Sutil records 4th quickest time at German Grand Prix test

New Delhi, Jul 9 (UNI) An in-form Adrian Sutil raised hopes of a maiden podium finish, recording the fourth fastest time of the day as the Force India Formula One Team's pre-German Grand Prix test got underway at Hockenheimring, Germany today.

The German, on driving duties in preparation for his home race in just over a week's time, completed 97 laps on the first day of testing. His quickest lap was at 1min 16.516s, just over one second from the session's best time of 1min 16.516s set by British Grand Prix winner Lewis Hamilton.

''It was quite a good day, we could do lots of laps without any real problems. It was disturbed by the rain quite a bit but at least we did as much dry running as we could have done,'' Adrian said.

''Overall I am quite confident and feel very good. I like the circuit here - the last time I drove it was in 2005 in a Formula 3 car so I was really looking forward to the first go today with the F1 car. It's just amazing how quick it is. I think tomorrow we have better weather, so conditions should be more consistent. We have a lot to test with some new parts, so all together working to improve the car,'' he added.

With the event taking place at the same circuit, work focussed on tuning the VJM01 for the challenges of the 4.574km track, with its long straights, tight chicanes and stadium complex that demands high precision driving. The team also continued to accumulate further data on the new aero and mechanical package raced for the first time in Silverstone.

With rain falling just before and after the lunchtime period and heavy gusty winds, conditions were similar to last week's Silverstone test, however the team completed its full programme with no major mechanical problems. Adrian will continue for the second day of the test tomorrow.

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