The weekend of the Singapore Grand Prix is one of the most complex for all areas, from transport logistics to drivers and mechanics, including, of course, single-seaters. Formula 1 cars face extreme temperatures in the middle of Asian streets under the artificial light of floodlights with a very high percentage of humidity.
It is common to see that the members of the select grid of the Great Circus end up dehydrated and even dizzy after two hours of competition on the asphalt of Marina Bay. However, they are not the only ones who suffer from the demand, as was seen in Fernando Alonso’s Alpine in the first free practice session of the Singapore event.
The man from Oviedo, ready to put his retirement at the Italian Grand Prix behind him, flirted with the top positions at the start of practice, but dropped positions as the track improved. Although he was eager to get back on track, the two-time champion was unable to return to the circuit due to a mechanical problem with his A522.
Apparently, and as the French team has acknowledged, it was a mishap with the gearbox , which had to be replaced to jump onto the track in the second practice sessions of the night in Singapore.
“It has been a very interesting day of practice in which we have encountered a problem in the gearbox of Fernando [Alonso], and we have detected a small oil leak,” explained the team’s technical director, Matt Harman . “As a precaution, we have decided not to run again in the first session, and we will investigate the cause of the problem in the coming days, as this is an unusual occurrence.”
“We fitted him with a spare gearbox to ensure he could run in the second session,” continued the Briton, who revealed improvements were made to both Alonso’s and Esteban Ocon’s cars. “For Free Practice 2, both cars used the new updated floor, which worked according to our expectations.”
“We have some work to do overnight, and I’m looking forward to seeing what happens tomorrow. Overall, we’re pleased with our level of performance, and we’re looking forward to a competitive weekend with both cars,” said Harman, who is delighted to return to a layout like the one in Marina Bay.
“It’s fantastic to be back here in Singapore, even if it’s very hot and humid!” joked the head of the technical area of the team that is fighting with McLaren to retain fourth position in the constructors’ championship.
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