French GP – Ferrari must pull itself together!

The Scuderia Ferrari sees its supremacy increasingly challenged. Not by McLaren, which was announced as Ferrari’s main rival at the beginning of the season, but by the surprising BMW-Sauber team. Indeed, in the constructors’ standings, the British team is quite far behind compared to Ferrari but especially compared to the German team, the leader of the standings.

The Scuderia is no longer in control and, in addition, Räikkönen and Massa have been overtaken by Kubica in the driver standings. Therefore, there is no doubt that Ferrari will try to repeat their double victory from last year.

Kimi Räikkönen – Racing Driver

« We had different issues over the last two races. I don’t like to look back and dwell on what happened in the last race. It’s better to focus on the upcoming Grand Prix and try to achieve the best possible result. »

« It’s very frustrating to see that the points we have been able to earn do not reflect our true potential. Now, we are redirecting to Europe. I believe things will be really different at Magny-Cours. The smooth track surface, its corners, and its quick changes of direction will highlight the strengths of the F2008. »

« It was here in France, last year, that my season practically started. Once again, I need this race after two Grand Prix without points. »

« All races are important and a point can make the difference, as in 2007. This season is still very open with a balanced championship. Kubica is at the top of the standings and, except for the first race, he has always scored points. Hamilton will start further back because of his penalty. But you should never underestimate McLaren. »

Felipe Massa – Racing Driver:

« I was not at Ferrari’s last tests in Barcelona last week, but, of course, I have been in contact with my engineers to know about the developments and the results seem reasonably positive. We had three good days, which means my car will probably be really competitive for Magny-Cours. »

« In recent years, some people have claimed that Canada and Monaco were better suited to McLaren while the French and British Grand Prix favored Ferrari. But I don’t think that’s really the case this year. We need to consider the BMW team in this equation. »

« I love Magny-Cours: I finished second here last year after securing pole position, but then I lost a bit of time in traffic. I was third in 2006. It’s a good track for me. Hopefully, we can repeat last year’s double but in a different order! »