Minardi Impressed by New Car

The struggling Anglo-Italian squad are introducing their first new chassis in three years this weekend. The car was only tested for a day before making its Grand Prix debut today.

The PS05, powered by the same engine used by Red Bull, failed to make an impression however, with Patrick Friesacher finishing in 23rd position over six seconds off the pace.

Dutchman Christijan Albers failed to set a time in the second session after he was hit by a mechanical problem.

"After a productive first session that saw both cars run virtually faultlessly, the second session proved there is no substitute for testing," said Stoddart. "A wiring problem put paid to Christijan's session, and while Patrick got all but one of his planned runs in, today was clearly all about beginning to understand the new car.

"Overall, the whole team is really impressed with the PS05, which appears to have enormous potential.  I'm proud of the job done by the whole team, but particularly the relentless effort by the mechanics to get the cars on track today."