Grosjean: We want to score points as early as possible

Romain Grosjean has taken a big risk moving to the all new Haas F1 Team, but if it all goes according to his plan it could be a decisive career move for the highly rated Frenchman. He spoke ahead of the Australian Grand Prix where he will spearhead the new outfit's ambitions at the pinnacle of the sport.

Haas F1 Team tested at Barcelona for eight days over a 12-day span. How did it go and how did it prepare you for Australia?
Romain Grosjean: “The first week went very well. There were a few good surprises, a few less fun but, generally, the team has been impressive. The Formula One world has been impressed by the fact that we were in Barcelona and able to go out and do some good laps. The car felt good and it looks like everyone’s been working together for a long time. The team spirit is really good. There’s a lot of experience here and everyone is listening to each other, which makes it nicer. I was very happy with winter testing and the way everything is going ahead of Australia.”

You’ve been a part of many preseason tests. How did this one go?
RG: “There are always up and downs and things you need to do. There’s some boring stuff and some fun stuff. Eight days is not a lot of testing, but coming from scratch, where we started, it’s been impressive. Everyone is looking forward to going to the first race.”

How satisfying was it to have so much input into developing a new car for a new team?
RG: “It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, being part of a new team and driving the car out of the garage for the first time, especially with Haas being an American team. It’s been a unique experience. It’s good to be able to give your advice, give your feedback. All the engineers have been listening a lot. Everyone is an important piece of the puzzle and we’re all trying to do our best. Team spirit is important in a sport like Formula One.”

How would you describe the VF-16?
RG: “It’s a good car with a really good baseline. It felt very similar to the simulator, which is good as well. It’s probably going to help us work twice as fast. I felt comfortable straight away in the car. There are a few things we can still adapt and get better but, in general, I was very happy with the way the VF-16 has been working.”

What are your goals for Australia?
RG: “It’s early to set goals but, of course, we want to score points as early as possible in the season.”