Paul Ricard Tests – Day 3 – Trulli Swims Fastest

Jarno Trulli finishes on top after the third and final day of testing at the Paul Ricard circuit in France. He recorded the fastest time on Friday. The Formula 1 teams were actually preparing for the Canadian Grand Prix.

After two days with cars configured for Monaco, the teams used a new setup to test braking, which is crucial for Montreal.

The day was disrupted by the rain, Trulli completed only 26 laps to set a time of 1’31”360 during a clear spell.

His time is three-tenths better than the second, Nelson Piquet with his R28.

« After the first two days of testing dedicated to preparation for the Monaco Grand Prix, we had planned an intensive program. Simply because Montreal is a very different circuit. We wanted to try different aerodynamic and mechanical solutions, » stated Trulli.

« It is regrettable that the rain came to interfere with our tests. We were unable to collect data in dry conditions. »

McLaren test driver Pedro de la Rosa took third place ahead of Sebastian Vettel, who was greatly encouraged by the pace of his new Toro Rosso STR3.

Felipe Massa finished in fifth place after abandoning his tests after only 19 laps due to bad weather. Ferrari did not want to waste mileage on testing when it could prove more useful later in the season.

Nick Heidfeld sets the sixth fastest time but lost valuable minutes as he had to have his car repaired after going off track at turn 7 just before the midday break. He damaged his left rear suspension and the rear of his car.

The only other red flag of the day was caused by Adrian Sutil, who damaged his nose with a signal cone in the last half-hour of practice.

« This afternoon was very humid until the sun came out at the end of the day, » said Sutil.

« With these conditions, it is very difficult to draw real conclusions. »

Results of the Paul Ricard Private Tests – Day 3