Sakhir Day 1 – Glock emerges first from the thick fog!

Timo Glock in the TF109 rose above the fog to emerge as the leader on this first day of testing at the Sakhir circuit in Bahrain. There are, however, few differences between the three teams.

Ferrari, BMW-Sauber, and Toyota all decided not to race in Europe because they wanted to ensure good weather. However, the first two hours of the session were lost due to thick fog.

Once the medical helicopter was able to take off safely, the teams were able to head towards the runway.

Glock was the fastest among the three cars present and is happy with what the team accomplished on this first day of testing by focusing on the car’s setup.

« After the dreadful weather in Portugal, it was our first real chance to race with the TF109 in dry conditions, » he explained.

« The fog delayed us briefly at the start, but it was not a major issue. We did a lot of groundwork to ultimately head in the right direction. »

« The car is performing well, which is a positive sign. We did a large number of laps. It’s very encouraging. »

Felipe Massa on Ferrari takes the second position, just over a tenth of a second from Glock. The Brazilian spent the morning evaluating the setup of his F60 before doing long runs in the afternoon.

Robert Kubica was the only other driver present with the third fastest time after a day spent working on the setup. His afternoon was interrupted by a mechanical issue, but he is satisfied with the progress made.

« It was the first time I drove the new car in warm weather, » stated the Polish man.

« We learned a lot about the car’s behavior in these conditions. Overall, it was a good day. »

Results of Private Tests Bahrain – Sakhir – Tuesday, February 10, 2009: