Renault Managing Director Cyril Abiteboul says the manufacturer needs to work on its race pace with the R.S.18, off the back of its showing in Bahrain.
Nico Hulkenberg matched Renault’s best result since its full-time return as he classified in sixth place, but was unable to keep pace with Toro Rosso’s Pierre Gasly or Haas’ Kevin Magnussen.
Carlos Sainz Jr., meanwhile, lost out at the start and was overhauled by Esteban Ocon during the closing stages, relegating him outside of the points-paying positions.
“It was an action-packed race that nevertheless saw us score a fine result with Nico who put in a great drive on a track that is difficult for us,” said Abiteboul.
“Carlos’ poor start penalised his race, which proved, once again, that every detail counts.
“Carlos finished just outside the points, which is disappointing, but he did the best he could with fuel management that became very complicated in his race to move back up the order.
“We had good pace in qualifying and the performance level of the car should see us qualify higher on the grid and thus have easier races.
“Sixth place for Nico keeps us in a good place in the Constructors’ Championship with a points total in-line with our objectives.
“But the race pace wasn’t very good in particular with the Soft tyres, which needs to be analysed, understood and improved as soon as possible.”
Renault holds fifth position in the Constructors’ Championship.
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