Today an extra free practice was held ...

Published on 18 September 1997 by Verstappen Info Page

Today an extra free practice was held for the Grand Prix of Austria, due to the fact that it's a very new circuit. Jos drove in the first session to position 13 on a circuit with not much grip. Due to the intensive use of the circuit today, the lap times were much faster during the second free practice. Jos was also able to improve his lap time but ended in position 18 in 1:14.266, only 1.7 seconds behind the fastest today. Salo was slower then Jos during both sessions. He ended in position 21 in 1:14.266. Jos stated that he was very pleased with the circuit, although it's very narrow and short with a lot of first and second gear corners. A high position on the start grid looks to be essential for a good race result.

On the circuit, the Bridgestone tyres looks as if they are the best choice when we look at the top three: P1 Damon Hill in 1:12.553, P2 Rubens Barrichello in 1:12.823, P3 Jan Magnussen in 1:12.823!!

For a complete overview of all the times you can take a look at our season page.