Williams Valencia test summary 2004-02-18/20

The BMW WilliamsF1 Team concluded a three day test at Valencia today having covered over 1,700 kilometers and headed the timesheets on two out of the three days.

Both Ralf Schumacher and Juan Pablo Montoya were on hand to perform testing duties, Juan running on Wednesday and Thursday and Ralf on Thursday and Friday. The team's official test driver, Marc Gené, was also present to assist with the team's testing programme.

Despite heavy rain hampering today's session, the team worked through an extensive job list over the three days, including set-up work, traction control routines and systems checks on the FW26. All three drivers also carried out tyre construction testing with Michelin in preparation for the opening round of the Championship in Melbourne on March 7th.

Sam Michael (Chief Operations Engineer, WilliamsF1):

"For the penultimate test before the start of the season, Juan, Ralf and Marc shared testing responsibilities. Over the three days, the drivers have worked through a lengthy programme in order to prepare the FW26 for its debut in Melbourne."

Mario Theissen (BMW Motorsport Director):

"Just before bad weather hampered the test programme on Friday, the BMW P84 engine successfully completed another race simulation. The engine specification used will be the one we have in Melbourne so we should be well prepared for the season's opener. Next week, we will spend the final, pre-season test in Imola fine tuning the P84."

The BMW WilliamsF1 Team will travel to Imola next week for a three day test commencing on Tuesday 24th February.

-williams-