Frederic Vasseur: We will have chances in the race

In Melbourne, Alfa Romeo drivers did not qualify for the qualifying final, but they expect to come back in the race…

Frederic VasseurTeam Principal: “After two laps where we struggled in the qualifying final, it was a little disappointing not to break into the top ten, but we are confident that we will have opportunities in the race.

When setting up the cars, we focused on the race, which hindered a bit today, but should help tomorrow.

Both drivers worked well and realized most of the potential of our car. If we have a clean race tomorrow, there is a real chance of fighting for the points with two cars.”

Valtteri Bottas (12th): “Qualifying went without a hitch, I put in some good laps – it looked like I got the most out of the car, so I’m disappointed I didn’t make it to the final.

We wanted to get into the top ten, but there was a little lack of pace on a fast lap. When setting up the car we focused on the race and put in a smaller rear wing, hopefully we can take advantage of this tomorrow.

The results in the middle group of teams are very tight, but we have a fast car that can overtake – and a good chance to earn points. It’s a shame that my streak of 103 Grands Prix in a row, where I always went to the final of qualifying, was interrupted, but it’s nice to know that it has lasted so long. It was unusual to see the qualifying final on TV!”.

Guanyu Zhou (14th): “All in all, I’m satisfied with my performance. In qualifying we failed to achieve the necessary balance, but we had a very close battle with rivals and showed a result that will allow us to fight for the points tomorrow.

The circuit in Albert Park is not easy to master, so I’m glad I performed well. I think the selected settings will help us. This weekend the race pace was good, tomorrow the start and the first lap are especially important – they will have an important influence on the result of the race.