Williams Barcelona test summary 2005-03-24/25

BMW WilliamsF1 Team concludes Barcelona test

The conditions at the circuit, located close to the Spanish metropolis, were perfect for the Anglo-German partnership's final day of testing, thus offering Nick Heidfeld and Antonio Pizzonia the chance of completing the team's scheduled preparation programme for the forthcoming round of the 2005 FIA Formula One World Championship, the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Both drivers focused on tyre evaluation tests with Michelin, the BMW WilliamsF1 Team's tyre partner. In addition to several long runs, Nick and Antonio also practiced simulated race starts on the start/finish straight.

On the way to his fastest lap time of 1:16.986 minutes, Nick covered a total of 82 laps, while Antonio completed 68 laps and posted a personal fastest lap time of 1:16.051 minutes. Despite suffering an accident in the closing stages of Friday's session, Antonio Pizzonia fortunately walked away unhurt.

Sam Michael (Technical Director, WilliamsF1):

"Today we concluded a two day test in Barcelona with Nick and Antonio in two FW27s. It was a productive test, during which we covered a total of 1,750 kilometers. Nick worked through tyre tests for Michelin, electrical system improvements, power steering modifications and a couple of aero tests in readiness for Bahrain."

"Meanwhile, Antonio worked on mechanical set-up items, cooling tests and some fuel system modifications. The race team now look forward to the Bahrain Grand Prix, while the test team will return to the Barcelona circuit in two weeks time."

Mario Theissen (BMW Motorsport Director):

"During the two test days in Barcelona the team focussed on chassis set-up and tyre testing. With regards the BMW P84/5 engine, we continued development work on the launch and traction control systems, in particular on Thursday when we achieved an impressive amount of miles."

-williams-