We improved steadily throughout the sessions - Kovalainen

The ING Renault F1 Team drivers, Heikki Kovalainen and Giancarlo Fisichella, talk about their first day out on the new Japanese circuit, Fuji Speedway. Both drivers had a good day, but there is still a lot of work that needs to be done before the qualifying session tomorrow and the race on Sunday.

HK: "Today’s practice went off very well. The most important thing is that we managed to cover a large number of laps. I really want to thank the mechanics who spent all day changing the settings we tested in both sessions."

HK: "Absolutely! Another important thing is that we improved steadily throughout the two sessions, and the car reacted well to set-up changes. I think it’s very encouraging for the rest of the weekend."

HK: "I find it great fun to drive. The last five corners are crucial if you want to set a good time. It’s a sequence of slow bends in a car with not much downforce. You have to really feel the car."

GF: "I have to say that even if I prefer Suzuka driving on the Mount Fuji track is very enjoyable. It’s not at all the same challenge but there are a few interesting portions. The driver can make a difference in the final part of the lap as well as in the quick corners 3, 4 and 5 if he’s clean and doesn’t lose speed."

GF: "In the morning we had a small balance problem on the car, but we were able to make several improvements during the lunch break. It’s been a productive day, and I think we’ll make a lot of progress between now and tomorrow after studying the data."