Williams Silverstone/Monza test summary 2004-06-01/03

Following the last two back-to-back races, the BMW WilliamsF1 Team used the two week break as an opportunity to return to the test track before heading to North America for the second double header of the season in Montreal and Indianapolis.

The team ran a split test programme over the three days with Juan Pablo Montoya, Marc Gené and Antonio Pizzonia running on home soil at Silverstone while Ralf Schumacher undertook responsibilities in Monza.

Combined, the drivers covered a total of 3,629 kilometers, providing valuable data for the team's on-going development of the WilliamsF1 BMW FW26.

Sam Michael (Technical Director, WilliamsF1):

"Running simultaneous sessions has allowed us to optimise the limited amount of testing time available to us between the current run of back-to-back races. Over the past three days, work in Monza has focused on brake, tyre and aero testing, with Ralf testing various new components for the FW26 in preparation for the United States and Italian Grands Prix. The low speed corners at Montreal precipitate heavy brake wear, hence the work going on at Monza."

"Meanwhile at Silverstone, the drivers have concentrated their efforts on set-up work, traction control and tyre compound testing for the Grand Prix there in July," the Australian added, "As is usual with our test programmes, all the drivers completed extensive mileage working with Michelin to develop the tyre compounds."

Mario Theissen (BMW Motorsport Director):

"From the engine side, we've had a productive three days of testing at Monza during which we completed a race weekend simulation. The team also worked on some improvements to the traction control system and the start procedure. At the same time, we provided support at the Silverstone test where efforts concentrated on chassis and tyre testing."

The BMW WilliamsF1 Team's next test will take place at the Jerez de la Frontera circuit, Spain, between 23rd and 25th June. Ralf Schumacher, Marc Gené and Antonio Pizzonia will all be present to undertake testing duties.

-williams-