McLaren Silverstone test summary 2006-09-21

McLaren CEO Martin Whitmarsh and driver Lewis Hamilton comment on the team's two day test at Silverstone

Martin Whitmarsh:

"The test team has completed a demanding schedule at Silverstone this week, as we push forward with car performance prior to the final three races of the season. Pedro's focus for the week has been centred around tyre evaluation with Michelin for the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix."

"In addition, Pedro has completed a comprehensive set-up programme for China and Japan alongside Mercedes-Benz engine work. The weather has been kind to us this week at Silverstone so we have been able to complete a good amount of mileage."

"The session has also seen the test debut of Lewis Hamilton, following his Championship win in the GP2 series at Monza a couple of weeks ago. Lewis's week began with a shakedown of the MP4-21 on Tuesday, prior to commencing his testing programme on Wednesday."

"Lewis has now completed two full days of testing, with a focus on familiarisation to the car. Thursday saw him join Pedro on the Michelin selection process for Japan. Lewis has had a solid week, whilst he has obviously enjoyed and benefited from his time in the car, he has also provided valuable input to the testing process."

Lewis Hamilton:

"It has been an intensive week for me at Silverstone. As I have mentioned previously, it is fantastic to be making my test debut with Team McLaren Mercedes and I have enjoyed my time in the MP4-21. The session has allowed me to get a good understanding of the car, how it works, how it differs from the GP2 cars, and also to work with the team."

"I had a couple of excursions into the gravel over the week, but that was just part of my learning on how far I could push the car and fortunately no damage was caused. It was great for me to get involved in the development programme today with Pedro, I focused on Michelin evaluation for Japan and working with the engineering team on feedback."

-credit: mclaren