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F1 Chinese GP: Renault race pace not so far from Williams, claims Vasseur

Frederic Vasseur believes the Renault Sport F1 Team is not so far from Williams in terms of race pace and that the squad should be able to score points in China, providing they have a completely mistake-free weekend.

Williams has already taken 20 points this season, with a high of fifth in Australia, while Renault has yet to open its account.

Despite that, however, Vasseur maintains he is happy with what the Enstone squad has done in the opening two races, especially given Renault's purchase of Lotus F1 was only finalised just before Christmas.

"Honestly, I can say I am impressed [with what I have seen so far]. The push and drive from the team is strong," Vasseur said.

"That is not to say there are not improvements to be made. As everyone is learning, I am a stern taskmaster and there are many elements and details we'll address. The key to success in motor racing is not just one aspect, it's focusing on every detail. By making many small improvements we will work forwards."

"We are generally where we expected to be, but equally some way short of where we all want to be," he added.

"We know it's a long term project, but that doesn't mean we will sit back. I want everyone fighting as hard for the position in front whether it's P10 or P1. That's how we'll regain the success we want.

"In terms of race pace there are positive signs; we're not so far from Williams and we're not so far from finishing with points."

Looking to Shanghai next weekend, Vasseur reiterated that he believes cracking the top-ten is possible.

"We have finished both races so far as the first car outside of the points so inside the points is where we need to be.

"For this we don't only need to add performance to the car, we need to ensure our weekends are mistake-free in every aspect."

Zdroj: crash.net