"We are realistic on our expectations for the Chinese Grand Prix weekend and foresee a similar level of performance to that at Fuji this weekend. Whilst this is disappointing, we will reap the benefits of our decision to stop developing the RA108 and concentrate on 2009 next year. The weather forecast for the week ahead looks mixed with a high chance of showers over the weekend, so that may throw up a few on-track surprises and make for an exciting weekend."

JENSON BUTTON

Q. You finished fifth in China last year. What are your thoughts on the circuit?

"I like the layout of the Shanghai International Circuit as it is quite demanding and technical for the drivers but also fun to drive. There are a lot of high-speed sections which I enjoy and you need good straightline speed for the pit straight and the long straight which stretches for over a kilometre between Turns 13 and 14. It's very different from many of the circuits which we race on and the fact that there are a few good overtaking opportunities, particularly going into Turn 1 and then at the banked entry onto the back straight, make it more exciting."

"Our focus in practice will be on achieving the right downforce level for the car which will be a compromise set-up to accommodate the different types of corner and the straights."

REUBENS BARRICHELLO

Q. You won the first ever Chinese Grand Prix in 2004 (with Ferrari). What is the key to a quick lap here?

"Shanghai is a fantastic race venue and winning the first Grand Prix here means that the race holds some good memories for me. The circuit itself is exciting with the combination of long straights and different speed corners combining to make a very technical track. The unique feature here is the length of some of the corners, particularly Turn 1 and Turn 13."

"To have a good lap here, you need to have a very good aerodynamic balance, straightline speed for the two main straights and good car stability. The weather can also play its part so it will be interesting to see the forecast for the race weekend."

D.B. © CAPSIS International