Alfa Romeo F1 ran its three drivers on a busy Free Friday in Budapest.
Reserve driver Robert Kubica was in the car for Free 1s before Valtteri Bottas returned to duty alongside Guanyu Zhou for Free 2s.
“It’s always good and interesting to be in the car, because there’s always something to learn,” comments the Pole, 19th time of the Free 1 to 3 tenths of the Chinese.
« For the second time in a row I was on track, after France, and the track conditions were different, we did some tests and we discovered new things. Overall, I think we did a good job. work. »
« We had a few evolutions on the car, so I made sure to take it easy to avoid any damage, but I still had a little fun. I did a stint on the hard tire and then I took them. changed for the soft ones, it’s never the easiest to switch from one compound to another but everything went well. »
Valtteri Bottas therefore took over from Kubica in Free 2 and the Finn was able to drive 30 laps and set the 10th time.
« I just had the Libre 2 to get an idea of the car and the upgrades we are bringing for this race. I think we have taken a step forward in terms of grip, we are going in the right direction: the midfield is going to be tight as always, so every little improvement can give you an advantage. »
« I know there’s a lot more to come from my side so I’m happy with what we did today, it wasn’t a bad start. Tomorrow maybe will be a very different day in this As far as the weather is concerned, but we have worked to prepare for all the conditions. Overall the balance of the car is not bad so I think we are well placed for Sunday. »
For Guanyu Zhou, it was the 15th time in Free 1 then the 12th in the last session. Something to satisfy him.
« Today went relatively well, we took a step forward this afternoon compared to this morning’s session, although there are still a lot of things to look at overnight to prepare well for tomorrow’s qualifying. , » explains the Chinese driver.
« Hopefully we’ll be able to be more competitive tomorrow compared to previous weekends, but I think it’s wise to say we’re not in too bad of a position. In the heat today’ today we weren’t in big trouble compared to Paul Ricard so I think what needs to be done is some adjustments to be ready for tomorrow As usual the middle of the pack should be tight, so we have to do our best to get back into Q2. That will be our target. »
