Alonso laments lack of proper running

The cooler than expected temperatures, together with the rain that hindered teams in the second session, meant tyre testing was not significant, with hotter temperatures expected for the race.

Alonso, winner of the first race of the season in Bahrain, lamented the lack of proper dry running, but claimed he was not worried as everybody was in the same situation.

"I think we maximised the first practice this morning with a good number of laps, and good information," said Alonso after practice.

"And in second practice with rain it did affect the programme, we didn't do the laps we wanted, with the soft tyre especially, so I think we don't have that information that is very useful for the race, but no one has that information so in a way it is okay and we are not worried.

"The things that we want to test more or less we did it at least 80 per cent so it is okay."

The Spaniard, 15th quickest in the afternoon session, insisted that Red Bull remains the fastest team, but reckons his own squad, as well as McLaren and Mercedes, are not far behind.

"Yes. I more or less agree that Red Bull after the winter testing and first race, we can say they are very fast, they are very competitive, but I think there are three teams, Ferrari, McLaren and Mercedes they are not too far behind.

"So I think it will be a race also outside the grand prix in terms of developing the championship, that will also make a difference. I am sure my team is on of the best in doing that so I am not worried at the moment if Red Bull is a bit fast."