Sebastian Vettel lauded his Ferrari as “really enjoyable” to drive after flying to a 48th career pole at the Hungarian Grand Prix, leading a Ferrari 1-2 in the process.
The German’s 1:16.276s would lower the lap record around the Hungaroring by some 2.2 seconds, as the grippier 2017 cars with their higher downforce flourished in the sweeping layout and Ferrari once again highlighted where their advantage over Mercedes lies.
Though the final outcome wasn’t surprising based on pre-weekend predictions, it did mark quite the improvement from the Scuderia after sitting behind Daniel Ricciardo’s Red Bull in practice on Friday.
“The car to be honest all day today has been incredible. I think we did a good step forward, really enjoyable,” Vettel said.
“I like this track a lot. To have the car in the right window, to have the sun shining, to have people around, that’s what it’s about. It was good fun.
“A front row for us which is incredible and now we’re looking forward to tomorrow.”
With Mercedes failing to match the Italian team and Vettel’s championship rival Lewis Hamilton only set to start fourth for Sunday’s race, the 30-year-old believes could have the chance to once again put a little daylight between himself and the British driver with their current gap just a single point.
“We’re working hard. Obviously, the last race wasn’t great for us, but it doesn’t matter now,” the four-time champion said of Ferrari’s position.
“We are here and try to do our best, that’s what matters. Really step by step, very happy with where we are as a team. Again, we need to remember where we were 12 months ago and where we are now.
“Also thanks for the support and people believing in us. It’s great to get the result also on Saturday. As I said, the main task comes tomorrow.
“Nothing won today, but we’re very happy and we’ll take it to move forward,” he concluded.
