Piquet Looking Forward to First Race

The Brazilian, who was second fastest in a 24 car grid at the recent qualifying session to determine car numbers, has worked hard over the off-season and aims to compete well in the first two races at the Italian circuit.

"Overall, pre-season testing has gone well for us," Piquet noted. "The car is easy to drive, and in the last couple of tests we had no technical problems. Things seem to be going very smoothly and we are confident we can get the tyres and set-up to work well in Imola.

"Although we have been testing lots of different things, when we went for a fast lap we were consistently quick, and at the top of the timesheets, so we have to be very happy with that.

After all of the off-season work Piquet is looking forward to the challenge of a race weekend once again: "I'm really excited that the season is finally starting. I think Imola is going to be a crazy weekend as there is only half an hour free practice before you get 24 cars on the track qualifying.

"The key thing for us is to get the car set-up as close as possible to what we need before Friday and then the rest is up to me to get used to the circuit quickly with the car. I've been trying to prepare myself as much as possible and have driven a Porsche Carrera S on the circuit to learn its characteristics.

"The team has worked so hard to get ready for this weekend, and I hope everything comes together for the race."