BAR Duo on Top at Mugello - Final Day
Japanese test driver Takuma Sato set the pace on the final day of testing at the Mugello circuit, where three teams concluded their preparations for the Spanish Grand Prix.
Japanese test driver Takuma Sato set the pace on the final day of testing at the Mugello circuit, where three teams concluded their preparations for the Spanish Grand Prix.
Today's session was dominated by the BAR-Honda team, with Sato finishing ahead of Canadian Jacques Villeneuve in the second of the 005 chassis, the former World Champion working on tyre testing for Japanese manufacturer Bridgestone.
"It feels good to be back in the car again and I'm pleased that the team now has two cars for tests," said Sato. "The weather has been good and we have been able to do a lot of running to try out new aerodynamic developments. I like this circuit a lot and I have really enjoyed the day today."
The BAR duo finished ahead of Brazilian Antonio Pizzonia, who was the busiest man on track with the only Jaguar, covering a total of 83 laps.
Brazilian Cristiano da Matta wrapped up a four-day test for the Toyota team, working at the wheel of the TF103 car as he concentrated on mechanical set-up and validation of aerodynamic packages. The CART champion was fourth quickest after 65 laps around the Italian track.
"I am very pleased with what we achieved on our final day here at Mugello," said da Matta. "We spent some time this morning doing baseline runs and continuing to improve the car's set-up and balance for Barcelona. This afternoon, we managed some longer runs which allowed us to check the Michelin tyres consistency and degradation further.
"All in all, despite the ups and downs we had yesterday, I am really happy that we have been able to finish on a positive and encouraging note. We managed to go through our programme for the Spanish Grand Prix and the Circuit de Catalunya being the second track I have previous knowledge of after Imola, I am hopeful to put in a strong performance there next week."
Today's times:
Pos Driver Team-Engine Tyres Time Laps 1. Sato BAR-Honda (B) 1:22.860 76 2. Villeneuve BAR-Honda (B) 1:23.017 70 3. Pizzonia Jaguar-Cosworth (M) 1:23.114 83 4. da Matta Toyota (M) 1:23.246 62 All Timing Unofficial
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