Spanish GP: Sauber preview

Sauber Petronas Spanish Grand Prix preview

Willy Rampf (Technical Director):

"Teams and drivers know the Circuit de Catalunya really well because everyone goes there so often for testing. It doesn't really have any slow-speed corners, they are all medium to high-speed. That places a premium on aerodynamic efficiency. We need almost maximum downforce as usual in qualifying, but despite the long, long pit straight we unusually retain that set-up for the race as well."

"The track surface is quite abrasive, so it can also be pretty hard on the tyres. Aerodynamic and mechanical set-up work therefore assumes even greater importance. Having traction control helps to prevent wheelspin. The driver needs to adapt his style to look after his front tyres, especially the left front because of the long corners like turn 3. Tyre conservation is a key factor in race strategy."

Nick Heidfeld (37 GPs, 2 World Championship points):

"I like the Circuit de Catalunya, and I'm looking forward to the race. We were very quick there in winter testing, and I think that trend should continue. A lot of people go to Barcelona to test, so we all know the place quite well and therefore there should not be any surprises. Everybody starts from the same base-line. I also like races where the driver can play a significant part, and here you have the challenge of going fast without hurting your tyres."

Felipe Massa (4 GPs, 1 World Championship point):

"I've done so much testing in Barcelona that I feel I know the track really well, so I am expecting to run strongly there like I was able to in Imola."

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