• European Grand Prix

Brawn targets 'zero-defect reliability'

ESPN Staff
June 18, 2012 « Swamped US organisers consider extra stands | Waddell & Reed increases stake in Formula One »
Michael Schumacher's DRS system failed in Canada © Sutton Images
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Providing a reliable race car is the aim of the game to climb the ladder in the drivers' and constructors' standings, according to Mercedes team boss Ross Brawn.

Nico Rosberg's victory in the Chinese Grand Prix hinted that Mercedes could dominate at certain circuits in 2012 thanks to their clever double DRS system. But the team has failed to replicate those dizzy heights since and Michael Schumacher has retired from four of the opening seven races thanks to either reliability or operational errors.

"The performance of our car and our tyre management were generally good in Canada, however our competitiveness was compromised by reliability problems and mistakes," said Brawn. "This is a disappointment that is deeply felt by everyone in our team, and we have been working hard to ensure we understand the reasons and deal with them.

"Achieving zero-defect reliability is our highest priority. The opportunities available if we can give both drivers a reliable car and a clean weekend are clear."

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