Formula One news

Ferrari happy with first day pace

Felipe Massa and Michael Schumacher finished sixth and eighth fastest in the opening day of practice for this weekend's Brisith Grand Prix. 

"It's always special to return to Silverstone, where we have not run since last year's British Grand Prix," said team chief Jean Todt. "This is one of Formula 1's historic circuits and the home track for almost all our adversaries. Today, the track was not yet at its best, but we still managed to work through all our programme. We worked on defining set-up and on the comparison of the two types of Bridgestone tyre at our disposal. They came here well prepared. Now we must study the data we have acquired and then try and improve in all areas for the rest of the weekend. But from what we could see in these two hours of free practice, the situation seems reasonably good."

Felipe Massa commented, "We worked mainly on comparing the two available types of Bridgestone tyre. Unfortunately, the track was very dirty and so it was quite tough to find the right car balance immediately, but that was the same for everyone. Now we must analyse our data to be as well prepared as possible for the rest of the weekend."

Michael Schumacher added, "It's a bit difficult to judge the situation after these two hours of free practice: tyres, fuel levels and work schedules are all different and they all have a bearing on performance. What we can say is that it is very tricky as the track is still very slippery. That's why so many, me included, went off track. We have to look carefully at the data to understand the situation, taking into account the wind, which also played its part today. There is no reason why we should not be competitive here too. Last week's Barcelona test was very encouraging, so we can be confident in our ability to fight for the win."

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