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The three day session in Jerez drew to a close today, with weather conditions in the morning more favourable with McLaren returning to the top of the timesheets.

The test team continued the aerodynamic programme for the week. In addition Heikki Kovalainen spent some time in the morning conducting simulated qualifying runs, to further understand the handling of the MP4-23 in all race weekend situations.

Kovalainen would put in 96 laps with the fastest time of the week on a 1:17.974s. Team-mate Lewis Hamilton was fourth fastest 1.4s shy.

"The primary focus of the test this week has been pushing forward with the aerodynamic programme," Martin Whitmarsh began. "There was some disruption to this on Wednesday and Thursday due to the windy conditions. However the test team have been able to complete the proving process on a range of aerodynamic components. "

"The Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team has seven track days remaining before the cars depart for Melbourne on 6th March, incorporating full test sessions and some straight-line work," McLaren's CEO continued. "Naturally there will be a focus externally on the multi-team test at Barcelona in the final week of February. It will be the first time in a few weeks that all the leading teams will be on the same track."

"Whilst this will give us the possibility of a more comprehensive comparison, we will nevertheless focus on our own test programme rather than chase times. The real litmus test of performance will take place in Australia."

E.A. © CAPSIS International
Source: McLaren Mercedes