Theissen: « BMW is one of the best teams »

BMW Motorsport boss Mario Theissen is adamant that his team is now among the top teams, on the same level as Ferrari and McLaren.

BMW finished on the podium in the last three races, which allows it to lead the constructors’ standings with a one-point advantage over Ferrari and two over McLaren.

The German team also achieved its first pole position in its history in Bahrain, thanks to Robert Kubica.

And although Theissen believes Ferrari remains the team to beat, the BMW boss is now convinced that it can compete for the top spot.

The race in Australia was a fiasco for Ferrari but since then the Scuderia has regained its dominance, commented Theissen on the official Formula 1 site.

« Behind, the situation is tense. Allow me to remind you that last year, we were the third force behind the two best teams Ferrari and McLaren-Mercedes. »

« Now, after three races, we are one of these three best teams, there is a big difference. »

However, he believes that it is still too early to know if BMW will be able to fight for the title.

« That’s our goal, but for an accurate forecast, it’s still too early, » he added.

« The Barcelona race will see all teams bring a different aerodynamic package, and this could lead to a change in the hierarchy. »

The team leader also admitted that he did not expect it to perform so well after the numerous problems during winter testing.

« It was not foreseeable, especially when we think back to our misfortunes on the track in Valencia in mid-January. But, we kept our eyes on our goals and, consequently, we made changes. »

« The data relating to the pilot’s performance and his statements have been synchronized and analyzed. This proved fruitful. »

« Since the launch of the F1.08, we haven’t just added pace to the car, but during these eight weeks between the launch and the Australian Grand Prix, we’ve learned more things than in an entire season, » concluded Mario Theissen.