Arrow McLaren Team Principal Gavin Ward says it is difficult to judge the performance of their cars on the opening day of practice action at the Firestone Grand Prix of St Petersburg presented by RP Funding.
Pato O’Ward had a great session in the No.5 Arrow McLaren Chevrolet as he finished in second place behind his former teammate Felix Rosenqvist.
Speaking following day 1 at St Pete, Ward said:
“In my experience, Practice 1 at St. Pete is a tricky one to judge performance off of. Today was no exception. Pato had a pretty good run there at the end. Everyone is feeling pretty reasonable, and it’s always tough in traffic to complete your lap. I applaud the NTT INDYCAR SERIES for trying something new with the split practice sessions, but I don’t think it made it easier to digest today
Pato O’Ward, No. 5 Chevrolet at Arrow McLaren:
“I’m happy with the first practice of the year. It was quite a messy session, but I’m glad we got somewhat of a read on both of the Firestone tires. So it gives us some information to look at and prepare for tomorrow.”
Callum Ilott, No. 6 Chevrolet at Arrow McLaren:
“The day was really good. Honestly, I’m very impressed with the team, as with the car. I think it was a good start, and obviously there are things to work on. For me, not having driven (an NTT INDYCAR SERIES car) for a couple of months, it was refreshing. But this team has a good program, and we got through everything that we wanted to. The session was a bit different to what we are used to, but I think we made the most of it. Big thanks to everyone who got me in the car.”
Alexander Rossi, No. 7 Chevrolet at Arrow McLaren:
“I’m not sure that the split practice really helped anything, but it was a valiant effort to try it. It was hard to get a lap. Our best lap came on the Firestone Primary tire, so we don’t know right now how we are on the alternate. I think, in general, the car feels good and we are starting in a good spot. We will see what tomorrow brings.