BMW Sauber’s Robert Kubica topped the timesheets during the first day of testing at this weeks pre-race test at the Sepang circuit in Malaysia. The Polishman, who retired from the season-opener following a gearbox problem, beat the Ferrari of Kimi Raikkonen by just over a tenth of a second, completing 92 laps.
Raikkonen continues to shine at Ferrari, and completed 54 laps on a day when the FIA announced that the F2007 was legal, in regard to both its aerodynamics and floor. However, it has emerged that Ferrari will examine the engine Raikkonen used in Melbourne prior to the Malaysian Grand Prix. The Italian team believe that a water leak the Finn experienced during the closing laps in Australia may have damaged the engine, potentially presenting the 27 year old a grid penalty should an engine change be necessary.
The Williams of Alex Wurz was third, testing the Bridgestone markings for the ‘softer’ tyres, described by red dots on the sidewalls and a white line on the bottom of the outside groove. The Honda of Rubens Barrichello was next, with Pedro de la Rosa completing the top-five.
1. Kubica, BMW-Sauber (B), 1:36.187, 92 laps
2. Raikkonen, Ferrari (B), 1:36.302, 54
3. Wurz, Williams-Toyota (B), 1:36.334, 89
4. Barrichello, Honda (B), 1:36.826, 82
5. De la Rosa, McLaren-Mercedes (B), 1:37.106, 60
6. Montagny, Toyota (B), 1:37.267, 73
7. Sato, Super Aguri-Honda (B), 1:37.389, 72
8. Coulthard, Red Bull-Renault (B), 1:37.609, 82
9. Piquet, Renault (B), 1:38.199, 32
10. Speed, Toro Rosso-Ferrari (B), 1:38.503, 69
