FEBRUARY 2, 2001

Minardi monocoque passes tests

MINARDI tested their 2001 monocoque this week and are on course to take to the grid in the season-opening Australian Grand Prix on March 4 after it passed crucial examinations.

The Faenza-based team, whose future was secured when Australian businessman Paul Stoddart bought a majority stake in the team on Tuesday, crash tested the monocoque and roll bar tests were also carried out successfully.

Minardi intend to announce the first of their two driver appointments on Tuesday, with Stoddart promising to have an experienced Grand Prix driver alongside a younger driver.