FEBRUARY 13, 2003

Testing...

We are into the final run-up to the opening round of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship and teams are testing all over Europe in preparation for the new season. Each passing day brings a new record somewhere or other with all the teams taking turns at wowing the observers. It is a dangerous time of year for the pundits because the teams are not playing it straight, trying to confuse and mislead one another to win some psychological advantage over the opposition.

"At this time of year," Peter Sauber said at his launch at the weekend, "we are all cheats!"

So beware new record times and let us wait until Melbourne to see a real picture of what the season ahead will bring.