Renault Jerez test notes 2006-02-09

Day two of testing with the R26 in Jerez; Giancarlo Fisichella and Heikki Kovalainen representing the team.

The Renault F1 Team completed a trouble-free day of testing at Jerez. Giancarlo Fisichella and Heikki Kovalainen alternated on track owing to the unavailability of rear wings, but nevertheless completed their planned work for the day.

Giancarlo Fisichella took to the track this morning in very cold conditions, completing two short runs followed by three medium-distance runs before lunch. He also completed the day's running at the end of the afternoon, working on tyre testing and chassis set-up, completing a total of 77 laps.

Heikki Kovalainen took to the track in the second R26 in early afternoon, and also completed tyre development work with Michelin. The Finn completed 46 laps without incident.

Giancarlo Fisichella:

"It was my first day of testing this week, and I focused on tyre testing, with pretty good results. I felt good straight away in the car. I hope we will be able to do a lot more laps tomorrow, and I think we will be working in good conditions, which is important for getting the most out of the winter tests."

Heikki Kovalainen:

"We did not have any major incidents at this test and continued our tyre programme, which was the primary objective for the day. I am getting used to the R26 now. I think the R26/RS26 package is handling well, and is showing more and more potential. In general, I am pleased with my performance and I am concentrating on helping every do the best possible preparations for Bahrain."

Christian Silk, Chief Test Engineer:

"We had another day of trouble-free testing. The two cars had a complicated programme, with tyre testing and chassis set-up work forming the majority of our running. The drivers and engineers worked diligently and patiently, and we did a lot of laps in the circumstances. Heikki continued learning about the R26 and the car seems to suit him well; as for Fisico, he was pleased to get back on track after a two week break."

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