Cyril Abiteboul, Renault Sport Racing Managing Director: In Australia, there were a number of strong points; reliability, performance and the final result.

We did not have any reliability issues in Renault Sport Formula One Team, nor our two partner teams. The performance of the team was more or less where we expected and hoped for the first race. Ultimately the result was good; the first time that we have had both cars in the top ten since our return, and the first time in the history of Renault that six Renault-powered cars have finished in the points. This is a result we can be pleased with. As a first result of the year it is encouraging, but we have to be conscious of circumstances as the gaps between the top ten, and even beyond, are tiny. It did however confirm that we are going in the right direction and we need to build on this going forward.

Bahrain is the second race of the year and we need another trouble-free weekend, especially as we enter a double-header far away from our European base.

After both cars finished in the points in Melbourne, the first time since the team has enjoyed a double-points finish since its 2016 return, focus quickly switches to Bahrain. Chassis Technical Director Nick Chester explains the main challenges of racing on the edge of the Persian Gulf.

What's the overall verdict from Australia?
Nick Chester: We've demonstrated we have a good package and we would have been further up the order without the virtual safety car. That's racing and sometimes you win some or lose some! The balance of the car was good for Nico and he drove a really professional race. Carlos' balance wasn't quite as good, but he also had a commendable race and got the car home. A double points finish is a very good way to start the season, but it's important to back that up with another in Bahrain.

The top three teams are out in front, then after that there's a good battle for fourth between us, Haas and McLaren. That's a challenge we relish and we'll be putting the hours in to make sure we're right in the mix.

What's the outlook for Bahrain?
NC: The Bahrain International Circuit is a lot smoother than the Melbourne Grand Prix Circuit, so we'll experience less of a problem with bumps. It's got a bit more grip, a slightly different range of corner speeds and longer straights with more scope for overtaking. I'd expect the teams to be very closely matched as in Australia and it will certainly be another tight fight.