Williams Monza test notes 2004-09-01

After the month long testing ban in August, the BMW WilliamsF1 Team today began a three-day test at the "Autodromo Nazionale di Monza".

Despite the August test ban, the BMW WilliamsF1 Team has made a number of modifications to the WilliamsF1 BMW FW26, most notably a new, more traditional, nose section. The resumption of testing means that the team can test this and other components as it prepares for the final four races of the 2004 Formula One World Championship, and attempts to close the gap to its rivals.

The day got off to a chilly start, with temperatures around the 15 degrees C mark. However, by the afternoon the sun was shining and the temperature had risen to 26 degrees.

Juan Pablo Montoya and Antonio Pizzonia were on duty today, the Colombian working on tyre constructions for the forthcoming Italian Grand Prix, while his Brazilian team-mate focussed on aerodynamic components, brakes and rear tyre constructions.

Between them, the BMW WilliamsF1 Team duo completed 172 laps without any problems. Juan Pablo posted a best time of 1:21.649 minutes on his 31st lap, while Antonio was only marginally slower, posting a best time of, 1:21.851 minutes.

Following the news that Ralf Schumacher will not take part in this weeks test, both Juan Pablo and Antonio will remain on testing duty for the rest of the week.

Tim Newton (Test Team Manager, WilliamsF1):

"We had some good running today with Juan Pablo and Antonio completing 93 and 83 laps respectively. Both cars were on a similar programme and tested some new aero parts, tyres and brakes. Juan and Antonio will be on duty again tomorrow and Friday. We have more work to do, but we are satisfied with what we have achieved today."

-williams-