Racing Bulls chief Alan Permane branded Friday’s Spanish Grand Prix practice a “really excellent day” after rookie Arvid Lindblad was taken out of the running by a Turn 13 mishap.
Permane praises the day’s performance
Despite the crash, Permane highlighted the team’s progress, noting that the VCARB 03 had shown “properly fast” characteristics and that both cars were likely to reach Q3 in tomorrow’s qualifying. “We started with a decent car, made changes from FP1 to FP2, and we improved,” Permane said.
He added that Yuki Tsunoda’s lap, hampered by power‑steering issues, still earned a spot in the top ten; a result that helped the team stay ahead of key rivals.
Turn 13 mishap costs Lindblad a run
While exploring the first sector, Lindblad carried too much speed into Turn 13, losing rear grip and sliding into the wall on the run‑out of La Monumental. He attempted to countersteer, but the car had already become uncontrollable.
His departure from the session left the rookie with a fourth‑place time overall—just two‑tenths shy of first place—an impressive result given the track’s limited grip and the new surface’s rapid rubberisation.
Team drives focus on future sessions
Permane expressed confidence that adjustments before FP3 would keep both cars competitive. “I don’t see any reason why we won’t reach Q3 unless someone else finds something big overnight,” he said, signalling optimism as the team prepares for the next pole‑position battle.
He also praised the car’s handling across kerbs, noting its “accessible handling” that allowed the team to stay compliant over bumps and be primed for the sharp turns that define the Madring circuit.
Reflecting on the setback
Lindblad publicly apologised to the mechanics for the extra work the crash would necessitate and kept the focus on learning from the incident. He admitted over‑doing Turn 13 but stated the loss was minor in the grand scheme, as no driver had managed long‑run sessions to the afternoon’s finish.
“It’s not an easy track, so we’re all pushing to find the limits,” he added. “I was at the limit; I was doing good, so I’m happy.”
Looking to the remaining sessions
Linsblad emphasised the need to adapt as flying grip continues to rise over the weekend. Both the driver and Permane will aim to translate the successful FP2 performance into a strong qualifying showing, potentially moving the VCARB 03 into the top‑ten bracket and setting the stage for a last‑chance bid in the race.
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