DECEMBER 14, 2000

Schumacher forced out of BMW-Williams test

RALF SCHUMACHER has been forced to abandon his BMW-Williams testing plans in Barcelona this week after being hit by flu.

German Schumacher, 25, posted the quickest time in Wednesday's testing at the Spanish circuit but was excused of his duties on Thursday after being told to go home by Williams officials.

"Unfortunately, I couldn't finish the planned program and I've had to leave the circuit because of flu," Schumacher said.

"I ran in the morning on Wednesday but kept feeling weaker and weaker as the day went on. I'm missing the final day of the test but it is more important to be in good shape for next week's test in Estoril."

Colombian Juan Pablo Montoya and Spanish test driver Marc Gene will complete the final day of the test in Schumacher's absence.