First laps after illness ‘like a slap in the face’

In brief

First laps after illness ‘like a slap in the face’, says Gasly

Pierre Gasly described his first laps in practice after being ill as feeling like a “slap in the face”.

The AlphaTauri driver was advised to miss Thursday’s media engagements on medical grounds but was cleared to participate in Friday’s practice sessions. He ended the day 14th ahead of team mate Yuki Tsunoda.

“I must say the first few laps were a bit of a slap in the face after being on the sofa and in bed for pretty much the last 72 hours,” Gasly said in response to a question from RaceFans.

“We knew it would be difficult, but this morning was the best I’ve felt over the last four days. I’m still not feeling 100%, but it was good enough to drive and tomorrow I should be again feeling better.”

De Vries “privileged” to drive three 2022 cars in one season

Nyck de Vries says he has relished the opportunity to drive three separate cars during three free practice runs during the 2022 season.

The 2019 Formula 2 champion and 2021 Formula E world champion has been given the opportunity to drive this year’s Williams, Mercedes and Aston Martin during Friday practice this season. De Vries is currently working to secure a race seat in Formula 1 for 2023.

“It might sound cliche, but it’s honestly very valuable to get the opportunity to look inside three different teams and organisations and see how they operate and how they approach different things, where they put their emphasis,” said De Vries after completing his Aston Martin run on Friday. “Also to feel the differences between the three cars.

“I think it’s just been a privilege to get that opportunity and to get that experience under my belt.”

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