Binotto: Ferrari did something special in Singapore qualifying

Mattia Binotto believes that Ferrari pulled off something “special” in qualifying for the Singapore Grand Prix as they found an extra gear to better Mercedes, with Charles Leclerc taking pole position.

The Scuderia have been superb since the break, winning at both Spa and Monza, but Singapore was tipped to be a harder track for them, with the previous two races suiting their strengths on the straights.

They not only kept up, but were actually quicker than pole favourites, Mercedes, as Leclerc took P1 ahead of Lewis Hamilton.

Due to the doubters ahead of the race, Binotto hasn’t played down the achievement.

“We've got all the data so we know where we are. Obviously, that's even better than hoped today, but we knew here we brought a new aero package in the right direction,” he said after qualifying.

“Even more, for us, it is important to know we are developing the car n the right direction, because that will be useful for next year.”

“After the first wins in Spa and Monza it was a great boost for the team. Everybody was coming here hoping to do something special, and at least we did it.

“The race is tomorrow, we should not forget that, but starting at the front at Singapore is always important.”

For a few minutes, it looked like Sebastian Vettel may take pole, only for him to cut his second lap short after a few mistakes cost him vital seconds.

Binotto, however, remains happy with the German’s outing, saying he showed he can still be quick.

“I have not seen what Sebastian did. It was a shame for him because he did a fantastic first attempt. He was doing well in the second until the last sector,” he added.

“He has proved again today he can be very fast, but it is a matter of confidence.”

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