Guintoli praises 'perfect' lighting system

"I can guarantee that when we stepped out onto the track we didn't even notice that it was night time. The lighting system is perfect," said the Frenchman, who like several riders believes the main problem will be getting the tyres up to the right temperature.

"Maybe the only complication comes from the cold and wind that brings sand on the circuit. But, lap after lap, the track has improved and things have gotten better.

"We have worked a lot today, concentrating a lot to find the right pneumatics for this condition that is unusual compared to what we are used to. We hope to improve a lot tomorrow, the track will surely have a better grip," he added.

Guintoli was just 17th fastest out of 18 riders.

Teammate Toni Elias enjoyed a stronger session, posting the 11th quickest time after making progress with his Ducati.

"We have a lot to improve, but we are sure we have found the right way to follow," he said. "The track is more than acceptable and, notwithstanding some wind and sand, we have managed to ride without too many problems.

"Surely the most complicated thing will be to find the right pneumatics due to the low asphalt temperature. I would say that my feeling with the bike has improved a lot compared to the weekend in Jerez. We consider ourselves satisfied of the work done today."