PRESS RELEASE - MEXICO

If you dreamed of a fast time from Vesti at the top of the record sheet, then Friday's lap times in Vesti's first official appearance in an F1 session were not encouraging. With more than 1 second to Lewis Hamilton, against whom Vesti must first and foremost be measured, Friday's practice didn't quite look like what many excited especially Danish racing fans had hoped for.

But as Vesti had indicated ahead of the Free Practice session, he was not on the track to set fast lap times. Primary goal and objective was testing and development of the car and gathering of useful data for the team in order to further improve the car before the race on Sunday.

However, the task was not made easier by the fact that the circuit was tricky. Especially for a rookie. The many changes made to the car constantly and the severely limited time made it difficult for Vesti to find his usual consistent driving. Still, it was a happy and positive Vesti, who after an incredible experience, was able to put into words what he had just been through.

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The car was difficult today. I drove with a different set-up than Lewis Hamilton. I had hoped for a stronger performance on my side, but afterwards it dawned on me that Lewis was also challenged by the car. 

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I had more left in me. But it really meant a lot to me to keep the car within the limit, not to take any unnecessary risk. We tested a lot on the so-called long-runs. How does the car perform over distance. I think I got the job done and completed the task required of me. I have learned a lot.

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Pace wise it could have been different if I had risked more in the fast corners. I deliberately chose not to do that. That's the honest review. At no point did I pursue a fast lap. The test program we ran meant trying out many different things. I had a job to do for the team - not for myself. But I'd be lying if I said I wouldn't have welcomed a few fast push-laps out there. Of course it would have been nice if I could have pushed myself to the limit but I will (im)patiently wait for that opportunity to present itself in the future. But on the other hand, I'm just proud to be allowed to carry out the task I've been given and to be able to help the team collect extremely important data on the car.

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Precision was one of the things F1 commentators praised Vesti for. And the team was also subsequently satisfied with Vesti, who they said delivered a solid job under difficult conditions with a challenging car and a tricky circuit.

Earlier this year Toto Wolff stated the following about Vesti.

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Fred has executed an impressive Formula Two campaign so far this season. Driving in an FP1 session is the next step in his development and we're looking forward to giving him that opportunity.

He is a talented young driver, not only quick but thoughtful, and he understands exactly what the Team is looking for from him in the car. I am sure he will perform well and provide a solid starting point for our work over the weekend.

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Work - that Vesti from the sidelines in Mexico will follow closely.

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Such exhilarating days and with more to come as I will be spending the rest of the weekend with Mercedes at this fascinating Mexican venue. At this point in my career I can think of nothing bigger than what I have just been though.

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Vesti is back in his F2 racer on November 24 and this time in Abu Dhabi - the final round of the Championship. Vesti hoping to clinch the title from his current position as P2 in the overall standings.