Binotto: Red Bull has a fast car, but we will bounce back

Ferrari came to Imola as the favorite, but only got eight points. Charles Leclerc claimed the podium, but his own mistake blew his chances for third place and finished sixth. His teammate Carlos Sainz retired on the first lap after being hit by Daniel Ricciardo.

In an interview, team leader Mattia Binotto summarized the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix.

Q: What are the emotions of the team after the finish of the race?
Mattia Binotto: We are disappointed with today’s result, but we have to carry on with our heads held high. Incidents like this are part of racing. Sometimes we can make mistakes, and today was such a case. However, we have a competitive car, so we don’t lose our presence of mind and prepare for the next race.

Q: You said you have a competitive car, but you don’t feel that Red Bull Racing has an advantage now thanks to the new products?
Mattia Binotto: There is no doubt that they are fast and continue to refine the car. Only two weeks ago we were in Australia and there was the best car at our disposal, today the situation was reversed. I think the balance of power will change slightly from race to race.

In general we have a fast car. In the rain qualifying Charles showed the second fastest time, in the sprint on the dry track he also finished second, so we have the speed. At the same time, we understand that the refinement of the car will be crucial this season. Red Bull has a very fast car, but we will bounce back.

Q: Did you call Charles Leclerc for the second pit stop to try and get an extra point for the best lap?
Mattia Binotto: We didn’t do it to show the best lap, but because we thought it was the best option for us. We understood that Red Bull could react to our actions and that everyone would get new tires for the last segment.

Charles drove into the pits at the right time, but after returning to the track he made a small mistake. This happens sometimes, so there’s no point in worrying too much.