Brazil GP: Force India should enjoy the trip

Force India is certainly the most surprising team at the end of this season. But as we explained (see the article), the specific characteristics of the car make it one of the most efficient on circuits that require little aerodynamic downforce, such as Spa-Francorchamps or Monza.

Furthermore, as Dominic Harlow, the team’s chief engineer, points out, the high altitude at which the Interlagos track is located should accentuate these characteristics compared to other cars, and the team therefore expects strong performances.

Adrian Sutil – Racing Driver:

I’m still very disappointed with the result of the Suzuka race, as I was convinced we had a chance to score more points. Everything had gone well from the first free practice on Friday up until the qualifying sessions. It was very enjoyable to be back among the front runners in qualifying. Then I received a penalty and it didn’t help me, but we still thought we would finish the race among the top six. Unfortunately, my collision with Heikki Kovalainen seriously compromised my race. However, I fought a great battle with Fisichella, demonstrating that we were competitive. Japan was therefore a missed opportunity, so I’m definitely looking forward to Brazil with great anticipation. Interlagos is a fantastic track, not very long, but with lots of banking and undulations, which makes it a kind of “roller coaster,” especially with all its bumps. The circuit has winding sections interspersed with uphill straights, and will require settings somewhere between Barcelona and Spa-Francorchamps, so there is a chance we can perform well there. I am confident.

Vitantonio Liuzzi – Racing Driver:

«I am definitely optimistic about the upcoming race in Brazil. Japan was difficult because of the rain and the time lost on track due to a gearbox problem, so we had to fight. I am now looking forward to Brazil. I like this circuit where I have been quick in the past, so by combining this confidence with the car’s performance, I think we can be very competitive there. I’m expecting to be in a good position. Interlagos is a good circuit, maybe not my favorite, but the track has a lot of uphill and downhill sections with plenty of banked turns, so it’s interesting to drive there. The Brazilian crowd is also incredible and creates a unique atmosphere throughout the weekend. It’s a fantastic event.»

Dominic Harlow – Chief Engineer:

«Interlagos is the third anti-clockwise circuit on the calendar and is located in the city of Sao Paulo, approximately 800m above sea level. As a result, atmospheric pressure is reduced, which means a loss of 10% in aerodynamic downforce and engine performance. The circuit layout features a narrow inner section with hills that conceal the turns from drivers, for example, the double right-hander of Ferradura (turns 4 and 5), combined with the long uphill tightening left of Juncao (turn 6). This is probably the most critical part of the lap. It’s a good mechanical test for the cars as the circuit is very bumpy and apex speeds are slow in certain areas. However, the first and third sectors require settings that limit drag (to increase top speed) somewhere between those for Barcelona and Spa-Francorchamps. It’s always an exciting race with a football stadium-like atmosphere. We expect a race where the VJM02 will perform well.»