13 March 1997 Pierluigi Martini, who was driving for Minardi at the time of Senna's death, was heard as witness in the Imola trial. Martini said that he did not think the conditions of the track were to blame for the accident but, in his opinion, Senna went out because of a combination of factors or for a car problem. Martini and Senna had complained about the condition of the track 15 days before the race and the track official had smoothed the ground. According to Martini, the track was in good enough condition not to cause problems to professional F1 racers and the sparks coming from Senna's car were nothing unusual. Martini also said that at time of the Pacific GP Senna had told him that he was not happy with his car, as it was too small and "nervous". According to Martini, Senna's trajectory at the time of the accident was the only possible one. The trial will resume on the 17th, when driver Michele Alboreto and Renault technician Duffor will be heard as witnesses.

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