A track with a character - Heidfeld
Despite the difficult race experienced at Fuji, the BMW Sauber F1 Team is highly motivated as it travels to Shanghai for this weekend's GP. Nick Heidfeld describes the perils of the "Shanghai International Circuit". For him, the Chinese metropolis represents a city of extremes.
"On the whole, I like this circuit," reveals the German. "Despite being new, the track layout has a natural feel and a character about it. The paddock and the grandstands are also truly distinctive and absolutely huge."
For Heidfeld, the first three corners of the 5.451-kilometre circuit are not only his favourite section of the "Shanghai International Circuit" but among best of the entire F1 calendar. "You approach the first turn at high speed and enter it flat-out but then the corner increasingly tightens up and you have to shift down to second gear. Making a clean exit will be even more interesting next year when we'll be driving without traction control again."
Shanghai itself, regarded as China's "Boom-Town", is just as impressive as the circuit. However, Nick is well aware of the downside hidden behind Shanghai's skyscraper dominated skyline. "In a lot of districts and the suburbs you'll come across grinding poverty," he says. "This year, my family will be joining me for the Asian tour and I hope we'll find some time to visit the nicer sides of the city."
