F1: Marussia Halted By Rear Suspension Failure

Formula 1

F1: Marussia Halted By Rear Suspension Failure

Marussia made the most of a challenging first day in Jerez...

Adam Cooper | http://www.speedtv.com | Posted February 05, 2013 Jerez (ESP)

Marussia’s first day with its new MR02 in Jerez was ruined by a right rear suspension failure that sent Max Chilton off course. (Photo: LAT Photographic)

Marussia’s first day with its new MR02 in Jerez was spoiled by a right rear suspension failure that pitched Max Chilton off the track.

The rookie didn’t drive again after the team opted to park the car and look into the issue.

Nevertheless, Marussia says it got some good information in the 29 laps that Chilton did.

“This afternoon’s problem aside, I’m really happy with the start we have made to our 2013 campaign,” said Chilton. “With a new car there is always the potential for something to crop up and cut short the program, but for the morning period, everything went according to plan, which is just the start we needed.

“I’m sure the team will get on top of the suspension issue very quickly so we can all pick up where we left off and start putting some more miles on what is obviously a very promising package.”

“Up until the afternoon session, we really couldn’t have been happier with the way things were going for us with the car and Max,” said team boss John Booth. “It was a big day for him but he has been his characteristically mature and assured self, and as a consequence of that and a very seamless morning’s running, we have every reason to feel encouraged by our big picture.

“In terms of the specific issue we encountered this afternoon, we will naturally ensure we conduct a thorough inspection of the component in question and see what solution we can bring to recommence our program.”

Adam Cooper notched up his 28th season as a racing journalist in 2012. He has written about F1 for SPEED.com since 2005. Follow him on Twitter.