Preperations for 2003 have finally started

By Phil Huff
December 4 2002

Preparations for the 2003 Formula One season has started in earnest, with most teams testing at either Barcelona or Valencia. BAR go head to head against Ferrari, Jaguar and Toyota for the first time since 13 October.

BAR are testing new 2003 parts in a heavily modified version of their 2002 challenger, the BAR004. Taking the wheel initially will be long standing BAR test driver Anthony Davidson. Jacques Villeneuve is not scheduled to attend this test, and it is believed that contractual difficulties with Renault will prevent newcomer Jenson Button from taking a ride in his new car.

Attending at Valencia are McLaren, Minardi, Renault, Sauber and Williams. This leaves Arrows and Jordan without any testing planned before the new year.