Albers blown away with F1 test

Christijan Albers' first run for European Minardi left the Dutchman amazed at the speed and stopping power of a modern F1 car, following his test at Mugello on Wednesday

Albers, who drives for Mercedes in the DTM this season, completed 22 laps for the Anglo-Italian minnow as it develops its traction control systems in time for the Spanish Grand Prix later this month. The experience left the 22-year-old hungry for more.

"The performance is incredible, but the braking is just unbelievable," said Albers. "You're flat in sixth gear on the straight, and 100 metres from the corner you brake and gear down to second - absolutely incredible. It has been a great experience. I really enjoyed working with the team and I hope to test more for them in the future."

The team seemed pleased with his progress, too, with Minardi sporting director Rupert Manwaring praising Albers, saying: "Christijan did a highly competent job for us, particularly in view of the fact that his seat didn't fit perfectly, causing him problems under braking. I know he has enjoyed the experience and so have we."

Albers now has to put his F1 aspirations temporarily on the backburner as he heads to Germany this weekend for the DTM's season-opening race in Hockenheim.