Kimi Raikkonen says Alfa Romeo can be buoyed by its race result at the French Grand Prix, which ending a string of underwhelming displays.
Raikkonen scored points through the opening four races but failed to trouble the top 10 at the following three events, as Alfa Romeo struggled to extract pace from its C38.
Raikkonen started 13th at Paul Ricard but worked his way into the points and ultimately wound up seventh, as he profited from the late drama involving Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo.
“I was a bit disappointed to miss out on Q3, but we knew it would be much better to start on different tyres than the Softs, and so it was,” said Raikkonen.
“I didn’t make the best start but luckily I didn’t lose too much on the straight and I could fight back in the next few corners.
“We were in a strong position after the start, on the Hard tyres, but I had to hold back [Nico] Hülkenberg the whole race.
“It was a great battle with the Renaults for most of the afternoon and in the end, I was able to catch up with the cars in front.
“I’m happy we are at least in a position to be fighting for points. We had a quite solid car, for sure we need to improve, but it’s a lot better than the last few races.”
While Raikkonen moved into the top 10, team-mate Antonio Giovinazzi plummeted down the order.
Giovinazzi was one of only two drivers to start on Soft tyres and the early move Hard tyres prompted a second stop, leaving the Italian only 16th.
“It was disappointing to finish out of the points, but we were up against it when starting on the Soft tyres,” said Giovinazzi.
“It was the price to pay for a good performance on Saturday, but it effectively compromised my race before the start.
“We pitted early as the softs didn’t last, but in the end, we had to make another stop in order to finish the race.
“I can still take some positives from a strong qualifying, and of course it was important for the team to get back into the points.”
