Williams rookie Lance Stroll says any additional track time in Formula 1 is useful, allowing him to ‘experiment’ with different aspects of the sport.
Stroll graduated to Formula 1 as the reigning European Formula 3 Champion, but the 18-year-old has endured a difficult start to his career in the championship.
Stroll suffered a brake failure in Australia and was pitched into the gravel on the opening lap in damp conditions in China, following contact with Force India rival Sergio Pérez.
The Canadian failed to finish again in Bahrain, after being hit by Carlos Sainz Jr. following the first round of stops, meaning he has completed just 52 of the 170 racing laps in 2017, the fewest of any driver this season.
Williams handed track time to Stroll during in-season testing in Bahrain and the youngster explained how additional experience aids his cause.
“I used multiple sets of tyres trying different little things, nothing special, just tweaking bits and more driving for myself, which is always good,” he commented.
“I need to try small changes to see how the car feels. It really is about the simple stuff.
“For me all the seat time I can get is good, as there is always something I can gain from being in the car. When we are not limited on what we can do, it is just good to experiment.
“That is something Williams knows I have to do and also I know that myself.
“For sure I am out there competing and trying my best, but it is also about understanding and learning before I can reach the maximum of my capability as a racing driver.”
Williams simulator driver Gary Paffett is in action in the FW40 at Sakhir today (Wednesday).
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