Brawn Pleased with F2005 Debut

With Rubens Barrichello's chances scuppered by a gearbox problem that has severely limited his running, Schumacher gave the team cause for optimism with a solid lap that was only eclipsed by Renault's Fernando Alonso and Toyota's Jarno Trulli. It marked a return to form after the troubles of Malaysia.

Brawn was more than satisfied with the result, especially because of the lack of time that the team's race drivers have had in the car prior to the race weekend.

"We are gaining experience quickly and I think we can be competitive this weekend," said Brawn. "If we can get on the first few rows then I think we can have a good race.

"Certainly it is going in the right direction and if we can make a step and a range of improvements for Imola then that will be good."

Commenting on Schumacher's lap, Brawn said: "In some ways it was quite a conservative lap because we could see from the data that Michael wanted to get a solid laptime in and with no mistakes.

"We have got a new front tyre here, which is a bit better, and we've got a few things coming in the future."

A replacement gearbox for Barrichello is due to arrive in Bahrain on Saturday evening and should be fitted to the Brazilian's car in time for final qualifying.