The qualifying in Abu Dhabi witnessed Sebastian Vettel missing out on yet another Q3, as he could manage only P13 for Sunday’s race start. One might assume that the German can bounce back stronger for the race.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem very likely to happen, as Vettel is anticipating a “painful” race tomorrow in the Ferrari SF1000. However, he was also partly relieved that his terrible 2020 season will come to an end this weekend, as his focus will shift to Aston Martin Racing.
What did Sebastian Vettel say?
During the post-qualifying interview, Vettel opened up on qualifying in P13, despite improving his lap time compared to his previous run.
“I improved compared to the previous attempt, but less than expected,” Vettel said. “I am quite happy, but when I tried to go fast, I didn’t make it. It didn’t seem like a bad ride. The race is expected to be painful. But it will be the last.”
It was clear that Vettel gave his best in his Q2 run. However, it just wasn’t enough for the four-time world champion. As his final qualifying with Ferrari concluded, he took to his team radio.
“I gave it everything I had. Was copy paste Q1. No better, no worse,” he said with a tinge of disappointment in his tone.
Meanwhile, Vettel’s teammate, Charles Leclerc, produced yet another impressive lap, as he ended up P9 by the end of Q3, and hence will start from the 5th row on the grid.
Vettel looking forward to the “special race” in Abu Dhabi
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will conclude Vettel’s term in the Ferrari and hence sounded quite emotional about parting ways after the five-year stint.
“It will be a special race for the mechanics, my engineers,” the German said. “I‘m very close to them. It will be the last for us.”
Hence, despite starting his race outside the top 10, Vettel will try his best and give his engineers a reason to smile by bringing his car home in points.
With the odds lying against the Ferrari scoring some points, will Vettel manage to end his final race with the Prancing Horse in a flourish? Well, the answer is just a day away.
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