Irvine crashes new Jag in first run

Eddie Irvine has crashed the sole Jaguar R2 during his first run in the new-for-2001 car during Formula 1 testing at Valenica

After only four laps in the car, Irvine left the damp track at the fast final corner of the Valencia circuit and crashed into the barrier. When questioned as to the cause of the accident, Irvine would only say: "The throttle stuck open."

Damage was restricted to the front end of the car, but could not be fixed at the circuit. As a result, the stricken R2 has been sent back to the team's Milton Keynes base for repairs.

Team mate Luciano Burti has, until today (Wednesday), had exclusive use of the R2 while Irvine concentrated on tyre development work for Michelin. With only one car available Irvine has now reverted back to the interim R1B chassis to continue tyre work, leaving Burti without a car.

Testing at Valencia concludes today, but technicians at the Jaguar factory will have to work fast as the Big Cat team has an exclusive test booked for its R2 at Silverstone on Monday.