Belgian GP: Toyota Saturday notes

Panasonic Toyota Racing achieved their 2nd best qualifying result this season after Monaco. After an encouraging Friday free practice, both drivers continued to improve their cars balance throughout this morning's session. This paid off this ...

Panasonic Toyota Racing achieved their 2nd best qualifying result this season after Monaco. After an encouraging Friday free practice, both drivers continued to improve their cars balance throughout this morning's session. This paid off this afternoon when Mika Salo secured 9th position on the grid, and Allan 13th.

Mika Salo

"Low-speed circuits are behind us and we can now make full use of our engine power. We had a chance here, we took it and I am really happy with today's performance. We only did minor adjustments to the car in qualifying and changed the tyre pressures for my last run, the best one. We are back in the race again."

Allan McNish

"We continued working on the car's set-up during qualifying, but unfortunately we did not find the right tyre pressure for my last run. But the session went well for me overall. The car feels very consistent in race trim and Spa offers real chances to overtake, so I feel rather confident for tomorrow."

Norbert Kreyer - General Manager Engine Department

"Both cars ran with the latest engine specification today, and the team is very satisfied with its performance. Spa is a power circuit that requires a strong and reliable engine, especially on the uphill section of Le Raidillon that has to be taken at full throttle. We are all pleased with today's outcome."

Mika Salo - Car No. 24
Position: 9th, 1m45.880s
12/12 laps completed
Chassis: TF102/07

Allan McNish - Car No. 25
Position: 13th, 1m46.619s
12/12 laps completed
Chassis: TF102/08
T-car: TF102/06