BAR Duo Positive Ahead of Qualifying

British American Racing drivers Jacques Villeneuve and Olivier Panis were optimistic after today's free practice for the Belgian Grand Prix despite enduring a somewhat troubled session.

Canadian Villeneuve posted the 13th quickest time of the day after losing valuable track time when he was hit by hydraulic fluid leak in the afternoon. The 1997 World Champion, who was the quickest of the Bridgestone runners behind the two Ferraris, was happy with the handling of his car.

"The car feels good here. For the last two years the car hasn't been driveable at Spa but today it was very easy to drive," said Villeneuve. "Unfortunately we're not quick enough but we we're still the fastest Bridgestone runner after Ferrari.

"I always enjoy driving here but it was easy to take Eau Rouge flat today; with traction control and high grip it's now the same for everybody. Hopefully we'll have a better day tomorrow and a little more set-up time."

French teammate Olivier Panis, who will leave the Brackley-based team to move to Toyota next year, was also hit by trouble in the afternoon session, his Honda engine blowing up spectacularly. Panis wound up 16th quickest, but remained positive ahead of qualifying.

"Obviously, it hasn't been a very good day today," he said. "As everybody saw, my engine let go at the end of the first session which cost me a lot of track time during the second session. Nevertheless, my first feeling was that the car was well-balanced before the problem occurred and I feel quite positive about tomorrow."