Bahrain GP: Toyota will use its winter tests to win

Like Ferrari and BMW, Toyota will be able to rely on its experience on the Sakhir track in Bahrain this weekend, as the Japanese team conducted numerous test days there in February. The conditions will be almost the same, so it will have amassed a large amount of useful data from the Friday practices.

The two drivers, Jarno Trulli and Timo Glock, anticipate strong performances on the track aided by their winter testing, but mainly with the aim of reclaiming the second place in the championship given up to Red Bull in China.

Jarno Trulli – Racing Driver

« I am looking forward to the race in Bahrain after the tests we conducted here over the winter. Bahrain was the first opportunity to test the TF109 in dry conditions and I knew immediately that we had a competitive package. I have a good feeling for this weekend and I think we can be competitive. »

The weekend’s weather seems to follow that of the winter tests. However, we need to get more information about the new car. We now have some experience with these two tire compounds. I will drive as fast as I can. As always, I know that everyone on the team is very motivated, and I hope for a success in the race on Sunday.

Timo Glock – Racing driver

« The Bahrain Grand Prix is fun and the track is unique. To set up the car, you have to make compromises between speed and grip for the straights and the much slower corners, which is a delicate balance to achieve. One of the problems we face particularly in Bahrain is the wind, which comes from the desert. It can change direction lap after lap. This can make the car a bit unstable if it blows in the wrong direction. »

« Last year, I was quite unlucky in Bahrain because I had a small technical problem when I was sure to score my first points for the team. But this season has started in a much better way compared to 2008. I am convinced that I can achieve new performances. »

Pascal Vasselon – General Director:

« We completed a large number of laps during testing in Bahrain, which is very useful in terms of developing the TF109. It will also be helpful for this weekend because we have some experience with setting up the car and the slick tires. We tested two tire compounds when we were in Bahrain in February. The conditions then were quite representative of what we will experience this weekend. Bahrain is a tough circuit on brakes, nevertheless, we expect to be strong for this race. »