The Williams Martini Racing team finished fifth and sixth in China last weekend, but both Felipe Massa and Valtteri Bottas are hoping for a better result this weekend in Bahrain.
Massa has won twice in Bahrain whilst driving for Ferrari, and enjoys returning to the circuit each season. He is hopeful of a strong performance from the team and hopes the long straights will benefit them, especially with the Mercedes power unit driving them on.
“Bahrain is the first night race of the season and is a spectacular place to watch a race,” said Massa. “I always have fond memories of tracks where I have won before and I have managed to step onto the top step of the podium twice in Bahrain.
“I hope our car can show its true pace and utilise its straight line speed on the long straights. The track and facilities are always excellent in Bahrain, which is an added bonus when going to any race.”
Team-mate Bottas is also looking forward to returning to Sakhir, and feels the track offers a good, but not easy opportunity to overtake. He is hopeful of being able to take any opportunity he can to get the best result possible this weekend.
“Last year was a good race in Bahrain,” said Bottas. “The circuit offers the opportunity to overtake but it doesn’t make it easy so the drivers fight for every position.
“The track surface is quite rough which has a huge effect on the tyres, so looking after them becomes a priority. This can lead to quicker cars being bunched up and we have to take every chance that is on offer to overtake.
“I really like the Middle East; the facilities are always fantastic so I am looking forward to heading back there.”
