Belgian GP Stewart Ford Preview

STEWART-FORD NOTES AND QUOTES 1998 Belgian Grand Prix - Spa-Francorchamps Tuesday 25th August: PREVIEW

The Stewart-Ford team completed two days of testing at Silverstone on Wednesday and Thursday of last week. The test team worked through a programme of suspension modifications with Rubens undertaking some additional tyre testing on Thursday afternoon.

Paul Stewart, Managing Director:

"We had a productive two-day test at Silverstone last week. Jos was slightly frustrated that he was unable to find an ideal set-up on the first day. We carried out some work on the test car overnight and Rubens, who was at the wheel on Thursday, was more content with the car's handling characteristics by the end of the test. The set-up change we made was quite a departure from what we have been running recently. We set the fastest time we have recorded yet in testing with the SF-2 at Silverstone. In particular, Rubens felt there was a marked improvement in the car's stability through the faster corners which bodes well for Spa. It is frustrating not to have had better results in the latter part of the season but, based on the steps we made at Silverstone, we are looking to have a good weekend in Spa."

Martin Whitaker, Ford European Director of Motorsport:

"Since the Hungarian Grand Prix, the Stewart-Ford team has completed two trouble free days of testing at Silverstone concentrating on car set-up work. Parallel to the chassis work we also worked on further refining the engine driveability with good results. Spa has a number of quick corners and a very long drag up the hill to Les Combes as well as a lengthy run towards 'the bus stop' chicane. This puts a premium on engine performance and on chassis aerodynamic efficiency."

Rubens Barrichello: Car no.18: SF-2/04

"There is a bit of everything on offer during a lap of Spa. You get fast-speed corners, testing low-speed corners, plenty of hard braking and chances to overtake. I have good memories of Spa. I won several single-seater races earlier in my career and I was on pole for the 1994 Belgian GP so I'm looking forward, as always, to returning. The Silverstone test was the best I've had there all season. We found sixth tenths of a second from the British GP qualifying time working on adjustments which suit Spa, so we are comfortable with the car's preparation for the race."

Jos Verstappen: Car no.19: SF-2/03

"For me, Spa is the best circuit in the world and I think you'll find that it's the favourite for most of the Formula One drivers. It has fantastic high- speed corners, which is what I like best about it. It is a great test of driving skill. The highlight is Eau Rouge which is downhill on the approach, uphill on the exit and very, very fast. Getting it right through there is very satisfying. Often the weather can play a part in the weekend, especially qualifying. We could have an interesting looking grid if the rain is around on Saturday."