BMW testing forced to stop by Bahrain's sandstorm

By BMW Sauber F1
February 11 2009

On Wednesday, BMW Sauber F1 Team driver Robert Kubica continued testing in Bahrain. The session, however, was a short trip: After 22 laps, the Pole prematurely had to finish testing due to sandstorms.

Programme: The day started with perfect weather allowing the BMW Sauber F1 Team to work on the development of the new car. However, from 10 o'clock a sandstorm started, reducing visibility significantly. The conditions meant the medical helicopter would not have been able to fly, so the session was stopped. As the weather conditions did not improve during the day the session was not re-started.

Weather conditions: Sunny in the early morning, sandstorms for the rest of the day. Temperature: Air: 19 - 23 °C, Track: 20 - 26 °C

Number of drivers participating: 3 from 3 teams Fastest lap overall: Felipe Massa (Scuderia Ferrari) 1:33.639 min Circuit length: 5.412 km

Robert Kubica Chassis / engine: BMW Sauber F1.09-02 / BMW 86/9 Test kilometres today: 120 (22 laps) Fastest lap: 1:34.398 min

What comes next: There will be two more days of testing this week in Bahrain. Robert Kubica will be at the wheel of the BMW Sauber F1.09 again tomorrow.