Haas chief race engineer Ayao Komatsu has revealed that Mick Schumacher is trying everything to improve in his rookie season in Formula 1.
The German has consistently outperformed his teammate Nikita Mazepin so far, although his progress since the start of the season has been masked by the VF-21’s shortcomings.
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When asked where Schumacher has improved the most since the campaign began, Komatsu welcomed the willingness to explore every available way to get the most out of yourself and the car.
“It was clear to all of us from the start that he was very open to all ideas,” says Komatsu.
“If we tell him we’ll try it, we’ll go in that direction, even if he doesn’t agree, he’ll be happy to try it out – regardless of whether it’s about the vehicle set-up, management or the driving style for a lap or a race distance , he will always try.
“That gives us very good data on whether it works or not. Anyway, he did it so that we could get good feedback. It’s an endless loop, he does it every time.
“[British GP Friday] was a very good example where he was driving a certain route and we said to him, ‘can you try that?’
“The last round of FP1, bam! He made it – exaggerated – but at least he tried and gave us very good input. He himself has had very good experiences, so that we can advance to the next step for qualification.” ”
Schumacher’s “constructive” feedback helps the whole team
Komatsu cited the Azerbaijan GP weekend as a bright moment for Schumacher, who managed to deal with the difficulties of stop-start sessions throughout the event.
“All this openness and willingness to try anything and be constructive in the situation,” added Komatsu.
“[In] In Baku we had a problem and the session was so discontinuous, it’s a difficult track, you need laps and you need laps so I’m sure he was frustrated.
“But he was very calm, remained constructive and gave us great feedback. When you work like that, it’s very, very helpful for everyone.
“He has made a big step in all areas, but in tire management he has made a big step in the last few races.”
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