WilliamsF1 Valencia Test Day One

Gene would complete ninety four laps, 376 kilometres. He would finish the day with the second fastest time, a lap of 1m:14.553. Gene's day was spent conducting tests of the traction control system, including several practice starts. Gene will be at the Valencia circuit until Friday.

Tim Newton, WilliamsF1 Test Team manger, commented on the test by saying: "In Valencia we did mostly set up work. In Monza it is the first time we've run there this year so we worked on the aero package. Some of the race team members are flying our tonight to Italy so we can do a pit stop fuel rig practice tomorrow to try and ensure we don't encounter the same problems faced during the British Grand Prix."

Renault test driver Fernando Alonso set the fastest time of the day, Gene second, and Sauber's Nick Heidfeld third. All the teams present were testing in preparation for the upcoming races in France and Germany.

Alonso's time was a 1m:13.117 after sixty seven laps. Renault Technical Director commented on the days testing by saying: "A normal first day of testing. Fernando ran some useful programmes for our tyre partner Michelin."

Nick Heidfeld said: "Our purpose today was not to set quick lap times. But to conduct some of the vital test work which is necessary to improve the car further. We had a productive day and I am pleased with the data we've gathered."

Pos Driver Team/Engine Times Laps

1. F Alonso Renault Renault R202 M 1:13.117 67
2. M Gene Williams BMW FW24 M 1:14.553 94
3. N Heidfeld Sauber Petronas C21 B 1:14.567 39