2008 Bahrain Grand Prix Free Practice Report
Adrian Sutil (car 20, VJM01/02):
FP1: 20th 1:35.429 (22 laps)
FP2: 19th 1:34.405 (34 laps)
Giancarlo Fisichella (car 21, VJM01/05):
FP1: 17th 1:34.892 (20 laps)
FP2: 18th 1:34.023 (35 laps)
The Force India Formula One Team today reacclimatised to
the unique challenges of the Bahrain International Circuit
on the opening day of practice for this weekend's Bahrain
Grand Prix.
Adrian Sutil and Giancarlo Fisichella completed a programme
of evaluating the tyre options available this weekend and
fine-tuning their race set-ups. After a solid morning performance
the duo put in long runs in the afternoon to test the balance
and reliability for the race, setting competitive times without
major mechanical issues.
The only minor problem faced was both drivers missing opportunities
to record a fast lap on new tyres in the closing minutes of
the afternoon, which led to the relatively low positions.
The team is therefore confident that a better performance
indicator will be established in tomorrow's qualifying, which
will start at 14:00 local time.
Adrian Sutil (car 20)
'The morning session was not great as the harder tyre was
very hard and with the green track conditions it was difficult
to get a balance. In the afternoon it was much better with
the softer tyre and for the first time I could feel a real
difference between the two compounds, which was a definite
improvement. I am quite happy as now we know we can work with
the tyres, we can improve tomorrow. It was a shame in the
last corner that there was that incident with Alonso, but
it happens. It seemed he lost a bit of downforce under braking
and locked up the rear but it wasn't really a problem.'
Giancarlo Fisichella (car 21)
'It was not so easy to find the right set-up today: we have
understeer in some corners, but then oversteer in others.
At the end of the afternoon when we were ready to try new
tyres we had a problem on the rear wing and I just left the
pits too late to get a good lap in, so we couldn't improve
and do a good lap time. There are some small improvements
with the new parts but we have some work to do overnight.'
Mike Gascoyne, chief technical officer
'A productive day evaluating the tyres and working on the
race set-up. Initially the balance wasn't great, but this
afternoon it improved and the cars were reasonably consistent
and the tyre picture is very clear. With the new parts we
have made another step forward, with both drivers having very
good pace over the longer runs. Unfortunately however neither
was able to do a lap at the end of the day on new tyres. Nevertheless
the cars look very competitive and I think we can have a good
day tomorrow. Both drivers did a good job and Adrian in particular
felt more comfortable in the car than he has done since the
start of the season, which is very positive for both him and
the team.'
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