Formula One news

Heikki Kovalainen Q&A

Heikki Kovalainen took part in a question and answer session after being signed on a  long term deal by McLaren Mercedes. The Finn replaces Fernando Alonso who has gone back to Renault.

How does it feel to be a McLaren Mercedes driver?
It feels fantastic thank you. The team has always been popular in Finland because of both Mika and Kimi's involvement, so when I was growing up there was a massive awareness of McLaren Mercedes especially when Mika won the World Championship twice. I am so happy to be part of this team. There is a lot of work ahead of us, but I can't wait.

When did you start talking to McLaren Mercedes about a race drive?
Once I had been informed by Renault about their driver plans my management and I began to explore a number of options in Formula 1. Vodafone McLaren Mercedes was obviously an incredibly attractive opportunity and we began talking and here we are…..I am pleased it all worked out.

You will be team mates with Lewis Hamilton - how well do you know Lewis?
I don't know Lewis that well but we have spoken on a number of occasions during 2007. From what I have seen and heard he is a nice guy.

Lewis has been with the team for many years and consequently has a strong relationship with the team and management - are you worried that this will affect you settling into the team?
Not at all. It's up to me to build relationships with the team and the people around me, and I know everybody is excited about me joining, so I don't think that will be a problem at all. The one thing that has struck me so far is just how professional and dedicated the team is, and I know they will work so hard to give me the best opportunity. Also after the 2007 season I don't think there can be any doubt that the team is totally committed to equality amongst its drivers and I like that.

McLaren Mercedes had a tough year off track in 2007 - does that kind of thing worry you as a driver and did that affect your decision in any way?
I am employed to drive the car and am not a political animal at all. There was obviously a lot going on in 2007 but it's not for me to talk about. I just look forward to a competitive and fun future with the team.

Obviously you former Renault team mate Fernando Alonso's and McLaren Mercedes partnership didn't work out - does that worry you?
Not in the slightest. It's not for me to judge what went wrong with Fernando and the team and I am really not interested. All I can say is how I feel about my opportunity and I am really excited and happy.

Do you think you can win the World Championship in 2008?
Any driver has to enter into a race and a World Championship believing he can win it so of course I do. However there is a long way to go and at the moment I am just looking forward to familiarising myself with the new car and the team.

more news

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• 08 Jan.
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• 07 Jan.
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  • Ferrari willing to supply 'Honda' with engines
  • Brawn says Honda won't test before season
• 06 Jan.
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  • Kubica to start karting team
  • Webber's recovery going well
  • Ferrari to reveal new car next week
  • Stewart hits out at Ecclestone and Mosley
• 05 Jan.
  • Red Bull's RB5 to debut in February
  • Suspended sentence and fine for Verstappen
  • Berger confirms Buemi for STR
• 04 Jan.
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• 03 Jan.
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• 02 Jan.
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  • "Title loss would have damaged Hamilton's reputation"
• 01 Jan.
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• 31 Dec. '08
  • Kubica: Next year is a big challenge
  • Hakkinen: Vettel will soon be a Formula 1 champion
  • Hamilton receives MBE award
  • Heidfeld expects more accidents in 2009
• 30 Dec. '08
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  • Ecclestone: Button should take a sabbatical
  • Manager: Alonso would love to join Ferrari one day
  • Changes at Toro Rosso
• 29 Dec. '08
  • Hamilton to miss victory parade in Woking
  • Alonso to join Ferrari in 2011?
  • Mexican billionaire denies Honda bid
• 28 Dec. '08
  • Mexican buyer for Honda?
• 27 Dec. '08
  • F1 drivers positive on Algarve circuit

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