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Fernando Alonso confirms significant Aston Martin detail after F1 test delay
Fernando Alonso has confirmed that Aston Martin completed its
programme in Barcelona, despite missing the opening three and a
half days of the test. The Silverstone-based outfit was not present
in the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya paddock at the start of the
test and only arrived ready to hit the track on Thursday. Alonso
completed 61 laps compared to Lance Stroll’s four, marking the
lowest total of any team present at the test. However, unlike
Williams, Aston Martin did at least gather some data, with its
planned programme for the final day and a half being completed.
Alonso’s sole running in the AMR26 came on the final day of the
test, marking a “special moment” for the two-time world champion as
it represented another new regulatory cycle he has entered. Despite
the significance of driving the new car, Alonso is aware that much
work is required before not only the next test, but also the first
race in Australia. "It’s always a special moment driving a new car
for the first time, especially at the start of a new regulation
cycle," said Alonso. "Over the years I’ve experienced many changes
in Formula One, and you quickly get a sense of the direction the
car is taking. "We completed a solid programme with strong
mileage, which is the main priority at this stage. It’s still very
early days and we have a lot of work still to do before we head to
Melbourne in March."
