Mercedes GP's Michael Schumacher praises team for the upgraded W02
Seven-time Formula 1 Champion Michael Schumacher was pleased with the efforts of his team in developing a strong car ahead of the first race, the Australian Grand Prix, which kicks-off on the 27th of March.
The legendary driver said, “It is important to stay strong and keep concentrated on the work. We did that and I am convinced that Mercedes will become a championship contender.”
He further added, “We are going in the right direction definitely. We should be in a good position this year. But as to whether we already have a winning car – for this assessment I would like to first wait a few races.”
The veteran German had a bad start to his returning year in 2010, as he only managed 72 points in the driver’s standings, finishing ninth overall. However, Schumacher claimed that he himself expected to struggle after a long absence from the sport.
Schumacher accepted however, that he was expecting a much better season compared to last year, but claimed that winning races or a Championship straight away wasn’t in his plans.
The veteran further added that his approach has always been realistic, and knowing that it may take longer to get back to winning ways, he chose to sign a three year contract with Mercedes.
Mercedes struggled for pace during the pre-season testing, and the team didn’t seem to have improved from last year. Even though Schumacher’s teammate Nico Rosberg insisted that the car would be ready for the first race in http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Australia-c746, there were many doubts
over the performance of the team.
However, the German team brought upgrades for the final test at Barcelona, and a totally revamped car was on top of the time sheets. Schumacher clocked the best time of the winter at Barcelona, and surprised everyone with his car’s pace. This ensured everyone
that Mercedes would be fighting for the top spot amongst Ferrari, Red Bull and Mclaren.
Although Mercedes has shown a lot of promise in the last testing session, Schumacher tipped Red Bull driver Sebastian Vettel as the favourite to win the title for the second time in a row. The young German has a very strong car, and it will be difficult
to challenge him in the 2011 season.
The only concern for Red Bull will be the reliability of their car. The current Champions had some issues with their car at the start of 2010, which put them on the back foot in the opening few races, however, they managed to win both titles at the end of
the season.
Red Bull may seem the best team at this stage, but the true picture will be clear once the season officially begins. Also, this season may produce some unexpected results, especially with the greater wear-rate of the Pirelli tyres. However, the teams that
adapt better to the new regulations will emerge as the Champions in 2011.
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