Singapore Sunday quotes: BMW

Nick Heidfeld - 6th: "Although I shouldn't complain about finishing sixth when I came from ninth, I must say it is such a shame I couldn't show my pace today. The car was so good and I could have gone a lot faster if I hadn't been stuck in traffic all the time. I was even saving fuel and tyres because I hoped the others would kill their tyres and I could attack later. I think some did ruin their rubber, but still this wasn't enough of an advantage to overtake. I had a good start during which I managed to pass Nico Rosberg. However, because of how the race turned out for me I hardly sweated at all."

Robert Kubica - 11th: "The race was physically very hard. There are so many bumps, I hope the organisers will work on the surface for next year. On top of that, the visibility was getting worse and worse as I was getting tired. Over the final fifteen laps I had an incredible headache. The decision not to pit on the first lap when the pit lane was closed because of the Safety Car was unlucky, and cost me a good race result as the cars behind me closed the gap. The team thought the pit lane would reopen very soon, but this was not the case. However, that's racing."

Mario Theissen (BMW Motorsport Director): "Another spectacular chapter was added to the Formula One history book. The first night race was a total success. My compliments go to the organisers. The race itself was turbulent and influenced by the first safety car period. Unfortunately the safety car rule meant Robert was completely out of contention in the race, whereas Nick was able to stay out just long enough until the pit lane was reopened. This was a shame for Robert because he was well on his way to score important points for the championship standings. By finishing sixth Nick made up three positions and scored three points. Everything didn't go according to plan either for our direct competitors as, apart from Nick, out of the top six only Lewis Hamilton scored points. Congratulations to Renault and Fernando Alonso for the win in this exciting race."

Willy Rampf (Technical Director): "The race start was okay for our drivers. Robert managed to defend his position and Nick gained a place. After that the race went according to plan for both cars and they were able to open a gap over the cars behind. However, then the first safety car period ruined Robert's race completely. We had to refuel although the pit lane was still closed. The penalty dropped Robert into a hopeless position at the end of the field - and this on a circuit where anyway you can hardly overtake. In the end Nick scored three points, so this means we have still scored championship points in every Grand Prix this year."

Real Salt Lake flex home muscles

Italy Sunday quotes: BMW

Massa says he had the pace to win

Felipe Massa believes Ferrari had the pace to finish first and second at the Singapore Grand Prix, a race that proved to be a disaster for the Italian team.

Massa was running comfortably in first position when he made his first pitstop during the safety car period.

The Brazilian was given the green light to go but the fuel hose was still attached to the car and he dragged the hose down the pitlane, knocking over his mechanics in the process.

He had to wait several seconds before the mechanics run to the end of the pitlane to assist him.

Massa, who was hit by a penalty for unsafe release, went on to finish in 13th place, dropping seven points behind Lewis Hamilton in the championship.

"We lost six points today so we are seven behind," said Massa. "We could have been first in the championship now because we had fantastic pace and could have finished first and second and things could have been different now.

"Racing's racing and these things can happen. We are all human beings and everybody can make mistakes.

"I'm not the kind of guy who goes to the guy and fights with him, so I go to the guy and give him even more motivation because we need him and we need everybody together for the last three races of the season.

"Seven points is seven points but we have 30 in front of us and we have a quick car."

Massa, whose team use a light system instead of the traditional lollipop, said the problem had been caused by a human error.

"Well, the problems we had today was not because of the signals," he said. "The problem we had was a human being. It can happen with the signaling and it can happen with the lollipop. We can maybe go back to the lollipop, but that's not really the problem we had today.

"The green light went on and I drove forward. The only problem is that we had a human problem and the green light came in the wrong moment. Then everything happened with the fuel tank and everything. So that was the biggest problem."

Team boss Stefano Domenicali said after the race that Massa had met with the mechanic who had made the mistake to console him.

Ferrari sure Raikkonen will help Massa

Massa thrilled after ‘perfect’ lap

Quakes dictate pace in road draw

Raikkonen to support Massa if needed

Button frustrated to miss out on points

Jenson Button said he was frustrated after finishing just outside of the point-scoring positions at the Singapore Grand Prix.

