Brawn predicts Shanghai struggle
by Niamh O'Mahony, 13 October 2008
Honda Team Principal Ross Brawn has predicted another tough weekend ahead for his squad as the Japanese outfit begin their preparations for the Chinese Grand Prix.
Both Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello failed to make an impact in Fuji, but Brawn is relatively unconcerned as the team have switched their focus to next year's car.
"From our home race in Japan this weekend, the team heads straight to China for the penultimate race of the 2008 season," the Englishman explained.
"Shanghai has some unusually long corners therefore we will be using the next step in tyre compounds with Bridgestone providing the medium and hard tyres which will be more durable and resistant to degradation.
"We are realistic on our expectations for the Chinese Grand Prix weekend and foresee a similar level of performance to that at Fuji this weekend.
"Whilst this is disappointing, we will reap the benefits of our decision to stop developing the RA108 and concentrate on 2009 next year.
"The weather forecast for the week ahead looks mixed with a high chance of showers over the weekend, so that may throw up a few on-track surprises and make for an exciting weekend.”