Schumacher Tries New Ferrari Chassis in Japan

World Champion Michael Schumacher drove a new version of Ferrari's F2001 car during today's practice session for the Japanese Grand Prix, but the German driver was unable to give a verdict about it.

The new chassis, which will only be used by Schumacher, has been built to a different spec sheet, which sees a reduction in weight. Schumacher, who finished today's session in a low eighth place more than a second behind Jean Alesi, could not say if the new chassis will make any difference.

"The modifications which have been made to some parts of the track seem good as we now have more run-off area in some sections," said Schumacher. "I cannot say much about the new chassis, as it is the only car I have driven today, so I have nothing to compare it with. But it seems fine.

"The two types of tyre on offer from Bridgestone are very similar, but I think we have an idea which way to go. The competition between Bridgestone and the other brand of tyre seems very close, so it will be interesting to see who is on top tomorrow afternoon."

Teammate Rubens Barrichello, who needs to win the race in order to have a shot at the runner-up spot in the Championship, finished the day in eleventh place, but the Brazilian was confident of a good weekend and played down the importance of today's times.

"I am not concerned about my position or the time gap to the front runners, as it is easy to do a good time here, running with a light fuel load," Barrichello said. "Today's times don't matter and I am still confident for both tomorrow's qualifying and Sunday afternoon.

"I found the car a bit difficult to drive today and I had some problems with braking. Now we will try and find a solution to that in time for the rest of the weekend."