Estoril test - day three: 13 September.

Williams and Benetton wrapped the first stage of their pre-Indianapolis testing in Portugal this afternoon [Wednesday].

Test drivers Bruno Junqueira and Mark Webber had the chance to run by themselves as regular pilots Ralf Schumacher and Giancarlo Fisichella made good their escapes for America, and neither disappointed. The Australian emerged on top, courtesy of the two days of testing he had already carried out, and left the Benetton team impressed with his ability as he set the fastest lap of the session.

''We have conducted a three-day, one-car, test at here at Estoril, evaluating reliability for the last few races of the season,'' commented technical director Pat Symonds, ''Mark helped us with the test, giving him a chance to work with, and get to know, the team, while Giancarlo ran on Tuesday morning.

''Not only were Mark's lap times extremely competitive, but his approach was very considered and mature. He was able to give good feedback, and proved of great assistance to the team.''

Junqueira, on the other hand, arrived overnight for his one and only day of running at the recently-refurbished circuit, but still managed to make a valuable contribution to Williams' preparations.

''Bruno did a very good job today,'' confirmed test team manager Tim Newton, ''He kept the car on the circuit for the whole day, and provided very good feedback. We completed our programme, which was mainly focused on testing gearbox strategies and aerodynamic work and, all-in-all, it has been a satisfying test for the team.''

The Brazilian's extensive track time may have been a good workout for him, but also managed to generate useful data for the BMW engine technicians present.

''The final day of this test has been very useful to us because of the achieved mileage,'' explained BMW motorsport director Dr Mario Thiessen, ''We tested minor modifications to the V10 engine, with the forthcoming US Grand Prix in mind - our electronic engineers have tried different engine mappings and I think we have generated some useful data.''

''It has been a very demanding, but positive, working day, and I am satisfied with the mileage achieved,'' Junqueira added, ''We made some positive steps in the improvement of the car for the next race and, as always, it has been a pleasure driving the FW22.''

Leading performances (13 September):

Mark Webber Benetton-Playlife 1min 21.33secs 53 laps
Bruno Junqueira Williams-BMW 1min 22.27secs 48 laps

[Times courtesy Mild Seven Benetton Playlife]