Vasseur: The most important thing is that Zhou was not injured

None of the Alfa Romeo cars were able to reach the finish line of the British Grand Prix, but, as team leader Frederic Vasseur emphasized, most importantly Guanyu Zhou was not injured in a very serious accident that happened in the opening seconds of the race.

Frederic Vasseurteam leader: “The most important thing today is that Zhou was not injured at all in such a terrible accident – I think we can all agree with that. It all looked very dramatic and once again we have to tell the FIA ​​and thank Formula 1 for their work in raising safety standards.

It needs constant driving, and today’s events have become another reminder of how important all this is: Zhou is doing well and will get behind the wheel again next week in Austria.

The race as a whole was difficult for us as gearbox problems also eliminated Valtteri Bottas when he was in 8th place and was aiming for a good result.

It’s a shame we missed the chance to earn points, but that’s the race. But we were satisfied with the pace we showed today, so we will prepare for the next stage with an optimistic attitude.”

Valtteri Bottas (didn’t finish): “The most important thing is that Zhou is doing well. The accident was very serious and I am glad there were no particular consequences, and the FIA ​​has allowed my partner to take part in the race. Today we received further evidence that the Halo system is one of the most important innovations to have appeared in Formula 1 and that the level of safety has improved in recent years.

Talking about my race, after the restart we had good chances, but the gearbox problems started and I had to leave the race to avoid more serious failures.

It’s a shame it happened because we had a good pace, we could earn a lot of points. Although it was a difficult weekend, there are positives: we showed a high pace, which is a good sign, and I think we can compete in Austria next weekend.”

Guanyu Zhou (unfinished): “The accident was serious, but I’m glad I wasn’t injured. The marshals and the medical team did a great job on track with a quick response, but I also have to tell the FIA ​​and the Thank Formula 1 for all the work they are doing to raise safety standards.

The Halo system saved me today, it shows that all the steps aimed at improving our cars are producing real and very valuable results. Now I want to get behind the wheel even more and do what I love: I’m in great shape and preparing for the Austrian Grand Prix, which is in a week’s time.