Formula One™ racing rookie Anthony Davidson outpaced his more experienced team mate, Mark Webber, in Friday Free Practice for the Hungarian GP on his maiden competitive run for Minardi.

The BAR test driver was called up to replace the team's usual driver Alex Yoong just days ago, and was even said to be wearing a spare mechanic's fireproof overalls as there was no time to have a suit specially made for him.

Davidson put in many laps to learn the track and become familiar with the Minardi PS02. "I'm really happy that I managed to keep the car on the track today and did the most number of laps," he commented.

"I'm still learning the circuit, along with everything else, and I don't yet feel totally at home in the car, so there is definitely lots more to come. Anyway, I'm glad to have the first day of my first Formula One weekend under my belt without any dramas."

Webber appeared nonchalant after his first day at the Hungaroring. "It has been a pretty good day. We got through our normal programme for Friday, and compared the tyres, which is not a hard decision this weekend," the Australian stated.

"It looks like the soft tyre is definitely the way to go. We had our race fuel load in, as normal, and are looking forward to qualifying tomorrow, which should be quite exciting for us."

Team principal Paul Stoddart commented: "It has been an excellent day at the office. Both drivers ran their quota of laps and completed their technical programmes for the day.

"We're pleased to welcome Anthony to the team for the next two races, and are particularly proud of the job he did today. It is all the more commendable when one considers he had not driven the car before this morning's first practice session. It also has to be said he was lucky that the one technical problem he had occurred at the end of the first session rather than at the beginning of the second.

"This provided the mechanics with sufficient time to sort the matter and get Anthony back on track to complete his running. While on a different programme today to Anthony, Mark put in his usual solid performance, snapping at the heels of the manufacturer-backed teams. We now look forward to a solid performance from both drivers in qualifying tomorrow."