North American drivers start 1-2 in Spain

Canadian Robert Wickens took pole position at Motorland Aragon this morning on his return to Formula Renault 3.5 after two years away. The Canadian turned a fastest lap of 1m42.901s.

In a tightly contested session, American Alexander Rossi finished just 0.029 second behind Wickens in second place. The Fortec driver held the fastest time until being pipped by Wickens with just one minute of the half-hour session remaining.

Robert Wickens: “It was a very competitive session. I ran into traffic on my second set of tires so I was not able to take full advantage of them. I managed to cool them and I set the quickest time. It’s important to start the season with pole. It’s an important weekend as it gives an idea of the initial hierarchy. I have to win the first race!"

Alexander Rossi: “I just missed out on my first pole! We’re on the pace and we’ve got the speed to win the race. Our aim’s always to be first although starting the season with second place in qualifying isn’t too bad."