F1 News: Logan Sargeant Opens Up On Challenging Transition From F2 To F1 - "Gap Too Big"
In a candid interview with Autosport, F1 driver Logan Sargeant delved into the complexities and nuances of transitioning from Formula 2 to Formula 1. Sargeant highlighted the significant differences between the series after finishing his rookie season with Williams.
Key Takeaways
- Gap in Car Performance: Logan Sargeant pointed out the noticeable gap in car performance between F2 and F1, stating, “F2 is a great series that has great drivers, but I think the gap between the cars is probably a bit too big for what it should be.”
- Detail-Oriented Nature of F1: He described the detail-oriented nature of Formula 1, contrasting it with F2's more straightforward approach: “There are just so many more fine details in F1, and there's just so many more things that add into performance than just getting in the car and driving like you do in F2.”
- Challenge of Weekend Execution: Reflecting on his experiences, Sargeant admitted that the greatest challenge in F1 is the execution of various operational elements throughout a race weekend, an aspect he continues to master.
In his detailed conversation with Autosport, Logan Sargeant shared his journey and insights from moving up from the F2 series. His reflections shed light on the distinct challenges and learning curves associated with competing at the pinnacle of motorsport.
One of the key differences Sargeant noted was the disparity in car performance between the two series. He emphasised the importance of understanding and adapting to the myriad of details that contribute to performance in F1, a contrast to the more direct approach in F2.
“F2 is a great series that has great drivers, but I think the gap between the cars is probably a bit too big for what it should be.
“There are just so many more fine details in F1, and there's just so many more things that add into performance than just getting in the car and driving like you do in F2.”
Sargeant also highlighted the multitude of variables and operational aspects that need to be flawlessly managed throughout a Formula 1 weekend. This, according to him, is a significant challenge, especially for newcomers. He believes that with experience, this complex orchestration becomes more natural and manageable.
“There are so many things that you can do from a driving aspect that you can't do enough to in an F2 car.
“There's just so many more things that add into performance than just getting in the car and driving like you do in F2.
“I feel like that's the bit you miss. In F2 you just get in and drive, whereas in F1, there's so many things that need to come together before you'll be quick.
“And that's a thing F2 misses for sure. And then yeah, the cars, just in my opinion, are not quite quick enough.”
Reflecting on his first season in F1 in which he earned 1 point, Sargeant commented:
“I think the biggest challenge is just putting it together every single weekend.
“Throughout an F1 weekend, there's so many variables and so many operational things to get right.
“It's just really hard to piece it together perfectly throughout an entire weekend. And I think that's the biggest thing. But experience helps just sort of naturally bring that together.
“I think that's the thing that's definitely held me back at times and something I'm still trying to get on top of.”
As the American driver prepares himself for his second season with Williams, he set out his targets for the year ahead, explaining:
“Whether I score a point or not, I want to have good clean weekends where I put everything together.
“And if that means we score points then amazing. If that means we don't, then it is what it is. But at least if I know that I was able to get everything out of it.
“That's all I really am looking for. The points are just added bonuses.”