Conditions at the Paul Ricard circuit for Friday practice and qualifying were fine and very hot. Tyre management is likely to be a significant factor this weekend with track temperatures comfortably over 40 degrees celsius.
Practice went well for Calan and the team, with a steady build up and Calan comfortable with the car.
Qualifying was an interesting session with all progressing smoothly until a late red flag was caused through a failure with Dennis Hauger's car. There was just under 7 mins remaining on the clock when the session resumed which would make it tight to prepare the tyres and be able to fit the two push laps in.
Calan's first push lap on the second set of tyres was impeded by traffic in the final corners, so it would be essential to be able to make the line in time to start the second. With the Trident pit being near the end for this event, he was very much on the fringe of being able to do so. However, with some assertive management of his position, Calan was able to cross the line and start the lap with just 2 seconds to spare.
A solid final lap, saw an improvement of 5 tenths, placing Calan in P13, and within striking distance for points in both races for the weekend.
Photos: Dutch Photo Agency
