09.02.2004 RUBENS BARRICHELLO WRAPS UP HIS FIRST TEST IN THE NEW FERRARI F2004 AT MUGELLO

Saturday was the first day of testing this year at Mugello for Ferrari. Rubens Barrichello took to the track to open up a three day program and make his debut at the wheel of the new F2004.

Testing was affected by rain, which persisted throughout the opening day. Barrichello continued development work of the car, running on rain tyres throughout. By Saturday teatime he had competed total of 56 laps, with 6 of those on the short version of the track, the quickest in a time of 1:26.823.

Yesterday Rubens Barrichello continued development of the F2004. In the morning, the Brazilian still had to contend with a damp track, which then dried out. In total, Barrichello completed 72 laps, 15 on the short version of the track, with a best time of 1:21.270.

Today saw Barrichello complete 74 laps of Mugello, 9 on the short version of the track, as he wrapped up the three day test. With conditions vastly improving times tumbled and the Ferrari driver posted a best time of 1:18.704.

Barrichello commented that the new car seem to be improved in all areas and the new engine more powerful, although with the rain hit test forcing him to run on intermediate tyres, he could not provide more accurate feedback.

Development testing of the F2004 will continue tomorrow at the Fiorano circuit, with Michael Schumacher driving.

Circuit: Autodromo del Mugello, 5.245 km - short course 2.760 km; Driver: Rubens Barrichello; Car: F2004; Weather: Saturday: air temperature 9/10 °C, track temperature 9 °C, rain; Yesterday: air temperature 9/13 °C, track temperature 8/19 °C, variable; Today: air temperature 6/15 °C, track temperature 10/20 °C, sunny.