30/01/2008
NEWS STORY
Having clinched its second win of the season, Willi Weber's A1 Team Germany is back in the race for the title at the A1GP World Cup of Motorsport's mid-point and wants to confirm its good form in Australia as well. After Michael Ammermuller (right) won the sprint race at the fourth round in China, and Christian Vietoris at the fifth round in New Zealand was the series' youngest driver so far to celebrate victory in the main race, the title defence project is back on course. From 1 to 3 February, the German team wants to write the next chapter of its success story in Sydney.
"In December and January we built on the form that led us to the title last year," Willi Weber sums up the team's performance. "In New Zealand our score of 28 points made us the most successful team. By showing the best performance of the season, we improved from eighth to fourth place in the standings. We want things to continue this way. However, since our drivers are testing to prepare for their summer season our future fielding plans will be subject to certain constraints."
With a second and a first place in New Zealand the team proved that it is among the front runners. Altogether, the squad's tally since 2005 reflects four pole positions, eleven victories and 18 podium places. "It's great that we're in such good form," says a pleased Michael Ammermüller, who is returning to the cockpit in Australia. "We've got ideal prerequisites: the car is good, the right people with the right attitude are working in the team – so I'm seeing the best opportunities for success."
The Eastern Creek circuit, located 20 kilometres away from Sydney, features a combination of slow, medium-fast and a very fast turn after the start and finish. The lap record is held by Nico Hülkenberg, who won the sprint and the main race for A1 Team Germany there last year. For Michael Ammermüller, Australia will bring new experiences. "I don't know the track at all," says the 21-year-old from Pocking. "While this may sound like a disadvantage, it doesn't necessarily have to be one. As Zhuhai most recently showed, I can adjust to new circuits very quickly, and even win there. Coming here with my A1GP victory from China in my pocket gives me a good feeling."
The circuit in "Down under" is new territory as well for Michael Klein, who will be driving for A1 Team Germany for the first time in the "rookie practice" on Friday. The 20-year-old in 2007 won the trophy classification of the German Formula 3 Cup and is given the opportunity to show his talent in Australia.
Broadcast times on Premiere: Race Sunday, 3 February, 4:45 a.m.; 9:15 a.m. (repeat), 5:30 p.m. (repeat).