Montoya and Gene Make Williams Debut at Jerez

Juan Pablo Montoya made his debut for the Williams F1 team this morning at Jerez, where most Formula One teams began their pre-2001 season testing.

"This morning has gone much better than expected," said the Colombian. "I picked the race lines very easily and was able to push a little harder towards the end of the morning. There are still a few things for me to improve in the car, but it looks promising so far."

Montoya, who used to be Williams's test driver in 1998, also said: "I am a bit smarter after two years in CART. I've learned that you have got to get to know the car before you can really push. I am under no pressure to do a better job than Jenson because I am here for myself. I've only done about 30 laps in the car and there is a long road ahead. We have a lot of work to get through and I hope we have a productive last couple of days before we move on to Barcelona"

Ralf Schumacher and test-driver Marc Gene are also present at the Jerez circuit, with Schumacher concentrating on tyre development and Gene focusing on engine work.

"I am working on tyre development work today and I am surprised at how good the Michelins are," said Ralf. "There is a long way to go before we reach the required level, but that is certainly what we aim to do before we arrive in Melbourne."

Gene, who was announced as the team's test driver late last month, has been entrusted with the duty of testing the new BMW engine in preparation for the opening race of the season.

"My main duty is to carry out work on the new engine because we are not yet in a position to test the engine on all three cars. We hope to be able to get enough work done during the session to be able to move onto the next stage of development. So far I am really enjoying my time with the team and am settling in well."