Renault Sport Formula One delivered a closely-matched qualifying result for the Pirelli Spanish Grand Prix at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya with Kevin Magnussen setting the fifteenth fastest time, a 1min 24.625, two positions and just over two tenths ahead of Jolyon Palmer in P17 with a 1min 24.903secs.

Kevin Magnussen: “I think we got everything out of the car, and we did a good job as a team to maximise our potential. I think fifteenth is absolutely the best that we could do today. Looking at it like that, it’s been a good day but I’m certainly looking forward to improving over the coming races. For today, we have to be ready for any opportunities that present themselves. I’m aiming to stay out of trouble and gain all the positions available.”

Jolyon Palmer: “It was disappointing to be so close to getting into Q2 but just being pipped at the final moment. The car’s clearly improved and felt good, I felt happy with my lap from behind the wheel but we were not quite where we needed to be come the end of the session. There’s a little bit more time in the car; let’s try to make some places in the race.”

Alan Permane, Trackside Operations Director: “It was good to make it into Q2 and this shows that progress is being made. We have further significant upgrades to come for the test so yesterday was just another step in this process. Jolyon was very close to being in Q2 despite missing a lot of running Friday which was a strong effort and Kevin was able to deliver close to the car’s full potential so it was a good job from both sides of the garage yesterday.

“It will be a tough race for tyres as we see a lot of degradation here – certainly a lot more than seen at the last couple of races – which should mean a reasonable variety of tyre strategies. Obviously, we’ll be seeking to capitalise from this and move forwards a decent amount with both cars.”

Jolyon Palmer