Minardi Monza Test 98-07-15

TUERO IN MONZA GETS READY FOR AUSTRIA Fondmetal Minardi Ford Team is now back at Monzas circuit after several months. In fact, last time they tested here, was the 24th of February, the day following the 98 Team launch. In preparation for the Austrian Grand Prix, taking place in Zeltweg next week, the M198 was set up in low downforce configuration, in order to find the best balance for a high speed track such as the A1-Ring. The morning tests were interrupted several times by cars going off. There were in fact as many as 15 drivers testing at various times today, with Tuero being among these, and in fact going off himself after 18 laps. The mechanics spent many hours rebuilding the car, and it was back onto the track in the mid-afternoon, when it gained its best time of 1:27.176 which was during the last 10 laps before the engine reached full mileage . Repeat performance tomorrow, with Shinji Nakano. Drivers: Esteban Tuero Laps: 34 Best time: 1:27:176