2003 Starts Here: Testing Under Way


Heidfeld in the Pits

By Phil Huff
December 5 2002

Sauber Petronas kicked off their 2003 campaign with their first test at Valencia. Nick Heidfeld took to the circuit behind the wheel of a 2002 spec C21, concentrating on gearbox developments for the C22, due to be revealed to the public on 9 February. Commenting on the first day of the new season, Jacky Eeckelaert (Head of Vehicle Engineering) said "The purpose today was to conduct detailed gear-box test to gather data for the forthcoming SAUBER PETRONAS C22. We had a successful day and were able to finish running an hour early having completed our gear-box program."

The early finish would have been appreciated by Heidfeld, having completed 49 laps, setting third best time in the process. "I have enjoyed my break since Suzuka," commented Heidfeld, "but it felt great to be back in a racing car again. Valencia is an interesting track to drive on. We had a productive day."

Heinz-Harald Frentzen is due to get his first run on 7 December at Jerez.

P Driver Team Engine Car Tyre Best Lap Laps
1 JP Montoya Williams BMW FW24 M 1:13.346 52
2 K Raikkonen McLaren Mercedes MP4/17D M 1:13.574 57
3 N Heidfeld Sauber Petronas C21 B 1:15.017 49
4 A Wurz McLaren Mercedes MP4/17D M 1:15.097 15
5 J Trulli Renault Renault R202B M 1:15.376 36
6 G Pantano Williams BMW FW24 M 1:15.531 69
7 M Gene Williams BMW FW24 M 1:15.958 12
8 F Montagny Minardi European V10 PS01B M 1:17.031 28
9 S Zlobin Minardi European V10 PS01B M 1:17.302 29

Bookmark or share this story with: