Happy Davidson rues lost time

Davidson, Honda's test and reserve driver, was quickest with a lap of 1:31.353 after being sidelined in the morning with a gearbox problem after just an installation lap.

The British driver, returning to the role he had in 2004 after staying on the sidelines last season, was pleased to be quickest but lamented the time lost in the morning session.

"It's great to be fastest on the opening day of the season but I wanted more from today, not just for me but for the team," said Davidson. "It was disappointing to lose the first session to a gearbox problem but we made the best out of the situation this afternoon and completed most of the tyre programme."

Honda had tested at the Bahrain circuit a few weeks prior to the first race, and although Davidson said they have a lot of information to work with, he admitted the conditions today were very different from those found last month.

"The conditions here are very different though; it's been quite windy today and there's a chance that may continue," he said. "However we achieved a reasonably good balance by the end of the session so generally we've made a good start."

Racing drivers Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello were ninth and 18th fastest.