Mika Salo joined British American Racing today on the first day of a three-day test session that will run through Saturday. The Finnish driver replaced Ricardo Zonta, injured last week during practice for the Brazilian Grand Prix, and spent the day familiarising himself with the car in the event that Zonta is not ready for the next FIA race, the San Marino Grand Prix. Zonta, who suffered cut tendons in his left foot, is currently recovering at home, and has been fitted with a lightweight cast. Doctors have not yet ruled on his fitness for the San Marino race.

Salo turned in 49 laps today, and posted a best lap time of 1 minute, 27.174 seconds. Team driver Jacques Villeneuve also tested, working mainly on set-ups throughout the day and running 33 laps. His best lap time was 1:27.406.

Both drivers are to return to the track on Friday.

"It's great to be back behind the wheel after a break from driving," Mika Salo said. "At first, I enjoyed myself too much to get any impression about the car but after three or four laps I was quite surprised to see how quickly I got to do some relatively good lap times. The car is nice and although I know that sometimes, some people complain about the power, I have to say that it is still more than anything I have ever driven. I spent today getting familiarised with the car, driving as many laps as possible with a full fuel tank. But I am happy, I had some fun today."