Noticeable progress - Nelsinho

The ING Renault F1 Team’s third driver, Nelson Piquet Junior, was invited to the official press conference on Thursday for the Malaysian Grand Prix. He talks about the Sepang test last week and his role in the team.

“Of course! The test days were very positive and useful. Every mile we cover in testing allows us to learn something new, to familiarise ourselves with the tracks and then to get to know them better. I think that in the four days the team made noticeable progress as shown by the time set by Heikki on the final day. We’re still learning about the behaviour of the tyres and how best to adapt them to the car and we’ve made a step forward in this area.”

"First of all, I’ve got to learn as much as possible. It’s my first year with an F1 team and there’s a lot to be understood. It’s a golden opportunity for me, especially with the results of a team like Renault. I’m also building up my experience as third driver. I have to be ready to get behind the wheel in case there’s a problem."

"For sure as the reigning world champions, we haven’t begun the season as it would have wished. Renault would have liked to battle for victory right from the outset, but with the new Bridgestone tyres nobody really knew what to expect. It’s a huge change. I don’t think we’re too far behind the leaders, but it’s a question of a host of small details that we have to improve. The team’s working night and day to get there. There are new developments in the pipe line, and last week’s test session showed just how quickly Renault can react."