FORMULA 1

ROSBERG TAKES POLE FOR HIS HOME GRAND PRIX IN GERMANY

Nico Rosberg secured pole position for the team’s home race today at Hockenheim, with Lewis Hamilton suffering from a brake failure and a crash that ended his session during Q1. 

Nico Rosberg:

That was a quite challenging Qualifying session. The option tyre lasts only for one quick lap and without FRIC we had a lot do adjust the set-up. I had a difficult start because I didn’t really feel comfortable with the balance in the braking zones but that gradually improved through the sessions. The quickest lap at the end was really a good one. So I’m really happy to start from the top position here at our home Grand Prix. But I can’t be too pleased about today because of the accident Lewis suffered, I´m glad he is fine. I would have preferred to have the normal fight for the pole with him. But I´m sure he will fly through the field as our car is still the quickest out there. So our German fans will see an exciting race tomorrow.

Valtteri Bottas:

The car was feeling great today and it is ready for the race, so as a team we are pleased with the result. The last lap I had was almost perfect so I can’t fault the session. The Mercedes are still a bit quicker than us, but we are going to work hard tomorrow to get in front but it will be difficult. The aim tomorrow is to keep ahead of the Ferraris and Red Bulls and hopefully the cooler temperatures predicted will play into our hands

Felipe Massa:

It was a very positive qualifying for us. I didn’t get the perfect lap, but we are second and third, so there are no complaints. The race will be difficult so today was more important than usual and so I am delighted with the result. Hopefully we can continue this forward and have a positive day tomorrow as well.