Japanese GP: Renault Friday qualifying notes

The Mild Seven Renault F1 Team finished today's first qualifying session at Suzuka in first and sixth positions ahead of Sunday's Japanese Grand Prix. A productive morning's work on the R23B was translated into a strong afternoon performance and Jarno Trulli's third provisional pole position in four races. Fernando Alonso adopted a more cautious approach, but claimed sixth spot nonetheless.

Jarno Trulli , 1st, 1:30.281

"The car has been well balanced ever since we started running and, even though I had some technical problems this morning, we have been quick throughout. I managed to get in a clean, mistake-free lap and I now have to look to repeat that performance tomorrow: the new rules make things more difficult, but after having taken three Friday `poles' this year, I would like to get one on Saturday as well before the end of the season. If we manage that, we will be in a very strong position for the race."

Fernando Alonso , 6th, 1:30.624

"I did a normal lap, but within my limits: the day for taking risks is tomorrow. Our package is working well here and as Jarno showed today, we are very competitive. I feel confident for the rest of the weekend."

Pat Symonds , Executive Director of Engineering

"Jarno's time justifies the confidence we had in our performance here. Fernando was a little more cautious but there is no doubt that both drivers can be highly competitive this weekend. The balance of the cars is quite good, and we looked quick in all circumstances, including our high fuel runs this morning."

Denis Chevrier , Engine Operations Manager

"Naturally, we are very pleased with our performance this afternoon, and it demonstrates that the problems we experienced this morning didn't handicap our performance. After the results of first qualifying, we can justifiably hope to challenge strongly tomorrow. We now need to continue our work in order to put all the elements in place that will allow us to perform well on Sunday."

Date:                          Friday, 10 October, 2003

Weather:                       Hot but overcast, with sunny spells

Temperature:                   Ambient: 23-24°C ; Track: 30-31°C

Jarno Trulli                   R23B-05 S1, 30.790 S2, 40.581 S3, 18.910

Fernando Alonso                R23B-06 S1, 30.818 S2, 40.656 S3, 19.150

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