McLaren driver Fernando Alonso set only the 17^th time in the second practice session on Friday. It’s seems McLaren is going to have a tough weekend in Sochi, particularly due the penalty Alonso has. The Spaniard will start from the 16^th position. On Friday evening Fernando talked about his expectations.

“I think this weekend could be quite difficult to perform well, because the characteristics of the circuit and the penalty. So, will see what can we do. Also, it was a high degradation of the tyres today. But let’s try to be calm and to choose the strategy for Sunday, to prepare the car for Sunday, because the qualifying means not much for us, unfortunately. Hopefully we will get some points in the race”.

Fernando didn’t race in the first free practice. His seat was given to McLaren next season’s driver Lando Norris, who finished the practice on the 13^th place. Alonso said, he is happy with Norris’ job today.

“It’s obviously good to have him [Lando] in the car now, and it’s good for him to have some practice. Obviously next year’s car will be different, but spending time with the team is a good thing for him and good thing for the team to know his preferences and his driving style. So, it’s difficult to comment right now, because it’s only two free practice for Lando, but I’m sure he will make a perfect debut next year”.