Zoom Heidfeld ended the session in the pits

Both the BMW Sauber drivers completed their usual programme during the first free practice sessions in preparation for the 2008 Japanese Grand Prix in Fuji, which basically is tyre comparison and set-up work. Robert Kubica ended the afternoon session 11th fastest with Nick Heidfeld down in 19th position.

Nick Heidfeld
“My first day of practice didn’t go too smoothly this time. I’m not happy with the balance of the car yet, it is sliding too much. Because of this in the first session I spun once, which seldom happens to me. Also, which is exceptional for us, in the second session I had minor technical problems. First the brake balance adjuster in the cockpit came loose, and shortly before the end of the session we had a hydraulic alarm and I came into the pit. There were only three minutes left, so it wasn’t worth going out again. However, I didn’t really loose track time and it’s only Friday. I’m totally confident we shall improve for tomorrow.”

Robert Kubica
“It was a normal Friday. We did some set-up work in the morning, and concentrated on the tyre evaluation in the afternoon. I really enjoyed driving on this track, as it’s demanding and fun at the same time. The balance of the car is quite okay, but we are lacking overall grip.”

Willy Rampf, Technical Director
“That was a full Friday. The track was in a good condition right from the beginning so we were able to start our set-up work early on. As usual, we concentrated on set-up and tyre comparison. The long-runs were satisfying. At the end of the second session Nick had a hydraulic alarm, so we are now investigating the reason for this.”

E.A. © CAPSIS International