2009 Brazilian Grand Prix Preview - Bob Bell

Bob Bell: “We will take an aggressive approach to the end of the season”

Bob, after the podium in Singapore, the team was out of luck in Japan. Sum up the weekend for us...
It was disappointing that we came away without any points, especially as Fernando drove a very strong and aggressive race to make up six places. Ultimately we were hampered by the problems we encountered in qualifying, which meant Fernando started back in 16th place. Despite missing out on points, the team still did an excellent job and we can be reasonably satisfied that we got as much out of the race as we could given where we started. Our focus is now on the next couple of races and I believe that if we can qualify well, we can convert that performance into points.

The team faces a close fight in the constructors’ championship – chasing Williams and defending against BMW. Does that alter the approach to the final couple of races?
I don’t think so. We go to every race determined to win and at the very least aiming to finish on the podium, and we’re not going to alter our fundamental approach by being defensive to try and protect our position. The only way that we can come out on top relative to both those teams is to take an aggressive approach and try to maximise our finishing positions.

Interlagos is renowned as a bumpy and challenging track for the cars and the drivers – what’s the secret to going well there?
It’s a demanding track for drivers as it’s anti-clockwise which puts a lot of demands on them physically. In terms of the car, we will run with quite a lot of downforce and it’s important to have a well-balanced car with good stability which gives the drivers confidence. We’re also racing at altitude as the circuit is about 800 metres above sea level, which impacts on the power of the engine, so we will need to work on the mapping to optimise engine performance.

It was recently announced that Robert Kubica will drive for Renault in 2010. What has convinced you that he is the man to fulfil Renault’s high ambitions for the future?
First and foremost he’s a very quick and consistent driver who has clearly demonstrated his ability. He’s also a real fighter who never gives up, which is a characteristic that fits well with our approach at Renault. Looking to the future, he is definitely somebody who is going to push the team and his hunger for success and leadership qualities on the racetrack will help motivate the team. Finally, on a personal level he is a genuinely nice guy who I believe will work well with our engineers and have a good relationship with the team.