Gene fastest at Jerez test

While the race drivers stay in more temperate climes until the Malaysian Grand Prix, the testers were at work in Spain. Four drivers from three teams took to the track at Jerez de la Frontra and Ferrari's Marc Gené set the fastest time of the day.

Gené, who was the sole car on duty yesterday, continued with Ferrari's programme of tyre work in the F2004M and clocked 1:17.045 over 115 laps. Luca Badoer will join his fellow tester tomorrow in an F2005 chassis.

The F2005 was scheduled to make its debut at the Spanish Grand Prix in early May, but Ferrari technical director Ross Brawn said there's a chance it may appear in Bahrain. The decision rests on how the F2004M performs at the next race in Malaysia.

Alex Wurz was second on the time sheet for McLaren, a tenth down on Gené, and BAR's Anthony Davidson and Enrique Bernoldi made up third and fourth respectively. BAR suffered from a lack of grip in Melbourne and the team is experimenting with front wing configurations to try and resolve the problem.

Renault is expected to join the test tomorrow, with Franck Montagny and Heikki Kovalainen behind the wheel, and Williams will have Antonio Pizzonia on duty. Toyota was due to be at work today but the team's test programme has been delayed.