» Renault to retain ‘F-duct’ for Belgian GP race

Renault has confirmed it plans to keep its ‘F-duct’ on the R30 for the remainder of the Belgian Grand Prix weekend, with the drivers giving positive feedback for the downforce stalling device.

Robert Kubica reckoned the boost in straight-line speed contributed heavily to his strong performance in the opening two practice sessions, where he finished third- and fourth-quickest in the opening practice sessions, respectively.

“It worked as we were expecting,” the Polish driver said. “As you saw, it was quite important to run it straight away. We did some evaluation and check-ups on the system to get more information, more knowledge and experience, and so far it is working correctly. We did not have any problems.”

The winner of the 2008 Canadian Grand Prix admitted that he was still getting used to the change in driving technique required to activate the ‘F-duct’.

It is something you have to get used to,” he said. “It is not something I have ever done. Normally when you are at the end of a corner you are accelerating and you are just going up through the gears, and you are somehow concentrating on the next corner.

“Now you have to remember to cover the hole, which is not annoying but it is something you have to get used to. In some places on the track it is not so easy, but we have a comfortable position so it is quite okay.”

[Original image via Sutton Images]