Formula 1 News

Toyota: 2009 German Grand Prix preview 

Pascal Vasselon: “The Nurburgring does not place any specific demand on a Formula 1 car; it requires an average aero efficiency level with average tyre severity and doesn’t put any particular strain on brakes, suspension or engine. The main concern is with the weather and consequently with tyre warm-up because the track is close to the mountains and if you are unlucky you can experience cool temperatures and rain. We haven’t raced at the Nürburgring since 2007 but the lay-out hasn’t changed since then so our database is still valid, although obviously we have to make adjustments to take into account the aerodynamic changes and slick tyres. The British Grand Prix didn’t go as well as expected but our qualifying performance was encouraging, as was Timo’s pace out of traffic in the race, and we aim to be stronger this weekend.”

Timo Glock: “This is my home track and it will be the first time I have raced a Formula 1 car there so I am really excited. Obviously the modern Nurburgring is nothing like the old Nordschleife, which is just an incredible circuit. I drove a Toyota Auris around it recently and it’s so much fun but completely different from a modern Formula 1 circuit. I enjoy the modern Nurburgring and it is a track I am really familiar with after growing up in German racing. In fact, the first Formula 1 race I attended was at the Nurburgring in 2000 when I was competing in one of the support races so it will be a special feeling for me this weekend. It’s surprising we are already at the halfway point of the season – it has gone so quickly. I’ve had some good races so far and it has been nice to be battling at the front quite often. This weekend is another chance to do that and I can’t wait.”

Jarno Trulli: “The Nurburgring is such a famous track in motorsport and it is fantastic to go there and see the old Nordschleife. The new track is a bit different to say the least but in its own way it is still a challenge. It is actually a track I know really well and I have had some good days there, particularly in 1999 when I finished on the podium for the first time in Formula 1. I am always optimistic and it would be great to fight for another podium 10 years on from that. We showed in qualifying at Silverstone that we are competitive, even though the race was frustrating as a result of the start, so I am hopeful for this weekend. It is an important race for the team with the factory only an hour away so that gives me even more motivation to succeed this weekend. I know we will have a lot of support so I hope I can give them the result we all want.”

source: Toyota