Sebastian Vettel expressed optimism over Ferrari’s prospects at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix after placing second on the opening day of practice.
Vettel, having led the way during the first session, finished 0.149s behind Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton across the Ultrasoft tyre runs in second practice, which took place in day/night conditions.
Vettel believes that Ferrari has found a good balance with its SF70-H and does not require radical changed overnight.
“This was a good day,” said Vettel. “The car and the balance were good and I think we were all very close.
“If we can do the usual step forward on Saturday and improve the car a little bit, then it should be a good day, but I don’t think we need to do too much.
“We also tried something aimed at the next season today. I think we are ready for next year, but right now it is important to finish this season in the right way, because the better the result, the better the mood within the team.
“Saturday is always particular and different, but we’ll see what happens.
“We need to get everything right. This is not the worst track at which to overtake, but usually it depends on where you are and who you want to overtake.”
Kimi Räikkönen, meanwhile, finished fourth overall.
“On Friday, we always try to make progress in the set-up of the car”, said Räikkönen.
“For sure there are things we have to improve; there is some work to be done, but that’s the normal story.
“Today, it was not easy to put a good lap together; the car felt very good in some places, while in some others it could have been better.
“It’s too early to have a clear idea; later this evening we’ll analyse all the data that we gathered in both sessions and we’ll try to do our best over the weekend.”
