Australian GP Friday notes

By Erica Southey - Motorsport.com

Is it a bad case of "foot-in-mouth" disease for a couple of F1 personalities? They were quick to judge the 21-year old Finn, Kimi Raikkonen's entry into F1. One who is probably choking on his words right now, is, 1997 World Champion, Jacques Villeneuve, who was very outspoken on Raikkonen. Today, Raikkonen, silenced his critics by finishing 11th and 12th respectively in both practice sessions. He outranked drivers like Villeneuve, Fisichella, Button and Irvine in both sessions. Even supremo Bernie Ecclestone, was surprised at the Finn's performance, after being reluctant to issue Kimi a Super Licence. Let's hope Raikkonen continues this performance in both Qualifying and the actual GP.

The first practice session was rather uneventful apart from a few lawn mowing attempts by Ralf Schumacher, Juan-Pablo Montoya and Nick Heidfeld.

Who would even think that the First Free Practice session would serve as a demure preamble to the Second Free Practice session?

In the 32nd minute of the second session, Luciano Burti slammed his Jaguar Cosworth into the wall at turn one. The session was red flagged in the 39th minute, to ensure all debris was removed, and the track made safe to continue the session. Three minutes later, cars came out to make the most of what was left of the session.

Never to be outdone, Michael Schumacher tried flying his Ferrari out of turn six. He lost control, and did two somersaults before landing on the other side of the track. No doubt, the 2000 World Champion sent a shiver or two down numerous spines.

Thankfully both drivers escaped uninjured. Michael Schumacher was taken to the medical centre for a check-up.

Nick Heidfeld almost made it a hat trick when his Sauber Petronas slid sideways and ended up off the track escaping impact.

The yellow flag came out followed by the chequered flag to announce the end of the session.