Ross Brawn has quite the experience in this type of decisions, as a similar move back in 2008, when he was heading Honda F1 Racing, got him the world title a year later, with Brawn GP. The constant struggle for survival endured by his team last year has influenced the development of the 2010 car, argued Brawn, so he returned to the 2008 recipe for a (hopefully) title-winning 2011 campaign.
“I've said before, cars are born 12 months before they are raced, and when this car (the W01) was born we had our focus on lots of things - survival of the company, we were trying to win the championship and we didn't focus enough on it,” said Brawn, according to Autosport.
As for the 2011 car, the British boss insisted that he is pleased with its development so far, especially since the team has figured out the negative aspects of the W01 this season.
“But that is the car we have now. However, that is not the balance we will strike for next year. Our new car is well-advanced and I can see lots of areas where we are making progress in. So I think I understand the reasons why we are where we are, and I know the things we have to do to be in a better position for next year. We will see.”
His optimism for 2011 was echoed by Mercedes' motorsport director Norbert Haug also, who admitted that his and his company's expectations for the upcoming season are sky-high.
“I am absolutely convinced that with hard work and dedication we will achieve our targets. We are both working together and that is where we are. We are going to be better next year, that is for sure,” added Haug.
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