McLaren: Real works starts tomorrow

David Coulthard and Mika Hakkinen wound up second and eighth after the first day's practice.

The Finn was unconcerned to be six places behind his teammate and four down on his chief rival title rival Eddie Irvine.

His chance to test new settings in the final minutes disappeared when both Jordans spun.

'It's too easy to get tempted in using too many tyres on Friday morning. We are taking things easy and learning the circuit,' said team boss Ron Dennis.

'The real work starts on Saturday.'

Hakkinen said he spent most of the free practice sessions getting to know the new circuit.

'I feel pretty comfortable with the work that we have done today.

'But I know there is still a lot to be done and I am looking forward to that and to racing here for the first time on Sunday.'

Coulthard was satisfied with his provisional place on the front row. 'An enjoyable first day here at the new Malaysian track.

'It is an interesting circuit with a nice surface, some good corners and reasonable kerbs,
he said.

'I had a straight forward first day's practice which sees us in the right place in terms of tyre usage and we will see how things develop tomorrow.'