Friday Report – Unexpected Performances for Toyota

Toyota was impressive on this first day. The team placed its two drivers in the top 7 in the afternoon, while this morning Trulli and Schumacher positioned themselves among the top 12.

Toyota has apparently found the right settings for the circuit, which will improve as more rubber is laid down gradually, but the Japanese team, after its poor Grand Prix in Japan, has only one fear… the rain. And the forecasts put Toyota in a negative position.

Jarno Trulli – 7th and 5th

« It was a worry-free day. We performed well, but the car doesn’t have perfect balance. Therefore, we still need to work to find better grip on a dirty track and higher speed. »

« We had a bad race in Japan, but we need to forget that and focus on China. It’s frustrating to come back without points after a good start last week, but we continue to believe in it! »

Ralf Schumacher – 12th and 7th

« The day went relatively well despite a slippery track. Overall, I am satisfied with this first day. It’s my second-to-last race with the team but that doesn’t mean my motivation is fading. The year has been tough, but we continue to work. I would obviously like to win with the team and be able to bring home the best result. »

Dieter Gass – Chief Engineer (Race and Test)

« It was a good day. Particularly in the second session where we adjusted the car’s settings, and it behaved as we wanted. This is not a new setting, but on this track, it seems to be the best fit. We are therefore pleased to see our progress materialize.

« We completed the program and tried both types of tires which don’t seem to have much of a performance difference. We are on the right track but just hope it won’t rain this weekend. »