02.02.2004 MICHAEL SCHUMACHER LOWERS THE FIORANO TRACK RECORD FOR THE SECOND CONSECUTIVE DAY

Yesterday saw the third and final day of testing of the new Ferrari F2004 at the Fiorano circuit. Michael Schumacher brought the F2004’s first test session to a close, covering a total of 115 laps, 18 of which on the short course, the quickest in a time of 55.999.

This was the second consecutive day he lowered the lap record at the team's private facility, after a cautious shakedown on Friday, Saturday had seen him lower the record with a 56.279, and today he knocked nearly three tenths off that time.

“I am satisified with this first session,” declared Michael at the end of the day. “I immediately got a positive feel from the car, but the most important thing is that we managed to cover about 700 kilometres without the slightest problem.”

Ferrari's test programme resumes tomorrow, when Luca Badoer will be at the wheel of an F2003-GA in Barcelona.

Circuit: Fiorano track, 2.976 km - short course 1.413 km; Driver: Michael Schumacher; Car: F2004; Weather: air temperature 7/10/9 °C, track 5/14/10 °C. Clear skies.