Barrichello Breaks Jerez Track Record

Italian Grand Prix winner Rubens Barrichello broke the unofficial record of the Jerez circuit on his second day of testing at the Spanish track.

The Ferrari driver posted a best time of 1:16.106, which was 19 thousandths of second quicker than what McLaren's Kimi Raikkonen had managed earlier this year.

Barrichello, who concentrated on tyre testing and aerodynamic work, outpaced Brazilian Felipe Massa, the only other man on track.

The Sauber driver completed a total of 99 laps as the Swiss squad continued with their preparation work for the Chinese Grand Prix. F3000 champion Vitantonio Liuzzi will take over from Massa tomorrow as he tests for Sauber for the first time.

"In the morning we were able to finalise our aerodynamic work for the three remaining races in China, Japan and Brazil," said race engineer Mike Krack. "We also did a Bridgestone tyre data verification in the afternoon. Thanks to good weather and track conditions Felipe was able to run a lot of laps which helped us to catch up with the programme."

World Champion Michael Schumacher is scheduled to replace Barrichello at the wheel of the F2004 tomorrow.

Today's times:

Pos Driver Team-Engine Tyres Time Laps 1. Barrichello Ferrari (B) 1:16.106 89 2. Massa Sauber-Petronas (B) 1:16.812 99 All Timing Unofficial

Visit Atlas F1's Testing Center for further information