On the first pre-season test day in Bahrain, all teams, with the exception of Red Bull Racing, divided track work between two drivers. In Aston Martin, reserve driver Felipe Drugovic sat behind the wheel of the AMR23 in the morning and was replaced by Fernando Alonso in the afternoon.
The British team decided that only Alonso would work on track all day on Friday. At the same time, Drugovich will remain in the pits and ready to drive if necessary. The drivers’ work schedule for the final day of testing at Aston Martin will be announced on Friday.
Thursday turned out to be a rather difficult day for Aston Martin – Felipe lost time due to electrical problems and Fernando pitted due to a damaged floor.
Fernando Alonso (2nd): “I am satisfied with the first day of testing in Bahrain with the AMR23. Despite the small problems we managed to solve, we completed 100 laps in total, which can be considered a strong start to the first day.
The team continues to experiment with a lot of things, so every lap is important – every ride to the track we learn something new. The first steps are always intriguing and I am happy to be a part of this winter training. We use the information we collect today to optimize tomorrow.”
Felipe Drugovich (14th): “In the first laps there was an electrical problem, it took time to solve it, then I went out again. The more circles the better. I am excited and happy to drive this car. I wish Lance a speedy recovery, but while I’m on track I’m trying to have fun and help the team.”
Tom McCullough, director of machine development: “All in all a good day. We had problems that lost us time, but when the car was moving we worked on the planned test program. The next two days will have to make up for lost time in order to prepare as best as possible for next week’s race.
The car reacts correctly to changes in the settings and in the evening we study the collected data in preparation for Fernando’s test day.
Felipe did a great job in the morning collecting important information about the work of aerodynamics. Electrical problems prevented him from completing as many laps as planned, but he quickly picked up speed and did well.
Fernando progressed during the afternoon session and continued to get to know the car, the tires and the people in the team. His feedback is incredibly valuable and helpful as we continue to learn more about the AMR23.”
Source: F1 News
I am Christopher Clyde, an experienced journalist and content writer with a passion for sports. I have been writing about Formula 1 news for the past five years and am currently employed as an author at athletistic.com, one of the top sports websites in the US.
