- Sauber
Sepang will set the benchmark - Sutil
Adrian Sutil believes Sepang is the perfect track to judge exactly where Sauber and the rest of the pack stand in the pecking order this season.
The Malaysian Grand Prix is a firm drivers' favourite, with a combination of long, high-speed, straights and tight corner complexes making Sepang one of the most technical circuits on the F1 calendar. The intense heat and humidity will also test the cars' cooling systems, which are critical to the new power units and Energy Recovery System, and Sutil feels the performance in Malaysia could define the rest of the season.
"I am curious to drive the car on this track where the aerodynamics play a huge role," Sutil said. "This is important in order to get to know where we stand. If a car is good in Sepang, then it will be fast on other tracks as well. You need everything here - good aerodynamics, grip in the corners and high speed on the straights. The aerodynamic efficiency of the car is a key. Generally, my hope is that we improve from race to race. In Malaysia, the main objective is to get better and to make a step forward."
Sutil believes Malaysia poses one of the biggest challenges of the calendar and insists he is relishing the opportunity to see how Sauber performs.
"Malaysia is one of the hottest races during the season, and, as a result, a challenge because of the high humidity. You have to be well prepared, as, especially at the end of the race, you notice the difference. Everyone should get through the race, but the drivers will be pushed to their limits. The track consists of many fast turns, long straights and a few hairpins, which make it quite an interesting one. I am curious to drive the car on this track where the aerodynamics play a huge role."
© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
