Mugello BAR testing notes 2001-09-04

Lucky Strike B.A.R Honda are back in Mugello for the second time in a row for a comprehensive 3 day test at the Italian circuit.

Today saw test driver Takuma Sato at the track for another 3 days of testing for the team. Takuma comes here fresh from Thruxton, where his performance won him the F3 championship this weekend:

"It hasn't really sunk in that I've won the championship yet. There's still another 4 races to go and so even though I've won, I still want to do well for the remainder of the season. It's a great feeling though and everyone's really happy for me -- both my F3 team and everyone here at Lucky Strike B.A.R. Honda "

Once again, the focus during this test is on both development and set-up work. Heavy rain in Mugello has limited Takuma's running today, but he will return to the track for the second of the three days tomorrow. His fastest lap time today was a 01.26.354, the fastest being set by Barrichello with a 01.24.667.

After a successful first test in Vairano two weeks ago - not to mention an extremely strong performance in his F3 race last weekend - Anthony Davidson joined Takuma in Mugello for one day of testing today.

His first circuit test with the team, Anthony's day was cut short at the end of the morning session when he spun off the track in turn 9. Although he was unable to complete the day, he was uninjured by the incident, and is looking forward to his next test with the team.

"Today has been a good learning curve - It's a new track for me and this being only my second test for the team, I'm still getting used to everything. There's a lot to take in but I feel comfortable with the car and was pleased with my pace early this morning. My day was unfortunately cut short when I ran wide and touched the kerb going into turn 9. It's a shame but it's all part of the process. Silverstone is my next test and I've already raced there in F3, so am looking forward to going back".

Testing will continue tomorrow, when Takuma will be joined by Olivier Panis at the track.