14/09/2018
NEWS STORY
The Alfa Romeo Sauber F1 Team took on the first day of track action ahead of the 2018 FIA Formula One Singapore Grand Prix, with both pilots fighting in the midfield on the challenging Marina Bay Street Circuit. Driving under two very different conditions, FP1 having taken place under the scorching sun during the daytime and FP2 under floodlights and more representative race conditions during the night, the team placed a special focus on tyre management in preparation for tomorrow's qualifying. The start position is always a crucial factor in finishing this epic street race with a good result. The team was competitive in both sessions.
Charles Leclerc discovered the challenging Marina Bay Street Circuit for the first time today, and adapted to its demands quickly. Despite a small mistake at the end of FP1, the Monegasque driver finished the session in P9, with his running schedule remaining unaffected as he had already completed the planned programme at that time. Leclerc headed into FP2 in strong form, finishing the session in P14. Marcus Ericsson gave a strong and consistent performance, finishing FP1 in P11, and FP2 in P12. The team is optimistic of its potential for tomorrow's sessions, after giving a promising performance on track today.
Marcus Ericsson: "It was a good day. We tested all of the different tyre compounds for the weekend, which is a positive start. It is a tricky circuit, with various types of corners and high temperatures making it a challenge to drive. We learned a lot today, and the car felt good. We are reasonably competitive, and have some work ahead of us to advance in what is still a very tight midfield. I look forward to being in the fight tomorrow."
Charles Leclerc: "It was an interesting day for me. I drove on the Marina Bay Street Circuit for the first time, which was exciting. The track lives up to its reputation and is a good challenge, especially in terms of tyre management. FP1 went well. I made a small error at the end of the session and touched the wall, but thankfully we had already gone through the planned programme and didn't lose any running time. The team did a great job in fixing up the car in time for FP2. The second session took place at night, which is more representative of the conditions we will have during qualifying and the race. We are competitive and will work hard tomorrow to fight for good start positions. I look forward to being back in the car."
Check out our Friday gallery from Singapore, here.