Vettel surprised to be ahead of Mercedes on the grid at Suzuka

By taking pole position for the Japanese Grand Prix, Sebastian Vettel was not only remembered in the good memory of all; he also allowed Ferrari to maintain his invincibility in the exercise since the end of the summer break in Belgium. 

The four-time world champion, however, thought that Mercedes had the advantage in view of the respective times during free practice on Friday. Could the wind which was still blowing strongly the day after the passage of Typhoon Hagibis have disrupted the Silver Arrows more than their Italian rivals? In any case, Vettel had a blast behind the wheel. 

« It was not an easy session, the conditions were very different compared to Friday, he reacted after the 57th pole of his career. We are quite surprised by the result honestly. We didn't expect to occupy the first line. The feeling behind the wheel, with car low on fuel, was exceptional. 

In the Esses, it was a bit on fire and you want it to be like that. I'm not sure I used the brakes outside of turn 2 in this area. I had a lot of fun but we only did half the job. We will have to finish this afternoon in the race ». 

Beaten in qualifying by Vettel for the first time in 10 meetings, Leclerc showed himself to be a good player and just as surprised to precede the Mercedes.

« Seb did a fantastic lap, he deserves to be on pole, greeted the Monegasque. I've been struggling a bit since the start of the weekend. I was quite happy with my attempt in qualifying, except for the third sector. We will try to stay ahead of the Mercedes in the race but it will not be easy ».