The BMW WilliamsF1 Team completed 205 laps of the Circuit de Catalunya yesterday as preparations for the forthcoming San Marino GP got underway.  After several tests that have been hampered by rain, Thursday's test took place in ideal conditions with blue skies and sunshine. Only the afternoon brought cloudy skies.

Marc Gené spent the morning working on set-ups before focusing on tyre evaluations in the afternoon, the Spaniard trying out various constructions and compounds. The BMW WilliamsF1 Team’s official test driver completed 109 laps, posting a personal best time of 1:15.211.

Reigning IRL Champion, Scott Dixon, was also on duty for the team, the New Zealander having made his Formula One debut two weeks ago when he tested with the BMW WilliamsF1 Team at Paul Ricard. Scott spent the morning continuing to familiarise himself with the car before concentrating on set-ups in the afternoon. The Kiwi completed 96 laps, his best lap being a 1:15.922.

Marc and Scott continue testing at Barcelona today, when they will be joined by Ralf Schumacher.

Tim Newton (Test Team Manager, WilliamsF1): "Marc Gené and Scott Dixon were on hand to carry out testing duties  for our first of three days at Barcelona. In preparation for the forthcoming European rounds, Marc spent the day concentrating on set-up work on the FW26 as well as performing some tyre testing with Michelin. Scott spent the majority of the morning completing familiarisation laps while, in the afternoon, he concentrated on set-up work of the FW26."