Mercedes Vow to Surprise People in Malaysia

After the first round of the 2011 Formula 1 season, we can all agree on something: Mercedes GP can only do better in Malaysia. Having lost the chance to score points by mid-race in Melbourne due to unfortunate accidents involving Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg, the Brackley-based team is yet to show its pace (race-wise) in the ongoing campaign.

And while many are praising Red Bull – including themselves – for their dominant car this year, Schumacher believes his team should tackle the race in Sepang with growing optimism and willingness to fight back from their disappointing outing at Albert Park.

“There is absolutely no doubt we want to do better than in the opening race, which was a disappointment for all of us,” said the 7-time world champion in a preview for the Malaysian GP.

“We clearly see that as a challenge and it is much too early to write us off. Everybody in the team remains positive and is in a fighting mood. So I expect a better weekend for us to come; a weekend we can build on.”

Piggybacking on his teammate's comments, Rosberg believes that Merc's car is capable of producing some pleasant surprises next weekend, especially given its great pace disclosed during the Barcelona testing.

“We had a tough weekend in Australia but the team has worked hard and we are confident that the car will be running reliably in Malaysia,” said Rosberg. “I think we can surprise people next Sunday. We know that the car is fast from the last test in Barcelona, so now we have to work on proving that potential.”