Friday in two stages for Toro Rosso

Toro Rosso showed up in Brazil with the specter of penalties on the starting grid, Pierre Gasly et Brendon Hartley being forced to use an eighth MGU-H on their car respective. Worse for the Faenza structure since the two cars encountered technical problems from FP1. Brendon Hartley had to shorten his session following an engine problem.

“It was spectacular, underlines the pilot Porsche en WEC. With lots of smoke coming from the back. It wasn't a big deal, but it ended our session. We didn't have to change the engine. I don't know the exact details. » The New Zealander was, however, able to take the greatest number of laps in FP2, with 54 laps and thus make up some of the lost time.

Gasly slowed down in his discovery of Interlagos

Competing for the first time on the Brazilian track, Pierre Gasly did not have the desired start. The Super Formula runner-up saw the new MGU-H installed on his STR12 quickly fail and reduce its initial running.

“It wasn't ideal for me with the discovery of the track, and for the team regarding the car and the settings, admits Pierre Gasly. I managed to do a lot of laps (44) in FP2, which is positive. A short run on soft and super-soft tires and long runs in the second part of the session.

We were finally able to see the car's potential and work towards qualifying and Sunday's race, so at least we have plenty of things to analyze tonight and look at for improvements. »