MAX CHILTON says it was just as exhilarating as he thought it would be to drive on the famous street circuit at Monaco.
The Marussia driver from Reigate drove round the Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit today (Thursday) during free practice sessions one and two, splitting the two Caterhams at the close of the afternoon session.
And Chilton said it was great to drive around the tight and twisting streets of the Principality.
He said: "This track is amazing in a Formula 1 car and just as exhilarating as I thought it would be.
"It has been a busy day but we are able to complete the full programme we had planned and I think we are reasonably confident based on what we have seen so far.
"Once again the big challenge will be managing the tyres through the race but the work we have done today means we have plenty of information to help us make good choices for the race."
Chilton's Marussia team-mate Jules Bianchi also enjoyed a relatively smooth opening day of practice, finishing in 19th position at the close of the afternoon session.
But while he was pleased with the performance, Marussia team principal John Booth said there was still work to do.
He said: "We're reasonably happy with the performance and pace of the car but there is definitely work to do to improve their race pace on the tyres.
"Fortunately we have the added advantage of an extra day to go through the information we have gathered today and at least we can be happy with the initial pace of the car."
Marussia team principal
