Tyre programme for Sato on last day of testing

The Super Aguri Formula One Team concluded its three-day test at the Autodromo Nazionale Monza today. Takuma Sato took over the driving duties from team mate Sakon Yamamoto to complete the team’s Bridgestone tyre programme.

“It was a positive, but very challenging test for the team. It has been good to complete a multi-day test for the first time in the SA06, even though it has been specifically for the Italian Grand Prix. This test is very important for next weekend and, although all the teams’ are in a similar position, we have collected essential data for our cars, tyres and control system as well. We encountered a few problems this morning which meant that we had a late start to our running and a gearbox problem in the afternoon meant that we were unable to complete our planned programme, but we have collected the data we require for the race next week. The mechanics and engineers have worked so hard, with a limited number of components and in two shifts through the night for two days. It has been a physically demanding test for everyone.”

“It was first time for me and for the team to participate in an official test with the SA06. Unfortunately we lost the first day’s running due to a number of issues, but I completed more than 60 laps on day two and we were able to try a variety of things on the car. I think that we have been able to make some improvements with the new car, so I am happy about that and am very much looking forward to the Italian Grand Prix next week.”

“It has been a productive week for the SUPER AGURI F1 TEAM, but an extremely tough one. We have finally participated in a test before a race and have therefore been able to make the appropriate preparations. I think that what we have achieved over the past three days should put us in a good position for the coming race weekend. We have collected a good amount of data to look over and we will now be able to plan Franck’s (Montagny) programme for the Friday free practice sessions more thoroughly. Overall, I am happy with the progress that we have made with the SA06 and it feels good to have successfully run through our aero, Bridgestone tyres and software programmes for next week.”