Theissen very optimistic for BMW, Heidfeld very surprised

German driver Nick Heidfeld said he was very surprised by the turnaround that BMW experienced at the beginning of the 2008 season.

The driver of the F1.08 had shown himself to be very disappointed with the initial winter tests with the new car. He admitted to having a bad feeling and a very poor balance with his vehicle.

But at the end of the first two Grand Prix of the year, the BMW team showed very good performances, even capable of reaching the level of McLaren or Ferrari.

Heidfeld finished second in the first meeting of the year in Australia before concluding the Malaysian GP in 6th position this weekend. The German really didn’t expect it: « Usually in F1, when you first get behind the wheel of the new car, you already have performances reflecting your season and the performances of the whole year », comments Heidfeld. « Yet this year, that wasn’t the case and it was the first time in my career! »

« Our first test with the F1.08 was a disaster where the balance was particularly bad. But considering the first Grand Prix of the season, I am very happy. The car has made significant progress and this is just the beginning. Of course, we will reach our limits, but I am optimistic for the future.

In Malaysia, a BMW also finished on the podium. Kubica indeed took the second position, as Heidfeld had done in Australia. Consequently, Mario Theissen, the director of BMW Motorsport, has much higher expectations. He is anticipating a victory this season.

« We had two goals this season: The first was to have a three-way constructors’ battle this year and not just two. We wanted to play a role at the front, and I think we’ve already achieved this goal. The second is victory. »

« And frankly, with all the work the team is putting in, I don’t see how we can’t win this season. We’re keeping up with Ferrari and McLaren, so we’re capable of winning this year! » Concluded the German.