Japanese GP: Red Bull Will Continue at Full Throttle
Red Bull can no longer really hope to take the constructors’ title from Brawn GP. The resurgence of form from the latter in the last three races has somewhat erased the glimmer of hope they had left. Nonetheless, Red Bull will do their utmost for this race, out of competitive spirit, and especially because Vettel […]
Red Bull can no longer really hope to take the constructors’ title from Brawn GP. The resurgence of form from the latter in the last three races has somewhat erased the glimmer of hope they had left. Nonetheless, Red Bull will do their utmost for this race, out of competitive spirit, and especially because Vettel is still contending for the title.
In Singapore, Sebastian Vettel was a serious contender for the podium until he entered the pit lane speeding on lap 38. Despite the resulting “drive through” penalty, the young German finished the race in fourth place, ahead of the two Brawn GP drivers. He can still hope to win the title this season, but it is becoming a real mission impossible. His teammate, Mark Webber, on the other hand, has lost all chance of winning the title as he is 32.5 points behind with only three races remaining. In Singapore, his car had an unfortunate tendency to fall apart. He notably lost the right mirror and pieces of the wings. On lap 46, one of his brake discs exploded, forcing Mark Webber to retire. The Australian had detected excessive brake wear early on, but his efforts to conserve them weren’t sufficient. Mark Webber will therefore be driving with much less pressure this weekend.
Sebastian Vettel – Racing Driver
Suzuka is the best track in the world. I drove for two hours on Friday during the free practice sessions here at the Japanese Grand Prix in 2006. The first hour was wet, it was quite scary since I didn’t know this track. I am eager to race there as it is one of the most challenging circuits with many high-speed corners. It’s enjoyable, and I think it should suit our car. I love the culture and the people in Japan. Last year, I climbed Mount Fuji [with Heikki Kovalainen] and also spent quite a bit of time in Tokyo. The food there is great… Everything is very disciplined and orderly, and I like that.»
Mark Webber – Racing Driver
«Fourth was my best result here, with Williams in 2005, the penultimate time we raced at Suzuka. It was really great, I remember Alonso and Räikkönen coming back at me like rockets! Kimi took the lead on the last lap and I had a good fight with Fernando! It’s a sensational circuit and I also have fond memories of the televised broadcasts of the eight-hour motorcycle race, which I watch like many Australians. The crowd is quite similar to that of the Italians because they are very passionate and interested, although they are also very reserved. When you walk on this track, and you pass in front of the amusement park, you realize that Suzuka is special! »
Christian Horner: Team Principal:
Theoretically, we have to win every race hoping that Jenson retires in most of them. In reality, it’s an uphill battle, but mathematically, there’s still a chance. So, we will tackle the remaining three weekends, and try to win all three. We had the speed here, on a track that theoretically shouldn’t suit the car, and both drivers had impressive pace. We look forward to Japan. This season, it’s impossible to predict anything. We are happy with the developments we presented here and it will be the same at Suzuka. The weather forecast is a bit pessimistic. Fortunately, it’s a track that should suit us.
