European GP: The Moment of Truth for Brawn GP

Brawn GP is going through a rather troubled period because for several races, the team is no longer winning. Worse, it is far from the podium, like in Hungary just a month ago. In cool weather like in Great Britain or Germany, the team could be excused, but in Hungary, the heat was prevalent.

Jenson Button is still the undisputed leader but his lead is decreasing race after race. Rubens Barrichello is now only fourth. In the constructors’ standings, we can now talk about a slim lead over Red Bull. The situation is not alarming but needs to be addressed to maintain control at the end of the season.

Jenson Button – Race car driver

« It’s going to be a great race after the summer break. Everyone on the team is looking forward to the Valencia race. I’ve been very busy the past few weeks with the London triathlon at the beginning of the month, followed by a few relaxing days with my family and friends. Yet, it’s been a long period without racing! Valencia is a beautiful city, and the track is very fun around the marina and the bridge. It’s very challenging for the drivers as we’re always surrounded by obstacles. Concentration must be at its peak. There’s been a lot of work on the car; it will be an interesting weekend. »

Rubens Barrichello – Race Driver

Valencia is a nice city and proved last year that it was the ideal place for the European Grand Prix. The challenge of a new circuit is always exciting and even more so this year as we should be in a better position to achieve a good result. The first part of the lap is fast with the pit straight followed by a right-hand curve before slowing down to go onto the bridge. Then, you are on another right-hand curve. The second half of the lap is more urban and the third long straight ends with a tight hairpin at turn 17, which is the best overtaking opportunity. The last part of the lap is quite fast with turns before the last fairly narrow left that takes you back onto the pit straight. It’s a very different street circuit compared to, for example, Monaco.

Ross Brawn – Team Principal:

« Valencia presents an unusual challenge, that of being unique in its kind. It is not the type of street circuit we use like in Monaco, for example. It’s much more open and very fast. There are more run-off areas compared to Monaco. Track safety has even improved compared to last year, giving drivers some margin for error at different points of the circuit. Car cooling must not fail with the ambient temperatures recorded there, but we do not expect to encounter any problems. The team has worked very hard since the factory reopened, and everyone is eager to participate in this weekend. »