Rossi encouraged after a day of progression at St. Pete

Rookie Alexander Rossi has felt encouraged after a day of progression during practice for the IndyCar Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, despite causing a red flag delay in practice two.

After only two days of testing at Sebring prior to the opening round of the new IndyCar season, Rossi has begun 2016 with the least IndyCar experience on the grid.

However, the former Formula 1 racer has certainly adapted well to the sport, improving greatly between the two practice sessions around the tricky St. Petersburg street course.

After ending the first practice session 18th fastest, Rossi and his No. 98 crew managed to improve somewhat during the second session, rising to 13th overall and ahead of the likes of Sebastien Bourdais and Tony Kanaan.

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“This afternoon’s session was a big step forward for the No. 98 Honda from this morning, in terms of little issues, me knowing the track better, and us understanding the car,” explained Rossi. “

“This is only our third day out working together, so every time we go on track is a little bit of a learning experience still, but I would say the progression from morning to afternoon was very positive.”

Despite the positive improvements displayed between the two practice sessions, Rossi is still unsatisfied with his overall performance and is eager to continue improving throughout the weekend.

Towards the latter stages of the second practice session Rossi caused a brief red flag delay, after making a typical rookie error and running straight on at Turn 10 and stalling.

However, the Holmatro Safety Team were on hand to re-start Rossi’s stricken car, enabling him to return to the pits and partake in the final few minutes of the session. 

“We’re still not really close to where we want to be but we took a step in the right direction and we will keep working this evening to do the same tomorrow.”