Spanish GP – Leader, BMW-Sauber Must Handle the Pressure

What a start to the season for the German team! After three races, they are leading the constructors’ championship for the first time in their history. Their two drivers, Heidfeld and Kubica, are among the most consistent in this early season.

What is missing to win the first Grand Prix? Probably a bit of luck. That’s what BMW-Sauber came to find in Spain last week during private testing, so that this small dose of luck can be applied in the race on Sunday…

Nick Heidfeld – Racing driver

« The Spanish Grand Prix has its own atmosphere. The fans always ensure a fantastic vibe. »

« I have already accumulated hundreds of race and test laps on the Circuit de Catalunya. The problem is that a setup for testing may not be suitable for the race. This can be due to the weather or the condition of the track, which naturally accumulates much more rubber over a Grand Prix weekend than during testing. »

« Now, the question is what has been changed on the F1.08 since the first races. I am also very keen to see if we have made progress. In any case, I am convinced that we will be just as strong as in Australia, Malaysia, and Bahrain. »

Robert Kubica – Racing Driver

« I think we will have a more predictable race than the first three Grand Prix that took place abroad. The conditions this time are completely different. All the teams know the Barcelona circuit by heart because we do a lot of testing on it. That’s why the gaps between the teams will be much smaller than in the last races. »

« I suppose that all the teams will be on the starting grid with better cars. But, at the same time, it means that we too must make the most of the F1.08. My goal is to achieve a good result to earn as many points as possible for myself and the team. »

Mario Theissen – Director of BMW Motorsport

« We are no longer the third force like last year, but rather the leader in the Constructors’ Championship thanks to the first three races of the season. »

We have used this three-week break in the best way to prepare for the first European race in Spain. The Barcelona race is almost considered as a second start to the season.

« The Circuit de Catalunya is very demanding and is frequently used for testing by the teams. It has often served as a benchmark for their competitiveness in a broader sense. »

Willy Rampf – Technical Director

« Everyone has made progress, but the key question is at what level? That’s why this should be a very interesting race, which will also be a benchmark for the weeks and months to come. We are very happy with our progress, so we should be able to stay at the front with the leading group. »

« The wind often plays a crucial role. This means that the balance of the race cars must be constantly readjusted. The numerous turns explain the use of medium and hard tires for this Grand Prix. »