F1 News
Mattia Binotto has "mixed feelings" after Belgian Grand Prix
Mattia Binotto has mixed feelings after the Belgian Grand Prix. He is pleased for Charles Leclerc who won his first Formula 1 race but will be disappointed with Sebastian Vettel's 4th. The Ferrari boss also reacted to the tragic loss of Anthoine Hubert.
"It's a mixed feeling but no doubt we should be happy for Charles and his first victory," Mattia Binotto tells Sky Sports.
"He did very well today, pushing from the first lap until the end. He drove very well the entire weekend, and I think it was important for him to win today for Anthoine.
"He was very committed and willing to do that. He's had opportunities so far this season and he's missed them, so to win here in Spa it's probably not the best time for our first victory, but it's an important one.
"Hamilton was very fast in the final lap so we knew he could attack and it was important we kept the distance to him, and we were lucky that the race was only 44 laps. It's the first win for Charles and I'm pretty sure it's not the last one.
"We had to use Sebastian to protect the position against the Mercedes because Hamilton was ready to pit. We had no choice at the time, and I think Sebastian has played very well as a team-mate for Charles today. I'm sure there will be opportunities for him in the future.
"Team points come first, and today we showed that as well. We know that Monza is long straights, and speed will be required. That's certainly our competitive advantage."