Nico Rosberg expects that Mercedes should be competitive at the Italian Grand Prix next weekend, given the team’s strong recent result at Spa-Francorchamps, which shares some of the high-speed characteristics of Monza.
The German, who finished sixth in Belgium last weekend – one place behind team-mate Michael Schumacher, is confident of getting a good result at what is the final European race of 2011.
“I’m really looking forward to the weekend in Monza,” says Rosberg. “We learned at the last race in Spa that our car can be competitive at high-speed tracks, and we definitely took a step forward there. I am confident that we can do that again in Italy next weekend. I visited the factory this week and I’m quite happy with how things are working out there.”
Schumacher enjoyed plenty of support at Monza whilst he was in a Ferrari and is looking to build on his excellent drive to fifth place at Spa last Sunday.
“The final European race takes place at Monza, a truly historic Formula One circuit, and one where I have always been so warmly welcomed and supported over the years,” notes the seven-time world champion. “We achieved a good team result in Spa last weekend, and I especially enjoyed the overtaking battles and the challenge of making up so many places during the race. This gives us a boost going into the final part of the season, and we will continue pushing hard to get the best possible results.”
Team principal Ross Brawn wants Mercedes to head for Singapore with another good result under their belts and thinks that the powerful Mercedes-Benz engine that powers the MGP W02 will be particularly useful at the high-speed Monza circuit.
“Monza is always a fitting venue for the final European race, and spending a race weekend there is a special experience,” comments Brawn. “The unique high-speed circuit is a classic racing venue, and one of the best places to watch Formula One cars at their very top speeds.
“Coming off the back of our best result of the season in Spa, we are looking forward to the weekend and to finishing the European season on a high. With the emphasis jointly on engine power and aerodynamic efficiency, we have the benefit of our Mercedes-Benz engine and, as always for Monza, we will run a special low-downforce aerodynamic package to minimise drag on the long straights.”
