Racing Bulls driver Isack Hadjar believes he is “going to have to fight a bit more” after P9 in Imola GP qualifying.
Isack Hadjar felt that he had more to give at the Imola GP after securing a P9 position in qualifying.
The French rookie made it into Q3 and was underwhelmed by his performance, calling the result “unfair”.
“I don’t know why I lost the car in three. Didn’t seem like I abused the kerb or anything. So it feels quite unfair not having the possibility to do that lap.
“I had one new set of tyres left. So I felt like I haven’t done Q3 yet. It’s really frustrating.”
He continued: “The car is really hooked up this weekend. Really nice feeling around here. Had some good fun.
“I mean, P5 was definitely possible. Just three tenths away from it on old tyres and a messy lap. I’m really happy about the team’s progress. But I need to do a bit better.”
The Goal for Imola
Hadjar sits 16th in the Drivers Championship and is looking to secure more points for the Racing Bulls, which is 8th in the Constructors Championship.
When asked what the goal is for the Imola GP, he answered bluntly and said: “I mean, points, obviously.
“From 9, that’s the target, but I believe today it was much more. So, today we’re going to have to fight a bit more.”
On the pace of the VCARB 02
Isack Hadjar has been outperforming in the VCARB 02, along with outperforming fellow teammate and ex-Red Bull driver, Liam Lawson.
Hadjar also spoke openly about his experiences with the VCARB 02 and admitted that the car is perfect for his driving style, but he knows what is limiting him as well.
Hadjar explained and said that the car was: “Awesome, except I had a bit of a… I mean, I lost the car on the kerb again, so this is what’s limiting me at the moment.
“But, like in cornering, speed and everything, grip, downforce, this car has been really amazing this weekend.”
He added: “I’ve been confident since day one with this car. I think it’s quite nice to drive, it suits me well.
“I’ve been on it since the beginning, but now we’re finding the last few details.”
Strategy for Imola
The Autodromo Internazionale Enzo e Dino Ferrari is a notorious circuit, known for its difficulties in overtaking, where key strategy and tyre management play a vital role in the outcome of the race.
When asked about the strategy for the race ahead, Hadjar said: “I think we have a really strong pace.
“Our race pace will be good. But, you know, it’s a track we can’t really overtake, so we need to get a good start. And then we’ll pay off on the strategy.”
He continued on about what tyre suits him best for the race and added: “Considering the race, I think it’s good to stick to the soft. It felt like a good tyre, honestly.
“It’s quite equal to C5, but it was definitely the right choice for me.”
