Monza is the perfect circuit to test all aspects of low downforce set-up and lessons learned here will be relevant to race conditions expected at both Hockenheim and Monza and maybe to a lesser degree at Indianapolis. The only quick circuit that is significantly different is Spa, where the kerbs are different in nature and this necessitates specific testing that the team did not do in Monza. The team has tested a variety of aero developments as well as the variability of aerodynamic performance based on different fuel loads and tyre options for Michelin. The test has provided an ideal mix of conditions from hot and dry to cool and wet. This has left Michelin and the team fairly clear on the optimum tyre for Hockenheim.
Dr Mario Theissen (BMW Motorsport Director)
"We are looking back on an intensive test with two cars over four days. On
the engine side we have been working on a lot of tasks, the main targets
were improving the traction control and trying a top exit exhaust.
We also supported an extensive test programme on the chassis and tyres. The test in Monza not only made possible a good preparation for
the Italian Grand Prix in September, but also for the next Grand Prix in
Hockenheim, where we will be facing long, engine-demanding straights, too."
<pre> Complete list of times/no. of laps Time Laps
Eddie Irvine Jaguar Cosworth 1 24.555 65 Juan Pablo Montoya WilliamsF1 BMW 1 24.887 45 Mika Hakkinen McLaren Mercedes 1 24.935 91 Ricardo Zonta Jordan Honda 1 24.990 66 Marc Gene WilliamsF1 BMW 1 25.188 64 Rubens Barrichello Ferrari 1 25.505 80 Pedro de la Rosa Jaguar Cosworth 1 25.523 60 Alexander Wurz McLaren Mercedes 1 25.652 65 Jacques Villeneuve BAR Honda 1 25.841 74 Jenson Button Benetton Renault Sport 1 26.289 33
-Williams
