Interview: Kubica heads to Melbourne full of questions

Just like for Nick Heidfeld a few weeks ago, BMW has provided us with an interview of their Polish driver Robert Kubica. Last year’s challenger discusses his winter experience with the German team and comments on the changes in the regulations.

BMW indeed finished its winter testing in Barcelona yesterday and is now focusing on Australia and Melbourne to be fully prepared. The countdown has begun, the season starts in 14 days, and Kubica shares his predictions.

Robert Kubica, how did the tests go with the F1.09?

Robert Kubica: Winter testing is always important. This year, it is even more so due to the drastic changes in regulations. It remains difficult to say whether the direction chosen by the team is good since all teams have started from scratch. Thus, there is always a lot to do. For example, on the last day of testing in Barcelona, I covered more than twice the distance of a Grand Prix. Neither the car nor I encountered any issues. This is important because it means that my physical training this winter has been as good as the development of reliability on the F1.09.

« In addition to race simulation, we evaluated a large number of different solutions for the car’s setup and aerodynamic configuration. We were able to make up for some of the time lost the previous week in Jerez due to the dreadful weather. So, in general, this week has been very productive. »

Will you have enough opportunities to conduct tests during the season?

Kubica: « I have mixed feelings about this subject. In fact, I’m happy to have fewer tests to do, so more time for myself. But on the other hand, testing played a very important role last year in the development of the car and this year we will have to be very efficient on GP Fridays. »

How do you view the various technical developments of 2009?

Kubica: « Overall, the F1.09 is totally different to drive compared to previous seasons. The reduced downforce will be partly offset by the return of slick tires, providing more front-end grip compared to our 2008 car. This also creates more oversteer since the forces are more distributed to the front, it’s fun, but I would prefer to have more downforce… »

« Regarding the front wing, I think we are all used to it by now, but one thing that is bothersome is that you can’t see the edges, which are hidden by the front wheels from inside the cockpit. So, I am quite eager to see what will happen in Melbourne at the first corner. I think there will be a lot more front wings to change this season… »

« Finally, for the KERS, I am also divided. It affects me more than another driver since I am heavy and tall. I have fewer options to balance the car, but it will provide better acceleration, and that’s important too. »

Do the new variables make the car more complicated to use for the driver?

Kubica: « No, not really. Using the KERS and adjusting the front wing is not particularly difficult. And then, once you’ve figured out how it works, you just have to adapt it to each Grand Prix. »

Do you think it will be easier to get through this season?

Kubica: « The KERS will help with overtaking, especially if the other driver doesn’t have it. I hope it will really help us. Formula 1 really lacks overtaking. »

Will the teams be closer in terms of performance?

Kubica: « It’s difficult to say. In fact, we were quite close in practice, but in the race, it will depend on the team’s ability to adapt to the conditions and the driver’s ability to adapt to the tires. And this will be more difficult since the testing will be limited and the tires are new. So we won’t be able to use last year’s data 100%. »

What is your goal for the 2009 season?

Kubica: « It will be about being at 100% of the F1.09’s capabilities at every race and thus being able to fight for the championship until the last Grand Prix. »

How do you think the BMW-Sauber team has prepared compared to its competitors?

Kubica: « As always, testing cannot give us a real idea of our level. We only hope to be the best prepared for Australia and I think we are well positioned in that regard. However, we will need to wait at least until qualifying to get a good idea of the strengths in play. »

How did you spend your winter?

Kubica: « The winter was, as always, very relaxing after a long and exciting season. As usual, I prepared for my season, particularly by working on my physical condition. »

How did your training go this winter?

Kubica: « Overall, my physical level was good and I focused on maintaining it. In fact, I had already had this experience before so I know my limits. »

What is your goal regarding the creation of the ‘Robert Kubica Kart’?

Kubica: « I was in karting for many years, and I really enjoyed it. It was my life, and now that I am in F1, I try to do it again whenever I can. Therefore, I wanted to set up a karting team and eventually develop my own brand. Once I gain some experience, I am sure I will be satisfied and that we will achieve good results. »

Are you happy with the development of RK Kart?

Kubica: « Yes, but we are still at a very early stage. We have to work a lot to be able to get homologated and then achieve good results, but I am optimistic about that. »