GreenBkk Formula 1 | Rubens predicts 'aggressive' Williams

Rubens predicts 'aggressive' Williams

Rubens Barrichello is upbeat about Williams' 2011 challenger, saying it will be "in aggressive mode".

Williams continued with their mid-table form in 2010 and finished sixth in the Constructors' Championship, but their engine supplier Cosworth has already indicated they are targeting a return to the top four next year.

Barrichello is equally positive about their chances, saying he wants the team to go forward next year.

"I'm so positive that I can see the team growing, but I'm possibly not the right person to question," he told Autosport. "I can see only the good signs, and I'm changing the bad signs. I've been pinpointing things exactly with the car, and with that they can help everyone in the team to go forward.

"Next year's car is definitely in aggressive mode. But it's about whoever makes the tyres work better.

"It's a make or break type of thing. If you think that the Honda was not a very good car, we had a terrible 2008 season, and whenever they put the slicks on at the end of the year, the car improved itself. It was a car that if it was fighting for sixth position, it was already fighting for fifth. And then they made such an upgrade [as Brawn] it went to first.

"The Pirelli tyres could have a fundamental change on the tyres aerodynamically, so whatever happens it will help some teams and it won't help some others."

Many thought Barrichello had come to the end of his career when Mercedes GP decided not to offer him a deal after they bought out Brawn. However, Williams were quick to pounce and despite his age, the veteran put in some impressive displays in 2010.

So what's the secret at Williams?

"It's not about cuddling and love, it's about getting the work done and getting everyone to hear what you're doing," Barrichello explained. "It's a good marriage to be honest, with you. That's what I'm in love with!

"It's been one of the best times of my career. Like I've said before, all the teams that have employed me have used me well enough for their benefit, but not as well as Williams have used me. They hear me fully, and they actually act. They may have a sense that 'this is bullshit,' but let's try it anyway.' And then they try, and see some benefit.

"There's been some fantastic work. Sam [Michael] heard me and went off, and after Istanbul we were able to change the characteristic of the wind tunnel."

Credit: PlanetF1.com (www.planetf1.com)