Bad weather affects McLaren's second day in Portugal

F1 Test, Algarve, Autódromo Internacional do Algarve

Another day governed by the inclement weather, which grew so severe at times that running was considered to be dangerous. The team also decided to run using a 2008-spec rear wing as a precautionary measure to increase downforce.

Nonetheless, Pedro de la Rosa was able to dodge the hailstorms to complete three long runs - including one 22-lap stint - to provide the team with further information on MP4-24’s handling characteristics and componentry. Opting not to run with KERS, the team reported that the car performed without any mechanical or electronic problems today.

Lewis Hamilton joins the team tomorrow for his first run in MP4-24 and first official team driving duties since last November’s Brazilian Grand Prix.