Q+A with Fernando Alonso and Romain Grosjean

F1 Grand Prix, GP Belgium, Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps

The two ING Renault Formula One Team drivers, Fernando Alonso and Romain Grosjean, reflect on the first day of action at the historic Spa-Francorchamps circuit for the twelfth round of the season, the Belgian Grand Prix.

FA: "It was good overall. The rain affected our programme this morning, but it was the same for everybody. In the afternoon we did a lot of laps to make up for the time we lost this morning and found quite a good balance with the car. We also evaluated the two tyres that we have available this weekend, so we are well prepared."

RG: "I made the most of the rain this morning to get used to the car in wet conditions, which I'm sure will be useful for the rest of the year. Then Fernando was really helpful once again by sharing his data so that I could see where it was possible to improve. To finish fifth in the second session was encouraging, although we have to remember that it's only Friday and all the teams are running different programmes."

FA: "I'm optimistic. We know that the car is not capable of regularly fighting for wins, but the progress made since the Nurburgring has been significant. We don't have as many major upgrades coming now because the factory is working more and more on 2010, but we have a good base to work with."

RG: "After last weekend's race in Valencia, I would like to take another step forward. I know that in qualifying I'm not too far from Fernando, but in racing conditions, when you have to run different tyres and look after them, there is still a lot for me to learn."

FA: "Qualifying once again! The gaps between the teams are very small and the slightest error will make a big difference. Nearly 17 cars are within a second of each other today on this track which is 7km long! We will have to get the perfect lap in qualifying and make the strategy work in the race."

RG: "For me also qualifying will be vital. Q2 must remain my objective, but if things go well I will try and get through to Q3. All the teams are closely matched and I'm still learning about Formula 1 with every lap, but I will do my best."