US GP: Sauber Friday notes

Heinz-Harald Frentzen and Nick Heidfeld finished in sixth and ninth places respectively after today's first free practice sessions for the United States Grand Prix.

Nick Heidfeld:

"The car felt a lot better today than it did in the previous two races. I think we made definite progress in our recent test at Silverstone. To begin with the rear end was generally nervous but we made some changes that helped. Of course we need to wait until tomorrow to see where we really are, but I'm hopeful that we can qualify back in the top 10, which is where we've been most of the season."

Heinz-Harald Frentzen:

"It feels good to be back at Sauber and I enjoyed today. I'm still around 15 cm too tall for this car, but there's no real discomfort for me. I just have the steering wheel closer than I'd really like. I feel like I am driving the way my grandmother used to! But I can drive the car okay and it felt reasonably balanced. There's potential to improve, of course, but I'm happy with sixth place on my first proper day back with the team."

Peter Sauber (Team Principal):

"Overall it's been a good Friday and both drivers did a lot of laps - together more than a race distance - and set similar times. Naturally I'm pleased that Heinz-Harald felt able to drive the car in reasonable comfort straight away, and though it's difficult to say for sure, I think now the car is back at its normal level after a couple of difficult races."

Driver (Chassis)
Heidfeld (C21-01)
1:15.260s, 9th
Frentzen (C21-02)
1:15.136s, 6th
Spare: (C21-04)

-sauber-