JANUARY 29, 2003
Teams busy in Valencia
Alexander Wurz was the fastest man on the circuit Wednesday for McLaren, bettering Michael Schumacher by just over half a second. David Coulthard was third fastest in a second McLaren-Mercedes, followed by Rubens Barrichello's Ferrari. Barrichello was able to complete a massive 108 laps on the day, while completing a tire and electronics program.
Giancarlo Fisichella continued development of the Jordan EJ13. The Italian was able to complete mechanical and aerodynamic set-up work despite a transmission problem that brought the new car to a stop on the circuit briefly.
Jacques Villeneuve continued development work for BAR, and teammate Jenson Button joined him, taking over for test driver Takuma Sato, who was behind the wheel of the new 005 Tuesday.
Oliver Panis and Cristiano Da Matta also returned to Valencia Wednesday, testing for Toyota, as did Jaguar's Mark Webber. Panis was seventh fastest on the day, Webber was eighth and Da Matta eleventh.
Sauber tested with German teammates Heinz-Harald Frentzen and Nick Heidfeld, who tried to conduct aerodynamic testing, despite the gusty conditions. "We are making reasonable progress," said Heidfeld. "But it is not easy with a weather like this, because you really need consistent conditions and the wind has denied us them today."
Justin Wilson made his debut for Minardi Wednesday, but was considerably off the pace. Wilson was in a PS01 on Avon F3000 slick tires, as the team has yet to come to an agreement with Bridgestone for a supply of tires. Jos Verstappen is scheduled to test for the team Thursday, and may have to run on the Avons as well.