Formula 1’s newest rookie Lance Stroll says he is ‘really confident’ after enjoying much smoother running in the second week of testing.
After making numerous mistakes in the first week of testing, one of which forced Williams to miss a whole day of testing, the young Canadian has bounced back to set representative lap times and has been very consistent in doing so with trouble-free running.
Speaking to reporters after completing 85 laps in Thursday’s test, Stroll said: “I guess you could say troubles, but it was also positive last week.
“There were a lot of positive things from last week that we brought into this week.
“I don’t think people really see it because of the issues that happened, but I felt already confident last week in the car, and this week I feel really confident in the car.
“Just getting to grips with it, but tomorrow’s another big day and looking forward to learning some more tomorrow and bringing it to Melbourne.”
Many fans have been critical of the Canadian, claiming that he is merely a pay driver and lacks the relevant skills behind the wheel, however, Stroll admits that he has not read any of the criticisms that have been placed online.
With the new regulations for the 2017 season, it has meant that the step from the European Formula 3 Championship he graduates from has become much greater, but the Williams’ driver is relishing the new challenge that faces him.
“I’m looking at the positive week that we’re having so far,” he added.
“Last week is last week. I don’t read much of the negative stuff, I focus on my own things.
“It’s challenging, a bit more for me, it’s my rookie year with not much experience.
“But I think for everyone you know, it’s new for everyone. A lot of grip. I think precision is very important since the cars are a lot quicker.
“But it’s good. It’s a good challenge physically and just driving the cars is harder, so that’s cool. I think it’s all exciting stuff for the year ahead.”
