Valencia Test Williams notes - Day 1

The BMW WilliamsF1 Team today began the first of a four-day test programme at the Valencia Circuit (Spain). Only test driver Marc Gené was on duty and will be joined by Ralf Schumacher tomorrow. Juan Pablo Montoya will then take over responsibilities beside Ralf for the last two days.

Marc Gené
"It was a very positive day, as we were able to thoroughly complete the scheduled programme. We have been working on some specs for the Monaco Grand Prix as well as on traction control, where we have found some improvements. We are going in the right direction, no doubt. Tomorrow we will be concentrating on the tyres, which is something I enjoy."

Sam Michael (WilliamsF1 Chief Operations Engineer)
"Marc Gené kicked off this test focusing on cooling specs and different suspension geometries. The engine in his car was replaced in the morning, but no time was wasted as the test team mechanics were very quick and changed it in just over an hour, which was a good effort. Tomorrow Marc will be concentrating on tyre testing and more mechanical component testing, and will be joined by Ralf in the second car. Ralf will be mainly working on braking systems, testing different brake configurations."

Dr Mario Theissen (BMW Motorsport Director)
"Marc Gené achieved a satisfying mileage today, completing 66 laps. We have been working on two different engines on further development of traction control and made good improvements. The rest of the time we were supporting WilliamsF1 on some set-up work."

- Williams