Williams Paul Ricard test summary 2004-04-14/16

The BMW WilliamsF1 Team concluded their three day test programme at the Paul Ricard circuit in France early today, due to adverse weather conditions.

Despite the abrupt end to the test, the team managed to perform some chassis set-up work and tyre testing under better conditions during the first two days. The team's official test and reserve driver, Marc Gené opened the session on Wednesday, while Antonio Pizzonia and Juan Pablo Montoya took over for the final two days. Between them, the drivers clocked up just over 1,500 kilmotres.

This week's test was the final opportunity for last minute preparations before the team travel to the European season opener, the San Marino Grand Prix, on 25th April.

Sam Michael (Chief Operations Engineer, WilliamsF1):

"Juan Pablo and Antonio were on testing duty for the team today, with both drivers completing some traction control work and practice starts in preparation for Imola. However, strong wind and driving rain forced us to abandon running this afternoon."

"Overall, the test was quite useful as we managed to identify several set-up options for the forthcoming San Marino Grand Prix. We also verified some new directions on tyre compounds and casings with Michelin."

Mario Theissen (BMW Motorsport Director):

"We didn't have a specific engine development programme scheduled for this week's test at Paul Ricard. We were present to provide support for the set-up work the team completed on the chassis as well as for the tyre testing."

-williams-