Button optimistic
Jenson Button heads to Germany this weekend looking to emulate his feat of last season at Hockenheim – albeit in easier circumstances.
Button started 13th on the grid a year ago as his BAR required an engine change that resulted in a 10-place demotion for the start of the race.
But Button produced a stunning performance as he stormed his way through the field to finish second, even worrying eventual winner Michael Schumacher in his Ferrari such was his speed.
Ahead of Sunday’s return to the circuit, Button’s confidence is again running high as he has claimed fourth and fifth in the last two grands prix in France and on home soil at Silverstone to give the team their first points of the season.
Button and BAR would appear to be back on the pace, although still not as quick as the Renaults and McLarens, in particular that of championship leader Fernando Alonso and title rival Kimi Raikkonen.
But, with new upgrades available, Button believes a strong showing is possible as he said: “The German Grand Prix last year was one of the best races of my career.
“To finish in second place, having started 13th, was amazing, so I have great memories from this race.
“There are some good overtaking opportunities which created an exciting race last year, but I think we will face the same challenges that we experienced at the British GP.
“But, having completed two days’ testing in Jerez where the car felt good, I’m looking forward to the race and hope to be more competitive and have both cars finish strongly in the points.”
BAR sporting director Gil de Ferran certainly feels that, after a positive test session, the team and the drivers – including Button’s team-mate Takuma Sato who has yet to score a point this season – can deliver.
“We have now come from two consecutive races where we have shown that we are certainly competitive,” said de Ferran.
“Between the two races we have again been testing in Jerez in an attempt to further improve the performance of our car.
“Hopefully, some of those upgrades will have a positive impact at the German Grand Prix.
“It is also worth mentioning that the team had a welcome break at the weekend after a very busy phase of our calendar and everyone is recharged and looking forward to the race.”
