Michael Schumacher (left) and Nico Rosberg at Suzuka for last season's Japanese Grand Prix - Photo Credit: Mercedes GP
Mercedes team principal Ross Brawn thinks that his team will be better equipped to compete at the Japanese Grand Prix next weekend than they were last weekend in Singapore.
The team endured a tricky night-race on the tight and twisty streets of Singapore, collecting just six points for Nico Rosberg‘s seventh place finish. Brawn thinks that Suzuka, venue of the Japanese race, is an excellent track, and a great place to crown new world champion Sebastian Vettel, which is almost certain to happen on Sunday.
“Suzuka is a classic racing circuit which has hosted some memorable races over the years, and we are looking forward to returning to Japan next week,” he said. “The recent improvements to the circuit and paddock have made Suzuka an excellent venue, and the support that Formula One receives from the enthusiastic Japanese fans is always very impressive. After the tragedy which took place in the country earlier this year, we hope that the race will provide entertainment and enjoyment, and it seems somehow fitting that the championship is likely to be decided in Japan.
“From our team’s perspective, we had a more challenging weekend in Singapore than at the final two European races, however Suzuka is a track which should be more suited to our car, so we will work hard to have a stronger weekend here.”
Michael Schumacher is a six-time winner at this circuit, and understandably enjoys visiting the place each season. “Suzuka is a very special circuit, and one which has held great races, and great memories, for me over the years,” said the seven-time world champion. “I always enjoy the challenge of driving here and getting the technical set-up of the car right to get the best from the demanding layout of the track.
“A great first sector, high-speed turns, and interesting corner combinations all make Suzuka one of the best race tracks of the year, and definitely one of my favourites. We will be working hard to make the most of our weekend here, and hopefully we can come away with a strong performance and some more points.”
Although Rosberg can boast nowhere near the same level of success as Schumacher at Suzuka, he also enjoy racing there. “I always enjoy visiting Japan for the Japanese Grand Prix, and Suzuka is truly a great race track,” he said. “Personally I think it’s one of the best circuits on the Formula One calendar, along with Spa, and one which every driver loves.
“The layout is very challenging with high-speed corners and difficult chicanes. In the past, overtaking has been really difficult here, so it will be interesting to see how the new rules affect the racing. I always love the atmosphere in Japan and the fans are really enthusiastic in their support. Let’s hope we can put on a show for them and achieve a good result.”
