FIRST TEST FOR EMMANUEL COLLARD

Emmanuel Collard test the Tyrrell Yamaha 024 for the first time
yesterday (Thursday 18 April) during a two day test programme the
team was running at Silverstone in preparation for the European and
San Marino Grands Prix. Emmanuel joined regular Tyrrell drivers
Mika Salo and Ukyo Katayama at the Northamptonshire circuit,
setting a best time of 1 min 32.7 in difficult weather conditions.

Ken Tyrrell, Team Principal, said: "It was a great pleasure to have
Emmanuel back in a Tyrrell again. He did a good job and drove 29
laps out of a planned 40 lap session before he was stopped by an
engine problem. He very quickly got down to a good time in
difficult track conditions and strong winds. The objective of this
first test was for him to learn the car and he settled into a good
rhythm straight away, but we need to get him more comfortable in
the cockpit. We are looking forward to working with him in the
future."

Emmanuel Collard commented: "It was a good feeling to be back in a
Formula 1 car. The day went very well and the atmosphere at Tyrrell
Yamaha is really great. You feel part of the team and everybody was
very helpful. The first contact with the 024 was good and the
Yamaha engine is very drivable. We also started pit stops
simulations and I did a start - not bad for a first day! I will
return to the factory next week to improve my position in the
cockpit with the engineers. I will be at the next two races with
the team and test again after Imola."



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