Formula One news

Renault shows encouraging pace at Fuji

With last year's race weekend having been almost entirely dominated by wet weather, the team was keen to make the most of today's dry track with Fernando Alonso and Nelson Piquet running busy programmes. Between them they covered a total of 149 laps as they gathered circuit data, completed set-up work and evaluated the two compounds of Bridgestone tyres.

After a positive day, the team is in good shape and will look to continue its recent form with a strong showing in tomorrow's qualifying session.

Fernando Alonso commented: "It was a trouble-free day. We covered lots of laps, which was the priority and that allowed us to advance with our programme. The first signs are therefore encouraging and we will now review our data and work on our settings ahead of the final free practice session tomorrow morning to be ready for qualifying."

Nelson Piquet said: "The circuit is interesting, not particularly difficult, and I was able to get comfortable with it quite quickly. We have made good progress with our technical programme today and although we still have a lot to do from now until tomorrow, it's definitely a good start and a sound basis to work from for the rest of the weekend."

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