Hungarian GP Bridgestone Friday notes

Michael Schumacher got the weekend during which he could take his fourth world title off to the best start by going quickest in today's free practice with a 1:16. 651. His teammate Rubens Barrichello made it a one-two for Ferrari with 1:16.734 in high temperatures and at a typically dusty and slippery Hungaroring. Last year's winner in Hungary, Mika Hakkinen, was third fastest for West McLaren Mercedes. Jean Alesi, in his first session behind the wheel of a Benson & Hedges Jordan Honda, ended the day sixth.

Ross Brawn - Technical Director - Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro "A reasonably straightforward day with no major problems and some interesting factors to consider about the tyres. We need to be careful that we don't overstress the tyres for the race. It was very tough out there, with a lot of cars going off and a lot of dust on the track. It was difficult to judge the changes we made because with each lap the surface was different. It reminded us of how tough Hungary can be."

Tim Holloway - Head of Engineering - Benson & Hedges Jordan Honda "Overall we are fairly happy with today. Jean had his first session with the team and, considering he lost the first session this morning, he did a good job. His feedback has been very good, but it is always going to be difficult when the first proper run you have in the car is in an official session at a race. The track conditions were very difficult. As always with Hungary, there was little grip at the start and, as the temperature increased, it became even more difficult. We are very happy with the new tyre construction, and we think Bridgestone is going in the right direction with its development."

Hisao Suganuma - Technical Manager - Bridgestone Motorsport "Today has proved that both specifications we brought here can be used for the race, with both performing well in extreme heat. We did not have any problems at all today. The new construction we developed for this race seems to be well suited to the track so I hope that will manifest itself in good results tomorrow and on Sunday."

-Bridgestone