SEPTEMBER 20, 2001

Sauber prepare for Indianapolis

Sauber's Nick Heidfeld tested Thursday at Mugello, replacing young Brazilian Felipe Massa who was behind the wheel Tuesday and Wednesday.

SAUBER's Nick Heidfeld tested Thursday at Mugello, replacing young Brazilian Felipe Massa who was behind the wheel Tuesday and Wednesday.

Heidfeld, who had the track to himself, completed 79 laps of the Italian circuit while he and the team assessed their tire and aerodynamic packages for Indianapolis. Jacky Eeckelaert, Sauber's head of testing, added, "Our program focused on optimizing traction and mechanical grip for the infield at Indianapolis, which is a very twisty and slow circuit half-way between Hockenheim and Spa, whilst also honing the efficiency of the set-up."

The team will be back at Mugello tomorrow to continue working on the mechanical set up, as well as on braking efficiency and stability.