18/01/2006
NEWS STORY
MotoGP star Max Biaggi tested a Midland-MF1 Toyota Formula 1 car at a rain- drenched Silverstone today. The 34-year-old Italian completed nine trouble- free laps of the 3.1-mile British Grand Prix venue.
"It was an amazing experience," declared Max afterwards. "The weather made it quite difficult and I had one moment on opposite lock when I put down the power too early, but the overall grip and power of the car was very impressive."
Max's test was split into three segments: an installation lap, followed by runs of three laps and five laps. Between the second and third runs he was given a new set of Bridgestone wet weather tyres.
"The car is a big toy," said Max. "It's like a big go kart. I didn't get anywhere near its limit today, but I went fast enough to appreciate what level of performance can be reached."
Max wouldn't make any comparisons between MotoGP and F1. "I love both," he said. "You can't compare them because on a bike I am free, it's like I am dancing on it to make it go fast. In an F1 car you are strapped in very tight, which is a weird sensation for me."
Biaggi has no further tests planned with MF1 Racing, but he made his intentions clear to the team. "I would love another test, preferably when it's dry!"