Rio Haryanto admits he would have like to test more ahead of his grand prix debut, especially after the F1 rookie was confined to the Manor garage all morning on the final day in Barcelona.
The Indonesian racer did manage to get out on track to complete a single installation lap before the mid-session break but the delay means he was not able to conduct the race simulation he had been keen to carry out before the season-opening race Australia.
“We had a mechanical issue and the team tried really hard to get it fixed and we managed to do so just before lunchtime,” Haryanto explained.
“In the afternoon we run smoothly. We had good short runs, a good couple of long runs, pit stop practice, start practice. That’s a good preparation for my first grand prix in Melbourne.
“I wish I could have more testing but after four days we still covered a lot. I am getting more confidence every time I’m getting in the car and also with the team.”
Haryanto eventually wrapped up his preparations by completing 58 laps and clocking the 12th fastest time on the new-for-2016 ultrasoft tyre. With his maiden F1 start just a little over two weeks away, the 23-year-old says he is still settling into his new surroundings.
“In terms of driving, I don’t think it’s a big step – it’s just that in Formula One you have a lot of procedures to follow and a lot of switches to change while driving, also a lot of names to remember with the team, a lot of people working hard. It’s a huge step outside driving the car.
“After this, I will meet with the team to talk about how the four days went. It will be a good learning over what aspects I need to improve on. It will be my first time in Melbourne, so I need to go on the simulator, trying to learn the track.”
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