During the last day of testing on ...

Published on 11 December 1998 by Verstappen Info Page

During the last day of testing on the circuit of Jerez, vice world champion Michael Schumacher was present and drove the fastest time. Meanwhile, Zanardi is also improving. Although still behind, he is slowly closing the gap towards his team-mate Ralph Schumacher at 0.6 sec. The change of seats between Ralph and Frentzen, did not give a winner, since both clocked exactly the same time.

For nest season, Bridgestone will be the only supplier of tyres within the Formula 1. During the recent tests at Barcelona and Jerez, several drivers were very critical about the new compound tyres. Not only is an extra groove introduced, Bridgestone also used a much harder compound. Michael Schumacher complained that due to the reduction of grip, it would only need a slight breeze to loose controll of the car. He was irritated by the fact that the FIA did not use the drivers comment for the new regulations of the tyres. The comment of Coulthard was more tactical, stating he does not believe that the new tyres would give more possibilities of overtaking. Until the start of the first Grand Prix next season, Bridgestone has lots of time to improve the tyres.

Not all teams have announced their complete driver line up for next season to the FIA. According to the official list, Mika Salo is yet the only driver for Arrows next season. However during testing this month it was Diniz, in stead of Salo who did all test work. Also the ongoing rumours that Zakspeed will overtake Arrows, have not been officially announced. Minardi is still keeping both seats open towards the FIA. Although Minardi has confirmed that Esteban Tuero will drive for them next season, they still keep his seat officially open. This might have to do with the injury that Esteban sufferes since the last Grand Prix. The team of Benetton has no sponsorship deal for it's engine yet, since they have not given a brand name for the Mecachrome engine yet.

Ferrari does still it's outmost best to remain competitive. Following the deal with Schumacher, both Ross Brawn and Rory Byrne have signed a new contract for three years with Ferrari.