Alonso Encouraged Despite Tough Start

Spaniard Fernando Alonso was satisfied with his performance in Friday's practice for the Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos.

The Renault driver, who last season finished on the podium in the Brazilian race, posted the seventh fastest time of the day after struggling in the morning session. Things got better in the afternoon, however, and Alonso looked competitive.

"The circuit was very dirty this morning so it was quite difficult to start work and in fact I only did a dozen laps in the first session," said Alonso. "In the afternoon, though, the circuit was improving lap by lap and we managed to make some pretty positive set-up changes as well as testing both types of tyre.

"The car feels quite light to drive here because of the low levels of downforce and it also took some time to get used to the bumpy track surface again. But overall, I am pleased with how today went."

Canadian Jacques Villeneuve also had a difficult start in the morning but improved in the afternoon, finishing as 12th fastest.

"We improved the car a lot today," said the Canadian. "It was very difficult to drive over the bumps this morning but after some changes to the set-up, it was a lot more comfortable and also faster.

"We are still missing some performance on the first timed lap on new tyres but the car seems quick and consistent on the longer runs."