Vandoorne takes positives away from troubled day

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Stoffel Vandoorne was given a taste of Fernando Alonso's previous day when the Belgian was unable to complete McLaren-Honda's Tuesday schedule following another engine change.

The Belgian was at the lower end of the time sheets and the mileage but still remained positive in the face of adversity.

"I think it was positive to get back behind the wheel after four months with no driving. It was a good first feeling from me," Vandoorne said.

"Immediately I felt confident with the car and very comfortable. That’s a first very positive sign. When you have a new car and new regulations and you feel confident immediately, then it’s a good start.

"Unfortunately we had a loss of engine power during the morning. We’re still investigating what the issues exactly are. It’s a shame we couldn’t do more laps.

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Given the team's limited running this week, Vandoorne underlines the importance of concluding the first week of pre-season testing with a couple of 'clean' days

"This is my first day of testing. Fernando didn’t get many laps yesterday. Tomorrow and the day after are going important days for us, so we’re going to try and make the most of every situation and every lap I get on track I’ll try to make the most of it.

"I’ll try to give as much feedback as possible and for myself as well. It’s going to be my first season in Formula 1, so every lap I can get, I need, and it’s a valuable experience for me.

"We’d have hoped to do more laps but we’ll work hard as a team overnight and hope tomorrow we come back stronger."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.