2021 US GP : Post-Qualifying reactions from Vettel and Stroll

Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One Team had a subpar qualifying session in Austin for Formula One’s 2021 United States Grand Prix.

Sebastian continued to focus on his preparations for Sunday’s race, while Lance was prevented from making Q2 after a rival’s error ruined his final flying lap.

Sebastian crucially lapped faster than George Russell and Fernando Alonso who are also taking grid penalties, meaning Sebastian is likely to line up 18th for the Grand Prix. Lance was unfortunate to miss out on Q2 after an encouraging start to qualifying, hindered by double-waved yellows caused by Antonio Giovinazzi spinning in Turn Two.

With plenty of long-running data from Friday and Saturday morning, combined with encouraging qualifying pace, Sebastian will aim to fight his way up the field.

Sebastian Vettel (P12)

“Our qualifying pace was promising, and the car felt especially good in Q1. In Q2, I think I left some time on the table, but, with the grid penalty, the early exit made very little difference.

“We did what we needed to in terms of qualifying ahead of George [Russell] and Fernando [Alonso] who are also taking grid penalties, which means we will not start right at the back. I think we will start from P18 as things stand. It is going to be a hot and tough race so I think there is all to play for tomorrow.”

Lance Stroll (P16)

“It was frustrating to exit qualifying early because I think we had the pace to achieve more. During my final lap in Q1, [Antonio] Giovinazzi spun in front of me and the double yellow flags at Turn Two ruined my lap at the end of the session.

“There are a number of cars taking grid penalties, so it remains to be seen where I will line up for the race. Wherever we start, we will fight hard to come away with something tomorrow.”