Celis Jr enjoys 'huge grip' on first F1 outing

Alfonso Celis Jr says he enjoyed the "huge grip" Force India's car had after driving F1 machinery for the first time.

The young Mexican driver was making his debut for Force India during the Pirelli tyre test in Abu Dhabi as he drove in the morning before handing over to Nico Hulkenberg. Having set a best time 2.7s slower than Hulkenberg, Celis Jr said he built up slowly but relished the challenge of driving an F1 car.

“My first day in a Formula One car certainly lived up to expectations," Celis Jr said. "The car had huge grip and excellent braking efficiency, but my experience in the Formula 3.5 car had prepared me quite well for this big challenge. I really enjoyed the experience and I’m pleased with how the day went.

"For the first few runs I took things steady while I got used to the car and all the systems. Then, with each run, I started to push more and more as I kept learning about the car. With the programme for the day set by Pirelli, I could simply focus on my driving and getting to know everyone.

"2016 is going to be an important year for me as I continue working with the team so I’m pleased to have some valuable miles under my belt already.”

Force India chief race engineer Tom McCullough says Celis Jr acquitted himself well on his first day.

“We are very pleased to have completed a successful day of Pirelli tyre testing with Alfonso and Nico covering a combined total of 136 laps," McCullough said. "It was Alfonso’s first day in a Formula One car and it’s always fun to be part of that acclimatisation process.

"He worked well with the engineers and improved throughout the morning as he completed numerous long runs on high fuel. The time spent in the car today has been good preparation for his involvement in free practice sessions next year."

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