Spanish GP BAR preview

The Circuit de Catalunya is one of the most challenging on the European calendar and physically demanding on the drivers, particularly on their necks. The circuit encompasses a number of high-speed corners and is renowned for being hard on tyres but with the introduction of traction control this should bring some relief on tyre wear. Chassis set-up to ride the bumps will be crucial as the nature of the Barcelona circuit is such that it can cause understeer problems. The Lucky Strike B.A.R Honda team relishes the challenge of Barcelona and like many other competing teams they use the track for much of their pre-season testing schedule.

LAST YEAR
A good overall performance by the team but no points in the Spanish Grand Prix.

Ricardo Zonta had a superb start climbing from 16th to 11th by the first corner. The Brazilian pushed extremely hard throughout the race, particularly in the closing laps, to take the chequered flag in eighth place. Team mate Jacques Villeneuve also had an excellent start and looked strong as he settled into sixth place early on in the race. Unfortunately a mechanical problem left him without a working throttle, forcing him to retire from the race.

Craig Pollock, Team Principal and Managing Director
"We had a productive three-day test at Silverstone which enabled us to gather data in preparation for Barcelona. I have no doubts that after the disappointment in Imola the team is focused on the challenge ahead. Our performance has been strong here in the past so we know the circuit suits our package. The team objective is to make progress and we will be looking to realize that potential here in Spain."

- BAR-Honda