The Briton, on a two-stop strategy, reckons the two safety car periods played against him as he went on to finish in ninth place.

"It was one of those races today where luck and the timing of the safety car could make or break your race," said Button.

"Unfortunately luck was not on our side and the timing of the two safety cars hurt our two-stop strategy.

"In addition to that, we were just not competitive or quick enough as I was struggling for balance for much of the race. To finish in ninth position is always frustrating as you are just outside of the points."

Honda teammate Rubens Barrichello, on the other hand, benefited from the first safety car period, but an electrical problem meant the Brazilian was unable to materialise his luck.

Barrichello said he could have finished strongly.

"Coming into the race from 18th on the grid, we were obviously hoping for any eventuality to help us move further up the grid," he said.

"That opportunity came on lap 14 when my engineer made a brilliant call following Piquet's crash. I came into the pits just before the safety car was called and when I rejoined I would have been in a strong position.

"But then the engine just died. I had lots of fuel on board and my place was great because I had good pace and was keeping up with the whole group in front of me. So we could have had a great end to the race. We lost a great opportunity today and obviously I feel very sad about that."

Button hoping for ‘British’ weather

Singapore Sunday quotes: Honda

Singapore Sunday quotes: Honda

Jenson Button - 9th: "Yes, it was one of those races today where luck and the timing of the safety car could make or break your race. Unfortunately luck was not on our side and the timing of the two safety cars hurt our two-stop strategy. In addition to that, we were just not competitive or quick enough as I was struggling for balance for much of the race. To finish in 9th position is always frustrating as you are just outside of the points."

Rubens Barrichello - DNF: "Coming into the race from 18th on the grid, we were obviously hoping for any eventuality to help us move further up the grid. That opportunity came on lap 14 when my engineer made a brilliant call following Piquet's crash. I came into the pits just before the safety car was called and when I rejoined I would have been in a strong position.

"But then the engine just died. I had lots of fuel on board and my place was great because I had good pace and was keeping up with the whole group in front of me. So we could have had a great end to the race. We lost a great opportunity today and obviously I feel very sad about that."

Ross Brawn, Team Principal: "We decided to put the cars on two different strategies today, the rationale for which was in part due to the predicted safety car outings. The first safety car played into the hands of Rubens and those on a similar one-stop strategy.

"Moreover, on the pitwall we anticipated that the safety car would be called out and brought Rubens in to refuel him before the flags went to yellow. We would have been in an extremely good position for the balance of the race, however he stopped shortly after leaving the pits with an electrical problem.

"In as much as that situation helped Rubens, that was the safety car window that hurt people on the same two-stop strategy as Jenson. He was forced to pit with the pack which handed the advantage to one-stoppers. Later in the race the traffic situation was such that Jenson was unable to improve, so we decided to pit him early for his second pitstop and he was one of the first cars to fuel to the end of the race.

"This was purely a gamble in anticipation of another safety car, which did eventually come but it was too late and unfortunately the timing was such that Jenson simply had a heavier car as a result."

Americans confident going forward

Singapore Sunday quotes: Bridgestone

Hirohide Hamashima - Director of Bridgestone Motorsport Tyre Development: "Tonight we saw an exciting race with an unpredictable result played out under the spotlights of Singapore at this fabulous new facility, with a very good job done by the organisers.

"The track surface was the best we have seen all week and the soft compound worked very well with good consistency. The performance from the super soft was better than we saw earlier in the week and the wear rate and graining were acceptable.

"Congratulations to Fernando Alonso and the ING Renault F1 Team for their first win of the season and to Nico Rosberg for his best-ever F1 result. Today was a good day for Bridgestone as we contested our first ever Formula One night race and also in Japan Valentino Rossi won the MotoGP race at Motegi and secured the riders' championship for which we offer our congratulations."

U.S. dominant in World Cup qualifier

Raikkonen concedes title hopes are gone

Kimi Raikkonen conceded on Sunday his championship chances are now gone following his fourth consecutive race outside of the points.

The Ferrari driver, who crashed out of the Singapore Grand Prix when running in fifth, is now 27 points behind Lewis Hamilton with just 30 left to win.

The Finn, however, admitted he was sorry to lose the points for his team, who lost the lead in the constructors' championship to McLaren.

