Brazil GP: McLaren arrives at Interlagos as free as a bird!

The McLaren team is already ready for this weekend’s Interlagos race. After enduring disappointment in 2007 at the Brazilian Grand Prix and seeing Lewis Hamilton clinch the driver’s title at the end of the 2008 season, the Woking team is delighted to return to Sao Paulo without any pressure. Only the desire to have a good race and score points for the constructors’ championship repeatedly crosses the mind of every team member.

Lewis Hamilton returns to the track where he was crowned champion, but he cannot defend his title this year and admits with a certain pride that he will be looking to have a bit more fun in Brazil than he has in the past. With all the energy that this circuit exudes, he is eager to take on the challenge. As for Heikki Kovalainen, he must score as many points as possible to help his team overtake Scuderia Ferrari in the Constructors’ Championship. Since mid-season, the Finnish driver has been scoring points, and this will likely make the difference for third place.

Lewis Hamilton – Racing Driver:

I am really looking forward to the Brazilian GP this year. It will be the first time I’m going to Sao Paulo without being in the race for the world championship, and I’m eager to explore the city a bit more and enjoy the experience of driving on one of the greatest circuits in the world. One of the greatest things about racing at Interlagos is the crowd. There’s such an atmosphere, the fans are so energetic and full of life. It’s a party while you’re working, and it’s wonderful to see everyone happy.

Heikki Kovalainen – Racing Driver

« After a season during which we always turned right, the Brazilian circuit will put our neck muscles to the test. But we quickly forget all that as soon as we put the wheels on the track. It’s an extraordinary layout, very demanding, but also very satisfying when you complete a good lap. »

Martin Whitmarsh – Team Principal:

« Going to Sao Paulo, focusing solely on the best possible result, will allow us to approach the race weekend without any other considerations. We are very eager to take on this challenge. »

Article mainly written by S. Lochon