The week the first official running of the Jordan Honda partnership with the Irish team being powered by 'works' Honda engines for the 2001 season. Jordan's on-track programme featured ‘third’ driver and former BAR Honda race driver Ricardo Zonta, as well as established Jordan pilot Jarno Trulli.

On Thursday the Silverstone-based team also offered the first experience of a Formula One car to young Japanese hotshot Takuma Sato, who enjoyed such an impressive first season in British F3 this year. "All in all we have had a very successful test in Jerez," confirmed Kazutoshi Nishizawa, Technical Director at Honda Racing Development. "We have worked very well with all the guys at Jordan.

"Although the main focus of our activities this week was to build up good working relationships with our new partners, we have managed to do some excellent work on engine software modifications and I am sure we will be able to use the new solutions in the 2001 season.

"I think we can be very positive for the New Year, not only because of our test results with the teams, but we have also tested some new Bridgestone tyres and they have worked really well."