F1: Stewart-Ford Canadian Grand Prix News
11 June 1999
STEWART-FORD NOTES & QUOTES Canadian Grand Prix: Free Practice Weather: 32 degrees C, sunny Rubens Barrichello was 10th fastest after today's practice sessions for Sunday's Canadian Grand Prix. The Brazilian spun off on the last lap. He completed 28 laps. Johnny Herbert set the 16th fastest time after completing 40 laps. He didn't go out on new tyres. The Gilles Villeneuve circuit is bumpy and notoriously hard on brakes. RUBENS BARRICHELLO Car No.16 (SF3-04) 1:22:167 28 laps 10th position What caused you to spin on the last lap of the second session? 'I was struggling with my braking throughout both sessions. The spin was a result of the brakes locking.' Are you happy with today's practice? 'I'm reasonably happy with the progress we have made. I think there is still a lot of time left in the car.' What are your prospects for Saturday's qualifying? 'We have run well at Montreal for the past two years and I'm confident that we can qualify near the front of the grid, providing we can find a good balance.' JOHNNY HERBERT Car No.17 (SF3-05) 1.23:177 40 laps 16th position Did you experience any brake problems? 'This circuit is known for being hard on brakes. When I came in after my first run in the morning session the brakes looked hot with a lot of smoke coming out and a really bad smell. We made a slight change to the brake duct and it was fine after that.' What are your prospects for Saturday's qualifying? 'It's going to be difficult! If everything is working well both cars will be in the top eight. Personally I want to be close to Rubens. That is where I should be and I will do everything I can to make sure that I am.' JACKIE STEWART, Chairman, Stewart-Ford 'Historically Montreal is a supreme test on brakes and powertrains. On more than one occasion cars have run out of brakes completely. Aerodynamics also play a big part in a car's performance here. The fast straights usually mean less wing while at the same time the track is full of corners which require downforce. It's a very delicate balance. In today's two practice sessions we have not achieved the optimum set up for such conditions, but we expect much improved times from both drivers tomorrow.' MARTIN WHITAKER, Director, Ford Racing, Europe 'Today is a very special day for Ford Motor Company - the first time that the Stewart- Ford team has run under the company's ownership. The reaction to yesterday's announcement from all those within the team and all our partners has been overwhelmingly positive. We experienced no technical problems throughout the day and are looking to build on the performance for tomorrow's practice and qualifying.'