HONDA F1

Rubens Barrichello looks ahead at his 16th Monaco Grand Prix.

“This will be my 16th Monaco Grand Prix so I know the circuit very well by now! Like everyone, Monaco is one of my favourite races and I have been successful here in the past, finishing on the podium four times. I particularly enjoying qualifying at Monaco, it’s one of the biggest challenges of the year to get it right and give yourself the best chance in the race.

“Experience does count around Monaco as the driver and your strategy can make the difference to the outcome of your race, it’s not purely about car performance. And of course, on the day, you have to keep the car out of the barriers and bring it safely home.”

And what are the technical challenges?

“The streets of Monaco are tight, twisty, bumpy and unforgiving. You can really feel the speed of the car when the barriers are so close to you, but despite this, Monaco is one of the lowest speed circuits that we will race on and presents a number of unique challenges. Good mechanical grip from the car is a fundamental requirement, coupled with as much downforce as possible.

“Low-speed handling is crucial as this is usually the slowest circuit on the calendar, although this year Singapore looks to be even slower. We will also be driving without the benefits of traction control for the first time in Monaco which I’m sure will be interesting. The new Bridgestone super soft tyre compound will be used for the first time over a race weekend, following its debut at the test.”