"It was a pretty small chance anyhow," Raikkonen said about his title chances.

"I'm not sad for my fifth place but I'm sorry for the team to lose those points. But for sure we'll try to do better next race."

Raikkonen, whose teammate Felipe Massa is seven points behind Hamilton, said he was still unsure if he will have to play a supporting role for the Brazilian.

"I know what the team wants - they want to win the world championship," he added. "We will see what happens. I'm trying to win races too and we will see what happens. I'm out of the championship anyhow."

The reigning world champion has not won a race since the Spanish Grand Prix in April, but said he was not thinking about his drought and not planning to give up.

"It doesn't change anything. I was in a position to try to win, but when the safety car came out the chance was pretty much gone. We've been close a few times but quite often we've been a bit unlucky so we try next race again. I haven't given up. We want to have some good races.

"We have not had the season we wanted but we have a good spirit. Of course this is not a nice day but I've seen enough in Formula One and we still have a good car and we should still be able to win some races this year."

Raikkonen, who lost his chances of a good result during the first safety car period, crashed out of the Singapore race with four laps left when running behind Timo Glock.

The Ferrari driver, however, denied it had anything to do with a lack of concentration.

"No. I wanted to stay close in places to the Toyota because there were only two places that I could get very close and have any chance if he made a small mistake.

"That was one - before the back straight I needed to get very close and unfortunately I touched the kerb slightly too much and just when you hit that quite hard you can't turn too much and I couldn't turn any more so I just went a bit wide and hit the wall. Not the tyre wall, but the plastic blocks and I took the wheel off."

Earthquakes flex defensive muscles

Disappointed Raikkonen stays philosophical

Vettel not expecting easy weekend

Italian Grand Prix winner Sebastian Vettel is not expecting an easy weekend in Singapore after failing to shine in Friday's practice sessions.

The German, a sensational winner at Monza two weeks ago, could only manage the 13th fastest time after complaining about the handling of his Toro Rosso car.

Vettel admitted the very bumpy track surface was not making things any easier either.

"Visibility is not a problem. Some places are darker than others and it's good fun," said Vettel. "The track is very difficult, but unfortunately the surface is very bumpy which does not make life easy. It is tough and demanding for both car and driver.

"As for my car, I'm not happy yet as it feels very loose and I don't think we will have an easy time. So tonight we must work hard to improve it and hopefully make a step forward tomorrow."

Sebastien Bourdais also lamented the bumps on the track, although the Frenchman said there were no problems with the lighting.

"There are no worries about running under the lights and I even ran with a lightly smoked visor," Bourdais, 14th fastest, said. "There are hardly any shadows and you can see very well.

"It's a very nice track but unfortunately, the quick parts are the bumpiest and so we are having to run the cars quite high, which obviously reduces performance. Globally the car is not too bad and today we have been trying to find the best set-up and assess the two types of tyre."

Massa thrilled after 'perfect' lap

Felipe Massa was a delighted man after what he said was a perfect lap en route to pole position for the Singapore Grand Prix.

The Ferrari driver secured the fist ever night pole after posting a best time of 1:44.519, clinching a dominant first place and his fifth pole of the 2008 season.

Massa who is one point behind championship leader Lewis Hamilton, will start one place ahead of the Briton, who could do nothing to match the Brazilian's pace.

Massa finished over six seconds ahead of Hamilton.

"The car was perfect, so nice to drive smoothly, and then I managed to do a perfect lap, so that always helps when you have a good car," said Massa. "I did not make a single mistake, it was a great achievement.

"It is just a great feeling, coming to the last corner I knew I could not make any mistakes, so I just made corner by corner perfectly, not making a single mistake and when I came to the last corner I thought 'take it easy' but I couldn't!

"So I took it quick anyway. It was so fantastic. It is the most incredible feeling you can feel as a racing driver. To achieve what you want is always a great achievement.

"It is pretty tough, a very difficult track, so to get every corner right is really, really difficult."

The Ferrari driver is now looking to secure victory in the first Formula One race at night, and to take the championship lead with it.

"It is a very important race for F1. It is interesting and a very important race on the calendar. If we can win the race it will be an even more fantastic a feeling than after qualifying."

