Williams Jerez test notes 2004-09-29

BMW WilliamsF1 Team driver Ralf Schumacher topped the timesheets on the second day of testing at Jerez de la Frontera.

On the second day of testing at Jerez de la Frontera, weather conditions were, once again, ideal. The session took place in bright sunshine, with temperatures reaching 34 degrees C (ambient), and 45 degrees C on track.

With Antonio Pizzonia ruled out of this week's three-day test following an incident in his hotel in China in which the Brazilian hurt his ankle, Monegasque veteran Olivier Beretta successfully deputised on Tuesday. Today, however, BMW WilliamsF1 Team race driver Ralf Schumacher was on duty.

The German did some chassis work in the morning, later testing tyres for the forthcoming Brazilian Grand Prix at Sao Paulo. Ralf completed 79 laps of the Spanish track, posting a best time of 1:16.831.

BMW WilliamsF1 Team test and reserve driver Marc Gené, was in the second WilliamsF1 BMW FW26, the Spaniard working mainly on starts and traction. Marc completed 88 laps, posting a best time of 1:17.210.

Both drivers continue the programme tomorrow.

Tim Newton (Test Team Manager, WilliamsF1):

"Ralf Schumacher took over from Olivier Beretta today, joining Marc Gené for the second day of the test. Ralf completed 80 laps in total and managed to record the quickest time of the day. During the session, he tested various tyre compounds in preparation for the Brazilian Grand Prix, as well as completing some suspension work and practise starts. Meanwhile, Marc covered 88 laps evaluating the FW26's traction control system and carrying out tyre development work with Michelin."

-williams-