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Hungarian Grand Prix Preview, part 2
By Vodafone McLaren Mercedes July 29 2008
The Hungarian Grand Prix has become a staple on the Formula 1 calendar since its introduction to the world championship in 1986. The first Eastern Bloc grand prix, the race is as famous for its tight and twisting track configuration as its arid and scorching climate - both of which conspire to create a uniquely demanding event for teams and drivers alike.
Heikki proved rapid in practice and qualifying in Great Britain and Germany but didn't seem able to exploit the car under him to the same extent during the race. Is the team working to alleviate some of the handling problems he has encountered?
"Firstly, let's not forget that Heikki is a brilliant racing driver. His pass of Robert Kubica at Hockenheim reminded anybody who needed reminding that he has all the speed and skill to be battling at the front. But there's no magic in Formula 1 and we still need to work with Heikki to extract his full potential. At Hockenheim, he didn't get the best out of himself or the package and we need to work on how we fine-tune the car's set-up and how Heikki is involved in that process. He was at MTC on Tuesday to carry out his pre-race programme and is working hard with his engineers to find a set-up that allows him to maintain his speed throughout a race stint without suffering from some of the rear-end nervousness he has encountered in recent races."

With the traditional F1 testing ban coming into effect immediately after the Hungarian Grand Prix, how has the team structured its development programme for the rest of the summer?
"The whole team has been incredibly busy and productive this year. Throughout the summer, we've been working hard to evaluate several substantial developments at each test and were able to sample major new aerodynamic steps at both the Silverstone and Hockenheim tests. This week's Jerez test was no different: as well as evaluating the latest iteration of Bridgestone slick, we also tried out antler wings on the nosecone to improve the front-end flow as well as a number of more detailed aero solutions. Over the three-week break, we have also scheduled two 50km shakedowns and will be working hard back at Woking and Brixworth to enable us to keep the development programme on schedule before we resume the season in Valencia."

NORBERT HAUG

Vice-president, Mercedes-Benz Motorsport
Two weeks ago you said that Silverstone and Hockenheim were so-called 'engine circuits', which suited McLaren-Mercedes. What are your expectations for the twisty Hungaroring?
"The characteristics of the circuit just outside Budapest are quite different to those at the previous Grands Prix in Silverstone and at the Hockenheimring. The average speed per lap of almost 200km/h is the second lowest speed after Monaco, where we won. In Hungary, we have clinched four victories out of the last 10 races; Lewis was our most recent winner last year. Four times we started from pole in Hungary, the last time also in 2007 with Lewis, and we have posted four fastest race laps."

What are the main challenges in Hungary?
"As overtaking on the Hungaroring is almost impossible, apart from into turn one, a good grid position is even more crucial than on most other circuits. Nevertheless, at the Hungaroring, we will hardly see spectacular overtaking manoeuvres as demonstrated by Lewis on his way to victory in Hockenheim when he passed Felipe Massa and Nelson Piquet. To be fast through the many corners, which make up the largest part of the circuit, a lot of downforce will be key. At the Hungaroring, this is more important than good top speed. The high ambient temperatures at this race are among the highest which often put a lot of strain on car, engine cooling, tyres and of course the drivers."

What factors will influence the strategy for the Hungarian Grand Prix?
"The requirements in Hungary are similar to those in Monaco: we need efficient cooling and a lot of downforce, but we also have to cope with high tyre wear. The weight of the car, and thus the fuel load, have a bigger influence on the lap times than in the previous races."

How do you estimate your competition after Vodafone McLaren Mercedes clearly dominated in Hockenheim?
"Hungary will present a different picture. We have no reason to expect a walk in the park."

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