"I really can't wait for the British Grand Prix. Silverstone is our home race
so obviously very important for the drivers and the whole Midland F1 team -
our factory is just across the road! There will be lots of fans, sponsors, and
family from employees, which makes for a fantastic atmosphere and lots of
people to meet!
We've tested quite a lot on the Silverstone track, so we know it well, but
weather conditions are always changing and can be quite tricky for this
weekend's 60-lap race.
Silverstone is one of the toughest tracks on the calendar but I really like
it. Its abrasive track surface and high speed nature require that we use
Bridgestone tyre compounds providing good stability through the high speed
corners, as well as rear grip in the Silverstone Complex section. Silverstone
is an extremely demanding circuit. There are some very high-speed sections so
aerodynamic efficiency is critical. High-speed stability is really important
through the Maggotts/Becketts section where we have to make fast changes of
direction without upsetting the balance. We also need good traction and grip
through the infield section of the lap after Bridge Corner. Our car is
flat-out through most of the corners so it is quite physically demanding.
Our last test at Silverstone was quite good, and we think that Bridgestone has
a good tyre for this circuit. Unfortunately in Monaco we missed a good
opportunity to cash in on our good pace so I'm more motivated than ever to get
another opportunity to score points.
Returning from Monaco, I was invited to be part of the start of a 24h charity
swimming contest here in my town of Leça da Palmeira. The proceeds will be
given to a disabled children's charity. It was fun to see how excited all the
kids were and the grown ups as well. It's good to be part of some events like
that and help to promote them. I have once again prepared a very nice T-shirt
for my friends, and I hope that you will make a point to come and get it on
Thursday afternoon at the team's hospitality area at the track.
tiago monteiro |