Honda Review – Exploring the Mid-Grid!

Honda can be satisfied with its weekend in Malaysia. Both drivers finished the Sepang race. Button, without much fanfare, finished in 10th position while his teammate Rubens Barrichello placed three positions behind.

The Brazilian was once again forced to make a pit stop. Another penalty against him caused him to lose a position. The former Ferrari driver drove through the pit lane above the allowed speed limit, set at 80 km/h.

Jenson Button – 10th:

A race that one manages to finish is something very enjoyable. This weekend, we gathered very useful information. I am quite satisfied with my 10th place knowing that a majority of the cars crossed the checkered flag.

« We are going in the right direction and we are constantly learning more about the car. It’s absolutely necessary to maintain the level of work and continue to develop before the next race in two weeks. »

Rubens Barrichello – 13th:

Unfortunately, my weekend was compromised when we lost track of free practice 3 on Saturday morning. I was lacking balance with the car for today’s race. I had a lot of understeer and had to fight it throughout the race. The drive-through penalty right after my second stop is regrettable even if I only lost one place. The signaling on the pit straight to indicate where the speed limit ends is not clear enough.

« We have learned a lot over the past two weeks and I am confident in our reliability. We still have a lot of work to do in terms of overall performance. But this will come through our development program over the next few weeks as we prepare for the European races. »

« We are very competitive in this closely-matched grid among several teams. We will learn from today’s race, both the positives and the negatives. I am convinced that we will continue to improve in the upcoming races. »

Ross Brawn – Team Principal:

« This weekend was simpler than Australia in all areas, and we saw fewer mistakes from the drivers. Sepang is a circuit that allows the car’s performance to stand out more clearly.

« Seeing Jenson finish the race in 10th place and Rubens in 13th, knowing all the problems he encountered during the trials, is very encouraging. There is still a lot of work to do, but a new step has been taken towards our improvement. »

« Our next development phase will be operational in Barcelona, particularly with new elements in the suspension area. Of course, every team will be making updates, so the announced battles will be even tougher. »