“It wasn’t a balls to the wall type of lap, we weren’t pushing, we are still
trying to learn about the car. So we will go quicker.
“It is important to get a good understanding on where we can improve.”
Magnussen appeared extremely calm as he faced the world’s media after his time
in the new McLaren MP4-29, but admitted there had been nerves the night
before.
“I had butterflies in my stomach last night and I struggled to sleep. I am a
rookie. I am excited. It is a new car and a new season and a new
opportunity, so I was excited and this was a big day for me
“I was hoping to get in a lot of laps so it was a good day for me and very
positive.”
Magnussen, the son of former McLaren driver Jan Magnussen, was parachuted into
the car to replace Mexican Sergio Perez, who was dropped after one season
with the Woking-based outfit.
He took over from Jenson Button who drove in the morning, adding to the so far
impressive mileage of the McLaren after they did not make it out on the
first day in Jerez, southern Spain.
Asked how he had been getting on with the 34-year-old, Magnussen said: “He is
a nice guy and has a lot of experience. So I will learn from him.”
Magnussen will drive the car again this morning, on a wet, overcoast day in
Jerez, southern Spain.