Formula One news

Gearbox problems for Bruni in Monza

The second day of the FIA Formula One test at the Autodromo Nazionale di Monza saw Minardi Cosworth drivers, Gianmaria Bruni and Zsolt Baumgartner, both in action. Bruni drove briefly during the morning session, a gearbox problem bringing his planned technical programme to a premature conclusion after 12 laps. Once the gearbox problem had been rectified, Baumgartner took over, driving throughout the afternoon session and concentrating on tyre assessment and
chassis set-up.

"I'm obviously a little disappointed that we weren't able to complete our full programme this morning, which was to have included further tyre evaluation plus chassis set-up work for next weekend's Italian Grand Prix. Unfortunately, a gearbox problem prevented us from completing everything we had planned for today, but I'm sure we'll be fine for Monza", commented Bruni.

"I'm happy with what we accomplished today, even though the gearbox problem we had this morning reduced our planned running time a little bit. We tried a number of tyre compounds from Bridgestone, as well as some different car set-ups and control software. We seemed to go in a good direction right away, so I think we are in an improved position compared with last year", claimed Baumgartner.

Meanwhile team manager Massimo Rivola seemed to be a happy man at the end of the second day of testing in Monza.

"Generally, the test has gone very well for the team. We experienced some small problems, but these things can happen. We have found what we think is close to an optimum set-up for the Italian Grand Prix weekend. Undoubtedly, all the other teams will have made progress too, but hopefully, the work we've done here will ensure we are a little closer to our rivals at Monza in 10 days' time. The team would like to extend its thanks to Bridgestone, whose assistance has definitely helped to ensure this was a good test for Minardi."

"It's also the case that the whole team deserves a special vote of thanks. There are just over 100 people working at the Minardi factory in Faenza, and with tests at Monza and Vallelunga this week, damaged cars from Belgium to be repaired, and a Minardi F1 two-seater event this weekend in Switzerland, everyone has been working incredibly hard. Finally, on a personal note, we were very relieved to see Michael (Schumacher) walk away apparently unhurt from what was clearly a serious accident at Monza this afternoon, and we wish him all the best."

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