13/04/2005
NEWS STORY
As Ferrari undertakes a massive test programme ahead of the start of the European season, and its home race at the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari, at Imola, attention shifts to what many regard as the Achilles heel of the current package, its Bridgestone tyres.
The Japanese manufacturer has already admitted that much of the blame for the Italian team's lack of performance in the first three races of the season - particularly Australia and Malaysia - lies with its tyres, but insists that it is working flat out in order put the Italian team back on track as it fights for its seventh consecutive Constructors' Championship.
"Our technical personnel are busy testing with Ferrari at the moment in both Mugello and Fiorano," a Bridgestone spokesperson told Pitpass. "And on Thursday and Friday, we expect Jordan to be running at Paul Ricard.
"As always, they are assessing all aspects of the tyres: compounds, constructions and shapes, but in particular, Imola has a smooth surface which would normally require a soft compound. We are currently making sure the choice of compound(s) is right for Imola."
Ferrari has won the San Marino Grand Prix for the last three year's, the tifosi will be hoping that the Italian team and Bridgestone can begin the fight back next weekend.
"Our technical manager, Hisao Suganuma, seems happy that we'll see another step forward in San Marino," said the spokesperson.
Ferrari fans around the world, not forgetting Michael and Rubens, will certainly hope so.