Villeneuve Back on Top at Imola - Final Day

Canadian Jacques Villeneuve was fastest for the second time this week at the Imola circuit, on the third and final day of testing at the Italian track.

The BAR driver, who had already topped the times on the first day of work, posted the quickest time of the week as he continued to make progress with the new Honda-powered 005, outpacing Williams test driver Marc Gene with the Michelin-tyred FW24D.

"We did a lot of laps today which was a huge improvement over the past couple of days," said Villeneuve. "We chose the tyres that we will use over the next few races and we are satisfied with our choice.

"The car is quick and we didn't encounter any mechanical problems today, which is very encouraging. If we can finish races we will be in a good position to score points."

Gene, who concentrated on general set-up work ahead of the Australian Grand Prix, finished ahead of McLaren's test driver Alexander Wurz.

Brazilian Ricardo Zonta returned to the wheel of the Toyota today, taking over from compatriot Cristiano da Matta at the wheel of the TF102B. Zonta concentrated on aerodynamic set-up, engine mapping and tyre testing, posting the slowest time of the day.

"Today was my first visit to Imola with the team and it is always positive to experience different circuits in testing," said Zonta. "We had a productive day and I carried on with Cristiano's programme. We were using the interim car, but gathered lots of useful data to prepare for the San Marino race, especially regarding set-up options.

"I could already feel some improvement in the car behaviour between this morning and the end of the session. I am feeling more and more acquainted to the team and I look forward to accompanying them to the Australian Grand Prix next week."

Today's times:

Pos Driver Team-Engine Tyres Time Laps 1. Villeneuve BAR-Honda (B) 1:21.393 55 2. Gene Williams-BMW (M) 1:22.650 68 3. Wurz McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:22.925 41 4. Zonta Toyota (M) 1:23.678 68 All Timing Unofficial

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