Toyota Duo Pleased Despite Hinderance

The team's test driver Ricardo Zonta finished second fastest after both Friday practice sessions, the Brazilian running tyre evaluation for the team in the morning session, and then endurance testing in the afternoon session.

"I had a really good feeling in the car today and I hit traffic on my last lap, so I could have gone even quicker," Zonta said. "The track was very slippery in the first session so we put in work to improve the grip level and to balance the car. That worked pretty well, and the grip improved in the afternoon as the track rubbered in. I think we are looking quite competitive."

Teammates Ralf Schumacher and Jarno Trulli finished practice in 10th and 11th respectively, but while Trulli was happy with the car, Schumacher complained of set-up problems.

"We still have a lot to do on the set-up because I am not happy with that yet," Schumacher said. "The tyre choice looks relatively straightforward here and we will confirm that tonight. Now we just have to put in a bit of work overnight on the set-up."

Trulli added that the practice sessions did not show the car's full laptime potention, after being hindered by traffic and yellow flags.

"We didn't really show the full potential of the car, because I spent much of the afternoon either stuck in traffic or finding yellow flags," the Italian said. "So our lap time is not very representative and we remain confident for tomorrow when we will understand better where we are. This is one of our home races so we'll hope for another good result."

Technical Director Mike Gascoyne summed up: "Overall the cars look competitive, so we'll be looking for podium finishes on Sunday."