Ralf Schumacher, last year’s pole-sitter at Suzuka, hopes that a new-spec engine this weekend will propel him onto the podium in Sunday’s race. The younger Schumacher finished second in the Japanese Grand Prix in 2004, and has three other points finishes to his name in the race.
“Our fans can expect us to have a decent level of speed this weekend,” says Ralf. “I’m not sure whether we’re heading for pole, but if we can go back to our Turkey level of performance, then we can achieve a podium, I’m sure.”
The new engine, when combined with Bridgestone’s tyres, is expected to give Toyota a step forward of around 0.3s per lap.
And Ralf’s extensive knowledge of Suzuka (he raced in the Japanese Formula Nippon and GT Championships in 1996) will give him a driving advantage because yesterday’s wet practice sessions will result in the teams and drivers having little time to hone their cars to the dry conditions that are expected this weekend.
“I know the track well,” says Ralf. “It’s one of those places where you’re always learning something new, so those races and test sessions that I did here in ’96 certainly help.”
Ralf currently lies 11th in the World Championship on 18 points, and his team-mate Jarno Trulli is 13th on 12 points. The team is sixth in the Constructors standings on 30 points.