Barrichello: « Brawn GP surprise of the 2009 season »

Rubens Barrichello seems categorical when he claims that his team, Brawn GP, will be the surprise of this 2009 season. His first tests in Barcelona this week confirm this hypothesis.

Despite a very late purchase of Honda Racing by Ross Brawn, the BGP-001 was the star of the Spanish tests with Button and Barrichello at the wheel of the car. The Brazilian set the best time of the week on Thursday, outperforming his competitors.

And even though testing is usually misleading, Barrichello is convinced that his team is in a strong position to shine in 2009. The driver believes that hard work is the key to a reliable and competitive car after a very difficult period for the Brackley team.

« It’s the teamwork and the conviction of having two good drivers that pay off, » said Barrichello on the official Formula 1 website.

« I believe in Jenson and myself to be the front-runners among the drivers, even though I see many other very good Formula 1 drivers. The team has done a fantastic job designing a good car. »

« At the moment, everything I say puts pressure on me for the first races. »

« All I can confirm as of today is that it’s a good car with a good engine, a good team. I think we will be the surprise of the year. »

However, Barrichello does not want to get ahead of himself and count his chickens before they hatch!

« We have an excellent starting point after several quite complicated months. This car seems a marvel now we just have to continue working in the same direction. »

The Brazilian also reflected on his long months of waiting, where forced retirement was the considered solution while the team struggled for its survival.

« I think it’s too early to talk about the championship. All I can say is that I’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time. »