For Fernando Alonso, the next target is Q3.
The Spaniard’s new project with McLaren-Honda started literally at rock bottom, but in the space of a month he has powered from his hospital bed to the back of the grid and now a spot in the ’Q2’ qualifying segment in Bahrain.
"Although it is a small step," he is quoted by EFE news agency, "it was important to get into Q2 and we expect Q3 in Barcelona."
In his native Spain in three weeks, McLaren is expected to introduce a major aerodynamic package whilst works partner Honda debts a new engine specification.
Alonso added in Bahrain: "It’s sad to be happy with Q2, but it was needed for the whole team, the mechanics and engineers who were working on the cars until 5 o’clock in the morning. We are seeing progress now."
But he said one major worry is reliability, after an abysmal weekend for teammate Jenson Button.
Alonso said McLaren-Honda is "not where we should be" in terms of reliability.
"When you’re behind it is easy to get lost and panic," he said. "But before you run you have to learn to walk."
Alonso is also quoted by the sports daily Marca: "We must examine Jenson’s car to the tiniest detail, as there were too many problems this weekend."