Shvartsman: I’m glad I overcame all the challenges

Robert Schwartzman spent the first practice session at Zandvoort in Valtteri Bottas’ car and finished the session with a 16th result, but this does not give a complete picture of his performance. When the weather conditions were at their most challenging and the C44 was on intermediate tyres, the Ferrari reserve driver was confidently running in the top three.

Q: The conditions in which the first practice took place were difficult: it was raining, it was windy, so it was not easy for you. But did you manage to enjoy driving the Sauber car?
Robert Schwartzman: Yes, the conditions are extreme, it was a real test because the last time I drove a Formula 1 car was last year in Abu Dhabi, and it was a Ferrari. A lot of time has passed since then.

I know that since Formula 1 cars are very fast, it is very difficult to quickly feel comfortable behind the wheel and get used to these speeds. In addition, the Zandvoort circuit, although interesting, has a very complex configuration, so I was prepared for difficulties in advance.

Today there was a strong wind, it was raining, and in these conditions it was not easy to carry out the tasks that were waiting for me. But I am happy with the way I overcame all these challenges, and I am also happy that in general we managed to do the job well and show quite good results. Especially in the series of laps on intermediate tyres I was successful.

I only did one lap on slicks, unfortunately the wind and traffic on the track made it difficult to set a good time.

But overall I am happy with my work and I am overwhelmed with emotions. I have managed to gather a certain amount of information that will be useful for the team, and I would like to thank Sauber for the opportunity.

By the way, I found out quite late that I was going to do this training, and it came as a surprise to me. I am happy that Sauber trusts me – thanks for inviting me to Zandvoort!

Q: I’m sure you’re already looking to get behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car. Can you talk about your prospects? Are there any ongoing discussions on the subject?
Robert Schwartzman: I don’t know yet. On the one hand, there are many different types of conversations, on the other hand, my job is to show good speeds, get good results and help the team to improve the car. This is the most important thing I came here for.

Q: Will we see you on the championship steps again this year? Maybe driving a Ferrari? Or back to Sauber?
Robert Schwartzman: I hope so, even though I don’t know yet. But I want to believe that Ferrari and Sauber are happy with my work and will give me the chance to get behind the wheel again. Anyway, I am determined to keep attacking and keep fighting!