Williams Jerez test notes 2004-09-28

As testing gets underway at Jerez, Monegasque veteran Olivier Beretta replaces BMW WilliamsF1 Team test driver Antonio Pizzonia following a minor accident.

The BMW WilliamsF1 Team's official test and reserve driver, Antonio Pizzonia, has been ruled out of this week's three-day test at Jerez de la Frontera. The Brazilian injured his ankle when he slipped on the stairs in his hotel in China.

Consequently, as the BMW WilliamsF1 Team continues its preparations for the final two races of the 2004 FIA Formula One World Championship, Monegasque veteran Olivier Beretta, who drove for the French Larrousse team in 1994 and has tested intermittently for the BMW WilliamsF1 Team since 2002, was drafted in to partner regular test driver Marc Gené.

Today's test was held in perfect conditions, with blue skies and temperatures reaching 35°C.

Marc concentrated on set-up work and tyre tests with the BMW WilliamsF1 Team's tyre partner Michelin. The Spaniard completed 30 laps, posting a personal best time of 1:17.695 minutes. Olivier concentrated on testing different cooling configurations. He completed 87 laps, setting a best time of 1:18.982 minutes.

Tim Newton (Test Team Manager, WilliamsF1):

"Olivier Beretta ran the second FW26 today, replacing Antonio Pizzonia who has been sidelined due to an ankle injury sustained while in China. Despite coming in at extremely late notice, Olivier did a very good job today, completing 87 laps of various aero measurements and traction control work. Marc, unfortunately, didn't have such a good day as a few minor technical problems restricted his lap times. He should, however, be able to go better tomorrow."

Testing continues at Jerez de la Frontera continues on Wednesday, with Ralf Schumacher joining Marc.

-williams-