2011 Singapore Grand Prix Preview
Tuesday ,20 September 2011
Whether it’s luck I don’t know, but whenever there is a first lap incident Force India is inevitably involved in some way or another! But Paul was eighth at Monza and it is great to leave Europe and go to the flyaway races in sixth position, as we have now overtaken Sauber
Vijay’s vision
Chairman and Team Principal, Dr. Vijay Mallya, looks back on the European season and ahead to Singapore.
The team has now had a run of four good results. Has that been satisfying for you?
Absolutely, that’s what this team needed. We were hoping for double points finishes in these races, but nevertheless one car has scored points. Whether it’s luck I don’t know, but whenever there is a first lap incident Force India is inevitably involved in some way or another! But Paul was eighth at Monza and it is great to leave Europe and go to the flyaway races in sixth position, as we have now overtaken Sauber. That was our objective in Monza and we achieved it.
You wanted the car to be competitive on all types of tracks in 2011 and clearly that is the case now…
The technical direction we all agreed on at the factory was to build a car for all circuits. This year’s car probably has more downforce than ever before, and therefore less straight-line speed. However we went well at Spa and Monza, and now we’re going to tracks that require more downforce, which we have. So we’re looking to continue this good performance for the remainder of the year.
We now travel to Singapore – is it a race you enjoy?
Yes, it’s a great event in an exciting location and I still believe racing at night adds some extra sparkle. Also, we should not forget there is a big Indian community in Singapore so it would be great to continue our strong run of results there.
Finally, the FIA’s Charlie Whiting inspected the Indian Grand Prix venue recently. Are you pleased with progress?
Absolutely, without a doubt. Charlie Whiting’s track inspection report is very flattering. I was exceptionally proud to read his report. He said that everything is done to a very high standard and he has asserted that there is no reason why the track should not be fully ready by the race. As far as the promoters of the track are concerned, they say we can race there tomorrow.
Adrian on Singapore
After an early bath in Monza, Adrian looks forward to the streets of Singapore.
Adrian, is Singapore a race you enjoy?
It is quite an interesting circuit. Perhaps not my favourite, but there are some challenging corners and over the years I’ve grown to like it more and more. Plus, I always enjoy the challenge of street circuits.
Will the track play to the car’s strengths?
The low downforce configuration of Monza did not really work that well for us so Singapore should be better. It’s the opposite of how it was before: we are now more competitive on downforce circuits, so we should be quite strong. With a good strategy I think anything is possible there.
The team has had four strong points finisher in a row – it has been a good European campaign hasn’t it?
Yes, but I think we were lucky in Monza because a few cars retired in front of Paul. Then again, we were due some luck! We overtook Sauber in the championship, which is good, and we need to build on that and get some breathing space.
Paul on Singapore
Paul Di Resta looks forward to his first taste of the Marina Bay Circuit.
Paul, you were eighth last time out - a good result for your first visit to Monza…
I don’t think we could have achieved any more, to be honest. I think that’s where our performance level was. We struggled in general with the car’s performance and we were fighting all the way, so picking up four points was a great result. There were a lot of different approaches going on in that race with some teams concentrating more on race pace than qualifying. It shows you can never underestimate any team.
Singapore will be a totally new track for you to learn. Have you done anything special to prepare?
Just the usual stuff really, working on the simulator and looking at on-board videos. I was there last year watching and walked the track, so I know the layout. But it’s true that Singapore is probably going to be one of the more difficult tracks to get up to speed on because it’s such a long lap. Also, with any street circuit you need to build up your confidence over the weekend.
Do you like street tracks in general?
I definitely enjoy the challenge and you have to take a slightly different approach to them. It’s all about having as much time in the car so that you can push right to the limits of the track. We will also need to keep any eye on the weather because any rain storms could hamper things. I just hope we get some dry weather while I learn the track.
Whyte & Mackay City Guide
Our team partner, Whyte & Mackay, makers of Scotch whisky, give some survival tips for a week in Singapore.
Where to visit?
If you have time for a shopping spree, head along to Orchard Road. Relentlessly lined with flashy shopping malls and upmarket hotels, Singapore’s premier shopping street also has plenty of shady trees, seating and flower boxes.
With the racing taking place at night, make the most of the days by taking a cruise on the Singapore River. You can choose from a traditional bumboat or a modern glass-roofed cruise, with an entertaining and informative onboard commentary.
Where to stay?
If your budget allows, why not enjoy some five star luxury at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, located in the Marina Bay area. You can enjoy stunning views of the harbour, the ocean and the city before slipping out to visit Singapore’s most exciting dining and entertainment district.
Alternatively, head along to Raffles Hotel, one of Singapore’s most graceful landmarks with colonial-styled architecture and lush tropical gardens. This luxurious hotel lies in the heart of the city and boasts 15 restaurants and bars.
Where to eat?
If you want to venture away from the hotels, then why not book a table at The Song of India near the popular Orchard Road district. Although a relatively new addition to Singapore, it has already built a reputation as one of the finest Indian eateries in Asia. Whether its brunch or dinner, you can enjoy a wide selection from their a la carte and set menus.
Where to drink?
You won’t be short of bars in Singapore, but Orgo comes highly recommended. With views of the Marina Bay district it’s a good place to enjoy some innovative cocktails prepared by their resident mixologist. With seating options on their expansive outdoor deck or air-conditioned lounge, it’s a fun place to spend an evening.
Meet The Force
Let’s introduce Senior Control Systems Engineer, David Denyer, who celebrates five years with the team this month.
Sum up your job in three words…
Technical, Trackside, Travel.
What systems on the car do you look after?
All of them! I monitor everything to a greater or lesser extent from the main performance systems such as KERS through to ancillary stuff such as the fuel system.
How many sensors are on an F1 car?
Around 100 normally but with the addition of test sensors this can creep past 150.
First Grand Prix you attended?
As a fan it was a British Grand Prix at Silverstone sometime in the late 1980s. Nigel Mansell won ahead of Senna. As a team member it was Monza 2006.
Biggest challenge of the job?
Making sure everything works well all of the time. This starts with making sure the hundred thousand plus numbers in the electronic control units are all set correctly.
Best Force India moment?
Fisi’s pole is right up there. I also remember when Adrian was running fourth at Monaco in 2008, only to be taken out by Kimi – that was bittersweet.
Favourite curry?
Madras, Jalfrezi, chilli chicken Masala…
Any tips for coping with Singapore jet lag?
Work at the Grand Prix so you can stay on UK time!
How do you relax away from F1?
By spending time with my girlfriend, sailing, the occasional track day and other adventures such as camping.
If you had one wish, what would it be?
I’m living the dream, what more could I wish for?
Favourite venue on the calendar?
Monaco, Montreal, Melbourne are all favourites and I also enjoy Japan. If you push me to choose just one, I’d say Melbourne.
Your most embarrassing moment?
Walking the wrong way down the pit lane on my way to the grid. The look of slight confusion on my face turned to embarrassment as I realised my navigational faux pas!
Credit: Force India (www.forceindiaf1.com)
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