French GP: Kimi Raikkonen preview

"I need a good result after the two races with no points"

Maranello, 17th June 2008 - I don't remember when I had such a great lust for winning! The Team had prepared a car, which was able to be strong on all the tracks, but it didn't go well during the last races. We especially had different problems during the last two races. I don't like looking back and think about what happened at the last race. I don't carry bad thoughts with me, because that would just make me loose time, as you can't change the result anyway. It's much better to concentrate on the upcoming GP and try to get the best result possible.

The last two races were a disappointment, caused by different problems. But I know that Ferrari has taken a great leap forward on this track compared to last year. It's a shame that the points we were able to gain do not reflect our real potential, but I think that we'll be very competitive on the upcoming street tracks at Valencia and Singapore.

Now we're heading back to Europe to tracks, which have been built to be used by racing cars. I think that things will look really different at Magny-Cours, compared to the last GPs. The smooth surface of the French track, its demanding corners and the quick changes of direction will underline the characteristics of the F2008.It was here in France last year that my season practically started all over again; and this is what I need now, after the two races with no points. I like this track and I think that it's perfect for our car. I think we'll be competitive and that we can go for the maximum result.

All the races are important and one point can make the difference, like in 2007. This year will be an equally balanced Championship and that's the reason why you always need to bring home something.Kubica is leading the standings and, apart from the first race, has always collected some points. Hamilton will start further back, due to the penalty. But you should never underestimate McLaren: we have to give our best to keep them behind. We'll bring some new technology and here the Team is giving its best, but that is what also our competitors do.

Over the last days I had the possibility to chill out a bit, although I took part in some marketing events. It was great to spend some time by the sea with my best friends and I could also watch some football matches: I don't have a preferred team but I really like to watch a good match!

-credit: ferrari