Valencia F1 Test Round-Up – Ferrari Dominate

Fernando Alonso Valencia Spain Feb 3

Valencia – 02.03.2010

The first round of Formula One Winter tests in Valencia have come to an end. The three days of testing saw many familiar faces return to the track, including four F1 champions (Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button, Fernando Alonso and Michael Schumacher). New to the scene were Petrov, Hulkenberg and Paffett making their way around the circuit as well as the return of Pedro De la Rosa, among others.

There were only minor issues reported in terms of reliability. Generally, all teams participating were able to run through a good part of their set programs. The big surprise thus far has to be the performance of the Sauber team. They were fairly consistent throughout the three days and consistently quick, outpacing several other teams. Notably absent from these tests was RedBull, who have yet to unveil their challenger. Many are expecting great things from a team that surprised the F1 world with a very quick car and a very determined Vettel.

As many drivers have stated, testing times cannot be taken literally. They are not a clear indication of neither pace or performance. No one knows what fuel loads are used or what setup is being tested so the times mean very little. A few things are quite clear though. None of the teams are showing their hand yet. Many upgrades and updates are still to make their debut on track, several teams will be using different wings and perhaps even new or modified diffusers as is believed to be the case with Mercedes GP.

One other thing seems to be very clear as well. For all intents and purposes, the top of the time sheets in each of the sessions was clearly dominated by Ferrari. As stated just above, times during these tests are not necessarily indicative of pace or performance, however, it is never a bad sign if you’re always at the top of the order. Both Massa and Alonso racked up several kilometres, all problem free as far as we know. Which indicates that Ferrari seem to have a quick and reliable car thus far and two very good drivers that have been able to exploit the car’s potential. While both drivers indicated that there is much to learn and much to come from the team, Tifosi can cautiously breathe a sigh of relief. There are still rumors floating about that Ferrari are still concerned with fuel consumption, however, at this point they are unfounded. After a disappointing season in 2009, 2010 holds the promise of hope after the first round of testing. Alonso’s first drive for the prancing horse attracted almost 40000 spectators and broke the attendance record at this venue for testing as well as causing a 4km long traffic jam. The hometown hero did not disappoint as he clocked the fastest time of the 3 days.

Final Day of Testing Results:

1. Fernando Alonso Ferrari 00:01′11”470
2. Pedro De la Rosa Sauber 00:01′12”034
3. Michael Schumacher Mercedes GP 00:01′12”438
4. Jaime Alguersuari Toro Rosso 00:01′12”576
5. Jenson Button McLaren 00:01′12”951
6. Vitaly Petrov Renault 00:01′13”097
7. Nico Hulkenberg Williams 00:01′13”699

Ernesto Nigro

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• February 2, 2010 -- Ferrari and Massa Top Timesheets Again!