Sauber Barcelona test notes 2003-02-05

Team Sauber Petronas completed its test at the Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona today. Heinz-Harald Frentzen took over the driving from Nick Heidfeld and covered 110 laps in the Sauber Petronas C22 to set the third fastest time of 1:16.319. As there won't be any running at Mugello next week the team will now focus on straightline running at Vairano to validate aerodynamic set-ups, before going to Imola on February 17th for the final test before the cars leave for the Australian GP in Melbourne.

Jacky Eeckelaert (Head of Vehicle Engineering):

"The weather was better today, a little bit cooler than yesterday but without the gusting wind. We were able to complete our scheduled programme without any interruptions. This comprised more aerodynamic testing this morning, when Heinz-Harald tried some new rear wings, and a three-quarter race distance run for Bridgestone this afternoon. The car ran with zero problems. We made some progress with Nick yesterday, and today we confirmed his data and were then able to make a little but more progress today. I'm satisfied with what we achieved."

Heinz-Harald Frentzen:

"I'm pleased with what we did today. It was a good test. We learned a lot more about the aerodynamic set-up and worked with Bridgestone to provide the data on which it will base its choice of tyre for Melbourne. I'm encouraged that we have now added speed to the C22's inherent reliability."

Weather: sunny and cold but dry
Temperature: Air 13C; Track 19C
Number of laps: Heinz-Harald Frentzen 110 laps, 520.3 kilometres
Track Length: 4.730 kilometres

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