Haas rookie Mick Schumacher heads to his second F1 race this week armed with a few good lessons learned in Bahrain that have boosted his knowledge and comfort levels.
Contrary to his teammate Nikita Mazepin, who wiped out his race at Sakhir after just a handful of corners, Schumacher steered clear of trouble and brought it home, crossing the checkered in 16th position.
The 22-year-old therefore fulfilled his first assignment from Haas team boss Guenther Steiner. But more importantly, it was a first important learning exercise for Schumacher and one that boosted his experience and knowledge ahead of this week's round at Imola.
"I think in general I’ve learned a ton of new things, and we’ve seen that come through in all the meetings we’ve had," explained the young German.
"It’s always different talking about it and feeling it. There are a lot of things I learned about the tyres, that’s probably the biggest new thing to me.
©Haas
"Also, on things like how much downforce we lose at the start of the race. It’s like going from 100 percent downforce to 20 percent downforce the moment you’re turning into a corner.
"There was definitely lots learned and lots to look at before heading to Imola.
"I feel I have a lot more knowledge, a lot more comfort, but I was also really surprised at how quickly the weekend was over.
"It all happened in the blink of an eye – it was a case of little time and lots to learn, let’s put it like that."
Imola's Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari isn't unfamiliar to Schumacher who raced at the scenic venue during his formative years in motorsport.
Several years on, the Haas charger is looking forward to getting reacquainted with an "amazing" track, albeit one that typically offers little overtaking opportunities.
"The track is amazing to drive," he said. "Racing-wise it can be quite difficult, with very few places to overtake.
"Once you’re in a flow and set a nice lap it’s amazing, especially how one corner follows after another.
"There are quick corners, technical corners, the kerbs that you have to ride. There’s definitely lots to look forward to in a Formula 1 car.”
"In all the junior categories that I’ve raced there, it was always very fun, and a track I enjoyed driving. I’m pretty sure it’s going to be a lot better in a Formula 1 car.
"It’s amazing to drive a Formula 1 car, so to do that on a super cool track will be even more special. I’m definitely looking forward to it."
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