Button Ends Mugello Test on Top

Briton Jenson Button, taking over from teammate Takuma Sato, topped the timesheets with a lap of 1:20.250 as he continued the evaluation of aerodynamic upgrades. Teammate Enrique Bernoldi replaced Anthony Davidson in the second car, completing a series of tyre evaluations for forthcoming races.

"The test in Mugello went very well this week," said Button. "I drove on one of the two days and we got through all our test items looking at some new aerodynamic developments on the car. I completed 123 laps today and we found some interesting things with the new aero package which I am confident will enhance our performance in Barcelona."

Bernoldi added: "It was an interesting day today, I focused mainly on tyre evaluations completing a mix of short and long runs. It is five years since I drove at Mugello so it has been good to be back here, especially as it is such a fast track.

"I completed 151 laps today which is tough on such a physical track, so I'm very pleased and think that we have got some good data from the hard work."

Ferrari also wrapped up their Mugello test, again with Michael Schumacher and Rubens Barrichello carrying out testing duties with the F2005. Their programme focused on tyre and aerodynamics testing once more.

The Minardi team were also in action at the Italian circuit, continuing with the development of their new PS05 car. Christijan Albers and Patrick Friesacher drove the new car, while test driver Chanoch Nissany was at the wheel of the PS04B.

"We have had a very good day, helped by the fact we were able to cover a considerable number of laps," said team manager Massimo Rivola. "In the process, we have taken a significant step forward in terms of overall vehicle reliability, which means we have achieved the main goal of this particular test.

"In addition, we made progress on the performance front, although it is clear the PS05 will have considerable potential for further improvement as the season progresses."

Today's times:

Pos  Driver        Team-Engine         Tyres  Time     Laps
 1.  Button        BAR-Honda            (M)  1:20.250  123
 2.  M.Schumacher  Ferrari              (B)  1:20.566   84
 3.  Barrichello   Ferrari              (B)  1:21.406   81
 4.  Bernoldi      BAR-Honda            (M)  1:21.500  151
 5.  Albers        Minardi-Cosworth     (B)  1:24.380   66
 6.  Friesacher    Minardi-Cosworth     (B)  1:25.721   47
 7.  Nissany       Minardi-Cosworth     (B)  1:39.519   16

All Timing Unofficial