Mercedes drivers eye a better outing in Malaysia

PEKAN: Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 team are gearing for a better showing at the Petronas Formula 1 Malaysia Grand Prix at Sepang Circuit this weekend after their disappointing outing in Australia.

“Unfortunately, Michael (Schumacher) faced gear box problems while Nico (Rosberg) suffered engine problems in Melbourne last Sunday,” the team’s chief executive officer, Nick Fry, said after visiting the MercedesBenz Malaysia facilities in Peramu Jaya here yesterday.

“But the great news is that Mercedes AMG Petronas have very fast cars and should be able to improve in Malaysia.

“We hope to be among the manufacturers’ top three – better than the fourth-place finish last year.”

Also present at the event were team drivers Schumacher, Rosberg and Sam Bird, Mercedes-benz Motorsport vice-president Norbert Haug and Petronas senior general manager (Corporate Services Division) Datuk Mohd Medan Abdullah.

Haug said he was satisfied with their performance although Schumacher did not finish the race in Melbourne.

“Michael performed extremely well and was in the third position when gear box problems forced him to retire,” Haug said.

“He’s getting back in shape and we just have to be patient and take it one-step at a time. We are a young team still adapting to Formula One, which is much tougher today. But we have several good drivers.”

Meanwhile, 40 youngsters were given a mesmerising show of Schumacher and Rosberg’s driving skills as they tested three new Mercedes Benz cars at the factory compound.

Schumacher, driving a Mercedes SLS, and Rosberg, in a Mercedes AMG, displayed jawdropping skills in drift and donut manoeuvres for about 30 minutes to keep the youngsters thrilled. — Bernama