Italian GP: BAR preview

The legendary Autodromo Nationale Monza circuit close to Milan is always one of the highlights of the F1 calendar and never fails to deliver an enthralling mix of speed, skill and an electric race-day atmosphere. Last year the team finished on the podium here with Jenson Button in 3rd and Takuma Sato right behind him in 4th position.

B*A*R Honda has been working hard to prepare for Monza, using its two race drivers and third driver Anthony Davidson in a two-day, two-car test at the circuit this week. The team conducted comprehensive development work on all areas of the car, including aerodynamics, engine and intensive tyre assessments with Michelin.

Adam Carroll, a member of the B*A*R Honda Young Driver Programme was also present in Monza where he ran at the wheel of a development car with 2006 systems when one or both of the two main test cars were not running.

A positive outcome to the testing programme, coupled with the team's impressive performance in the inaugural race in Turkey two weeks ago, leaves B*A*R Honda full of optimism as they head into Round 15 of the 2005 World Championship.

Jenson Button:

"We had a very good race in Monza last year when we finished on the podium and I am looking forward to racing there this week following our strong performance in Turkey. The fans are very passionate about the sport and the atmosphere is always great over the race weekend. We had a positive weekend in Turkey and I'm sure we can improve our pace and have a competitive weekend in Monza."

Takuma Sato:

"Monza is a very unique circuit and easily the fastest in the F1 calendar in terms of speed. The Italian Grand Prix weekend has traditionally seen lots of exciting racing so we can hope to see more of that. We've had a strong test during our two days at Monza this week so we are looking forward to challenging in the race next weekend."

Gil de Ferran, Sporting director:

"Following this week's quite intensive test at Monza, like most teams we are now looking forward to one of the more traditional races in the calendar. We are certainly hoping to build on the competitiveness that we showed during the last few races, however since Monza requires a completely different aerodynamic specification, in many ways one has to view this race quite separately from the others."

Shuhei Nakamoto, Engineering director, Honda Racing Development:

"After an encouraging performance but slightly frustrating result in Turkey, we are aiming for an even higher points finish at Monza. Honda engines have won six Grands Prix here, so you could say it's one of our favourite tracks! Our colleagues in the US have now wrapped up the Manufacturers' Title in IRL racing, which gives the engineers on the F1 programme even more motivation to keep pushing for a race win."

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