Germany GP, Friday,
The Renault F1 Team experienced a fragmented beginning to
the race weekend in Hockenheim, with both drivers breaking
tradition by running timed laps in the opening session of
the day – and then restricting their mileage during
the second hour, when rain showers disrupted the session.
In spite of this, they were able to make a solid start to
their technical programmes, evaluating baseline set-ups and
getting a first feel for tyre performance on a circuit which
is particularly demanding for the rear tyres. Although they
were unusually far down the timesheets, both Fernando and
Giancarlo were satisfied with their start to the weekend,
and confident for tomorrow.
Giancarlo Fisichella, P11, 16 laps total, 1:17.672
"This was one of those days when it is hard to work out
how our pace compares to that of our rivals: we look quite
far down the times, but that is not the real situation I don't
think. I had traffic on my quick laps, but the car balance
feels stable and we have a first idea of how the tyres are
performing. We did things a bit differently today because
of the rain but we got the usual results from our programme,
so everything is looking normal for tomorrow."
Fernando Alonso, P15, 13 laps total, 1:18.082
"This is quite a short lap, and there seemed to be a
lot of traffic out there today. My timed laps were all compromised
a little bit by this, and the conditions were difficult as
well with a slippery, low-grip track surface. The most important
thing, though, was to recognise that the conditions today
were quite different to what we expect for the rest of the
weekend. So my main goal was to get used to the circuit, and
not become confused with set-up. The R26 is handling normally,
and the situation looks OK at the moment."
Pat Symonds, Executive Director of Engineering
"The conditions were difficult for the drivers today.
Even once the midday rain had disappeared, the track was left
in an unusual condition and we didn't seem to find a clear
bit of it for the drivers at any point. However, both Giancarlo
and Fernando reported that the car is handling normally, and
we have got a first idea of how the Michelin tyres are performing.
We will continue our work tomorrow."
Denis Chevrier, Head of Trackside Engine Operations
"Although the rain during the early afternoon meant we
had to slightly modify the tyre and chassis programmes, it
changed very little from the engine side. As always, the two
Friday sessions were spent collecting data and confirming
our initial engine settings. We collected useful information
and the evening will be spent analysing it, and adjusting
the mapping, gear ratios and other parameters to suit. The
RS26 has continued to perform without incident, and we look
forward to continuing the weekend in the same fashion."
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