The F1 experience by Sebastian Vettel

By BMW Sauber F1
July 12 2006

Last week, Sebastian Vettel conducted a test for the BMW Sauber F1 Team. The 2004 Formula BMW Germany Champion talks about his experience behind the wheel of the Formula One car, at Jerez.

The 19-year old carried out his testing duties without any mistakes and got on well with the BMW Sauber F1.06. First off, Vettel had to adapt to the F1 racer, after all, the differences between Formula One and a Formula BMW or Formula 3 Euro Series car are enormous. "You quickly adapt to the engine performance," the young gun said following his debut appearance in the cockpit of the BMW Sauber F1.06. "Obviously, the acceleration is pure madness, but after a short period of time, you know how to cope with it. But in the fast corners, the massive downforce represents a big difference to Formula 3."

Before getting the chance of going out for his first laps at Jerez, Vettel had to complete an extensive preparation programme. In order to be well prepared for his Formula One test, the young gun carried out special training to improve his fitness and strengthen his muscles. "During the last month, I have trained a lot to stabilise my neck and my body," explains Vettel. "I asked the BMW Sauber F1 Team for advice. In addition to my standard training programme such as cycling and running for my stamina, this extra training helped a lot."