Schumacher’s GP2 development test continues

Following on from yesterday’s wet start to Michael Schumacher’s GP2 development test in Jerez, today’s similar state of the circuit did not allow him to run on slicks until 10.30, and even then the track was never dry enough to be quick. The Mercedes GP PETRONAS driver completed 78 laps in total today, including 53 on slick tyres. The session was cut one hour short by the poor weather conditions.

Today’s programmed revolved around working on the rear suspension, running more extreme set ups than normally seen in the series: the aim of these changes was to define the technical parameters, as the third generation GP2 car will feature a completely new and redesigned rear suspension.

Michael Schumacher said: “We made a big step forward today as we were able to drive for around 90 percent of the time in the dry which was an improvement on the track conditions from yesterday. We achieved two long runs which went very well and provided consistent data for the GP2 guys to evaluate. The forecast looks even better for tomorrow so we can look forward to a good final day.”

GP2 Series Technical director Didier Perrin said: “Despite the weather this has been a productive day, which was vital as we could not really complete our programme on the first day: thanks to Michael’s impressive feedback we now have the technical orientations for the rear suspension. Hopefully tomorrow’s weather will allow us to add more long runs to our programme, and give us even more information for the next car.”

The development test session will conclude tomorrow.