Young guns top test

"Christian really surprised me," said Racing Engineering boss Alfonso d'Orleans. "I saw him race a few times before and knew he was going to be quick, but I have to admit that he adapted faster than I thought. He has a natural talent to be quickly on the pace. I have seen that rarely in drivers. As for Ricardo, no introduction here. His talent speaks for itself."

British Le Mans winner Guy Smith (Zele Racing) was third fastest on a windy day punctuated by red flags. World Series Lights front-runner Juan Alvarez was comfortably fastest at the halfway point of the day but ended up fourth.

"It was a very positive day," said Smith. "We managed to improve the car a lot and get it used to my driving style, but unfortunately when I was on my fastest lap I lost time as I was slowed by another driver."

Former Grand Prix driver Pedro Lamy also made an appearance (for Carlin Motorsport) and was fifth-quickest. Sportscar man Marc Goossens was another interesting participant, ending up tenth. Mathias Lauda (sixth) and Marko Asmer (ninth) both endured spins.

Lady driver Milka Duno, who plans to move up to the World Series next year, was slowest of the 11 drivers present.