The BMW WilliamsF1 Team completed their five day test programme at
the Circuit de Catalunya, Barcelona, today. The team had five drivers
on duty throughout the week, including Ralf Schumacher and Juan Pablo
Montoya, test driver Marc Gené as well as Antonio Pizzonia and Nelson
Piquet.

In preparation for the season opener in Melbourne on 7th March, the team
concentrated on mechanical set-up work and systems checks of the FW26,
as well as completing longer runs for engine reliability testing. The
modified FW25 was used to carry out tyre testing work with Michelin and
practice starts. On Wednesday, the race team joined the test to practice
pit-stops with Juan Pablo's car.

Despite poor weather conditions hampering the morning sessions, the team
covered over 3,600 kilometres and topped the time sheets on two of the
five days.

Sam Michael (Chief Operations Engineer, WilliamsF1):

"The team has had another productive test this week in Barcelona.
We've made good progress with the FW26, the drivers concentrating on
set-up options and reliability testing. Nelson had another good run in
the FW25, familiarising himself with the car and the circuit, and has
provided us with some valuable feedback."

Mario Theissen (BMW Motorsport Director):

"This week's test at Barcelona has been another intensive one for the
team. Throughout the week, we have worked on engine set-up as well as
improving the traction control system. Furthermore, we have practiced
manual starts and simulated an entire race weekend. The engine did not
experience any problems so we are very pleased with the results we
achieved."

-williams-


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