Rubens Barrichello is keen to start racing in Melbourne this weekend, the Brazilian driver knowing that the opening round of the season will separate the men from the boys in terms of reliability and speed, putting the grid’s 2005 contenders to the ultimate test.
“Only when we get to Melbourne will we see what the new order is among the teams,” reckoned the Brazilian. “That is when we will see where we stand and in what areas we need to improve, if indeed we need to improve.”
Asked to single out which team he thought might pose the greatest threat to the Scuderia, just like teammate Michael Schumacher, Rubens was quick to single out the French based Renault squad….
“From what we have seen in winter testing, they are quick over a single lap and also quick over a long distance.”
However, Barrichello is relaxed about tackling the new race weekend timetable, that will qualifying take place over two days, Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning…
“It is just something else for us to adapt to,” he said. “I will enjoy the challenge of having to put in a quick lap the very first time I go out on track on Sunday morning. In practical terms, it just means we will be a bit busier and have less chance to relax a bit before the race. My main hope is that the new format is interesting and easy to understand for the spectators. We will have to learn the best way of getting the most out of the Bridgestone tyres during qualifying.”
So, what does he think of the new Ferrari that was launched in Maranello last Friday?
“I watched it being assembled. At this stage, I cannot pick out one special element on it, but overall it was a great feeling seeing the new car come together, knowing all the work that has gone into producing it.”
;)
