Heikki, you were clearly disappointed with your first race in Australia. How have you prepared for the race in Malaysia?
Heikki Kovalainen: My weekend in Albert Park was one to forget, but it is in the past now. Since Melbourne, my complete focus has been on the race ahead – and performing to the level I know I can reach. I worked hard with the team during testing in Sepang to get comfortable with the car, and I have learned the circuit: it seems very challenging, and fun to drive. I am determined to put Melbourne behind me, and drive a good race in Malaysia.

What areas will you concentrate on during preparations for the race?
HK: The temperatures are so high that the main focus is on finding the right cooling levels for the car and engine to get the maximum from the package. That means getting enough air to the engine, without sacrificing more downforce than is necessary. After that, of course we will work through the usual range of set-ups, looking at downforce levels, suspension settings and tyre pressures to find a good balance with the car on new and old tyres. As always, it will be about finding the most effective compromise between all the different factors.

Are you expecting a difficult race in Malaysia?
HK: Yes, I think it will be a tough race, probably the most difficult of the season because of the conditions. The air is very hot, even on the straights, so you hardly get any cooling at all – and that makes it very intense physically. It will be tough, but I have trained for this race – and I am ready.

You tested last week in Sepang, was that useful preparation for you?
HK: Without a doubt. We found a good basic set-up with the car, in conditions similar to those we will have during the race weekend. On a personal level, I have learned the circuit, the lines and the braking points, so that gives me a solid starting point for the race weekend.