Brazilian GP: McLaren Friday notes

Interlagos Friday 29th March 2002

West McLaren Mercedes driver David Coulthard emerged fastest from today's two practice sessions for the Brazilian Grand Prix ? the third round of the FIA Formula One World Championship. David's time was 1:15.075 and he completed 34 laps. Kimi Raikkonen's time of 1:15.883 was sixth fastest and the Finn completed 26 laps after missing the majority of the first practice session following a spin at the first corner.

DAVID COULTHARD

"I'm quite encouraged by today's performance and I believe we have taken a step forward since Malaysia. We ran reliably and I got a lot of laps under my belt. There was a small spin in the first session due to a problem with the traction control, but on the whole I'm pleased. Qualifying will be hard, but I'm going to give 100 per cent, get the maximum from the car and aim for that perfect lap."

KIMI RAIKKONEN

"We have been able to consistently improve the car throughout today but unfortunately I lost the majority of the first session as I spun and was unable to continue. I believe there is still room for improvement, and I'm looking forward to making further progress tomorrow."

RON DENNIS (Team Principal)

"The Interlagos circuit is traditionally very dirty at the start of practice. This was illustrated today with two cars from other teams suffering punctures and our own drivers along with many others spinning. However as the circuit improved we were able to achieve good baseline set-ups not only for tomorrow's qualifying but also for Sunday's race."

NORBERT HAUG (Mercedes Motorsport Director)

"Although the first session didn't start so well with both drivers spinning, we had a productive first practice day. However the best time on Saturday is important not that of Friday."

-mclaren-