Abu Dhabi GP: Toro Rosso Friday practice report

Sebastien Buemi
(STR4-03)

"This new circuit has some interesting features which we are not used to, like the tunnel and it's a nice feeling to start running in daylight and going into the dark. This morning was a bit difficult, but we improved the car quite a lot in the afternoon, so I am not unhappy. You have to consider that there is a huge difference in the track between the first session and the second, as it is a lot quicker in the evening when it's cooler. It was a bit difficult to get the tyres working properly, especially the Option, but apart from that, the car is not too bad. Now we have to see what we can do for tomorrow, when it will be important to qualify well."

First Practice Session
Best lap 1.44.687, pos.6th , 32 laps
Second Practice Session
Best lap 1.41.683, pos.6th , 37 laps

Jaime Alguersuari
(STR4-01)

"I have enjoyed driving this new circuit. It has nothing particularly tricky about it and it reminds me in parts of Valencia. This morning I was learning the track and I also had to get used to an F1 car again, as last weekend, I was racing in the World Series. The first session went pretty well and so did the afternoon, apart from a small problem on the car towards the end. Degradation does not seem to be an issue with the tyres and they are lasting well. In FP2 the track of course had more grip and was generally faster, helped by the fact it was cooler in the dark."

First Practice Session
Best lap 1.44.955, pos.9th, 33 laps
Second Practice Session
Best lap 1.43.022, pos.19th, 39 laps

-credit: toro rosso