Jules Bianchi makes a strong impression

A few days after being inducted as reserve driver for the Sahara Force India team, Jules Bianchi took the wheel of the VJM05 for the first time this morning. The Frenchman quickly found the right tempo, and ultimately finished with the fourth fastest time of the day, one second behind Mark Webber. A performance of choice, which escaped no one. “It was a very good morning, underlines the resident of the French FFSA team. It was great to get my chance in the new car so early. There were a lot of things I had to get used to, including the steering, and I had to remember where all the buttons are, but it didn't take me long to feel comfortable in the car. Even though it was only half a day, the team asked me to do a lot of things, and we managed to complete fifty laps before lunch. For me this year, I will focus on learning and helping the team as much as possible. So today?s day was important for that and to familiarize myself with the team. It?s great to be able to get back in the car tomorrow (Thursday. Editor’s note), and try to get closer to the limits. It’s important preparation for my free practice on Friday.”

At Force India, everyone seems delighted with the contribution of the new recruit. “We focused on making sure he was comfortable in the car, and familiar with all the systems on the car, adds Technical Director Andrew Green. He acclimatized very quickly, and quickly found his rhythm, which allowed us to carry out the aerodynamic work planned for this morning. He did an excellent job, worked well with the engineers and integrated well into the team”.

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