16/05/2006
NEWS STORY
While seven teams were in action at Paul Ricard, Honda and WilliamsF1 began testing at Vallelunga, when the teams used the 'Junior' configuration which was fitted with a temporary chicane, as the teams prepare for Monaco.
Anthony Davidson was quickest of the four drivers on duty, the Englishman out-pacing his nearest rival by over a second. James Rossiter was also on duty for the Brackley outfit.
Davidson began the day by completing an aero programme in the morning, then spent the afternoon running through a tyre programme for the Monaco race.
Rossiter also worked through an aero evaluation in the morning session. Though his afternoon running was interrupted with a couple of small mechanical problems.
Jenson Button will join the test tomorrow taking over from Rossiter, while Davidson in the second car.
WilliamsF1 had test drivers Alexander Wurz and Narain Karthikeyan on duty, as the Grove outfit attempts to rediscover the pace shown in the first races of the season.
"Narain and Alex were responsible for testing Monaco-specific aero and mechanical modifications," revealed test team manager, Mike Condliffe. "This morning, we worked on set-up changes and evaluated some revised suspension components on Alex's car before moving onto tyre compound tests in the afternoon.
"Narain completed some engine mapping work with some new exhaust parts, he then carried out start comparisons work before covering off traction control work. Tomorrow, Alex will be joined by Mark Webber."