Martí still searching for improvement after strong Day 2 pace

She might have earned the second-fastest time on Day 2 of the in-season test in Abu Dhabi, but Nerea Martí believes there’s still time to find on the third and final day of running.

With her run plan focused on shorter Qualifying simulations, the Tommy Hilfiger driver led the way at the halfway mark and built on that pace — ending the day with a 1:57.118, three tenths off pace-setter Abbi Pulling.

Reflecting after the session, Martí admitted the day came with its challenges, particularly the hot conditions as temperatures peaked at around 35˚C towards midday.

“In the morning it was really tough, but then after lunch I felt a bit better,” she said. “We could try a lot of things with the setup and we made good steps. I’m happy with the time that we did. We can improve a lot in terms of driving and also with the car.”

As for the majority of the field, this test sees Martí pay her first visit to the Yas Marina Circuit. Despite her unfamiliarity with the circuit, she says she’s already savouring getting behind the wheel here.

“I’m excited!” Martí remarked. “I love this track, it’s my first time here but already when we did the track walk by car, it was amazing. (…) I love to drive here, it’s got both fast corners and low corners.”

One final day of running awaits, with the final six hours of track time to play with tomorrow. Preparing to make the most of it, Martí is keen to take another step forward in her performance.

READ MORE: Pulling ends Day 2 of in-season testing fastest once more around Abu Dhabi

The characteristics of the Yas Marina Circuit vary across all three sectors and the Spanish driver says that the street circuit-esque final sector will be a key focus with it’s rapid changes of direction as it winds under the Yas Hotel and marina front.

“We didn’t want to push too much today, so let’s see if tomorrow if we can do some long runs,” explained Martí. “We have one more day to keep working on our driving. Also, it’s important that we still have some parts to improve on, especially in Sector 3, so let’s work on it.”