New engine problems for Lada

The new Lada engine, estimated by the team to give 20 extra bhp, failed to deliver. The team had to change the engine after technical problems for Jaap van Lagen, meaning that he missed the qualifying.
“It’s frustrating as we don’t really know where we are because we’ve had little track time,” said van Lagen.

“However, the only way is forwards from here and the experience we will gain from the races tomorrow is bound to be extremely useful.”

Russian Kirill Ladygin managed to set a time in the qualifying session, 25th, but also suffered from engine problems.

“I suddenly found the water temperature rising more than usual. I chose to back off in order not to cause any further damage. We will investigate the problem thoroughly tonight, and I am sure that we can come up with a solution for tomorrow.”

Team boss and third driver Viktor Shapovalov qualified 22nd and had no engine problems.

“We’ve certainly made a step forwards with power: now we need to work on reliability. I’m sure that we will come away from Valencia with a much clearer idea of what we need to do to continue making progress,” said Shapovalov.