“It Is What It Is”- Sebastian Vettel Reflects on Disappointing Bahrain GP Practice

It was a busy Friday for Sebastian Vettel, and more so for the entire Aston Martin Racing team. In an attempt to capitalize on the lost time during the pre-season testing, the British team managed to hit the 90-lap mark by the end of FP2 under the lights in Bahrain.

So, did Vettel, who struggled to get substantial runs during the testing phase, finally, managed to grab a feel of the Mercedes-powered car? Well, the German revealed that he made a massive leap in terms of performance through the practice runs.

However, he also clarified that there is still a lot more learning to do, reckoning a much better FP3, and the sessions that are to follow.

What did Sebastian Vettel say?

Vettel revealed that Saturday, and hopefully Sunday as well, could witness a much-pacier Aston Martin amidst the closely packed mid-field.

“Busy. We tried to get the most out of the time that we had,” he said.

“So I think every lap still helps me to get used to the car and get into a rhythm. I’m trying a lot of things so still, I think there’s a lot to try, a lot to learn but it seems like fun.

“I feel that there’s still a lot left on the table just to get used to the car, being able to squeeze the limit. Right now it seems a bit up and down.

“Sometimes I’m really good and other corners I’m far out but that’s normal. But hopefully, come tomorrow with more consistent running I’m able to squeeze the limit everywhere.”

Aston Martin drivers together managed to churn out a total of 91 laps through the two practice sessions despite the major tweaks on the clock. Unlike the past few years, FP1 and FP2 no longer run for 90 minutes. Instead, the length has been shortened to just 60 minutes.

Vettel reckons the entire F1 grid is still on a learning curve

It is a known fact that Aston Martin started the season on the back foot after the untimely struggles during the pre-season testing.

However, according to Vettel, it is the same story for the entire F1 grid, and the struggles aren’t restricted to just his team.

“It is what it is. I think we are obviously now looking into some of the stuff that we tried in the afternoon or the evening, and hopefully will be a bit more clear and calmer tomorrow.

“But I think that’s probably true for the rest of the pack as well,” Vettel said.

Overall, it looks like the fans have to wait until the third part of qualifying to witness the full potential of each of the F1 cars. But this uncertainty is hinting at one aspect. This season is going to be a wild ride for the entire F1 community.