Rio Haryanto was the last classified finisher in the Bahrain Grand Prix on Sunday, but the Indonesian driver was happy to see the chequered flag for the first time in his rookie Formula 1 season.
The Manor Racing driver was involved in battles with the Sauber and Renault drivers in the early stages of the race around the Sakhir International Circuit, but revealed that he suffered with high tyre degradation that ultimately saw him finish a lapped P17.
“It was great to see the chequered flag today,” revealed Haryanto. “It feels good to have a race distance under my belt, which is vital experience for me and the team as it gives us more data to analyse and develop the car further.
“The start was good and we were in the mix with the Saubers and Renaults but I think we did a different strategy to those around us. We also suffered with tyre degradation, which really hampered our progress.
“Shanghai is a track I know well so I’m looking forward to making another step forward there.”
