Austrian GP McLaren Friday notes

The West McLaren Mercedes team finished today's Free Practice for Sunday's Austrian Grand Prix by David Coulthard and Mika Hakkinen setting the two fastest times. David's time was 1:11.245 and Mika's was 1:11.272. David did 43 laps and Mika completed 42.

David Coulthard:
'We made progress through the day on a track, which is still quite dusty and slippery. We haven't got the maximum out of the car yet as I'm not 100 percent happy with the balance but we are heading in the right direction. This track requires a lot of front-end grip on the tyres, which is what we have to work on.'

Mika Hakkinen:
'I'm pleased with our performance today. We went through a lot of work and were consistently quick and experienced no major problems. I'm looking forward to this weekend on a track which I always enjoy.'

Ron Dennis:
'A good day's work by all.'

Norbert Haug:
'From the beginning of today's two practice sessions we have progressively improved with both David and Mika constantly going faster. We should have a good basis for the race.'

- McLaren