Formula One news

Senna's dream comes true with first day at Honda

Honda returned to the test track today just two weeks after the 2008 season finale in Brazil as the Formula One teams traveled to the familiar testing venue of the Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona to commence preparations for the 2009 season. 

After lunch, Bruno Senna took to the track for his first ever drive in a Formula One car. He started on grooved tyres before moving to used slick tyres midway through the session.

"The first day of my first Formula One test has been just as big a moment as I expected it to be," said Senna. "I have also had a lot of fun and really enjoyed myself. This morning I focused on doing as much as I could to prepare for my turn. I listened to the team radio and watched and learned how the team works. I was feeling quite calm but on my first lap out of the garage I realised the significance of the moment. This is a very special opportunity and one which has been a dream my whole life."

"The team were great and left it to me to find my level, but by the end of my second run I was feeling very much at home in the car," he added. "There were lots of new sensations as the gearshifts, engine power and aerodynamics compared to a GP2 car were all very different. I need a few adjustments to be fully comfortable in the car for Wednesday but generally I am feeling good. Obviously my full day is when everything will count but I am very pleased with what I achieved today and the more laps I do, the quicker I'll be hopefully. A great, great day for me and I am incredibly grateful to the Honda team for making it possible."

Senna will complete a full day of running on Wednesday.

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