• Belgian Grand Prix

Sauber drivers relishing Spa challenge

Kamui Kobayashi is looking forward to locking horns with Spa © Sutton Images

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• Race:
• Belgian Grand Prix

• Drivers:
• Kamui Kobayashi
• |
• Pedro de la Rosa

• Teams:
• Alfa Romeo

For Kamui Kobayashi, nothing quite matches the excitement of driving around Spa. The Sauber driver has already driven the famous circuit in Formula Renault and GP2 and is looking forward to renewing acquaintances with the track.

"I have had good experiences racing in Formula Renault and GP2 in Spa- Francorchamps," said Kobayashi. "It is a great track for a driver, and really exciting! That is mainly because of its high speed corners. Plus the views you get from the circuit being integrated into the natural landscape are exceptional. I am quite sure our car will be good in these fast corners.

Making the circuit even more of a challenge is the unpredictable Spa weather, guaranteed to spice up proceedings at some point over the weekend.

"Perhaps it won't be so good on the straight, but let's wait and see how it goes when we all get back refreshed after the summer break. What always worries me a bit is the weather in Spa. It can be very unpredictable and include heavy rain in some parts of the circuit, while it is dry in others."

Rather than be overawed by the weather, team-mate Pedro de la Rosa enjoys the challenge of driving in the most testing of conditions.

"It is a long time since I have raced in Spa, but it is a circuit you hardly ever forget," said De la Rosa. "It is extremely challenging with the high speed corners. Eau Rouge nowadays will be flat out, and at the end of the following straight there is a good overtaking possibility. The track is extremely nice to drive and when it rains it becomes even more exciting.

"I think for a typical Spa weekend you have to have rain at some point. Racing in Spa is all about rhythm, as you need to keep the cornering speed very high. I enjoyed the holiday break, but I must say I prefer this after the end of the season. I did a lot of sports and can't wait to go racing again, especially as our car is getting better and better. I am desperately looking forward to hunting for some more championship points."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.