Fernando Alonso Many were wrong, me too

Alpine’s best result in qualifying for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix was Fernando Alonso’s tenth place. His teammate Esteban Ocon set the thirteenth fastest time. The team expects the low downforce machine settings to pay for the race.

Fernando Alonso (10th): “I’m happy with today, although we expected more as we looked more competitive in Friday practice. Apparently we lost some speed today so we need to find out the reasons.

Everyone was upset at the end of the first qualifying session and I understand the complaints against me, but many made mistakes leading to yellow flags. I had cold brakes and tires and at the same time everyone was fighting for position on the track. Some hit the walls and I just went off the track in a situation where I couldn’t change anything.

A tough race is ahead – anything can happen in Baku. The points are up for grabs tomorrow, but I’m looking forward to the race where we opted for a low downforce setting.”

Esteban Ocon (13th): “Of course I am disappointed that in the second qualifying in a row I was unable to complete the fast lap and reach the final due to yellow flags. The car has been fast all weekend, so it’s a shame it wasn’t possible to assemble all the components today.

We know you can overtake in Baku and the race on this track is one of the most unpredictable of the season. Tomorrow we have to take advantage of every opportunity – there is no reason why we can’t finish the weekend and earn a lot of points for the team.

Otmar Safnauer, Team principal: “The result in qualifying is a bit disappointing because we expected to make it to the final with two cars. The speed of the car allowed this, but the conditions were such that Esteban was prevented by yellow flags and he was unable to complete the circle. In that lap he was much faster and could make it to the final.

Now we have to focus on the race and seize every opportunity.”