Ross Brawn: 'Hundreds of people behind the scenes'

Brawn went on to explain that, once the two cars had established themselves at the head of the field, they were allowed to race one another until the second pit-stops, when both drivers were told to hold station and look after their cars. “A racing car should be able to go the full distance at race pace,” he admitted. “But we would have looked foolish if both our cars ended in the gravel trap!”

The Technical Director went on to compliment the entire Ferrari workforce for this year’s performance to date. “It’s the same with all F1 teams that there are hundreds of people working behind the scenes,” said Brawn. “At Ferrari, we always tell them how important they are and that they are an intrinsic and vital part of the team. Some of them have been at Ferrari for 20 to 25 years and they have been through hard times. This is their reward. In fact, most of my work is done at the factory. I have a job at the race tracks, but 90% of my time is in the factory having meetings about design, manufacture and working on problems.”

Brawn went on to explain that Michael Schumacher fully understands the importance of the “backroom boys.” “After he won the championship, Michael was very good about spending a lot of time at the factory and personally thanking every member of staff.”

Brawn stressed that quality control was the reason behind the team’s good reliability record. “The system was already good when I joined and we have improved and strengthened it. It is a question of culture and philosophy. We hit every problem with 200% effort.” He also revealed that problems had occurred during some races this year. “We don’t always finish the race with a car working 100%,” he admitted. “But we have recovery systems in place on the car which we can manage from the pit wall to make sure the car gets to the finish. Our cars are built to do 400 kilometres. So, while some parts, like suspension remain on the car all weekend, others, like brakes, clutch and exhausts are changed more often. For example, we have a new gearbox this year, which is nearer the limit and so every car has a new gearbox installed on raceday.”

Proving that the technical team is not resting on its laurels, Brawn revealed that work on next year’s car had already started some time ago – “as soon as this year’s car started running in fact.” Along with several other key personnel, including Michael Schumacher, Brawn’s current contract with the Scuderia expires at the end of 2004. “Why should I leave?” he asked when quizzed about future plans. “Retirement is supposed to be about doing what you like and I like my job. As for Michael, I have seen these rumours about him stopping at the end of the year. But Michael is now reaping the investment of the past few years. I see huge enthusiasm in Michael and I expect him to keep going for many years.”

Asked about any special engines for this British GP weekend, the Technical Director explained that the 051 V10 would have a few new parts fitted here at Silverstone. “But it is not a new step or a new engine; simply an evolution,” he stressed.