The launch of the RA108 … words and more words!

Jenson Button expresses enthusiasm about the prospects that Honda Racing presents of getting back into a comfortable position in 2008 after a disastrous 2007 campaign!

But Button, who managed to score only six points during the 2007 season, insists that it will ultimately be just a bad memory. It will allow the team to get back on its feet and head in the right direction.

« Everyone knows that 2007 was a very tough year for us. But in a way, I think it was a good year because it made us aware of a number of things we need to change, and that we were heading in the wrong direction, » said the Briton.

« For me, the important thing is continuous improvement over a season. It’s good to start with a reasonably competitive car, but it’s the improvement that is key, I think… »

« We must improve race after race compared to our competitors, that’s what we will do. At least that’s what we’re aiming for. »

« The car seems good. The idea is fantastic, it’s very exciting. From the racing perspective, the car seems good, but what is important is what’s underneath, » concluded Button.

His teammate Rubens Barrichello, who didn’t score any points last season for the first time in his F1 career, stated that his feelings about the new car were positive following his initial tests last week.

« It was great. It’s always a great pleasure to drive the car. It was a shakedown, I only completed 30 laps, and I felt good with it, the balance seemed good. »

He added that he was just as motivated before the start of his 16th season in Formula 1. The Brazilian admits that he has not yet considered leaving the sport.

Barrichello, who made his first Grand Prix as a racing driver in 1993 with the Jordan team, will become the record holder in terms of races contested at the Turkish Grand Prix this year, surpassing Riccardo Patrese’s record of 256 races.

He is adamant that this will not be his last year in F1 even though his contract with Honda ends at the end of the year.

“As long as I can physically,” said Barrichello when asked how much longer he will race.

The South American admitted that despite his long career in F1, he is still as eager to start a new season.

« For me, each year is a new start. I have had problems in my career, but they have only strengthened me. »

« But for the moment, I believe that I understand how to get the right energies where you need them, » he concluded.