How was the response to the victory in Abu Dhabi?

Eric Boullier: I received over 400 messages at the track after the chequered flag! It was a pleasant surprise to see that a few of them were coming from our rival teams saying how happy they were for us. It was nice to hear that people in the paddock thought we deserved the victory. Also, standing on the podium as Team Principal of the winning constructor was something really special. It was a very emotional moment. I hope we get used to it very soon.

What was the feeling at Enstone once you returned to the factory?

EB: People are happy and have a new spring in their step; even if the weather outside the factory is very cold now! There’s a fantastic feeling of excitement and we have two races yet to go. We did it once and we can do it again this season. It took us time to get this win but we all knew that we could do it. It did arrive at a time when more and more people start working on next year’s car, which is good timing.

Is it in some ways an even stronger endorsement of the team for the victory to come so late in the year as it shows Lotus F1 Team can keep the development battle going season-long?

EB: Our team is far from having the biggest budget on the grid, but I see it as an advantage. It forces us to be clever and it is one of Enstone’s trademarks. Bringing upgrades in October which made our car faster again and catching the best in the sport on pace proves that this team can deliver.

Talking of delivering, Kimi certainly did the business behind the wheel?

EB:This was maybe a surprise for anyone on the outside of the team that doubted him, but for everyone on the inside it was not. Kimi has certainly made his mark and shown that he’s back in Formula 1 and back at his best form. Having him back getting podiums and a win is great for him, great for the team and great for the fans. Moreover, “Leave me alone, I know what I’m doing” has already become a Formula 1 classic!