Saturday: BMW no longer really knows what to think of its results

The BMW team puts in a mediocre qualifying performance and, once again this season, disappoints. Even though both drivers are placed in the middle of the pack, the German team does not measure up to its competitors. Worse, the team no longer knows whether or not the performances are satisfactory.

Nick Heidfeld is 11th and is satisfied with his qualifying. He believes he can aim for some points in the race thanks to his strategy choice and the amount of fuel he will carry tomorrow. Conversely, Robert Kubica is 10th but ultimately finds himself in a worse position. He cannot choose his strategy and is not optimistic for tomorrow.

Disappointed, the team settles for this result and prefers it over the recent qualifications where Q2 was difficult to reach.

Robert Kubica – 3rd and 10th:

« If recently you were starting from the back of the grid, then starting from 10th place cannot be disappointing. We have to be realistic. I think today we achieved a good result even though I had some traffic during my last timed lap and made a small mistake. I could have gained a few tenths. In the end, scoring points tomorrow will be difficult. »

Nick Heidfeld – 13th and 11th:

« It’s the sixth time this season that I’ve just missed out on Q3 and qualified 11th by a few thousandths. Of course, it’s disappointing, but on the other hand, it means we can choose the fuel load and therefore have a good race. Everyone in the team is determined to show their potential and prove our capabilities for the future of the team. Overall, the car is better and I think that starting 11th, points are a possible goal. »

Mario Theissen – Director:

« We are satisfied with the result of the qualifications. Compared to recent races, we have made a step forward in terms of performance, and that’s what we wanted to achieve with our new package. With Robert [Kubica], we have a car in the top 10, and Nick [Heidfeld] is not very far behind. Kubica could have been better placed… However, congratulations to McLaren for their front row. It proves how quickly things can change.