Alonso delighted to run at home

The 24-year-old began the opening day of free practice with a $2,000 fine for speeding in the pitlane and closed it as the quickest race driver in the second session.

With fans chanting his name and banners draping the grandstands, Alonso gave the crowd only a brief glimpse of his car in the morning with just two timed installation laps.

"It was fantastic to start running today in Barcelona," said the Spaniard. "After months of testing here with empty grandstands, I think all the drivers will have enjoyed driving in front of some spectators, not just me.

"But I don't think that the Friday at any other circuit has the same level of emotion as we saw from the fans today, it was wonderful to see them all around the circuit. In terms of our programme, it was all OK.

"We checked the tyres and didn't have any big problems, because the results were quite similar to the test. I am looking forward to qualifying and the race, and I hope I can give the fans something to enjoy.

Teammate Giancarlo Fisichella, hoping to bounce back from a disappointing European Grand Prix, did not enjoy such a good day.

The Italian posted the seventh fastest time but was not completely happy with his car.

"Today wasn't perfect for us and I think we still have quite a lot of room for improvement," said Fisichella. "At the moment, the car does not feel fantastic. Compared to the test, the track is very slippery and the grip is quite low.

"The balance of the car was pretty good, but we need to improve the grip level of the car for tomorrow."