Romain Grosjean determined to make most of Renault Friday practice chance

Renault has confirmed that GP2 champion Grosjean will drive in Friday morning practice in Abu Dhabi and Brazil, as revealed by AUTOSPORT earlier today.

Grosjean had raced for Renault in the latter part of the 2009 season after the team split with Nelson Piquet, but struggled and failed to score. He lost his Formula 1 seat that winter and rebuilt his career by winning Auto GP and GP2 titles, as well as World GT1 races.

The Frenchman sees his Renault outings as a big chance to impress again.

"My aim, of course, will be to help Lotus Renault GP prepare for the race weekends, to offer the best feedback I can and to be reliable and consistent," Grosjean said.

"Getting an opportunity like this is always a massive boost in a driver's career and I'll make sure I make the most of the chance I've been given."

He is sure that this time he is in a better position to impress in F1.

"I know all the team's mechanics and engineers, am familiar with the methodology and processes and I know the two tracks I'll be testing on," said Grosjean.

"I also feel that the racing I did in the GP2 Series this year will stand me in good stead fitness-wise.

"Finally, I did some F1 testing for Pirelli during the winter at the beginning of this year, so the tyres shouldn't be too alien to me.

"I believe all the right elements are in place to make this a great experience, and I don't feel too much pressure going into this."

Team boss Eric Boullier thinks both Grosjean and Renault will benefit from his practice outings.

"Putting his skills to the test in two consecutive Friday sessions will offer him precious experience of driving the R31 during a race weekend and will make him a better driver," said Boullier.

"I'm sure that his feedback will be useful for the team, especially as he raced in F1 only two years ago. Since then, he has improved in every area and I'm sure he'll do a good job for us."