Berger's comments less threatening

By Andrew Hooper
May 8 2003


	Berger's comments less threatening

	Previously it was reported that BMW Motorsport Director Gerhard Berger had attacked the WilliamsF1 team for the lack of performance of their new 2003 FW25. Berger's views were that BMW has produced the best engine in Formula One for the past few seasons but that they have been let down by the poor performances of the WilliamsF1s' chassis. Berger was quoted as saying: "BMW has been building the best engines for several seasons now ... but unfortunately we are lacking on the aerodynamic side (in reference to the FW25). "This means we may win one or two races, where our super engine will help, but the world championship will probably remain a dream this season. "We are far away from the aims we had before the season started. "But if you have any problems with a partner you have to support them and help them to get back to the old level of performance." Some of these comments, in particular the one in regard to supporting your partner, support the view that the original quotes were taken out of context. One thing that also was not made clear was Berger's' view that WilliamsF1 are in a strong position to secure an extension to their engine deal with BMW. Berger said: "We're still negotiating with Williams F1.It's the first option and they are in pole position." In reporting this story the initial view was that Berger had attacked WilliamsF1 for their failure to produce a chassis that would allow the team to win championship, but upon closer examination I would agree with the view that some of his comments were taken out of context and that BMW should assist their partner WilliamsF1 achieve the necessary level of performance from their car.