Mercedes drivers feel at home in Monaco

After a disappointing start to the season that saw him accumulate setback after setback, in both races and qualifications, Michael Schumacher returns to a circuit he particularly loves, having won there five times, even though he highlights its anachronism: « Monaco is simply a circuit with its own character. In a way, you could look at it ironically because for years we’ve been fighting for more safety on circuits and at the same time we deliberately go to Monaco. But from my point of view, it’s justified once a year, especially because it’s a very fun circuit to drive. Every time you get there, you’re eager to finally hit the track. »

While Nico Rosberg expects the Mercedes W03 to be in good form in Monaco, he nevertheless believes that the race remains uncertain, as it has been almost every time since the start of the season: « I love the Monaco Grand Prix and it’s always a great feeling to race at home, knowing that all my friends and family will be there. I’ve always been fast on the streets of Monaco and I believe a good result is possible for us this weekend. The nature of the circuit should suit our car, but as we’ve seen in every race so far this season, tire management will be crucial. With five different winning teams this year, at least ten drivers can win in Monaco, so it could be one of the most interesting races here in years. »

Norbert Haug, Vice President of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport, however, puts it into perspective: After all the discussions about the unpredictability of team performance levels this year, there is however a clear factor: three of the five races have been won from pole position, including Nico’s victory in China. Furthermore, the five drivers who have completed all laps so far are in the Top 7 of the championship. Good qualifying speed is rewarded and consistency appears to be more important in 2012. In the last three races, Nico has scored 41 points, the most points behind Sebastian Vettel (43). In Monaco, it will be about extracting the maximum from the developments. Giving drivers a car they can believe in and trust is worth more here than on any other circuit.

For his part, Ross Brawn, the team director, believes that the unique character of Monaco makes it one of the tracks where anything can happen, especially during a season that is almost impossible to predict so far. The Brit remains optimistic about the chances the Silver Arrows will have to shine on the streets of Monte-Carlo: After Nico’s victory in China, we had two more challenging weekends, but I am confident that we will start to see an improvement in Monaco, as the developments we have recently made to the car begin to take effect.

But the German team believes it has two major assets with its drivers: « In Monaco, more than anywhere else, the driver can really make the difference, especially in qualifying. Nico and Michael have both shown good feelings for the circuit as well as their ability to master it in recent years » recalls Brawn.

Sure, knowing that I will drop five places on the grid doesn’t add to that feeling but it means I will have to try even harder. I am actually quite confident in our ability to perform well in Monaco thanks to the hard work everyone in the team is putting into the development of our car. So let’s try to do the best we can this weekend.