01/03/2002

Australian Grand Prix - Free Practice

Panasonic Toyota Racing has today ended its first day of action during a Grand Prix weekend. Mika Salo and Allan McNish ended the two practice sessions in 6th and 16th positions respectively.

Mika Salo - Car No. 24

Position:	6th 1m29.601s 34 laps completed
Chassis:	TF102/04

"The practice went as we expected really. The circuit was wet to start with and we knew we would struggle because of a lack of downforce and lack of experience with the tyres. When the track was dry the car seemed to be performing well and we had no problems with the car really and it was quite a motivating day."

Allan McNish - Car No. 25

Position:	16th 1m30.602s 34 laps completed
Chassis:	TF102/05

"The session today was pretty good but unfortunately it was interrupted by wet weather conditions. We have made some small progress with the car but I think the circuit is still green right now. We tried to keep our heads down and do our job which everyone did very well. Overall I am happy with how it has gone but I hope it will be dry tomorrow."

Gustav Brunner Chief Designer
"The weather was obviously not on our side this morning but generally we are very happy with the first session. The team worked very well together and also the car functioned well but we are not as good as it seems on the timesheets. Tomorrow we have to continue with this and qualify as well as we can. All systems are go and I am quite positive."

Weather:	A wet start drying out during the morning but still overcast with occasional drizzle. Temperatures: Air - Min 15°C Max 17°C; Track - Min 13°C Max 18°C; Humidity 68% (session 1) 60% (session 2).
T-car:	Chassis TF102/02 set up for Mika Salo