Team Aon drivers James Nash and Tom Chilton experienced a difficult qualifying session in Valencia, with Nash qualifying in 16th and Chilton in 21st respectively.
The team are still getting to grips with their new Ford Focus S2000 TC around the World Touring Car Championship circuits, collecting new data at each venue they visit.
In the first practice session of the day Nash and Chilton finished 15th and 16th respectively. This was repeated in the second session as both drivers marginally improved their best times from earlier in the morning.
However in qualifying neither driver was able to set lap times to consistently enable them to challenge for the top 12 positions to get into Q2.
“It was a bit of a difficult qualifying session for us,” said Nash afterwards. “I felt as though the car and myself were able to get within the top twelve but there were a few little errors which mean I find myself in 16th position instead.
“It’s a new car and a new challenge for the whole team but if any team can continue to develop this car to the sharp end of things – it’s these guys. Tomorrow we’ll definitely be racing forward.”
Chilton was disappointed with his qualifying effort, meaning he will line up in 21st, but was generally pleased with the balance and feel of his car.