Galaxy snap winless streak in emphatic fashion

Revs take bite out of Galaxy attack

Singapore Friday quotes: Bridgestone

Hirohide Hamashima - Director of Bridgestone Motorsport Tyre Development: "The Marina Bay Street Circuit is certainly an interesting and challenging track for Bridgestone and all the competitors on our tyres. This evening the circuit started very dirty, as we would expect from a new facility, especially a street course.

"The grip level from the track improved rapidly through the first session, however, the fastest time seen today was some way off our predictions. Normally we would see an improvement in lap times in the second session and from the softer compound tyre but we did not see this today.

"This is perhaps because there is still not sufficient rubber laid down on the track and also due to team strategies in the session as they learnt this new track. The soft tyre worked well with conditions as they were today. We have a lot of data to analyse and tomorrow's running should give us a better idea of what to expect in Sunday's race."

Singapore preview quotes: Bridgestone

Italy Friday quotes: Bridgestone

Wheldon steps out of car, onto field

FIA asked to look into chicane problem

The FIA has been asked by Formula One drivers to find a better solution to the problems caused by chicane cutting in the wake of the Lewis Hamilton Spa controversy.

With Hamilton having lost his appeal over the penalty he was handed for gaining an advantage by cutting a chicane in the Belgian Grand Prix, there remains some unease about the expected driver etiquette in similar situations.

Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA) chairman Pedro de la Rosa thinks there has to be a better option to punish drivers for cutting chicanes, rather than the current guideline of handing back positions.

"The bottom line is that there is the need to find a better solution that keeps everyone happy," he told autosport.com. "We have spoken with Charlie (Whiting) and the FIA, and they are looking for a solution as well."

Chicane cutting has become a modern day issue because of the wide-open asphalt run off areas that now surround corners. Mistakes by drivers result in them simply running off the circuit without penalty and resuming further up the road.

De la Rosa admits there is a difficulty in finding an answer as to how to design chicanes whereby they are both safe and do not encourage drivers to cut across them.

"At the moment we have the best compromise," he said. "We all push for the asphalt run-offs, but one of the downsides of that is that you can cut corners without being penalised as much as with gravel or grass. So it's not all positive, but safety is first.

"We have that because it's the safest measure, so the second step is to make sure that if a driver jumps a chicane he gets a proper time loss so there is no controversy. That is the main objective. But the GPDA perspective is just about safety.

"I have nothing to say about jumping chicanes. We are happy with the run-off areas because we pushed for them, and now it is up to the FIA to find a solution to get proper time loss for a driver that jumps a chicane, not the GPDA."

De la Rosa does not believe that the wider use of speed bumps to hinder drivers who cut across chicanes would improve matters.

"It depends where you locate those. They should never be on the run-off areas, because it makes the car jump. But I am sure that there are other ways, or placing them in other areas. We are very happy with the asphalt, it is a massive step forward, but you cannot have all positives."

De la Rosa: SC system in early stages

Hamilton likens Singapore to Valencia

Lewis Hamilton says the nature of the Singapore circuit will be a mix of both Monaco and Valencia, after walking the new track earlier today.

The Briton has a good record on street circuits so far this season, having won at Monaco and finished second at Valencia, and predicts that this weekend's new event will be the most exciting of the season.

"It's very similar to Valencia, where you have the brick walls instead of the Monaco barriers. But it's a little bit narrower and you're driving through streets instead of around a harbour," he said at a press conference for team sponsor Vodafone today. "It's very fast, but there are also some tight, slow corners.

"Overtaking is going to be very tricky, as it is at all street circuits. We have some longer straights so perhaps you can get a bit closer and maybe tow into the first corner, but I think there'll be less overtaking that on the open circuits.

"But I think the race is going to be very exciting, potentially more than the other races we've had this year. Just because it's a night race, everyone is in the unknown and we don't know what to expect. I've walked the circuit and that gives you some insight, but when we get out there it will still be a completely new experience."

The weather forecast has been a point of much speculation in the build-up, but even though rain is forecast, Hamilton hopes the nighttime activity will avoid the day's showers.

