Romain Grosjean was delighted with the progress that the Haas F1 outfit demonstrated on its first full day of testing in Barcelona on Monday.
While a front wing failure provided some frustration and led to a loss of track time, overall was a respectable start for the brand new team, and the car generally ran reliably.
“It went pretty well to be fair,” said Grosjean. “It was an epic last few days to get everything together, all the parts arrived and the guys did an amazing job to fit it together. The car felt good, and it's important to get the first good impressions. I've had two really good cars, one good car, and one really bad, so I know where it is! I felt well in the car this morning. It was no setup work, just putting things together, putting it on track, trying to get mileage. Generally, the car felt good.
“The team came together very quickly. Between the people there's a lot of experience in the team, everyone is working nicely together. There are a few things we can improve, but generally when you see everyone in the garage there is no stress, everyone knows what he's doing, and that is quite impressive for a start.”
“It's kind of a small team but we've got big resources. We've understood the problem very quickly. It was clear to everyone. There have been a few little things, but everyone is on it. Whenever it's on Ferrari's side they have the resource, and they are there, whenever it's on our side we have some good people as well to solve it.”
Meanwhile, Grosjean insists that he has no regrets about missing out on the chance to lead the works Renault team.
“I'm someone that when I make a decision I stick on my decision, and I don't have any regrets. It's a wonderful experience, today has been a day that I won't forget, bringing a new car and new team on track has been something quite special. I think the whole project is very interesting.
“The car felt good, for a new team being able to achieve what we are achieving is quite impressive. There are no regrets. I am very happy that Renault came to F1 and for the sport in general, but for me this is an experience I won't regret.”
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