Ferrari return to the track as Vettel and Leclerc light up Mugello

Sebastian Vettel and Charles Leclerc returned to the cockpit of Formula 1 machinery for the first time in over 100 days on Tuesday at Mugello.

Both drivers completed a grand prix distance in the 2018 Ferrari SF71H, with Vettel driving in the morning and Leclerc in the afternoon.

“I was glad to get back in the cockpit after a break that was even longer than the usual winter one. I was also very pleased to see all the guys from the team at last. It was great to once again get those feelings from a car and to do so at such a spectacular track."

Ferrari-owned Mugello is believed to be in contention to host the race immediately following the Italian Grand Prix, its close proximity to Monza being a key factor.

Should this happen, Ferrari would compete its 1000th grands prix on home turf.

Vettel added: "I really think Mugello deserves to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix. I hadn’t driven it for eight years, so it took a few laps for me to get used to the track and then I really enjoyed myself.”

With Vettel leaving Ferrari at the end of the 2020 season, the coming season is crucial for Leclerc to prove that he can lead the team forward into the future.

“How great was that, getting back on track for real," said Leclerc. "I’d missed it! Even though I’ve been pretty busy with virtual racing during this long break, I needed to once again get that physical impression of speed.

"Being able to drive on such a spectacular track as Mugello, for the first time at the wheel of a Formula 1 car, helped to make this day even more memorable. Now, we’re looking ahead to the season and as from next week, things get serious!"

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