Grosjean: Bouncing Back After a Frustrating Grand Prix
After making his return in Q3 in Melbourne, Romain Grosjean was hoping to score some points for the first Grand Prix of the season before retiring due to a mechanical issue. In Sepang, he will try to do better on one of his favorite circuits.
The first race of the 2013 Formula 1 World Championship season left a bitter taste for Romain Grosjean, who was unable to defend his chances. Despite everything, the Frenchman is keeping a smile and believes that a good result will be possible in Malaysia.
The first challenges in Malaysia will be the heat, humidity, and the traditional torrential rains at 4 PM, explains Grosjean. It’s a beautiful circuit with interesting corners, long straights, and a track surface that can be difficult to understand. The heat and humidity can be problematic for the cars but also for the drivers. For us, the goal will be to accumulate race laps.
« It’s one of my favorite races. The corners on this circuit offer a good rhythm and there are great overtaking opportunities, which allows for exciting races. Many drivers appreciate this track, as do the engineers since it’s a real challenge to find the right settings. Our goal will be to finish in the Top 10 after what we demonstrated at Albert Park. »
The tricolor driver reflected on his Australian Grand Prix, where once again he was unlucky as his Lotus E23 lost power during the formation lap. Despite this disappointment, Grosjean is reassured by the performance displayed on the Australian track.
« It was frustrating to return to the pits after the first lap, » recalls Grosjean. « Despite this, the weekend was still positive for the team. The car has good potential, and we know we will be able to score big points soon. I hope it will happen in Malaysia. »
We are only at the beginning of the season, but it is clear that we still have work to do to reach the level of Mercedes. Behind them, the teams are much closer to each other. It is our first season with the Mercedes engine, and we still need to discover its potential. Therefore, there is more to expect from the E23, and it will be exciting to work in Enstone to develop the car.
