Formula 1
Spanish GP: Jordan preview
Jordan Ford's preparations for the 2003 Spanish Grand Prix included the team's first test session since the beginning of the season, with Ralph Firman in action at Silverstone on 23 April, joined by Fisichella the following day. The drivers ...
Published: May 1, 2003, 8:50 PM
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Jordan Ford's preparations for the 2003 Spanish Grand Prix included the team's first test session since the beginning of the season, with Ralph Firman in action at Silverstone on 23 April, joined by Fisichella the following day. The drivers completed a total of 670km with a programme including tyre construction evaluations for Bridgestone, aerodynamic comparisons and control systems work.
Firman was pleased with the opportunity to increase his F1 mileage at the Northamptonshire circuit, completing 565.5km. "It was good to have a test," he said, "We were a bit unlucky with the weather on the second day but we learnt a few things about the car. It was good to get the miles in and I'm looking forward to other opportunities during the year."
Gary Anderson, Director of Race and Test Engineering:
"Inconsistent conditions with rain and fog interrupted our second day, but we achieved a few productive tests. This the first race we've gone to straight from a test and we will use some of the data in Barcelona so hopefully we are ahead of ourselves a little bit. We have got some aerodynamic developments and a few other new things - we're pushing ahead as far as we can."
"The test mileage was useful for Ralph, particularly for the British Grand Prix because he's never driven the Grand Prix circuit at Silverstone so it's another track he has learnt. It's a demanding circuit, useful for other places, and he's done a good job there. Seat miles are good for anyone new to F1, just to go through the experiences and pick up the car feedback. It was good to have a test session but the Friday mornings at races are useful too. This set-up suits our circumstances as it enables us to do the best we can within our constraints."
The Jordan Ford EJ13 has clocked nearly 2,500km at pre-season testing in Barcelona and the team is returning to familiar territory for the forthcoming race. Anderson continues, "Barcelona can be anything from great to terrible. There are a lot of long corners and if the balance isn't good, the cars suffer tyre graining which is difficult. It's probably the hardest circuit to predict how we will do. Our objective is to qualify comfortably in the top ten and get some points."
Ralph Firman:
"I have done a few test days in Barcelona, which should help me. I will be able to get working on the set-up a bit more quickly because I know the circuit and so I won't be using up any laps on Friday morning to learn the circuit."
Giancarlo Fisichella:
"We know the Circuit de Catalunya very well as we run there for winter testing. It's not really my favourite circuit as it's difficult to get the balance right, but we'll have some new things for the car so I'm looking forward to it and hope to score points."
Martin Leach, President & CEO, Ford of Europe:
"There are plenty of good reasons to look forward to this weekend's Spanish Grand Prix, after an encouraging start to our relationship with Jordan. Looking back at the first four races of 2003, the highlight was obviously victory in the Brazilian Grand Prix but we are particularly pleased with the strong relationship that is being built between Ford and Jordan. This provides a good base for further integration in the future and will allow us to continue the hard work we have begun. Everyone knows that in Formula One there is absolutely no time to rest. Spain is a key market for Ford of Europe so a good result there would be especially welcome."
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