Formula 1

Hungarian GP: Sauber preview

Willy Rampf (Technical Director): "Although it doesn't have the same concrete walls, the Hungaroring is the circuit on the Formula One calendar that most closely resembles Monte Carlo. Both tracks demand maximum downforce since there are very few ...

Published: Aug 8, 2002, 7:54 PM

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Willy Rampf (Technical Director):

"Although it doesn't have the same concrete walls, the Hungaroring is the circuit on the Formula One calendar that most closely resembles Monte Carlo. Both tracks demand maximum downforce since there are very few really high-speed corners and only short straights.

"There are several tough aspects to the track. It is bumpy in places and the ambient temperature is usually very high, which makes life hard for the drivers. Overtaking is also very, very difficult, which means that you must optimise the car in qualifying so that it is well balanced and has plenty of downforce and mechanical grip in order to achieve the best possible grid position. Good refuelling strategy is also a crucial key to your race planning, because more than ever this is one of those circuits where you can win positions in the pits that you cannot win out on the track."

Nick Heidfeld (45 GPs, 7 World Championship points):

"I like Hungary and its ambience. The Hungaroring is quite a challenging track because you always have to be on the lookout during the race for the moment any overtaking opportunity presents itself. You don't get many chances there! It's a tricky place, with tight corners. I have always been quick there, in F3000 and in FI. Last year I came sixth with the SAUBER PETRONAS C20, and that was a tough but very satisfying point to score. I hope for something similar this year."

Felipe Massa (13 GPs, 4 World Championship points):

"I have never been to Hungary and I am planning to start my visit by flying over the city of Budapest with Peter Berenyi, the world and European aerobatic flying champion who is Hungarian. Our team partner RED BULL has offered me the chance to fly with him in his EXTRA 330 plane. I can't wait landing in Tököl. It's a wonderful way to discover a city! I will also meet Hungarian F3000 driver Zsolt Baumgartner."

-sauber-

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