Testing continues for Renault

Testing continued today at the Circuit de Catalunya, Spain, with Fernando Alonso and Giancarlo Fisichella once again working in the new R26 on reliability work, race simulation and tyre development with Michelin.

Cold temperatures during the early morning again limited the drivers' running until around 11:00. Once the circuit had warmed sufficiently to allow useful running to begin, both drivers completed extensive tyre programmes for Michelin throughout the day. For Fernando, this took the form of a Grand Prix simulation during the morning followed by medium-distance runs in the afternoon, all of which were completed without incident. Giancarlo's day was disrupted by two stoppages on track, the first when a problem with an engine ancillary caused him to spin, while a mechanical problem in the late afternoon curtailed his running. He nevertheless completed 68 laps as he set third fastest time.

In total, Renault completed 177 laps, which equates to 819km, during the day.

Christian Silk, Chief Test Engineer "The weather meant we had another slow start to the day, but when the drivers began their programme, we had another very productive day. Giancarlo was slightly hampered by two technical incidents, but we expect that at this time of year, early in the car's development. Both drivers are happy with the car's performance, and we made very good progress on the tyres today. It was also pleasing to see Fernando complete our first race simulation this morning, without problems."