Ralf Schumacher and Jarno Trulli know all about the perils of the Monaco street circuit. Last year Ralf hit the barrier during qualifying whilst Jarno’s ambitions overtaking manoeuvre cost him any chance of points. With the new rules mixed in for 2006, both drivers are expecting a tough weekend.
Ralf Schumacher has enjoyed many successes over the years on the narrow street circuit, as well as many lows including a number of accidents and missed opportunities.
“I have always been quick there and I've taken pole position and a podium in the past. Last year I made the points and we will hope for more this weekend.” Nevertheless Ralf is pleased to be back in Monaco. "From a driving point of view it's great to drive at Monaco and a challenge to be quicker than everyone else round the narrow streets.”
Ralf also pointed out the perils of the Monaco circuit as well as reminding us that anything can happen from qualifying to race.
“The barriers are closer than anywhere so you need to adapt your approach slightly. But that is something we have all got used to down the years. The first challenge is to secure a good place on the grid and then to try and finish the race without mishap.”
Tyres will once again be an important factor this weekend, with the TF106B also making its debut, Ralf is hoping for a positive weekend.
"Tyre choice is always tricky because the track changes so much during the weekend. But if you have a driveable car here it's fun so I'll be looking forward to trying out our new TF106B."
Follow up:
For Jarno Trulli the Monaco circuit is home to his only Grand Prix victory and a circuit where the Italian has gone well in the past. "Monaco is one of my favourite tracks and it's a great event with a fantastic atmosphere. It's also a circuit where things have always gone well for me, above all when I won the race from pole position in 2004.” But, the qualifying expect of the past has hinted that the new knockout system could give drivers and engineers a headacke as with 22 cars, space is limited when fighting for clear air during Saturday afternoon.
“Qualifying is critical for the race because of the notorious difficulty in overtaking and Saturday should be extremely eventful. This year's qualifying rules mean that we can expect a lot of traffic during the sessions. They are likely to be chaotic, with cars getting in each other's way and the fight for grid positions could turn into something of a lottery. It's hard enough putting a lap together around the streets when they are clear, but it is all but impossible to pass even a much slower car.”
But Jarno is hoping for a smoother weekend than of the past few races.
“Nonetheless I am looking forward to returning to action on this classic circuit and hoping for a good result."
Source: Sports Network
