Monaco GP Arrows preview

Monte Carlo (Street Circuit)

Round seven and it's off to the mean streets of Monte Carlo! Monaco plays host to the most prestigious race on the calendar, a favorite amongst many of the drivers. They all want to win this historic Grand Prix but first they must master the unforgiving and demanding track, which requires the drivers to have nerves of steel. The cars will run with very high levels of downforce in order to negotiate the tight turns where average speeds are low and very heavy braking is required. A good qualifying position will be imperative as overtaking is almost impossible on the tight and twisty circuit.

Since Austria, the OrangeArrows team has been testing at the Valencia circuit in preparation for Monaco. The Spanish circuit is ideal for set-up work due to the track's similar configuration of tight turns. Initial set-up work can be done at the test giving the team maximum opportunity to fine-tune and develop set-up before the crucial Saturday qualifying session.

Jos Verstappen is one of the many drivers who have made their home in Monaco so would like to have a good race in his 'home town'...

"Monte Carlo is a difficult circuit and I'm not sure how we will get on there but for sure it should be a spectacular race as always. The hardest part is overtaking, especially for me with what I normally do at the start! We'll just have to wait and see how we do but hopefully we will have another good race."

Enrique Bernoldi is keen to return to Monte Carlo after racing there in F3000.

"Monaco is a real challenge for the drivers and the cars. I have raced there twice before in F3000 and last year was running as high as third with ten laps to go before I retired. The corners are very slow, the track is bumpy, it's difficult and there are a lot of gear changes! Monaco is also very tiring, both physically and psychologically but I'm really looking forward to the challenge. We'll have to do a good job in qualifying though as it is more important than ever on this circuit."

Team Principal, Tom Walkinshaw is looking forward to a good event in Monaco.

"We're all looking forward to Monaco. It's a truly unique event where the circuit places demands on the teams like none other and the event itself gives us a chance to look after our sponsors in true style. The whole team has been working hard since picking up the first point in Austria because nobody can afford to stand still in Formula One. We've shown our package is improving so our target now is to get a good position in qualifying which is more important in Monaco than anywhere else."

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