Converted drivers eye stronger outing

None of the refugees were able to break into the top 10 at Homestead last weekend, but Franck Perera was the highest-placed of the drivers in their first oval race, finishing 14th, and is hoping to improve further this weekend.

"Last week's race was fun but I can't wait to get to St Petersburg because it will be more of what I'm used to," he said. "I think we'll be able to run higher than we did at Homestead.

"We had a good test at Sebring that helped us to prepare and I always enjoy racing on street circuits so I look forward to discovering the St Petersburg track."

Justin Wilson is also confident of a better showing on a more familiar street circuit after his 15th place at Homestead.

"I'm looking forward to seeing how we stack up against everyone else on a street circuit," he said. "We're not going to be at the front right away but we should be closer to the pace and have an enjoyable race.

"Hopefully we can have a stronger performance as far as lap times against the others at least. We'll see how things work out."

Former grand prix driver Enrique Bernoldi, who retired from last week's race, added: "I just want to put Homestead behind me and look forward. I think it will be much better for me this weekend, I have more experience on this type of track.

"I know we can do well here and run closer to the front. We got a taste of the Dallara on the road course at Sebring and I can't wait to see how it does on the street circuit."