21/05/2007
NEWS STORY
You personally had a tough race in Spain, but we also saw suggestions that the team's overall level of performance had improved. Do you think that can be sustained in Monaco?
Giancarlo Fisichella: My race in Barcelona was a tough one, because of the refuelling problems, but I think our level of performance during the weekend was better. Hopefully, we can carry on moving in the same direction. We are not on the pace of the leaders yet, and we are honest about it, but we are moving forward, and that's important for the motivation and for the team. We are determined to bounce back, and everybody is working flat out to make sure that happens as soon as possible. Monaco is the next challenge for us, and we will be aiming to give our best.
You have always been reputed as something of a Monaco specialist. Can you explain why?
GF: I can't really put it into words. I like the circuit a lot, I usually have a good feeling straight away, and it is one of the unmissable events in motor racing. The races are full of incidents in Monaco: you have to be ready to take every opportunity, and push all the way while staying at maximum concentration to avoid making mistakes. It's a pretty fun challenge to be honest, and I can't wait to get out on the track on Thursday.
Monaco is the most glamorous race of the year. Does that make it extra-special to drive in?
GF: There is a really special atmosphere in Monte-Carlo, for sure. The paddock is in the middle of the city, plus the circuit is fun for the drivers and the engineers because it's so different to a normal track… You feel much closer to the people and, at the same time, you can sense this is a place full of history, one of the legendary places in motor sport. It is a Grand Prix unlike any other, and that makes it really interesting.
Heikki, you raced in Monaco in GP2. Are you looking forward to racing on the streets in an F1 car?
Heikki Kovalainen: I can't wait! This is one of the most interesting races of the whole year because the circuit is so unusual. On a street circuit, you simply cannot afford to make mistakes. If you brake a bit too late, you are in the wall, and that's game over. You have to concentrate for every instant. I have good memories of my GP2 race in Monaco, when I set pole, led most of the race and, in spite of pit-stop problems, I finished fifth. I am really looking forward to seeing what the circuit is like to drive in an F1 car!
It is a very narrow circuit. Do you feel that at the wheel?
HK: To be honest, I think it is tighter and even more narrow than what you see on television! The corners are tighter, the walls are always too close… It is almost impossible to pass unless you are much faster – or your competitor makes a mistake. You are so close to the buildings that the sound is bouncing off them, and that means you hear your engine much louder – and the engines of the cars around you… it's a really strange feeling in the opening laps! Monaco is a spectacular Grand Prix, and it will be an interesting race.
What are the main factors to take into account when you are setting up the car?
HK: Downforce is important, and I think everybody will race with their maximum levels. But in my opinion the crucial things are mechanical grip and the suspension, because they are what help you be quick through the slow corners. You also need to have good braking stability, because the driver needs to feel confident to be able to attack the big braking zones. Those are the areas we will concentrate on in practice on Thursday.