Italian GP Ferrari Friday notes

Irvine fastest in free practice Italian GP Monza, 11th September 1998

Eddie Irvine first 1' 24.987s (1'42.916 in wet) 23 laps Michael Schumacher second 1' 25.246s (1.41.734 in wet) 12 laps

Jean Todt: "We did not do much running today because of the rain which arrived for the last half hour of the second part of the session. However, we have sufficient data from our test session here last week. Tomorrow we hope to be the first of the Goodyear runners. We have to study today's times with caution because, as usual on Friday, we do not know how much fuel the others were running."

Eddie Irvine: "Even though Friday's time is never very important it is still a nice feeling to be at the top of the page, ahead of Michael and in front of all the tifosi at Monza. This was a very positive day and we got through all our programme. It was good work. I even managed a useful run in the rain. Tomorrow we can concentrate on perfecting the car as there is still room for improvement. I don't know if I can be quickest again tomorrow, but I feel we can really put McLaren under pressure."

Michael Schumacher: "I was unable to do many laps this morning for two reasons. Firstly, I had a leaking brake pipe and secondly, there was a problem with the steering system. All the same, we looked quite competitive today in both dry and wet conditions. I enjoyed the atmosphere of driving in front of so many tifosi and I hope I can give them something to cheer about tomorrow and on Sunday."

Chassis: M. Schumacher No.186 E. Irvine No.184 Temps: Air 21->19C Track 26->18 C