DECEMBER 5, 2002
Coulthard leads final day in Barcelona
David Coulthard set the pace at the final day of testing at the Circuit de Catalunya in Barcelona Thursday. The McLaren driver was joined by fellow Briton Gary Paffet, who was sixth quickest on the day.
Juan Pablo Montoya was second fastest Thursday, nearly two seconds off Coulthard's time however. The Colombian tested alongside Williams teammate Ralf Schumacher and test driver Marc Gene. Chief Engineer Sam Michael was pleased with the three days the team spent at the Spanish circuit. "In Barcelona this week we covered a lot of ground. Marc spent all his time running the new engine and gearbox package. He has also been working on development suspension and brakes for the 2003 car. Juan Pablo concentrated on traction control and an intensive tyre program with Michelin to continue our compound and construction development aimed at next year. It is yielding good results already. Ralf started on day two and has worked solidly on traction control, suspension geometry and brakes."
Young Jaguar teammates Antonio Pizzonia and Mark Webber continued development of the R4 in Barcelona this week. Pizzonia was able to complete 86 laps Thursday, finishing the day third fastest, while Webber completed 73 laps, finishing ninth fastest.
BAR wrapped up their third consecutive day of testing in Barcelona Thursday with Jacques Villeneuve, Anthony Davidson and Formula Nippon Champion Ralf Firman. Thursday was Villeneuve's first time behind the wheel since last season, and the Canadian was pleased with the day's work. "Today was not a bad day. We were here to test some electronic software for next year and we did what we set out to do without any problems, so I am quite happy."
Renault also wrapped up their three day test Thursday with Fernando Alonso and Portuguese driver Tiego Montiero. Alonso concentrated on suspension and brake development while behind the wheel of last year's R202.
While most of the teams were in Barcelona, Ferrari and Sauber were in Jerez, Spain. Luca Badoer was behind the wheel for Ferrari, working on tire development for 2003, while Nick Heidfeld worked on gearbox and aerodynamic development for Sauber. Testing will continue Friday in Jerez.