Tuesday 19 August 2014

Infiniti Red Bull Racing Belgian Grand Prix Preview

(DPPI for Renault Sport)

Infiniti Red Bull Racing head to the Belgian Grand Prix at the Spa Francorchamps circuit this weekend following the Summer break having won the last race, the Hungarian Grand Prix at the Hungaroring when Daniel Ricciardo took his second victory of the season while reigning world champion Sebastian Vettel finished the race in 7th place.

Ricciardo is in third place in the drivers championship 16 points ahead of Ferrari's Fernando Alonso while reigning world champion Sebastian Vettel is currently in 6th place in championship on 88 points. Speaking ahead of the race this weekend Ricciardo said:

'Above all, Spa is a racing circuit - one that really encourages exciting wheel-to-wheel action. That said, F1 has changed over the years and whereas Eau Rouge and Blanchimont were once the stand-out sections, now it’s probably the Pouhon downhill left-hander at Turns 10 and 11. 

That’s seriously, seriously fast – and probably a good place to watch the race from for anyone prepared for a bit of a hike through the Ardennes. Of course, given the Belgium Grand Prix draws in all the petrolheads, everyone’s perfectly happy to slog through the woods to find the best view. You bump into people who’ve been going to the race for five decades. 

And if you ever go into a pub or restaurant in one of the villages around the circuit, chances are you’ll see pictures on the wall of great drivers from back in the day, standing where you are and doing what you’re doing. It’s great stuff.'

Reigning world champion Sebastian Vettel took victory in Spa Francorchamps last season on his way to his fourth world championship in a row. The German has scored three front row starts so far this season while he has scored two podium finishes while team mate Daniel Ricciardo has secured five podium finishes. The German commented on this weekend's upcoming Grand Prix by saying:

'The race in Spa started our series of nine victories last year, which I always like to remember. The Belgian circuit offers all possible turns and manoeuvres: ultra-fast, medium-speed, heavy braking and fast straights. 

The height difference is so great that you always have the feeling of riding a roller coaster - especially in Eau Rouge. 

The weather can also be very unpredictable and a challenge for drivers and teams, it should never be underestimated: within minutes it can change from heavy rain to sunshine. As well as that, the safety car often comes out at Spa. The track is one of my favourites of the year because it feels like it has grown out of the nature that is all around it - it blends with the natural setting perfectly.'

Infiniti Red Bull Racing head to the Belgian Grand Prix in second place in the Constructors championship on 219 points, 174 behind championship leaders Mercedes AMG Petronas.

© Ben Johnston 2014

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