European GP: McLaren Friday notes

Team McLaren Mercedes driver David Coulthard was fastest after today's two Free Practice sessions at the Nürburgring with a time of 1:31.886. Kimi Raikkonen was third after setting a time of 1:32.298. David completed 35 laps whilst Kimi did 31laps.

DAVID COULTHARD

"A normal Friday practice session where we evaluated our tyres and various set-ups. We went through our pre-planned programme but as illustrated before Ferrari and Williams might be quicker tomorrow, but we will wait and see. The new section of the track is fine but it's very bumpy which might result in not a lot of overtaking at the first corner. However overall it's good."

KIMI RAIKKONEN

"We developed the car throughout both sessions and I believe we have arrived at a good basis. I like the changes, which have been made to the track, but it's a bit bumpy particularly at the first corner, which makes it easy to lock up. As a result the first session was a bit messy for me and I flatspotted a few of my tyres, but all in all a good day. We will now see what happens tomorrow but I'm fairly confident."

RON DENNIS

"A constructive practice, which allowed us to evaluate thoroughly the two types of tyres that Michelin has supplied for this event. I think that all the teams are somewhat surprised by the poor surface quality on some elements of the new circuit but as always the challenges are the same for everybody."

NORBERT HAUG

"A good first day of practice. David's best time is not so important, but what is important for us is that we have learnt a lot for the race. The new Mercedes Arena obviously suits the Nürburgring well."

David Coulthard: Chassis 07
Kimi Raikkonen: Chassis 06
T-car (David): Chassis 03

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