First outing in PS03 for Justin Wilson

Published on 20 February 2003 by Huub Rothengatter

Today it was Justin Wilson's turn to drive his first laps in the Minardi PS03. On a sunny Fiorano Justin drove 32 laps, his fastest time was 1.01.08. Again an excellent time for a car that has just been finished and a driver who doesn't know the circuit.
Justin was very satisfied with his first experiences in the new car: "I am very satisfied with the feel of the car. During the day we made some minor adjustments." In the afternoon they had problems with the gearbox which made them pack in for the day, nevertheless everyone was very happy with the gathered data during the last two days.
Paul Stoddart too was very delighted with the debut of his car. Like always he was reserved and did not want to jump to conclusions: "All in all we are very satisfied with the effort of the car and engine; independently Jos and Justin told me that they were very positive about the total package. This is a good sign, but it would be wrong to jump to conclusions. Taking this test as a basis, the outlook for a good start of the season is pretty good.”.
The team has arrived back at the factory in Faenza, Italy at the time we are writing this. There they will study the gathered data and make the needed technical adjustments if necessary. Early next week Minardi has planned another test, just before they started packing up their gear for the flight to Australia.