An electrical problem stranded the car out on the track on its first lap, the teams new Dutch driver having to be towed back to the pits before resuming.

The Minardi Formula One Team is today pleased to announce that Matteo Bobbi has re-signed as an official test driver for the Faenza squad in 2003. It marks the third season the talented, 24-year-old Milanese driver has fulfilled this role for Minardi. 

Bobbi’s primary task will be to assist technical staff with development of the PS03 chassis, which is scheduled to run for the first time later this week. As Minardi is one of the teams that has elected to test on Grand Prix weekends this season, Bobbi will therefore take part in a number of the designated Friday sessions. With extensive knowledge of the Minardi PS01 and PS02, his input will be particularly valuable to the team as it seeks to make a significant step forward in overall competitiveness. 

“Minardi is pleased to have re-signed Matteo as a test driver for 2003,” says Team Principal, Paul Stoddart. “He is a talented individual, who has worked with us now for the past two years. In that time, he has built up an excellent rapport with the team, and we look forward to continuing our relationship with him. I’m sure his efforts will contribute significantly to the development of this year’s Minardi PS03.” 

Bobbi comments, “I am both pleased and honoured that Minardi has once again asked me to assist with the test programme for its new chassis. I believe from speaking with the engineers that the PS03 has great potential, and I am looking forward to helping them achieve the maximum from the car.” 

In addition to his commitments to the Grand Prix team, Bobbi will also continue to drive for Minardi’s exciting F1x2 programme in 2003.