Renault Puzzled by Chinese Weather

Windy conditions on a cool and humid day hindered the team's work as they prepare to defend their lead in the Constructors' Championship ahead of the final race of the 2005 season.

Both Fernando Alonso and teammate Giancarlo Fisichella struggled with the handling of their cars in today's sessions, but the World Champion still managed the fourth quickest time.

Fisichella finished in seventh place.

"Today's weather conditions were not what we expected. It was cool and humid, and the wind was also strong during the day," said Symonds.

"That left us slightly puzzled, and the balance of the two cars is far from perfect - both drivers found the R25 a bit unpredictable, which may have had something to do with the windy conditions.

"In spite of this, we managed to get through our normal programme, concentrating on the tyre choice. Indeed, we found them closer than we expected and we will work hard this evening to select the right tyre for the race."