The Italian is confident that the Montmelo circuit - which demands excellent aerodynamics - will suit the team and the R24.

Barcelona is obviously well known to every team, but what factors can catch you out during the race weekend?The main factor is really following how the track changes, and adapting the set-up of the car to suit. Basically, lap times are quicker in cooler conditions, and tend to slow down as track temperatures rise. We need to monitor these changes, and ensure that the car balance stays the same during the long runs. The other factor is the wind: much like at Silverstone, this can have an impact on aero performance but also your choice of gear ratios.

In terms of car set-up, what are the keys?You need a good car balance in the high speed corners so that you can really push and feel totally confident in the car, but the car also needs to be comfortable to drive in the slow-speed sections. As a driver you also get a strange sensation from the ripples in the track surface: they do not really need to be taken account of in terms of set-up, but they are slightly disorientating when you are in the car.

What can we expect from you and Renault in terms of performance?I go to every race feeling optimistic, but especially Barcelona. I didn’t get past the first corner last year, but the car was very strong, and we know the R24 is very competitive there too. I have had my strongest start to the season since I joined Renault, and we know this is historically a good circuit for our car. Our rivals are very strong at the moment, and the battle is very close, but we will keep pushing to improve our performance.