F1 News: Magnussen And Schumacher Optimistic Ahead Of Azerbaijan GP
Both Kevin Magnussen and Mick Schumacher are excited for their race at this weekend’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix as they tell the press that their Haas cars will perform nicely on the Baku City track.
Similar to that of Monaco, the Baku track has narrow corners as it winds its way around the city. Eventually, it opens up to a long straight where drivers can finally properly put their feet to the floor. This is where the drivers believe they’ll collect some time with the VF-22’s Ferrari power unit.
“Baku is a lovely track,” said Magnussen. “Very unique with long straights and all the slow corners – I’m looking forward to it.
“I hope it’s going to be good. It’s a power-centric track with all the long straights there, and power is very important.
“We’ve got a good engine from Ferrari so I’m not anticipating any problems.”
His Haas teammate Schumacher is also feeling optimistic over Baku.
“As our car is right now, we’re in a good position for Baku,” he said. “For sure, we’ll have to wait and see but it’s been good so far.
“Our car has been able to comply to nearly each race track we’ve gone to, so I’m just excited to go racing and have a good race.”
2022 has brought new regulations, with the aim of these being better racing, more chances to overtake, and less reliance on DRS. Compared to last year where Schumacher finished 13th, Mick is excited to see more overtaking.
“I would imagine to see more action and overtaking.
“We know that DRS this year isn’t as powerful as it used to be, but I’m sure with the cars being able to follow closer, we’ll be able to arrive or stay closer to the car ahead in the last part of the track, and then maybe we won’t need that high DRS power anymore to get by into Turn 1.
“We’ll just go with the flow and see how it goes. It was one of our highest finishes last season, so I hope with a more competitive car we’re able to be higher up as well and have a good race.”
