Albers Rues Lack of Running

The Minardi driver succumbed to a gearbox problem in the afternoon, his team being forced to replace it before the rookie could get back on track.

Albers managed only 14 laps in the second session.

"It's a pity we lost some time during the second session because of a gearbox problem, which required it to be replaced," he said.

"I have to say, however, that once again, the team has done a really fantastic job, which enabled me to get back on track quickly and register some consistent lap times before the end of the session.

"Unfortunately, I encountered some traffic on my last run, and therefore wasn't able to discover the real limit of the car, but we have had a very productive day, testing a number of new components. Tomorrow is another day, and we will aim to make further progress."

Despite his problems, Albers finished ahead of teammate Patrick Friesacher as the Minardi duo escaped the bottom of the timesheets.

Albers was 20th, with Friesacher in 21st place.

"Generally, it has been a positive day," said Friesacher. "We had a good second session, and I feel we have definitely progressed with the car.

"I am confident there is still a margin of improvement, however, and we will certainly make the most of tomorrow's two practice sessions to find the best set-up for the afternoon qualifying run."