Curious to see where we really stand - Rampf

This weekend, the BMW Sauber F1 Team starts the hunt for its maiden race win in Formula One. Willy Rampf, Technical Director of the Munich and Hinwil based squad describes the characteristics of the "Albert Park Circuit" and expects first hints regarding the competitiveness of the grid.

"Melbourne represents the perfect venue for the Formula One season kick-off," he says. "It's a great city with a fantastic ambience. It goes without saying that we all are very curious to see where we really stand when all the teams will put their cards on the table, in the qualifying session on Saturday."

The circuit in the Albert Park is considered as a stop-and-go circuit with numerous slow corners. For the first time, you will see how the drivers will cope with the new standard ECU. As traction control and engine braking control are history, now, "Braking into the corners and accelerating will represent special new challenges for the drivers," adds Rampf. "The track layout is particularly demanding for the rear tyres, hence, the drivers will have to opt for a very sensitive attitude when it comes to handling the throttle

According to Rampf, good traction and brake stability represent the top priorities while working on the setup for Melbourne. Furthermore, a sufficient brake cooling also will be vital, as "Melbourne is - apart from Montreal - the most demanding circuit for the brakes." And there is another rule change coming into force from Melbourne. "The first race of the season also represents the first stage in the gearbox cycle. According to the new regulations, a gearbox must survive the Saturdays and Sundays of four Grand Prix weekends, this year," concludes the Technical Director.