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."

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