"The forecast said it was going to be raining all week, but every time I wake up (in the afternoon) it's dry and quite warm, so I think it rains in the mornings and when I wake up it's a nice day. So fingers crossed it will stay the same."

The championship leader believes McLaren and Ferrari are evenly-matched going into the weekend, but expects the softer compound tyres that Bridgestone have brought to produce similar performances to those at Valencia.

"I don't think we have the edge over Ferrari, I think we are at least equal with them," he added. "Regarding the tyre situation, they do use their tyres slightly different to ours - they struggle more with temperature but they look after their tyres better over a long run.

"Here, we are using the soft and super soft, a bit like in Valencia, and they are very strong and very competitive with that tyre. They will be strong but, as we saw in Valencia, we will be just as strong as them.

"It will just be down to qualifying and getting the lap together - and being out front."

Monaco preview quotes: Honda

Europe preview quotes: Honda

ING: F1 still makes financial sense

Investing in Formula One races still makes good financial sense for governments despite the huge sanctioning fees demanded by the sport's commercial boss Bernie Ecclestone, claims a new research document.

The report, conducted by Renault title sponsor ING and F1 industry monitor Formula Money, suggests that despite the multi-million pound fees demanded by Ecclestone, the returns are still far higher in terms of money that is pumped into the local economy as a consequence of holding a race.

The ING Investment Index states that governments of nations hosting F1 races invested a total of 275 million dollars (US) in hosting races, while receiving a return of 1.52 billion dollars for their local economies.

Topping the table with the most investment was Bahrain, where the local government contributed 45 million dollars for the race - but received 395 million dollars in return for the local economy.

The best return on investment was the Japanese Grand Prix, where the local government of Oyama Town contributed just four million dollars towards the race that benefited the local region with 70 million dollars.

The Monaco Grand Prix gets 17.1 million dollars for its government's investment of seven million dollars.

Singapore preview quotes: BMW

Massa confident over tyre issues

Felipe Massa believes Ferrari have made a big step forward in getting on top of the tyre temperature issues that have marred their recent performances.

The Maranello-based team spent three days testing alone at Mugello in Italy last week - with a lot of effort spent on working out how to ensure the F2008 can gets it tyres into a better operating window.

And with the team given the added benefit of a day testing in the wet when Massa concluded the test on Friday, hopes are high that the solutions put in place will improve matters.

"To run in these conditions has helped a lot, the car has better grip and this is important in view of races where it could rain again," Massa told Gazzetta dello Sport. "Clearly I'd prefer it to be dry in Singapore, but we can go well and have a consistent race in the wet too."

Massa will have to wait until tomorrow to find out how big a deficit he has in the world championship to Lewis Hamilton, with the FIA International Court of Appeal due to deliver its verdict on the Spa-Francorchamps appeal.

The Brazilian admitted that his thoughts had been dominated in recent days by the appeal hearing. If Hamilton is successful in Paris and gets his victory reinstated, it will see his title lead extend from one point over Massa to seven points.

"I'm thinking about it all the time, of course, but it's not up to us," said Massa about the appeal. "It's important for the result to be the fair one, the one we've all seen."

When asked if he felt that he could win the title, Massa said: "Obviously I hope so: we'll have to make all the right decisions, be quick, competitive, with good strategies and the necessary reliability."

Massa not changing racing approach

Hamilton relieved to keep title lead

Worn-out Revs look for spark

Hamilton begins appeal case in Paris

Lewis Hamilton is fighting in a Paris courtroom to get his Belgian Grand Prix victory back today when he testifies in front of the FIA's International Court of Appeal hearing.

The Briton was stripped of his Spa-Francorchamps win when the race stewards deemed that he had gained an unfair advantage by cutting a chicane near the end of the race as he fought for the lead against Kimi Raikkonen.

His McLaren team decided to appeal against the 25-second penalty that moved Hamilton from first down to third, and it has been decided that their defence case will be best served by the world championship leader making a personal appearance rather than just submitting a sworn statement.

If McLaren's appeal is accepted and won, Hamilton could move seven points clear of Ferrari rival Felipe Massa, who inherited the win at Spa.

Hamilton has been joined in Paris by McLaren F1 CEO Martin Whitmarsh, his race engineer Phil Prew, the team's director of legal affairs Tim Murnane and legal representatives Baker McKenzie.

