Vallelunga day two - Schumacher dominates 06 Apr 2006
In variable weather conditions, Ferrari’s Michael Schumacher dodged the rain showers to comfortably lead Wednesday’s testing times at Vallelunga in Italy.
In the 248 F1, Schumacher concentrated on development of new components and an endurance test of the team’s V8 engine. After 127 laps, his best time of 1m 13.816s put him almost a second clear of Honda’s Anthony Davidson.
Davidson racked up 158 laps as part of an intensive tyre test, while team mate Jenson Button, third fastest, completed 108 as he focused on chassis set-up and development work.
Luca Badoer was fourth in the Ferrari F2004, powered by a regulated V10 engine, the Italian concentrating his 99 laps on Bridgestone tyre work.
Williams commenced their two-day programme with Alexander Wurz fifth fastest at the wheel of the FW28. On his first visit to the Italian circuit, Wurz tried out new suspension parts in the morning, as well as carrying out some tyre warm-up tests, before switching to Imola tyre work in the afternoon.
Testing continues at Vallelunga on Thursday.
Unofficial Wednesday times from Vallelunga:
1. Michael Schumacher, Ferrari (Bridgestone), 1:13.816
2. Anthony Davidson, Honda (Michelin), 1:14.749
3. Jenson Button, Honda (Michelin), 1:15.436
4. Luca Badoer, Ferrari (Bridgestone), 1:15.921
5. Alexander Wurz, Williams (Bridgestone), 1:16.099
