GreenBkk.com Mercedes GP | SUZUKA, PREVIEW: ROSS: “SUZUKA IS A TRACK WHICH SHOULD BE MORE SUITED TO OUR CAR, SO WE WILL WORK HARD TO HAVE A STRONGER WEEKEND HERE.”

SUZUKA, PREVIEW: ROSS: “SUZUKA IS A TRACK WHICH SHOULD BE MORE SUITED TO OUR CAR, SO WE WILL WORK HARD TO HAVE A STRONGER WEEKEND HERE.”

RACE NEWS // 30.09.2011

Formula One returns to Asia next week for Round 15 of the 2011 World Championship, the Japanese Grand Prix, hosted at one of the most popular tracks on the calendar, the 5.807 km figure-of-eight Suzuka Circuit.

In the last ten years, 75% of races at Suzuka have been won from pole - a higher percentage than in Monaco (70%).

Of the circuit's 18 corners, 11 are taken at 200 kph or higher - including four at over 250 kph. Since Suzuka returned to the calendar in 2009, both races have featured Safety Car periods

For Ross: “Suzuka is a classic racing circuit which has hosted some memorable races over the years, and we are looking forward to returning to Japan next week. The recent improvements to the circuit and paddock have made Suzuka an excellent venue, and the support that Formula One receives from the enthusiastic Japanese fans is always very impressive. After the tragedy which took place in the country earlier this year, we hope that the race will provide entertainment and enjoyment, and it seems somehow fitting that the championship is likely to be decided in Japan. From our team’s perspective, we had a more challenging weekend in Singapore than at the final two European races, however Suzuka is a track which should be more suited to our car, so we will work hard to have a stronger weekend here.”

“The Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka holds a very special place in Formula One” says Norbert. “We always enjoy the warm welcome from the Japanese people, their great passion and enthusiasm for our sport, and of course the challenge of the majestic Suzuka circuit. Following the tragedy that struck the country last March, the whole Formula One community is determined to put on an exemplary and thrilling race for our loyal and dedicated fans, many of whom have endured great hardships over the past six months. The circuit itself needs no introduction - it is one of the world's greatest tracks, which tests man and machine to the limit. The layout is unique and one of the drivers’ favourites; a mega-challenging circuit that is said to divide the men from the boys. In terms of average lap speed, Suzuka ranks - together with Spa and Monza - among the top five of the season, which should mean our technical package should be better suited here than at the slower speed tracks. Having said that, it is clear to us that we cannot change the current pecking order at Suzuka; our target will be to produce performances like we delivered in Spa and Monza.”

Credit: Mercedes GP (www3.mercedes-gp.com)