Calling all Toyota F1 fanatics out there! I’m sure you’ll be delighted with these F1 bits that I’m going to provide you. So better rest those eyes from reading all that stuff from your VW repair manual and concentrate on some parts from an interview with your main man, Ralf Schumacher, as he gives his insights and as he talks about Silverstone. Enjoy!
Q: Was it especially disappointing to retire after your best qualifying of the year?
Ralf Schumacher: Yes, definitely. I retired just after one-third distance. I felt the wheel fixation problem as I came into the complex and it was a pity because we were strong all weekend and I was confident of a good result. Our performance level was good all weekend and we really expected to finish strongly. Unfortunately, after qualifying sixth I lost positions at the start but after that I was able to set lap times which competitive with the cars in front. That showed we had the potential to fight for a top-six finish.
Q: Qualifying sixth seems to be a good step forward?
RS: Both cars qualified in the top 10, which is always our target. Silverstone seems to be good for us. In testing last month we were relatively competitive but I have to admit I was a little surprised. I expected us to be in the top 10 but I didn’t expect the top six. It was a nice surprise and a good reward for all the hard work the team put in.
Q: Do you enjoy Silverstone?
RS: I’ve always enjoyed the track but the only problem in the race is that overtaking opportunities are very slim - in fact pretty much non-existent unless somebody makes a mistake. But the circuit layout itself is enjoyable to drive and I have to say, the English fans are great. They are really into Formula 1 and you see that every time you even go testing there. That’s encouraging for all of us. It’s a good event.
Q: Was it quite tiring to come from North America, test at Silverstone and then face the double-header in Magny-Cours and Silverstone?
RS: You do feel it. The long-haul races are difficult for the teams, the mechanics and for all of us, especially when you don’t see much of your family. It’s a lot of work and people get tired after overseas races but we are a world series and that’s the way it is. You tend to be quite tired and a bit jet-lagged when you come straight from Indy and test in Europe on Tuesday. That’s not perfect but we needed to do something at the Silverstone test and that’s why I came. After that I went home and had two or three days when I just didn’t do anything because I was tired. Then we were straight into France and Britain with little time to rest in between.