Vettel targets pronounced tire degradation

Sebastian Vettel (Ferrari) approached the Japanese Grand Prix with a fighting spirit. This attitude was first reflected by a new slogan affixed in particular to the engine hood of the single-seater (“Mission Winnow”, mission win now) as well as words affirming the power of its technical department.

However, the results of the first free practice sessions do not coincide with this character. Relegated by his direct rival Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) by eight tenths in EL2, the German was suddenly less optimistic. “I think Kimi (Räikkönen) and me We were slipping too much today. This caused more advanced tire degradation than the other teams. »

Indeed, significant traces of blister (blisters) appeared on the rear axle of the Ferraris. “We can always do something. (to fix this), the question is whether it works, continues Sebastian Vettel. It was finally a normal day. The sessions took place normally, without interruption. There was no damage to the car. »

To make up for his deficit of 50 points on Lewis Hamilton, Sebastian Vettel will have to start by considerably improving his pace on Saturday during qualifying.