Vettel sets fastest time, most laps completed on first day of testing
Ferrari driver sets fastest time and most laps completed on first day of testing
Ferrari's first day of pre-season Formula One testing on Monday was close to perfection, a delighted Sebastian Vettel said after setting the fastest time and completing more laps than anyone else.
The four-time world champion managed 169 laps of Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya and the German did not hide his delight.
"Unbelievable, the car was working really well. We had no issues slowing us down, we actually completed the programme just the way we wanted," he said.
"Obviously I am still a little bit rusty because I haven't driven for a couple of months, but it's getting better. I certainly got enough laps today.
"I will sleep well tonight. The car is working, I'm very happy. It's doing what I want, so I am very pleased at the moment.
"Huge compliments to everyone back in the factory... how they tackled the new rules and regulations, and what they put on track today is very close to perfection on the first day of driving."
Ferrari have had a shake-up since last season, with Mattia Binotto installed as team principal in place of the departed Maurizio Arrivabene.
That has also brought a change in attitude, with Ferrari already seeming a more welcoming place - for the media at least - after what seemed like a siege mentality under Arrivabene.
Binotto has decades of experience at Ferrari and Vettel said the foundations remained the same.
"Obviously he's been around a long time and knows everybody so, in this regard, there is no news," said Vettel.
"It's obviously news to be in the position and have that responsibility. But so far everybody is having a smile, focused and happy to come in for work and do their job.
GOOD FEELING
"Days like this and a start like this are quite rewarding, with a lot of laps on the clock and a general good feeling for the car."
Vettel is now starting his fifth season at Ferrari and he was reminded that it took his great compatriot Michael Schumacher five years before he won a title with the Italian team.
While he said it was too early to make such comparisons and it did not feel like five years since he left Red Bull, Vettel saw clear progress in the team.
"The team (are) developing and closer together year by year, so I hope that this year we get to have a lot of fun - fun means win a lot of races and then ultimately you are fighting for the championship," he said.
"If we can maintain the level of enjoyment and fun that I found on the track today, and saw in people's faces the last couple of months, then I'm positive and hopeful for the future." - REUTERS
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