Jolyon Palmer is excited for the eighth round of the 2016 Formula 1 season this weekend in Baku for the European Grand Prix.
The Renault Sport Formula 1 driver had a disappointing Canadian Grand Prix after he was forced into retirement after his Renault RS16 developed a terminal water leak on lap 20, but Palmer believes the new Renault engine is a step forward for the Enstone outfit.
“We made a step forward with the car, but some better luck and finishes would be good now,” said Palmer.
“I’m happy with the progress being made for the rest of the season. Okay, I can’t be happy at not finishing in Montréal, but the new engine is a step forward and it’s worth a lot of time.
“The team are pushing hard, we’re finding stuff on the car and the engine is working well. There’s a little pain now, but I’m sure we’ll be looking better for going through it.”
Azerbaijan will become the latest addition to the F1 calendar, with Baku playing host to what claims to be the fastest street circuit of the season. In preparation for the Grand Prix at the Baku City Circuit, the Briton has done a few laps on the official F1 game as there’s no simulation data for the circuit.
“It’s a brand new track so we don’t have it on the simulator, so I’ve done a few laps on the F1 game!” added Palmer. “So I’ve had a little look in advance!
“My engineers have done their homework but the first real impression will be made when we’re doing the track walk then getting laps on the Friday to learn the circuit. It’ll be the same for everyone.”
