Formula One news

Haug: Spanish Grand Prix brings out the best package

Mercedes-Benz Motorsport Vice President Norbert Haug is looking forward to see the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix. Haug believes that since teams are testing at Circuit de Catalunya the most the winner will certainly have a very strong package for the rest of the season.

Speaking about this weekend's Grand Prix Norbert Haug said: "For all Formula 1 teams, the Circuit de Catalunya is the best test track, pure and simple. It's a rule that those who can win here are capable to do so at all the other Grand Prix circuits. This rule of thumb came true for the team most recently in 2005, when we won 10 out of the remaining 14 Grands Prix of the season, having taken our first victory of the year at Barcelona.

"Since then the competition in Formula 1 has become even more challenging and the teams make even bigger development steps during the course of the season. Nevertheless, the preparation of all teams for the circuit near Barcelona is more extensive than anywhere else; none of the teams have more understanding of any other circuit on the current Grand Prix calendar."

Speaking about McLaren's test programme Haug said: "Since February, we have covered more than 3700 test kilometres with the MP4-22 at the Circuit de Catalunya. The track is not only demanding on the aerodynamic efficiency of a Formula 1 car, but also the stress on the engines is high. About 70 percent of a lap will be run under full throttle. Once the cars have gone through the new chicane and onto the start and finish straight, about 13 seconds will be run under full throttle."

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• 09 Oct.
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