Formula One news

Interlagos a case of compromise - Rampf

BMW technical director Willy Rampf previews the Interlagos circuit which will host this weekend's Brazilian Grand Prix and explains that the key to a good lap time is a certain level of compromise. 

"In terms of aerodynamics, Interlagos presents a real challenge," Rampf says. "While the first and third sectors feature long flat-out sections, the middle sector with its many turns ideally demands maximum downforce. In the end it's a question of finding the optimum compromise. At any rate, high aerodynamic efficiency in the car is crucially important."

"Although the track has been repeatedly resurfaced in parts, it is still quite a mogul field," he added. "That's why it's even more crucial here than on other circuits to work out an optimal mechanical set-up. Tyre choice is also difficult because temperatures can fluctuate greatly at this time of year. The rough asphalt means that tyre wear is definitely an issue. The strong likelihood of rain often calls for a compromise set-up to cope with both dry and wet conditions on the circuit. As at Imola and Istanbul, the GP at Interlagos is run in an anticlockwise direction. That involves a corresponding strain on the drivers' neck muscles."

more news

• 27 Nov.
  • Montreal seals Formula One contract
  • GPUpdate TV: Domenicali - high hopes for 2010
  • Jerez test: The cast
  • Wurz plays down USF1 link
  • Renault to test Baguette, Tung and Di Grassi
  • Alonso makes second visit to Ferrari
  • Force India confirms Sutil and Liuzzi
  • All new teams now FOTA members
  • Sauber buys team back from BMW
  • De la Rosa pushing for race drive
  • Ecclestone: I won't buy Donington
  • Haug becomes part of F1 in Schools
  • Volkswagen to provide F1 engines?
• 26 Nov.
  • Alguersuari: 2010 contract is signed
  • Conway and Ericsson to test for Mercedes
  • 4 driver options left for Lotus
  • 'F1 in need of Schumacher return' - Verstappen
• 25 Nov.
  • 'Fantastic opportunity' - Di Resta on Force India test
  • Recap: N.Technology court bid fails
  • BMW testers excited about Jerez
  • Brawn disappointed with Button drives, ponders Lauda
  • Piquet to drive in Massa kart race
  • Brawn aero chief wins award
  • Gillett disappointed with government position
  • Mercedes hopes to confirm line-up by Christmas
• 24 Nov.
  • Briatore verdict expected in January
  • Donington still hopeful over F1 race
  • Montreal race confirmation imminent
  • Massa names drivers for karting event
  • Campos car passes FIA safety tests
  • Strong test could seal drive, says Mallya
  • Force India to test di Resta and Hildebrand
  • Courts to hear Briatore case
  • Silverstone GP deal forthcoming
• 23 Nov.
  • GPUpdate TV: Sam Michael - building on 2009
  • Theissen waiting on entry decision
  • Mercedes delighted with Rosberg confirmation
  • Confirmed: Rosberg to Mercedes for 2010
  • Manor hoping to run in late January
  • Mercedes poised to announce first driver

Homepage