Sauber Valencia Thursday testing notes 2002-02-07

Team SAUBER PETRONAS Team has completed a three-day test in Valencia with the new SAUBER PETRONAS C21 with Nick Heidfeld setting the fastest time of 1m12.404s, over the course of 71 laps. Felipe Massa was third quickest (1m14.219) but ended his testing with an accident after 23 laps and was unharmed.

Willy Rampf (Technical Director): "Today, Nick concentrated on a tyre program and the preparation of the first Grand Prix of the season in Melbourne. Felipe Massa focused on tyre testing but unfortunately, his work was interrupted when he had an accident at the end on the morning, on the main straight. The Team decided to send the car back to Hinwil for investigation and repair, so that it is ready for the next test in Mugello - Italy (February 16 - 18). Overall, this session has been a successful test where the Sauber Petronas C21 has shown itself to be reliable and very competitive."

Nick Heidfeld: "I have been quite happy with this test. The Sauber Petronas C21 has been running well every day. The car has a lot of grip. I am very much looking forward to the first Grand Prix of the season in Australia.

Felipe Massa: "Unfortunately, I had an unexpected problem with the front wing attachment to the nose. It caused a big accident. The car stood up to the impact and I am completely unharmed. In the circumstances, I'm happy with third fastest time".

-sauber-