Malaysia GP BAR preview

THE LUCKY STRIKE REYNARD BRITISH AMERICAN RACING HONDA TEAM - prepared for the challenge in Malaysia.

THE CIRCUIT
Sepang International Circuit is a modern track with very high safety standards firmly in place. For 2001 a great deal of work has gone into further improving safety, and there have been a significant number of changes made on drainage, kerbing, debris fencing and tyre barrier improvement at a number of points around the track. The circuit is both challenging and interesting to drive with a number of mid-speed corners, two long straights and a very tight chicane.

LAST YEAR
A strong start to the race saw Jacques Villeneuve and Ricardo Zonta avoiding early race incidents and running strongly in the top six until the first round of pit stops. Employing a two-stop strategy for fuel and tyres, the race was running according to plan until Ricardo Zonta slid off the track on lap 27. He rejoined the race, but was eliminated on lap 47 when his engine failed as a result of overheating. Jacques Villeneuve however had a trouble free race and finished in fifth place, ensuring the team of a fifth place in the Formula One Constructors' World Championship standings with 20 points.

Malcolm Oastler, Technical Director
"After the events in Australia we hope to have a trouble-free weekend here in Malaysia and open up our points scoring account for the 2001 season. During the break between races we have had our work cut out preparing a new car for this round. We are well prepared and looking forward to the weekend."

Craig Pollock, Team Principal and Managing Director
"The whole team are very happy to be in Malaysia and putting Australia behind them. We feel that we have been able to make some positive changes and the warm weather suits the characteristics of our car. With that in mind, we are looking forward to a very strong result here in Malaysia."

-BAR