Whitmarsh said the clear aim was for McLaren and Hamilton to prove to the judges that they did not gain an advantage in the situation, so therefore did not deserve to be punished.

Speaking before the hearing about the possibility of the judges overthrowing the verdict, Whitmarsh said: "We very much hope that will be the case, but clearly it's outside of our power. All we can do is present the facts.

"But I personally believe anyone who looks back at the race and is asked 'who deserved to win?', most people watching would say Lewis and not Felipe, who was half a minute behind.

"I'm probably slightly partisan on this, but I do actually believe that's what most people would imagine. We just have to present the data, and whatever the outcome is, that is the outcome.

"We are not counting on those points. We hold the lead at the moment in the drivers' championship by one slender point and we can expand upon that in the coming races."

The first hurdle that McLaren will have to overcome in the hearing, however, is proving that the appeal is actually admissible.

There has been some debate about whether or not teams can actually appeal drive-through penalties - which was the original punishment Hamilton was handed down. It was turned into a 25-second penalty because it was served in the final five laps of the race.

Despite the hearing in Paris today, McLaren and Hamilton will have to wait until tomorrow to find out the judges' decision.

Autosport.com will keep you up-to-date with the latest news from the Paris hearing.

McLaren plan to appeal Hamilton’s penalty

Singapore preview quotes: Williams

Nico Rosberg: "It should be a good race for us as the track looks like it should suit our car pretty well and personally I always really enjoy racing on street circuits. New tracks are often quite demanding and take a bit of time during practice to get used to. Racing at night will add to that challenge, but the whole concept of night racing is fantastic.

"It will be a great show for the fans, and an interesting experience for all the teams. Singapore itself is a great new venue for Formula One and for all of our partners as well. I'm flying out quite late this week and will stay on European time while there. This weekend gives us another opportunity to claim some points which is certainly our aim."

Kazuki Nakajima: "I'm quite looking forward to the race in Singapore. It's going to be very interesting as it's the first time at a new destination for everybody. We've been doing quite a bit of work in our simulator in preparation for this race and it looks like Singapore could be quite a complex circuit with lots of corners, but it should still suit our car.

"I don't think driving at night will be a problem if it's dry but, if it's wet which it looks like it will be, it could be quite difficult with the reflection. I'll be staying on European time which will be a real challenge as we'll be staying awake until the early hours of the morning but then sleeping until the middle of the afternoon! Let's hope all the extra effort is worth it!"

Sam Michael, Technical Director: "Singapore is a new circuit on the Formula One calendar that promises lots of action, even if only for the fact that it's our first ever night race. Running at night will bring new challenges for all the teams, from the driver having to adjust himself to different levels of visibility to team personnel having unusual sleeping and eating patterns!

"The circuit itself has over 20 corners within its layout, only two of which will be taken at speeds in excess of 100mph, so lap times will be dictated by the grip achieved during the slow speed sections. Because of this, we'll run a similar rear wing level to Monaco, i.e. the maximum available. Bridgestone will bring the soft and super soft Potenza tyres to this race which will give the maximum amount of grip available on what we expect to be a slippery street surface.

"To add to the excitement of the night race, there is also a strong possibility of rain during the evening, which is normal in such a humid climate. At this stage, a likely strategy scenario is unknown. Although we have some data from our work on the simulator, we will have to wait until we get circuit data for tyre degradation and pitlane loss time."

Revs take bite out of Galaxy attack

Singapore preview quotes: BMW

Singapore preview quotes: Bridgestone

Singapore preview quotes: Force India

Giancarlo Fisichella: I'm feeling confident going to Singapore now after a good event in Monza. Throughout the weekend we were strong and it was a nice feeling to finally make it to Q2. I was disappointed we couldn't make more of the race as I think we could have finished well, but we were competitive throughout the weekend so we have to be positive from this point of view.

From all I have heard, Singapore is going to be a fantastic event. Even after 12 years in F1, it's nice to go to new venues and particularly one where fans and media have really got behind the sport. It will be interesting to race under lights too. I think it will be different, but we will soon adapt - we will do our track walk when it gets dark so we will have an idea of how it will be and how the track will look with the glare from the floodlights.

