Red Bull

Jerez Test, Day One

Driver: Daniel Ricciardo; Car: RB5-02; Time: 1:19.534; Laps: 113; Circuit length: 4.423km; Fastest Lap: Andy Soucek (Williams) 1:19.158

Several teams are at the Jerez de la Frontera circuit for what has been designated a ‘young driver test’, a measure introduced as a result of the ban on in-season testing. Red Bull Racing is fielding this year’s British Formula 3 Champion and Red Bull Junior Driver, Daniel Ricciardo.

Although the Australian suffered a spin early on in today’s testing, he was soon back on track and ended the day with the fourth fastest time.

“I don’t think I stopped smiling all day,” he said after the session was over. “Working with the team was great and they let me go at my own pace until I built up some confidence. After that, we began working on things that will be useful for next season. This was the first time I’ve ever driven a Formula One car round corners, having previously only done a straight line test and I have to say, it’s got more grip than anything else I’ve ever driven.”

The team was impressed with Daniel’s first drive and, as he seems to have survived the physical demands of a day in the cockpit of a Formula One car, he should be back in action tomorrow, when the testing continues.