The BMW Sauber F1 Team had a very strong start to its weekend in Montreal. Robert Kubica was fastest in both of Friday's free practice sessions for the Canadian Grand Prix. Nick Heidfeld and Jacques Villeneuve were ninth and tenth fastest respectively.

Robert Kubica: We have done two long runs, which were pretty good. The pace was fine, with quick lap times, and we were consistent. We are looking strong. I have no problems getting used to a new track, so this morning I was also able to be quick straightaway.

Nick Heidfeld: Generally I am happy with our positions as Robert was fastest in both sessions and Jacques and myself also made it into the top ten. The balance of the car is not perfect yet, and it proved quite difficult to drive. In the second session I had to stop my second run early due to a mechanical problem with the gearchange paddle. Without this I would have done a few more laps.

Jacques Villeneuve: The car is running strong. It is a little bit difficult to drive with the relatively low downforce, and the track is very slippery, but the lap times are competitive. I am confident for the rest of the weekend.

Mario Theissen (BMW Motorsport Director): It was a very positive first practice day with Robert completing his scheduled programme with no problems. His best time of the day illustrates we can repeat the promising performance from Silverstone. I am sure tomorrow in qualifying Nick and Jacques will profit from Robert's set-up work.

Willy Rampf (Technical Director Chassis): I am very satisfied with what we have achieved so far. The lap times of all three drivers are good and we didn't have any major problems to hamper our reliability. After last week's test the cars arrived here in Montreal very well prepared. Practically from the very first outing we were able to start working on the fine tuning. This was thanks to a very strong effort from both the test team and the team back home. Now we are really looking forward to tomorrow's qualifying.

To check out our Canada practice picture gallery, click here