Williams Paul Ricard test summary 2004-05-11/14

Juan Pablo Montoya and Antonio Pizzonia have completed the BMW WilliamsF1 Team's preparations for the forthcoming Grands Prix of Monaco and Europe. Thankfully, the rain which has caused problems over the last couple of days held off on the final ...

Juan Pablo Montoya and Antonio Pizzonia have completed the BMW WilliamsF1 Team's preparations for the forthcoming Grands Prix of Monaco and Europe.

Thankfully, the rain which has caused problems over the last couple of days held off on the final day of testing, allowing the BMW WilliamsF1 Team to complete its scheduled test programme.

Once again the 4.157 kilometre '1D' configuration of the 'Paul Ricard Circuit was used, a high-downforce layout that allows the teams to prepare for the forthcoming races in Monaco and at the Nürburgring.

Juan Pablo Montoya and BMW WilliamsF1 Team test driver Antonio Pizzonia spent the day working on set-ups in addition to evaluating tyres for Michelin. The Colombian completed 97 laps, posting a best time of 1:10.769, while the Brazilian completed 119 laps, with a best time of 1:11.272.

The BMW WilliamsF1 Team now heads to Monaco, where the first free practice sessions take place on Thursday. The drivers enjoy a rest on Friday before taking part in the remaining practice and qualifying sessions on Saturday.

Sam Michael (Chief Operations Engineer, WilliamsF1):

"This week we had a productive test at Ricard circuit, concentrating on tyre compounds for Monaco and Nüburgring, suspension settings and brake material and brake ducts. We also did some low downforce aerodynamic work on the long circuit on the first two days."

Mario Theissen (BMW Motorsport Director):

"This week's Paul Ricard test has been focused on preparation work for the two forthcoming Grand Prix in Monaco and Montreal respectively. With a view to the Monaco circuit, we have been running on the shorter track and with for Montreal we used the full track with its long straight."

"The main test objectives were chassis development, set-up and tyre testing. On the engine side, we have been working on improvements of our start performance, traction control and engine set-up. The changeable weather conditions gave us the opportunity to further develop these objectives in dry as well as wet conditions."