Making the headlines - 2001-03-16

By Erica Southey - Motorsport.com

Barrichello and Trulli Kings of Sepang free practice sessions - Rubens Barrichello in his Ferrari topped the chart in the Malaysian GP First Free Practice Session, leaving the others looking dull with his performance. Jarno Trulli in his Jordan Honda came as the biggest surprise when he came out tops in the second free practice session.

Villeneuve speaks out on accusations - Canadian ace, Jacques Villeneuve responded to accusations; that he is responsible for the death of the Australian marshal. Villeneuve said that he refrained from making any accusatory comments and remained neutral but says it is unacceptable that he should get the blame. He was quoted as saying: "I made an effort to be neutral in my comments, to make sure I didn't put the blame on anybody and the other side reacted like a bunch of babies trying to point their fingers," The 97 Word Champion added. "I thought that was highly unacceptable. Ralf had problems with his front tires and he was extremely, extremely slow and he was braking earlier than everybody else on the racetrack. So if that happens, and you know that that's what's happening then don't stay in the middle of the racetrack. Stay on the left or the right and give enough room for someone else to react. If you are going to brake 30 meters earlier than everyone else because you have problems there's no way the other people can react."

More GPs says Max Moseley - Circuits that can look forward to finding a slot on the racing calendar are South Africa, China and Russia if FIA president, Max Moseley gets his way. Moseley said that he would like to go above the current 17 races in a year. Team managers responded negatively to this suggestion saying that extra races would limit testing and developing the car, not to even mention the impact it would have on family lives.

Ssssshhh, don't tell - outspoken as ever, Eddie Irvine was on form snubbing a journalist who asked him if he's been getting some exercise. The Ulsterman responded in true fashion: 'Nope. Been down the pub getting pissed every night. Whatyathink?' On turning to Jaguar boss Bobby Rahal, Irvine said, 'Bunch of tossers, these guys...'

Alex Wurz was seen with the Benetton Press Officer holding hands while browsing around the market areas. They're an item, and she is leaving Benetton out of allegiance to Alex.