Bottas: We were able to find the optimal settings

It was important for Sauber to work as effectively as possible during training in Barcelona to evaluate the effectiveness of the new products the team had prepared for the Spanish phase of the season. Judging by the fact that Valtteri Bottas completed 54 laps in two sessions, namely that his car was equipped with a modernized rear wing, this problem was at least solved.

Valtteri Bottas (10th): “Overall we worked quite well. Both sessions were productive, we tested different settings and ultimately found the optimal one, which allowed us to improve.

We seem to be capable of a faster pace than most previous rounds, which is certainly positive and gives us confidence heading into the main events of the weekend.

The new components added to our machine work great and the minor issues that arose were resolved quickly, allowing us to make improvements in the second session. Obviously the results will again be very tight, so it is important to analyze all the information collected today in detail and try to get the most out of the car tomorrow.”

Guanyu Zhou (17th): “The team presented a new version of the rear wing, but I haven’t had it on my car yet, but Valtteri’s results look very good and this gives me confidence in preparing for tomorrow.

Overall my lap went well, but in the last corner I was affected by traffic. If this hadn’t been the case, I think I could have shown a time closer to the top ten. I’m happy that I went a little faster and I have more confidence.

Before we left for Spain we changed a lot on my car, including the chassis. The team has done a great job and I feel like I’m back to the level I was at the start of the season. Although it is still too early to say how qualifying and the race will go, we are already closer to our direct rivals, especially compared to previous rounds.”