SEPTEMBER 17, 2002
Testing at Silverstone begins
Sauber and Renault kicked off testing in preparation for the United States Grand Prix Tuesday at Silverstone.
Felipe Massa was behind the wheel of the Sauber C21, testing different aerodynamic configurations. The Brazilian set he fastest time of the day, at 1:22.409, while completing 64 laps of the circuit.
Nick Heidfeld will take over for Massa Wednesday and Heinz-Harald Frentzen will drive Thursday for the Swiss team, to asses his comfort level in the car and the possibility of the German replacing Massa at the USGP.
Jenson Button and Fernando Alonso tested for Renault. Button was second fastest on the day, about four tenths off Massa's time. The Briton conducted a tire development program for Michelin and worked on chassis set-up. Alonso worked on shock development. Both drivers will return Wednesday for Renault.