After locking out the back row of the grid in qualifying for the European Grand Prix, Kevin Magnussen admits Renault are simply ‘not quick enough’.
In what has been a disappointing return for Renault in 2016, their struggles continue to get worse as they were out-qualified by both Manors and Saubers. The long straights of the Baku City Circuit have meant Renault have struggled in comparison to Manor and Sauber, who run Mercedes and Ferrari engines.
“The session was pretty straightforward with the simple factor that we’re not fast enough here. In FP3 we realised we didn’t have the relative pace with the car even if it was feeling quite good to drive so we tried something different with the set-up. Ultimately, it was good to try and it improved the car in some areas but didn’t in others.”
Renault never expected to perform miracles in 2016 and Magnussen believes the French manufacturers are learning for the future despite their struggles.
“We knew this season would be tough at some moments, and this is certainly one of them! We have a plan for the future and that’s what we’re all working for. Yes, today didn’t look great but we’re learning all the time and this is bringing rewards.”
