After a challenging pre season testing program, made more complex by circuit changes and poor weather on top of the usual testing issues, the British American Racing team is relieved to be off to Melbourne for the start of the new season. While all the teams have now run under the full 2005 regulations, at Melbourne they will have their first opportunity to truly see the relative performance of the new cars.
Despite a number of problems during testing the Brackley based squad are happy with the fundamental performance of the B•A•R Honda 007 but like many others, would have preferred a bit more preparation time to feel more confident. Their main objective in 2005 is to win races and as last year they will travel to every circuit aiming to be on the podium, starting with Albert Park next Sunday afternoon. However, Takuma Sato doesn’t predict an easy time of it…..
"It is amazing that we are here again, at the start of another season,” said the Japanese racer. “The winter testing period has gone by so quickly and it is great to be going to Melbourne where the fans are really enthusiastic and the atmosphere is perfect for a season opener. Personally, I am very excited to go into my third F1 season and it is also the first time that I am continuing to drive for the same team, which makes it very special. The first race will be extremely tough for everyone as they get used to the new regulations, but that only excites us more! We feel that we could still be a big challenge to the other teams this year."
Set in picturesque Albert Park, the circuit is used only once a year and comprises roads that are customarily used by everyday traffic. The surface is inevitably very dirty and therefore slippery at the start of the race weekend. Grip levels change quite dramatically as more rubber is laid down, although it’s quite common to find a bit of oil, too, because there are an unusually high number of support events and the track is in almost constant use. Tyres are subjected to quite high loads here, because there are a few ultra-quick corners and drivers also have to brake fiercely several times per lap.
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