Question: How would you describe the demands of the Montreal track on the car?
Pascal Vasselon: It is very specific in many areas and it is far from an average track. It starts with the aero configuration; most of the corners are slow or medium speed, which would require a lot of downforce, but then obviously you would carry too much drag in the long straights so we have to make a compromise. The tyres have a hard time because it is a very low grip circuit and on one hand, you have a very low transversal demand, one of the lowest of the season, but with huge traction severity. So usually front tyres have an easy life in Montreal and the rears have a hard time. Then you have the kerbs because one of the historic characteristics of this track is the very aggressive kerbs. It seems that this season it should be closer to normality because the most aggressive kerbs, especially the one into turn eight, have been resurfaced. So we have an unknown concerning kerbs - it may be that this is no longer such a factor. Finally, for brakes it is simply the most demanding circuit on the calendar in terms of cooling and wear.
Question: Why is brake cooling such an issue in Montreal?
Pascal Vasselon: Brake cooling is a specific issue at this track because of the average speed and you can see this if you compare to Monza. In Montreal the braking energy is high but not as high as Monza, yet brake cooling is more of an issue. You have high top speed and heavy braking but so many slow corners that in the end the average speed stays in the mid range compare to other tracks. This is very different to Monza, where you have hard braking but the highest average speed in the season so the cooling is not an issue.
Question: Do you enjoy Montreal?
Pascal Vasselon: With Monaco and Montreal we have two of the most enjoyable races of the season directly after each other. What is fantastic in Montreal is the proximity of a city which welcomes Formula One so warmly. The atmosphere in the city is incredible for the whole week and the fans are so enthusiastic about the Grand Prix; it really makes it a joy to work there.
Question: What are your expectations for the Canadian Grand Prix?
Pascal Vasselon: Last year our performance was compromised by an upright issue on the kerbs and then the race circumstances were very chaotic. We expect a much smoother weekend and a good opportunity to have both cars in the points.
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