Snow gets in Kliens way

The main reason the Spanish circuits are so popular for winter testing is that they are far enough south to avoid the worst excesses of a European winter. Sadly that was not the case today. Overnight snow had partly thawed leaving the track wet, but with only one installation lap having been completed by the team, snow and sleet reappeared during the morning.

With studded snow tyres not yet in the F1 rulebook, we and all the other teams present at the Catalunya track had no option but to pack up early.

At least Christian Klien was delighted that his winter fitness programme is paying dividends. "I really feel fit and well after today's grueling test!"

Red Bull Racing resumes testing at the Valencia circuit next week, hopefully with better weather.