Formula One news

Theissen didn't expect pole for Kubica

At the Bahrain Grand Prix Robert Kubica scored BMW Sauber F1's first pole position since the team took over the Sauber F1 team at the end of the 2005 Formula 1 season. Team boss Mario Theissen now admits he never expected such a strong performance in qualifying so early in the season.

Speaking with F1.com Theissen said about the team's first pole position: "This was not foreseeable, especially when you consider our roll-out woes in Valencia in mid-January. The aftermath was the first major test for our still young team. But we kept our eyes on our goal and consequently proceeded with our plan.

"Performance data and driver statements were synchronised, causes analysed and a package of measures adopted. It proved successful. This pole in Bahrain indicates another cornerstone in our efforts and that it happened at such an early stage in the season was the icing on the cake. Since the launch of the F1.08 we have not only added pace to the car, but in those eight weeks since the launch to the season opener in Australia, we have learned more than in a whole season. Looking back it was a very prolific and highly motivating period. My compliments go to (technical director) Willy Rampf and the whole team as, even though they were under pressure, they never caved in."

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