Alfa Romeo completed two successful days of filming at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, as the Hinwil-based side ran their shakedown test ahead of the upcoming period of official pre-season testing.
The main reasons for completing a shakedown test are to ensure that the car is working as it should ahead of testing at the Bahrain International Circuit, whilst also offering an opportunity to conduct some filming and allow the drivers to get back up to speed.
It was a successful two days for Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu, with both drivers having been given an opportunity to test the C43.
Following the second day of running, Bottas was pleased that everything worked “as expected”, meaning the team don’t appear to have any last-minute issues ahead of pre-season testing.
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“Another good day in Barcelona for the filming and shakedown day,” Bottas said.
“Obviously, not many laps but a similar feeling to yesterday, that everything is working as expected, which is good, and we’re getting ready for the testing in Bahrain. Really enjoyed having a first test of the C43 and can’t wait to have some more.”
Alfa Romeo do seem to be quietly confident, with the side having designed a radical floor for the forthcoming season, suggesting that they aren’t simply going to play it safe in 2023.
The Swiss side shared plenty of content of the C43 in action across social media, with a clip onboard with Zhou having given fans a first look at what the inside of Alfa Romeo’s cockpit looks like.
Alfa Romeo will be hoping to take another step towards the front of the midfield in 2023, with the team having narrowly held on for sixth in the Constructors’ Championship last season.
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The team started 2022 extraordinarily well and appeared to be right up there with Alpine and McLaren; however, the side faded mid-season, resulting in a lengthy run of point-less races.
Had they scored points consistently throughout last season, then they would’ve been considerably closer to the likes of Alpine and McLaren; albeit, still behind.
With Aston Martin in particular expected to improve this year, Alfa Romeo must also ensure that they are going in the right direction, should they want to avoid slipping towards the foot of the standings.