Doornbos shows pace in free practices

In the Free Practises ahead of the Australian Grand Prix on Sunday, Robert Doornbos did very well for Red Bull Racing today. Before Doornbos focussed on doing race stint simulations in the afternoon session, the 24-year old test driver first showed everyone his capabilities by setting the second fastest time of all 25 active drivers in the openings session at the 5.303 kilometer semi-street circuit in central Melbourne.

Whereas in the last couple of years summer-like temperatures were always measured at the Albert Park circuit, today the air temperature did not exceed the level of 22 degrees Celsius. With the track not offering much grip therefore, and because of the newly introduced engine regulations this year, most of the drivers only came into action in the closing stages of Free Practise 01.

Doornbos however drove 19 laps in total during this one-hour lasting session in which he shared P1 with Anthony Davidson (Honda) for most of the time. At the end of the session Doornbos found himself back at a respectable second position with a best laptime of 1:28.559.

The second session 'Down Under' was used by Red Bull Racing to evaluate the two types of tyres Michelin brought with them for this weekend in order to make the right choice for the 58 lap race next Sunday. Divided over two long runs, Doornbos drove 32 laps in full race-trim this afternoon in which he set a fastest time of 1:29.876, handing him 20th position.

Robert Doornbos:

"Already this morning we felt a positive results was on the cards as I always really feel comfortable at this track and the team enjoyed a strong weekend here last year as well. Over one single lap, the car is pretty competitive and ofcourse it just feels great to be on top of the lists. After our two racestint simulations this afternoon, we also know now what choice we have to make regarding our tyres. I hope we can continue this level of performance also for tomorrow and Sunday!"

-www.robertdoornbos.com-