Rio Haryanto says Manor team-mate Pascal Wehrlein provides him with “a good reference” during his maiden F1 campaign.
Although both drivers are rookies, the 2015 DTM champion has been a Mercedes junior for several years and tipped for greater things in the future, having already tested extensively for the German manufacturer.
Haryanto, who has been fairly close to Wehrlein so far, explains why he relishes the opportunity to measure himself up against such a highly-rated benchmark.
“To be honest, we work very well together, the Indonesian racer told the official Formula 1 website. “Yes, he is fast - and that pushes me. Outside the car we always share ideas, as we both want the best for the team.
“He is a cool team mate. He is a future Mercedes driver, and when I am not far off his time - wow - that’s always fantastic for me. That is a good reference for me - not being slower than him.”
Talking about his goals for the rest of the season, Haryanto, whose Manor seat beyond the British Grand Prix hinges on the results of a crowd-funding campaign launched in Indonesia, added:
“Points would be magical - of course. I think the car has improved a lot compared to last year, so that on one or other occasion - when things go wrong for others - we should have a chance. Scoring points… that would just be like winning!”
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