autoevolution
 

Schumacher Plays Down Mercedes Upgrades for Barcelona

Michael Schumacher will use a new chassis in Barcelona, as confirmed by Mercedes GP's Ross Brawn a few days ago. The new W01 will sport a longer wheelbase and will allegedly help the 7-time world champion tackle his understeering issues this season, as well as provide better weight distribution for the car.

Nevertheless, while admitting that Barcelona will see a heavily revised Mercedes W01, the 41-year old insisted that his team will not turn into a championship front-runner overnight. Even with the new package, the German doesn't expect podium finishes any time soon, although admitting the huge potential of the Brackley-developed machine.

I see a lot of potential here especially as our team has been reacting very well over the past four races. We have worked on general improvements to the car, as well as specific developments in downforce and efficiency, and I am confident that we have room to make further progress in the future,” said Schumacher in a media preview of the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix.

Our step forward in Barcelona will be bigger than you can make at each race during the flyaways but it would not be realistic to expect us to suddenly be competing right at the front,” added the 7-time world champion.

Additionally, he played down reports that his lack of motivation is behind his poor results this season. Hopefully, the race at Barcelona will look a little different for the F1 veteran, helping him close the gap on his teammate Nico Rosberg.

After three years away, I am feeling extremely motivated. So I am clearly ready to take this challenge,” added the German.
If you liked the article, please follow us:  Google News icon Google News Youtube Instagram X (Twitter)
 

Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?

You will only receive our top stories