Williams Valencia test notes 2002-11-26/28

The BMW WilliamsF1 Team concluded a three day test at the Valencia circuit in Spain today, marking the start of the winter testing program for the team. The tests were conducted by BMW WilliamsF1 driver, Juan Pablo Montoya and official test driver Marc Gené. Giorgio Pantano and Vitantonio Liuzzi also provided testing support, with each of the young Italian drivers completing three full sessions. It was a productive return to the winter testing program after the test ban began almost two months ago.

Sam Michael (Chief Operations Engineer, WilliamsF1):

"Dry weather testing wrapped up today. We had a useful test with Juan Pablo concentrating on tyre compounds and casings as well as some brake developments. Marc continued putting mileage on the new engine and gearbox and although we have some of the normal teething problems, initial signs are good. We also had Giorgio Pantano and Vitantonio Liuzzi testing for us in the third car. They both did a good job, working well with the engineers and making a good contribution to an extensive job sheet. Now we have two days of Michelin wet testing with Marc before heading to Barcelona."

Mario Theissen (BMW Motorsport Director):

"We have been testing the new P83 engine for three days in one of the chassis running at Valencia. We have been concentrating on the basic functionality of the 2003 engine. The other two cars were running with the P82 engine, with their programme focused on tyre testing, suspension and, of course, the evaluation drives of Pantano and Liuzzi. From our point of view, the Valencia test was a successful one and we are satisfied with the results."

Giorgio Pantano:

"Firstly I would like to thank the BMW WilliamsF1 Team for affording me the opportunity to test. I am quite happy with my performance in the test as well as my input into the car together with the team. It was a fantastic experience as the WilliamsF1 BMW is one of the best cars in Formula One and I was very excited to have this opportunity. I found the atmosphere within the team friendly and professional. This provided the best possible environment in which to perform."

Vitantonio Liuzzi:

"I will never forget the pure thrill of my first ever lap and the experience of driving a Formula One car. The team was fantastic, gave me great support and was very friendly, which resulted in an amazing three days. I am very grateful to the BMW WilliamsF1 Team for giving me the opportunity to realise my dream of driving in Formula One."

-williams-