Spanish GP: BMW’s F1.09 Version 2 Enters the Game

As Mario Theissen says, the first European race is synonymous with a second start to the season for the teams. With only four points on the board, BMW is eagerly anticipating this new phase. The team has, in any case, done what is necessary for things to change. A new aerodynamic package will be installed on the F1.09 cars of Robert Kubica and Nick Heidfeld but without the double diffuser, which is not yet ready. The latter will likely be introduced in Monaco.

After a disastrous Bahrain Grand Prix where both drivers finished in the last two places completely outpaced by the race pace, hopes for renewal are high. Just a year ago, BMW was shining as Kubica achieved the first pole position of his career in the Bahrain desert. This season the situation is different, but the whole team is ready to work hard for the remaining 13 races.

Robert Kubica – Racing Driver

« I am looking forward to this race in Barcelona. After four Formula 1 races abroad, it’s the big return to Europe, and I’m very happy about it. As all the teams will be making improvements for this event, I expect all the cars to be very closely matched to each other. »

« We will bring a new aerodynamic package hoping to significantly improve compared to our recent performances. Our goal is to bridge the gap with the leading teams. The track is pleasant to drive but very challenging. There are very different turns and a hairpin that requires heavy braking. As we have done many laps on this track in the past, I think we could drive it blindfolded. »

Nick Heidfeld – Racing Driver

« We know the Barcelona track by heart with the numerous tests. Last year, we were there for 16 days for tests in Barcelona. This year, we only had four days in March, two for each driver. Barcelona is a difficult track to drive with many variants. The circuit is very sensitive to temperature variations. »

« If the wind, temperature, or grip change, even slightly, a setup that was working well might very well be inappropriate the next day. Like everyone in the team, I strongly believe in the new aerodynamic improvements. The team has put an incredible amount of energy into trying to close the gap with the leaders. I hope we will perform a bit better in Barcelona, but it’s hard to predict because all teams will be making updates to varying degrees. »

Mario Theissen – BMW Motorsport Director:

« The Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona marks the start of the European season after four races outside the continent. Traditionally, it represents a second start to the season. For BMW-Sauber, this is even more applicable because we are not satisfied with the first four races of the season. After our rather positive winter tests, we were hoping for a very different start to the season. The car is not fast enough, and we have only achieved one podium with Nick Heidfeld and his second place in Malaysia. »

« We remain positive and are working intensively in Munich and Hinwil to return to last year’s level. We will introduce major innovations in Barcelona while we are already working on new updates for the coming months. »