Italian fans ensure special atmosphere - Heidfeld

When it comes to Formula One enthusiasm, the Italian fans are second to none. And this special fascination for the pinnacle of motor racing also has an impact on the drivers. When approaching the circuit, located in Monza's Royal Park, every visitor quickly realises that the Italian Grand Prix represents a special event on the Formula One calendar. After all, even the Friday free practice sessions at the Autodromo Nazionale attract huge crowds.

"The Italian fans always ensure there's a special atmosphere at this Grand Prix," confirms Nick Heidfeld. And it will come as no surprise that red is the dominating colour in the grandstands during Ferrari's home event. Nonetheless, due to its geographic location, a lot of Swiss and German BMW Sauber F1 Team fans make good use of this opportunity to support their team on site. Furthermore, quite a number of Robert Kubica's Polish compatriots will also attend the Italian GP to cheer for their idol.

Like the excellent atmosphere in the grandstands, the top-speeds achieved also represent a constant, at Monza. Nick describes the special characteristics of the Italian GP venue: "High speed will be the number-one issue at Monza. Currently there's no other Formula One track where we break the 350kph mark. Another extreme factor is how hard we ride the kerbs in the chicanes. Speed and tradition are the hallmarks of this circuit. Unfortunately, in other respects it is a bit dated."