| In the
presentation prior to the launch of the new BMW WilliamsF1 various members
of the BMW WilliamsF1 team were questioned regarding various aspects of not
only the WilliamsF1 team but also the subjects ranging from the new rules to
how things have been going for the teams drivers in the off season.
Sir Frank Williams was
questioned regarding the disappointment of the 2002 and he spoke of how in
2002 the WilliamsF1 team "did not live up to high standards". But for 2003
he was "optimistic".
As for the future of the
relationship with BMW Williams added that there had been lots of discussions
regarding this but those discussions still had quite a way to go
before any announcement could be made.
For BMW Motorsport Director Dr Mario Theissen he spoke of the rule changes
for the 2004 season, in regard to the BMW engine, by saying: "Yes ....
an important change this season .... it means only 20 additional kms for the
race .. but these are the toughest and this is like sending the marathon
runner on a race without a rest in between. double mileage .... this will
require design change."
Next Chief Designer Gavin Fisher was asked as to how the collaboration
between BMW and WilliamsF1 was coming along.
Fisher said: "I think the
first to say is that if ever get to the stage that is getting easy that
would be indicative of not trying ... undoubtedly a depth of experience to
call on ... better understanding ... the final product an optimal result"
As to how beneficial this collaboration was Fisher added: "The first thing
to recognise is that we are not under one roof ... we have to look at the
situation we have and turn to an advantage ... make full use of resources in
both companies ... we already sourcing components from Germany."
Next the first of the three
BMW WilliamsF1 drivers were questioned, starting with Marc Gene.
Marc was asked how things would change with no driver aids. He responded by
saying: "No that doesn't change things much .... lots of planning in the
day, if the car doesn't break down."
As for his performances so far Marc added: " ... yes I am happy how things
are going with my lap times against Ralf and Juan ... my aim is to help the
team and drivers to become world champions."
Chief Operations Engineer Sam Michael was asked the fact that of the leading
teams only WilliamsF1 would be debuting a new car in Melbourne. Michael
responded by saying: "That does not say that McLaren and Ferrari have not
spent a lot of time bringing in new ideas/cars ... nothing to rest on the
fact that we have a new car and they don't ... "
As for a competitive season coming up Michael said: "I think so ..."
The next BMW WilliamsF1 driver to speak was Ralf Schumacher who was asked
about his shoulder. He said: "It is fine now ..."
At a launch like this Ralf
was asked if he had a wish list for the new car. He responded by saying: "I
have seen quite a few cars .. it is always the same expectations ... but for
drivers it is difficult to judge cars ... see over the next couple of days
then make judgement ... takes a couples of days, don't be too quick on
decision."
Juan Pablo was asked to comment on the change in schedule on the Grand Prix
weekend and will it affect you. Juan Pablo said: "No it won't be problem ..
it looks pretty good so far." |
