BAR Duo Hoping for Wet Weekend

The British American Racing team will be hoping for a wet Belgian Grand Prix on Sunday after both Olivier Panis and Jacques Villeneuve admitted they were happy with the performance of their cars in today's second practice session at Spa.

"We had a small gearbox problem this morning and we didn't improve the car in the first session," explained Panis, who was the fastest of the BAR duo, setting the eleventh quickest time. "After that it started raining but I think we are quite competitive in the wet conditions.

"We just need to find the right set-up for tomorrow so we can get a good balance. Generally, I'm feeling optimistic for qualifying."

Canadian Villeneuve endured a tough day, spinning off the track in the first session, being unable to set a competitive time. In the afternoon, the 1997 World Champion could only complete two quick laps before a heavy rain hampered his progress, finishing in 15th place.

"We're very happy in the wet," said Villeneuve's race engineer Jock Clear. "He stayed out for a long run just to see how the tyres held up and to try some different things. Jacques said the intermediate tyre was very good - as usual from Bridgestone - so we don't mind if it's a wet weekend."