Australia: Barrichello to enjoy the weekend

By Phil Huff
March 30 2006

Rubens Barrichello, Honda Racing F1's newest driver, heads to Melbourne in an optimistic mood, confident that the troubles of the first two races are behind him.

"Despite the weather, we achieved some good work at the Vallelunga test last week and I was encouraged by the new ideas that we tested," explains the Brazilian. "So I'm really looking forward to getting to Melbourne, our car seems to be strong in all areas at the moment, and I think we should enjoy the weekend."

As with team mate Jenson Button, Rubens enjoys spending time in Australia, commenting "I really enjoy the Australian Grand Prix and it is certainly one of my favourite races on the calendar. The Australian people are so relaxed, always helpful and smiling, it reminds me of Brazil really."

There's no getting away from why he's here, though. "Melbourne is a fantastic place to be based but what I like most about the weekend is the race track with its great combination of corners."