UpdateF1 >> Formula 1 News > Testing underway in Spain

Teams take to the track

Dec.9 (GMM) As the initial dust of the bombshell Honda news settles, the on-track formula one test action will resume this week.

At damp Jerez, Spanish youngster Dani Clos was on duty for the Williams team on Monday, ahead of the major three-day session at the circuit that is to commence on Tuesday morning.

Since the end of the 2008 season, test drivers have undertaken most of the cockpit duties, but racers including world champions Fernando Alonso and Kimi Raikkonen, and McLaren's Heikki Kovalainen are expected to be running in Spain.

Toyota's Jarno Trulli and Timo Glock will also be in action this week, but from Wednesday they will enjoy exclusive use of the Bahrain grand prix venue at Sakhir.

The media and members of the public are not welcome, as Toyota gets its winter test programme moving after sitting out the recent Barcelona session.

"In the past, we've had open days for fans, but of course we would like to respect the wishes of the team (for a closed-door test) as it is a crucial stage for them in their preparations for next year's championship," circuit boss Martin Whitaker told the local Gulf Daily News.

For a second three day test in the island kingdom next week, the Japanese team will be joined by Ferrari, and a further Bahrain test is scheduled for February.

At the same time early next week, McLaren and Ferrari will be heading to the new Algarve circuit in Portugal for the venue's first F1 test.

Honda had been expected to join the two teams, but has suspended its winter test programme for now following the Japanese manufacturer's decision to pull out of the sport.

Written: Tue, 09 Dec 2008 09:12:23