European GP: Ferrari Friday test notes

First qualifying under the rain

Jean Todt:

"The result of this first qualifying session - with one car in second place and the other fifth - will allow us to take part in the second session in pretty much the same conditions as our closest rivals. We can expect a very closely contested weekend. As usual, the performance of the car-engine-tyre package will be crucial in determining the final result. On the first day of practice at this track we have seen rather more problems with front wings than usual, because of the changes to the chicane. This will require extreme caution, especially in the race."

Michael Schumacher:

"All in all, I am happy with this result. I did a good lap, being a bit careful in the first sector before going flat out. The time isn't bad and puts us in a good position for tomorrow afternoon's qualifying. We are optimistic about the rest of the weekend. Obviously if the weather in the race is similar to what we have seen in the second half of this session, we would not be disappointed! The modifications to the chicane seem to work well, but the question of the bollards needs to be resolved."

Rubens Barrichello:

"I am very confident for tomorrow. There is still a bit of work to do on the car, but I am optimistic. I had good grip on my lap, but the car was not perfectly balanced and because of this I lost time in the first sector. In any case I have managed to get a good position which will allow me to make my qualifying run towards the end of the session."

Ross Brawn:

"I am quite satisfied with today's result. The Bridgestone tyres are very consistent which means we can be optimistic for Sunday's race. I think there is still room for improvement on the car, given they were not perfectly balanced on a light fuel load. The key will be to see how our rivals' tyres last over a distance. From what we saw this morning, we might have an advantage."

Michael Schumacher: 2nd
1.30.353 3 laps
chassis 229

Rubens Barrichello: 5th
1.30.842 3 laps
chassis 230

-ferrari-