Paul Tracy Impresses in F1 Testing, Lays Claim to 17th Position

As a former IndyCar driver, Paul Tracy had been observing Formula One drivers at the Portuguese Grand Prix for a week before getting behind the wheel of a Benetton-Ford himself. In a shockingly impressive display, Tracy completed 41 laps of the 4.360-kilometre track, setting a personal best time of 1 minute 22.79 seconds, which would have secured him 17th place on the grid. While Damon Hill, the event's winner, clocked the fastest time of 1:19.33, Tracy's performance has left the Benetton team optimistic about his potential in the 1995 season.

Key Takeaways:

• Paul Tracy conducted five laps in a Benetton-Ford before being granted a full day of testing, completing 41 laps of the track.
• Tracy set a personal best time of 1 minute 22.79 seconds, securing 17th place on the grid for the Portuguese Grand Prix.
• Damon Hill was the fastest driver in the test session with a time of 1:19.33.
• Tracy's confidence in his ability to perform in F1 has grown, and he is further optimistic that he can achieve even faster times.
• The Benetton team will continue to observe and develop components for the 1995 car.
• Tracy's future in F1 remains uncertain, with options on the table for either the Benetton team or a potential move to the Newman-Haas IndyCar team.
• Tracy will have a full session of testing later in the day to further develop his skills in the F1 car.

Statistics:

• 41 laps completed by Paul Tracy in the Benetton-Ford test session.
• 1 minute 22.79 seconds: Tracy's best time.
• 17th place Grid position for Tracy if the time were to be upheld.
• 2 really fast laps: the amount of time F1 tires are effective.
• 4.360 kilometres: the length of the track.
• $8.52-million: the value of the potential 3-year contract offered to Tracy.

Sources:

• The Globe and Mail, 1994.
• The Globe and Mail, Specific Date Not Provided.