Franz Tost says Toro Rosso ‘quick’, but reliability still a concern

Toro Rosso Team Principal Franz Tost believes the squad has a “fast” package for the 2017 Formula 1 season, but is wary over the lack of reliability shown during pre-season testing.

Carlos Sainz Jr.’s quickest lap time left him seventh on the combined timesheets for the second four-day test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, with Daniil Kvyat further back, in 14th, having recorded his best time on a harder set of tyres.

However, Toro Rosso finished the entire pre-season period having completed more laps than only McLaren, amid technical issues, the bulk of which struck the STR12 during the first week.

“After completing the two pre-season tests in Barcelona I can affirm that the STR12 is a fast and competitive car,” said Tost.

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“One weak point is the reliability, as we’ve had too many issues over these two weeks.

“On the positive side, I can say that this situation has improved compared to the first test, but there has still been a few problems that have taken track time away.

“The good news is that we know what the issues are – nothing major – so I’m confident we can solve them all before getting to Australia thanks to all the valuable data we’ve collected.”

Tost is sure that Toro Rosso has the pace to be embroiled in the thick of the midfield action when the new season begins in Australia next weekend.

“Regarding our drivers, I have to say that both Carlos and Daniil have done a fantastic job every time they’ve jumped in the car and provided very useful feedback,” he commented.

“Our engineers will now analyse all the data gathered to optimise the set-up for Melbourne.

“I’m really looking forward to the season ahead, I think we’re going to have a very interesting fight with the midfield teams.”