Belgian GP: Williams Friday practice notes

Heavy rain, which is not unusual in this part of the world in September, hindered preparation for this weekend's Belgian Grand Prix, with virtually no teams running in this afternoon's washed-out second free practice session.

Neither Mark or Antonio completed any laps, thus leaving the BMW WilliamsF1 team -- like the other teams -- to carry out the majority of its weekend's programme tomorrow.

Mark Webber:

"It was a frustrating day because we didn't get much information at all, as we only did two timed laps in the morning session. You never know what you are going to get weather-wise here - you just cannot predict."

"A lot of the teams opted to do more mileage in the second session but in the end the rain was too heavy to run. We now hope we can get some good running in the morning tomorrow and get ready for qualifying and the race."

Antonio Pizzonia:

"It's nice to be back in the cockpit of the FW27 in Spa, my favourite track. Unfortunately I had a small accident this morning, which didn't cost us any laps and didn't really affect our programme. Still, it's not the way you would like to start a GP weekend. The mechanics did a great job to fix everything quickly."

"In the second session it rained heavily so we didn't go out on track but it was the same for most of the teams. This means we have a few extra laps to do tomorrow and we just have to try to get the most out of it."

Sam Michael (Technical Director, WilliamsF1):

"It was a day of mixed weather, which is normal for Spa. This morning we got some limited running on a slightly damp track in order to check ride height, tyre pressures and top speed."

"In the second session it was too wet to run. Due to the fact in both the sessions the track was wet, the dry tyre compound choice is delayed to Saturday at 12 o'clock."

Mario Theissen (BMW Motorsport Director):

"This afternoon's heavy rain might help the prosperous nature in Spa but in these conditions it is impossible to drive an F1 car properly. It is a shame for the spectators, but it is force majeur. Now it's important to make the most out of tomorrow's practice sessions in order to get the set-up right."

Mark Webber
Chassis: FW27 04
(T-Car FW27 06)
BMW P84/5 Engine: 2nd GP
1st Practice: 5th, 1:49.692
2nd Practice: no running

Antonio Pizzonia
Chassis: FW27 03
BMW P84/5 Engine: 2nd GP
1st Practice: 16th, 1:53.535
2nd Practice: no running

-williams-