Austrian GP Sauber preview

Willy Rampf (Technical Director): "Braking stability and traction are vital factors at the A-1 Ring.as well as a good mechanical set-up to provide a stable rear end.

"It's also one of those circuits where you need high downforce in qualifying, and less in the race so that the drivers have a chance to overtake. Most passing happens on the long sweeping straight which then leads into a hard braking area for the uphill right-hander halfway round the lap. If you have low drag and good straightline speed and can pass someone on the approach, good traction is then essential to get out of that corner well. Of course, traction control will also play a more significant role here than in Spain, because of the low-speed sectors. What we have learned in Barcelona regarding tracion control will enable us to arrive at a baseline set-up for the software, and will then fine-tune that, and our new launch control, during the course of the weekend."

Nick Heidfeld (21 GPs, 8 World Championship points): "I like the A-1 Ring and I think it is the kind of track that will suit our car. This is like a home race for me, so I hope I can keep up our point-scoring form."

Kimi Raikkonen (5 GPs, 1 World Championship point): "The A-1 Ring will be another new circuit for me, but I think I have proved so far this year that learning new tracks is not a problem. I'm looking forward to being able to push hard for more points."

-Sauber-