Hungarian GP: Renault Saturday notes

Following assiduous preparations throughout this morning's free practice sessions, the Mild Seven Renault F1 Team achieved a satisfying result in qualifying for the Hungarian Grand Prix, claiming sixth and ninth positions for tomorrow's race. In the hottest conditions of the weekend, with track temperatures close to 40C, the Renault R202 demonstrated a reassuring level of competitiveness on the tight Hungaroring circuit.

Jarno Trulli set the sixth fastest time of the afternoon on his penultimate run, after steadily improving the balance of his car throughout the day.

Although a spin in morning practice slightly disrupted his preparations, Jenson Button set his fastest time on his first complete run. As track temperatures rose, he noted a general loss of grip which prevented him from improving on his initial effort.

Jarno Trulli, 6th position

"I'm pretty happy with the result, and I especially have to thank my engineers who have worked really well since the start of the day. Basically, we improved the car step by step and achieved a good position, in front of the McLarens and close to Williams. Of course, the improved engine helped as well - I could feel more power and that always helps, even here in Hungary!"

Jenson Button, 9th position

"Ninth is OK, and Jarno did a great job to finish sixth. I did my best lap on the first run, and I'm not quite sure why the other two weren't as quick. Obviously, I was pushing hard - that's why I spun on the first run - but maybe the set-up wasn't quite as good in the hot conditions. Even though I'm starting ninth, I think we can do something from there."

Pat Symonds, Executive Director of Engineering, Mild Seven Renault F1 Team

"On a circuit where qualifying is so important, this is a good team result and it puts us in a position from which we should score points tomorrow. I am equally happy with our race preparation and although tomorrow's race will be very hard, I am confident that the team can achieve a good result."

Denis Chevrier, Head of Race Engineering (Engine), Mild Seven Renault F1 Team

"Today saw the team continue from where we left off in practice yesterday afternoon. Our performance improved throughout the day and the final positions demonstrate how well we worked to optimise both chassis and engine. Sixth and ninth positions have given us a strong platform for tomorrow: if we can make good starts, we should look to score points at the end of the race."

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