European GP – Toyota keeps up the pressure

Formidable adventure that the Toyota team is experiencing. It is currently the 4th force of this 2008 season, meaning the first team among the ‘others’ (all teams except Ferrari, McLaren-Mercedes, and BMW-Sauber). The recent podium with Timo Glock in Hungary could only strengthen the motivation of the Japanese team.

The two drivers are therefore determined, in Valencia for the European Grand Prix, to secure this 4th place, especially since major surprises are likely to occur on this urban track.

Jarno Trulli – Racing Driver

« The track looks amazing and the location is fantastic. I’m really looking forward to racing in this Grand Prix. The team has worked tirelessly to prepare for the race as it is a new circuit for all of us. The most important thing for a driver is to drive as fast as possible because that’s when you start to understand the circuit. »

« Even though it’s a new layout, I know Valencia quite well because we do testing on the permanent circuit. It’s a lively city where there’s always something to do. I’m expecting a competitive weekend because right now, we are performing well. Scoring the most points is our goal, and another podium would be wonderful. »

Timo Glock – Racing Driver

« My result in Hungary is incredible. I hope this podium will be the first of a long list. The important thing is to show that the team is competitive at the moment and is doing everything to secure fourth place in the constructors’ championship. »

There is a good atmosphere within the team and we are all working hard to move forward. Valencia is a new race. I did a lot of street races when I was part of the Champ Cars series. This season almost all the events were new to me, so I’ve learned to adapt quickly.

« We have a lot of work to do on Friday to adapt the single-seater to the track, but we are in good shape at the moment, so I am optimistic for this weekend. »

Pascal Vasselon – Technical Director:

« We prepared well for Valencia. We began our preparations by reviewing the FIA documents. These allowed us to construct a certain average speed profile to then determine an estimate of grip and braking. We also sent personnel to watch the inaugural race at the end of July to gather additional data. »

At the beginning of the weekend, the grip will be very low, but it should improve over the days. In terms of performance, we hope for the same as in Hungary.