McLaren, Ferrari wrap up Ricard test

Spaniard Pedro de la Rosa, taking over from Finn Kimi Raikkonen at the wheel of the McLaren, finished on top of the times after 82 laps of the French track. De la Rosa joined British teammate Gary Paffett, third fastest today.

"We have completed a productive three-day session at Paul Ricard today, as we continued our preparations for the Canadian and United States Grands Prix," said McLaren F1 CEO Martin Whitmarsh.

"As both tracks have similar characteristics, dominated by long, fast straights and hard braking zones, we have been working through aero, set-up and brake work with Kimi, Gary and Pedro.

"The adaptability of Ricard has allowed us to simulate the conditions at the two North American races, and the aero testing has included the wing packages for the events. Alongside this, the test team has completed tyre selection with Michelin for Indy, with Canada tyres already confirmed at the last Ricard test in late May.

"The week has seen reasonable running, with the three drivers covering over 2,600km in total. Today, both Pedro and Gary had some time in the garage to allow for engine changes at the end of the respective life cycles, and were able to get back on track to continue running."

Felipe Massa and Luca Badoer were again in action for the Ferrari team, who focussed mainly on tyre testing and aerodynamic work. The Brazilian was second quickest while Badoer, the busiest man today, finished at the bottom of the times.

Today's times:

Pos  Driver        Team                      Time     Laps
 1.  de la Rosa    McLaren-Mercedes     (M)  1:23.858   82
 2.  Massa         Ferrari              (B)  1:23.905   82
 3.  Paffett       McLaren-Mercedes     (M)  1:24.221   91
 4.  Badoer        Ferrari              (B)  1:24.838  126

All Timing Unofficial