Jordan-Peugeot presented their new car, the Jordan-Peugeot 197,
today with their drivers: Ralf Schumacher and Giancarlo Fisichella. Designed Gary Anderson said: "The difference is black and white. Our computer simulations show that at Silverstone we should be nearly two seconds faster than last year." Eddie Jordan thinks his number one driver Ralf Schumacher can surprise the Formula One world and his big brother Michael Schumacher: "Most drivers fear Michael. Ralf is not indoctrinated or intimidated. This new Schumacher is younger, a different build, but still as aggressive. You see the same blood runs through the veins." |
the Jordan-Peugeot 197: photo by Jordan |
Renault Sport director Patrick Faure has announced that the partnership between Renault and Williams will continue after they quit Formula One at the end of 1997 only in another form. Mecachrome, a Renault partner for 22 years, will supply engines under their own name to Williams using Renault know-how. The company is specialised in the assembly and tuning of Formula One power units.
Faure said the deal was for the 1998 and 1999 season.
H.H. Frentzen was the fastest man on the track today with a 1m 20.40s, closely followed by Olivier Panis in the old Ligier (JS 43). Panis also tested the new car but could not improve on the time set in the old car. Verstappen seems to know the new Tyrrell, he was three seconds faster than yesterday.
Damon Hill had another go at it with his Arrows A-18. Hill covered 21 laps with a best time of 1m 38.41s.
Eddie Irvine finished his test session today with a time of 0m 59.776. This is an absolute record at the track.