Honda explains lack of speed during FP2

It is a rarity nowadays, during the second free practice in Russia there was no Honda engine in the top five. Things are not quite as they should be with the Red Bull teams, but their engine supplier is remaining positive about their chances.

"Friday at the first flyaway race of the season went smoothly for us," said Toyoharu Tanabe after the first training sessions. "Our four cars across the two teams all managed to do plenty of laps. We have plenty of data which will we now analyse to be well prepared for qualifying."

Verstappen was fastest in seventh place which leaves a great deal to be desired. Tanabe does have an explanation as to why things did not go so smoothly. It is only a matter of time before the balance is found.