Fittipaldi completes Homestead test

The Brazilian was pleased with his test, despite difficult conditions.

"Despite the windy conditions yesterday and today, we are very happy with what we learned here," said Fittipaldi following Wednesday's test.

"We ran some really wild settings on the car yesterday and learned a lot of things that are going to help us in the race. Today, we basically fine-tuned the new things we learned and made long, full fuel runs.

"At this track the wind does make a difference. If we had perfect conditions today, we could have gone about two-tenths faster."

On Tuesday, Fittipaldi completed approximately 153 trouble-free miles in his No. 11 Big Kmart/Route 66 racecar. During the two days, the team worked on a variety of mechanical and aerodynamic components and made long full-fuel runs.

The team continued to log many trouble free miles on Wednesday and Fittipaldi set his fastest lap time of 26.00.

The total mileage for the test was 385 miles over the two days. Wind was a major factor on both days.

Michael Andretti takes over testing duties tomorrow for his final day of running on the oval before the March 26th season opening Marlboro Grand Prix of Miami.

The final test of the off-season begins next week at the Homestead road course with Fittipaldi scheduled for three days.

"The competition in the series will be even stronger this year than ever before," said Fittipaldi.

"It's amazing. Everyone has to be at the top of their form both physically and mentally to do well in this series. I think our chances are very good for a strong season. I'm looking forward to the first race, for sure."

The CART FedEx Championship Series season begins on March 26 with the Marlboro Grand Prix of Miami at the Homestead-Miami Speedway.