The objective AT&T Williams for practice one was simple, providing the weather didn't interfere, which of course it did. The objective was to test the upgrade components. For practice two the objective was the same with added tyre runs and set up work.
Sam Michael, Technical Director said that even though there was alot of rain the team made good progress with their updates. “Both cars went through a series of wet set-up tests throughout the two sessions. The limited dry running still allowed us to check rear wing level, brake cooling and engine cooling.”
Veteran driver Rubens Barrichello, who is hoping to sign a new contract in the near future, expressed his joy being back in the car, proving he still has the passion in him. “It was good to be back in the car after what feels like a long time. The only problem I had today was the KERS not working in the afternoon session. Apart from that, it was a pretty straight forward day working through our development parts.”
Rookie Pastor Maldonado had an enjoyable yet difficult day at his first F1 race on the circuit. “Conditions were quite difficult today because it wasn't completely wet or completely dry. But I think it was a positive day and I'm looking forward to tomorrow. We need to improve more in the wet but in the dry the car felt well balanced. There is still much we can improve.”
