Nick de Vries: I am inspired and energized for the result

AlphaTauri debutant Nick de Vries is looking forward to his first season in F1…

Question: Every driver dreams of driving in Formula 1 one day. Now you are here. What do you like most?
Nick deVries: First of all – the opportunity to fulfill your dream. I am inspired and responsible for the result. My road to Formula 1 turned out to be longer than usual, but I am even more grateful to have been given such an opportunity.

Q: Last year you tried several Formula 1 cars, performed at Monza. Do you feel “beginner pressure”?
Nick deVries: There is always pressure. I think it’s just necessary for maximum concentration. Yes, I can be considered a beginner, although I drove several Formula 1 cars, but in fact, apart from three beginner tests – two in Mercedes and one in AlphaTauri, I did not participate in full-fledged tests.

The experience of working in the first practices during the Grand Prix was very useful – this is a completely different level of pressure than in the tests, the opportunity to show yourself when there is more to lose than to gain. Working with different teams in different conditions has been very rewarding, but in reality I’ve spent less time on the track this season than other rookies. But I’m older, I have a lot of experience in other series, that also has some value.

Q: Since the announcement that you would be riding for AlphaTauri, what has been your top priority in preparing for the season? Have you already established a good working relationship with the team?
Nick deVriesA: It takes time to create effective working relationships, but I was welcomed very warmly in the team. It seemed that everyone was happy with my arrival – and did everything they could to integrate me into the team as quickly as possible.

I visited different departments, talked to engineers. We talked about my preferences, about my requirements for the car. On the one hand, this is important for the integration in the team, on the other hand, we talked about what can be improved, how to approach the solution of some technical issues. I have enjoyed this work a lot.

Q: You and Yuki trained in Dubai. How are your relationships developing?
Nick deVries: Yes. We had an amazing two and a half weeks in Dubai which made me even more confident in my abilities. There are still a few weeks to go, so don’t worry. Yuki and I had different schedules, so we didn’t see each other often, but now we know each other a little better than before.

Yuki is a talented and fast driver, he has experience in Formula 1 and I will bring experience to the team in other series. I am confident that together we can achieve better results for AlphaTauri. I do not doubt it.

Question: Formula 1 has many Dutch fans. Do you count on their support?
Nick deVries: Time will tell. It is clear that Max has had incredible success in Formula 1. He currently dominates our sport and the whole country is behind him.

I just started in Formula 1 and as long as Max continues to fight for the championship titles, I will try to do my part. I can’t imagine how the fan support will be divided, but it is clear that they now have two of their riders who can be supported.