Renault Valencia test notes 2006-02-01

Following yesterday's official launch of the R26 in Monaco, the Renault F1 Team got back on track today in Valencia with Fernando Alonso and Heikki Kovalainen at the wheel of two R26 chassis.

The Renault F1 Team's opening day of testing in Valencia proved positive today, in spite of completing little running in the morning owing to an electrical problem on Fernando Alonso's car. The problem proved minor, which was quickly identified by the team and after which Fernando completed a tyre development programme with Michelin during the afternoon.

On the other side of the garage, Heikki Kovalainen was given his first taste of the new R26/RS26 package. The Finn settled in quickly and adapted quickly to the new machine.

Fernando Alonso:

"We had a good day today, in spite of the electrical problem this morning. It was not really serious, and in one sense, it allowed us to wait for the track conditions to improve because the circuit was damp this morning. We spent the afternoon working on tyre development with Michelin, and we were pleased with how the car performed on the tyres."

Heikki Kovalainen:

"I could feel a really good level of potential in the chassis and engine. The R26 is a an evolution of last year's car, which was already a good chassis. I would say that the R26 is probably more comfortable and more stable, as well as being just as nice to drive. From my point of view, every day I feel better integrated in the team, and I am ready to work hard on a busy testing programme between now and Bahrain."

Christian Silk, Chief Test Engineer:

"This is a demanding circuit for the drivers, and so it's good to see Heikki adapted quickly to the new package. Fernando ran a thorough tyre test that allowed us to work on the chassis set-up, and we looked very competitive on the timesheets, which is always nice. The drivers feel good in the car, and tomorrow we hope to complete more miles, if track conditions allow. The aim will be to complete a race distance with the two cars."

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