Japanese GP: Renault Friday test notes

This morning's final Heathrow test session saw the Mild Seven Renault F1 Team take the first three positions at Suzuka ahead of the Japanese Grand Prix. In his last outing for the team, test driver Allan McNish claimed top spot, ahead of team-mates Fernando Alonso and Jarno Trulli. Although the R23B proved its speed during the two hours, the team also suffered several reliability problems. Jarno Trulli lost the final forty-five minutes of the session with a clutch problem, while Allan McNish suffered an engine failure just before the session ended.

Pat Symonds, Executive Director of Engineering:

"The final Heathrow session wasn't perfect from our point of view, with Jarno losing time owing to a clutch problem and Allan's engine failure. In spite of this, we have a reasonably clear picture of the tyre situation as the track was in very good condition today. I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the tremendous contribution Allan has made to the team this year, and thank him very much for all the effort he has put in: it was good to see him top the times today in his final session."

Allan McNish, test driver:

"Overall, we did not have much work to do on the set-up this morning: the balance and grip levels were immediately very good, and we had very little understeer, which is usually the main problem at this track. It was a very competitive start to the weekend and, although I had a problem at the end of the session, it didn't restrict our work. I want to thank the team for a very rewarding, successful year: I have enjoyed a great working relationship with them, and we have managed to have some fun as well!"

Denis Chevrier, Engine Operations Manager:

"A disrupted Heathrow session, with Jarno experiencing problems and Allan unfortunately falling victim to an engine failure. However, this did not prevent us from completing the programme we had planned, and we have collected plenty of information for the rest of the weekend. Things could have gone better, but overall I think we had an interesting and useful morning."

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