The team's sporting director Laurent Mekies liked the performance of his drivers in Baku and believes that the triumph in Sunday's race will come down to the details
Ferrari comes out of qualifying on Saturday (11) in Azerbaijan with a sense of accomplishment and expects an even fiercer contest with Red Bull for Sunday's race. At least, in the view of the team's sporting director Laurent Mekies.
The Frenchman exalted the importance of having his two drivers in the fight for victory, although he points out that, at race pace, Red Bull, current leader of the Constructors' World Championship, is very strong. "At every track it is important to have both competitors starting at the front, and here in Baku we can expect a very tactical race. It was a very tight qualifying," Mekies said.
About pole-position Charles Leclerc, Laurent praised the Monegasque's performance in qualifying. "It was an incredible lap, we're still getting used to the way in which he, once again, can get something more out of himself and the car."
Mekies also spoke about the importance of Carlos Sainz for Sunday's race, even though the Spanish driver was only fourth. "He also did a very good practice and in fact led a good part of Q3. Having him up there next to the Red Bulls is important to face them on a level playing field."
Finally, the Italian team's sporting director knows that to triumph at the Azeri circuit, the smallest detail can make the difference and there are many factors at stake in the duel with the Taurinos. "In terms of racing, our rivals are faster, with an advantage when it comes to speed on the straight. However, tire management in very hot conditions as we are anticipating will make race pace key," said Lekies.
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