Monaco GP,
The Renault F1 Team completed a problem-free opening day
of practice for the Monaco Grand Prix.
On a circuit where grip levels are very low on the first
day of running, and where the tiniest error is always extremely
costly, both Fernando Alonso and Giancarlo Fisichella dialled
themselves into the twisting street circuit quickly.
Today's technical programmes were designed to allow the drivers
to find their rhythm on this demanding circuit, to assess
the tyre options available, and allowed the engineers to make
some initial set-up changes.
The drivers were happy with the balance of the R26 and the
consistent performance of the Michelin tyres, while the lap-times
were competitive throughout both practice sessions. This leaves
the team optimistic of a strong showing for the rest of the
weekend.
Fernando Alonso, P4, 31 laps total, 1:16.221
Thursday in Monaco is always a day more for the drivers than
the engineers, as we run a lot to get used to the circuit
again and feel comfortable. I did a lot of laps, worked on
my lines in the corners, and I managed to find a good rhythm
by the end of the second session. The balance of the R26 was
good straight away this morning, and it got better as the
grip levels improved. I think we have done the job we needed
to today, and we are in good shape.
Giancarlo Fisichella, P7, 35 laps total, 1:16.721
We are in a strong position after today. We tried the Michelin
tyres in the practice sessions, and made some good preparations
for the rest of the weekend. The balance of the car is already
very good, and we only need some small changes to get where
we want to be. The lap-times were very consistent as well,
so I think it looks promising for the rest of the weekend.
Pat Symonds, Executive Director of Engineering
At Monaco, a successful first day is when both cars come back
to the pits intact, and there is plenty of data to analyse.
We are pleased not only to have achieved that, but also with
the fact that the car once again seems to be very competitive,
on a circuit that is poles apart from Barcelona.
Denis Chevrier, Head of Trackside Engine Operations
We had a good day. This is an unusual circuit, and we adopt
an unusual programme to cope with it, running more laps than
normal to let the drivers dial themselves in to the circuit.
In terms of the engine, we are now at the stage of the season
where the first day of running is just for minor tuning, and
we did not suffer any unexpected incidents. The B spec RS26
is performing well, and the level of performance we demonstrated
today make us hopeful that we will enjoy a successful weekend.
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