Fernando Alonso Need to better understand tire characteristics

Alpine riders have differing opinions on the results of Friday’s practice in Monaco. If Fernando Alonso is satisfied with his eighth time in the second session, Esteban Ocon, who showed the eighteenth result, says the car’s potential has not yet been revealed.

Fernando Alonso (8th): “The Monaco track is different because it requires confidence in the car. The first practice was a bit chaotic for the team, but in the second we started working on improving my car. We still need to resolve the instability of the balance and better understand the idiosyncrasy of the tires before qualifying, as a high starting position is one of the main objectives of this weekend.

The team has a lot of work to do, but it’s always fun to drive on this track – every lap you get an adrenaline rush.”

Esteban Ocon (18th): “It’s nice to get behind the wheel of a car in Monaco and discover the new challenges brought to this track by the current generation of cars. Of course, if we want to achieve results, we have to step it up a notch.

Much has been learned today by using different settings on two machines. You have to work in the evenings to be able to work in higher positions on Saturdays. It’s important to get it right because qualifying is crucial in Monaco. I can improve, so I’m looking forward to Saturday’s training.”

Pat Fry, Technical Director: “In Monaco, drivers, engineers and machines always face unique challenges. Today’s training proved difficult as on this track the optimal working range for the new machines is very narrow.

Fernando was more than happy with the car than Esteban and we have information for analysis. Like the rest of the teams, we still have to work to understand the properties of tires with a full tank.

In general, not everything went smoothly, but we are sure that after studying the telemetry we can increase the qualifications. Starting positions are usually the key to a successful weekend in Monaco.”