Austria”

Despite another complicated weekend in Azerbaijan, you seemed resolutely optimistic afterwards. What were the positive points?

It was difficult, especially in qualifying, and we must admit that we didn't really succeed. However, we made up for it in the race. Although our performance was not excellent, it was more or less in line with our objectives and expectations. We have to thank both the team and the drivers who are holding their backs, but we now have to get back into a position to score points and that requires better qualifying. That said, Baku (Azerbaijan) was a bit unusual with a very fast urban layout where everyone experienced problems. By returning to more traditional circuits, we must find our entry rhythm, from qualifying to the race.

As you pointed out, the team's Achilles heel currently seems to be qualifying. What are your deductions and how can you remedy them?

I think Baku was different. Our position was more representative in Barcelona (Spain). We must manage the weekend well from start to finish, making the right strategic decisions to have a more global and coherent approach from Saturday to Sunday.

The drivers pushed on the track. Are you satisfied with their performance and attitude?

The job is tougher at rounds like Baku, but they are part of the group, just like the engineers and mechanics, and they know what they have to do to have a solid weekend. They did a good job in Baku fighting with other teams and they will not be demotivated just because of two difficult events. I trust them. We just have to find the momentum to get going.

In Austria, the circuit is fluid and fast. Is this type of track better suited to the R.S.16 than urban tracks?

Yes. We suffered in the slow corners in Canada and Baku. Things should be better in Austria for many reasons. I believe that we are progressing as a team and I hope that we will go race after race on more traditional tracks in order to regain the level of performance seen before Monaco.