FP1 was difficult for the Silverstone team, with Fernando Alonso unable to take part in the session due to a power unit issue, while Lance Stroll could only complete three uncompetitive laps, before another engine issue forced him to return to the pits.

FP2 was a little more positive, as Alonso completed 18 laps of running, while Stroll managed 13 - but the team in green were clearly off the pace as their best time in FP2 had them nearly five seconds off leader Oscar Piastri.

Nonetheless, Orihara appears to be slightly more upbeat than a lot of the noise, confirming that less vibrations are occurring in the AMR26 after team principal Adrian Newey's grave diagnosis that drivers Alonso and Stroll were at risk of permanent nerve damage on Thursday.

Orihara said: "FP2 today was valuable for us, as we were able to see the effects of our countermeasures.

The Honda boss nonetheless reflected on the difficulties during Friday's running, explaining the power unit trouble experienced by both Alonso and Stroll.

"Today did start off with us identifying a power unit issue on Fernando's car. We tried to rectify this before the start of FP1, but unfortunately,we weren't able to complete the work on time. Therefore, the decision was made that car #14 would sit out of the session whilst the work on the PU continued. We also had an issue with Lance's PU, and we decided to box and investigate, allowing us to make the changes for FP2."

Honda nonetheless left Alonso disappointed in Australia, due to a battery shortage suffered at Albert Park.

After FP2, the two-time world champion explained that he had hoped to complete more laps, given that Aston Martin brought a new package for this race.