Lambiase after test from Verstappen' He's ready'

For Max Verstappen, the test is done. The next time the two-time world champion steps into his RB-19 will be for the first free practice of the Bahrain Grand Prix. Verstappen need not to worry much ahead of the first race: his car seems to be the fastest in the field.

Gianpiero Lambiase, Verstappen's race engineer, acknowledged that the RB-19 suffered from a 'small teething issue' during the afternoon session, but that was of little consequence. "Whilst minor, cost us some track time. This is why we come testing, to avoid these problems when it counts. It will be a fairly packed program tomorrow to ensure we come away with all of the data we need, but from Max’s short outings today, we know we are honing in on a package ahead of the race. His 1.5 days have gone in a flash, but he is comfortable in the car and will be ready for battle.”

'Perez was productive'

Lambiase also addressed Sergio Perez's test. The Mexican was only allowed to make his first metres with the new car on Friday. "This morning’s session with Checo was productive with some solid mileage accumulation. Checo settled in to the RB19 nicely with positive feedback. His focus was on stabilised running, signing off multiple critical procedural and systems checks. He has a strong platform from which to build upon tomorrow for a full day in the car."