source:
minardi.it
The first day of a five-day Minardi test got under way today at the Autodromo
Santamonica in Misano. One of the two Minardi Cosworth PS04B chassis available
was driven initially by Tiago Monteiro, who then handed over to Patrick
Friesacher, while the other was allocated to Israeli driver, Chanock Nissany.
Monteiro's task was to work on chassis set-up, while Friesacher and Nissany, who
were both having their first experience of an F1 car, spent much of their
allocated time on the opening day acclimatising to the levels of performance and
handling available. Nissany is scheduled to continue testing on Tuesday, and
will be joined by young Australians, Will Power and Will Davison, fulfilling a
promise made to both men by Minardi Team Principal, Paul Stoddart, at this
year's Australian Grand Prix.
PATRICK FRIESACHER Best lap: 1 min 11.150 secs Total laps: 42
"To test a Formula One car is a great experience, and I have to thank the
Minardi team and Paul Stoddart for this opportunity. I was just amazed at the
speed and the braking of the car when I went out on my first lap, but then, like
all race cars, you start to get used to the performance. I think I had a good
day and I hope the team is pleased with the job I did."
TIAGO MONTEIRO Best lap: 1 min 13.240 secs Total laps: 20
"It was a great pleasure to be back in a Formula One car again, and I have to
thank Paul Stoddart, Gian Carlo Minardi and the whole team for the opportunity
they have given me today. I had never been to Misano before, so I spent the
first couple of laps this morning just familiarising myself with the circuit.
Initially, the conditions were very tricky, as the track surface was extremely
dirty. The situation gradually improved, however, so we got on with testing
several items and accumulating some useful information. I was also able to set
the car up for the other drivers, who don't have any F1 experience. I'm very
pleased to have been back with the Minardi team again, and now we have to work
for the future. The next few days will be very important."