On the hunt for a double top 10
The last test in Shanghai ended with a double disappointment, where Hülkenberg finished outside the points zone and Bortoleto didn’t even take part in the race due to technical problems (the opposite of what happened in Australia, with the Brazilian having however crossed the finish line in 9th place), theAudi prepares for Japanese Grand Prix with the main objective of recovering. A weekend in which both drivers of the German manufacturer will want not only to appear regularly on the grid for the first time, but also to reach the top 10 to get closer in the standings to Alpine, which has instead returned from an excellent performance in China.
An objective he wanted to underline Nico Hülkenbergwho during his career achieved 6th place twice as best result in Japan: “Suzuka is always a special challenge – he commented – as a circuit, it can be really challenging, but also very rewarding when you manage to find the right interpretation. The first two races were a mix of ups and downs: there were certainly encouraging signs, but also missed opportunities where we need to improve. The goal now is to put everything together, have a smooth weekend and get the most out of this race. One of the highlights of the weekend will also be the fans: we always receive an incredible welcome when we come to Japan, it’s one of the things that makes this race unique.”
Ready to get back on track too Gabriel Bortoletoeager this time to get underway after what happened in China: “I can’t wait to return to Suzuka – it’s one of my favorite circuits ever and I had a lot of fun driving there for the first time last year. Not being able to race in Shanghai last time was obviously disappointing, but I know that the team has worked hard to prevent this problem from happening again. We have used the time spent in the factory to continue working and try to get something more out of the car ahead of this weekend: the races in Australia and China have shown that we have a good base, and now it’s about building on this base and making the most of the opportunities that arise over the weekend.”
Furthermore, the appointment with the Japanese GP will also be very special for Mattia Binottowho will make his debut as Team Principal of Audi following the immediate resignation of Jonathan Wheatley, who seems destined to take on the same role at Aston Martin.
