Good shakedown without technical problems for F1.09
Immediately after the official unveiling of the BMW Sauber F1 Team’s 2009 car in the morning, Robert Kubica gave the F1.09 its roll-out on the track. Taking advantage of the sunny weather in the afternoon, the team concentrated on system checks and collecting base data from the all-new car.
After completing 73 laps Kubica said: “It was a good shakedown without a technical problem. Although the track was missing a little bit of grip because there was only one car running, we already learned a lot about how the car is responding to set-up changes.”
BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen said: “We unveiled the BMW Sauber F1.09 this morning and continued with a shakedown on the Valencia circuit in the afternoon. Everything went according to plan and without problems. The car is now ready for the first day of proper testing tomorrow with Robert at the wheel.”
“Despite being a brand new car, the BMW Sauber F1.09 had a very successful shakedown. All systems worked perfectly. We could even do some basic tests like several race start simulations,” added Walter Riedl, Managing Director of BMW Sauber AG.
What comes next: The BMW Sauber F1 Team will continue testing in Valencia until Saturday. Robert Kubica will again be at the wheel of the BMW Sauber F1.09 tomorrow and on Thursday. Nick Heidfeld will take over on Friday and Saturday.
Robert Kubica Chassis / engine: BMW Sauber F1.09-02 / BMW 86/9 Test kilometres today: 293 km (73 laps)