I hope we can carry forward our improved performance to Singapore. There's a lot of support from Indian fans over there and I hope we can put on a good show for them.

Adrian Sutil: I'm really looking forward to this event as it will be very different to any other race on the calendar. It's a new venue in an amazing city, and of course a night race. For sure having a race in the dark will be very interesting, the lights are going to be very bright, so for us it might seem like we are racing during the day, perhaps even brighter. I'll stay at the track when they switch the lights on for the first time so I can see exactly what it will be like.

The fact that the race is in Asia will also be a real challenge. Timing wise I will try to stay on European time so I am used to being awake during the night. I think this is very important as you want to be at your peak during the sessions, and not feeling like you need to go to bed! I will also arrive a day earlier than I normally would for a flyaway race to get used to the humidity and the heat, which I expect will be very similar to Malaysia.

I hope we can get a good result here in Singapore. I was disappointed in Italy, firstly not to have qualified better and then I couldn't push during the race, so I really hope for more at the next race.

Vijay Mallya

Q. With the strong Indian influence in Singapore, are you looking forward to the weekend?

A: Absolutely, with the large Indian population and the proximity to India, it's something that we very much look forward to. For the companies that sponsor the car, and others as well, Singapore is going to be a big, big venue. It has rightfully aroused tremendous international interest: it's a new venue, the first night race and a street race, which are always hugely popular.

I think it's going to be absolutely spectacular. They have built in a huge amount of entertainment as well and there will be bars and live music, and it will all be open well after the events on the track are over, so I think it promises to be a huge amount of fun. This is what F1 needs.

Q. The wet street race in Monaco was good for the team. Do you see Singapore as potentially something of a lottery?

A: Definitely, it could be a lottery. I've been a resident of Singapore for the last 25 years, and one thing I can tell you is that it rains every night. You don't have to pray for rain, it just comes! People say that rain suits Force India, but rain has the same effect on everybody. It doesn't give a special opportunity for us alone. If it's a challenge for other drivers, it's equally a challenge for our drivers.

Q. How much of a boost was it for the team to reach Q2 in Italy?

A: It was a brilliant feeling to have finally achieved one of our targets, and to have done so in difficult conditions. The whole team had a great push just by seeing the car up there in P12. It just goes to show that if you get the strategy right and the drivers are motivated and hungry you can achieve an unexpected result. I would have liked to get into Q2 a little earlier in the season, but it was a superb result all round and you cannot take that away. We worked hard to get it and I was delighted.

Q. Have you seen the team improving over recent races?

A: I've been measuring the progress of this team. We need to be more competitive, but 2009 will be the real test. I've always said that we will take baby steps in 2008, such as getting into Q2, and I think we have managed to do that. We are racing now, we are beating the Hondas and the Williams. In 2009 we have no excuses, I know that, and I will make sure that we perform.

Q. At the start of the season you were racing Toro Rosso, and in Italy they won a race. In a way does that give you hope for the future?

A: I could not be a happier man. I went to Gerhard Berger and Franz Tost and congratulated them after qualifying, and of course after the race. It was fantastic that F1 proved that the independent teams can win. That's a source of great inspiration for Force India as well, I hope to be in the same position next year.

Colin Kolles, team principal

Q. What are your thoughts on going to Singapore?

A: It's going to be a very interesting event. We'll have to work on different time zones and it looks to be a very special track. Additionally it's a night event, so it's something that I am really looking forward to. It should be very spectacular to see the cars racing under the lights.

Q. In Monza the team seemed to take a step forward, with the first appearance in Q2. How would you review this weekend?

A: It was a fantastic result for qualifying and the reaction both within the team and from people watching in India on TV was very inspiring. It was motivating to be racing with Hamilton and Raikkonen too, but while it's nice that we were racing them our goal has to be to finish in front of them as well in time.

Q. What will the targets be for this race?

A: I would like to get two cars to the end of the race and to see them both racing. As always, we have to be realistic, but also optimistic that we can get a good result should the circumstances allow.

Mike Gascoyne, chief technical officer

Q. What preparations has the team been making for this event?

A: As with every new race, initially we only have the track map to start from. We have recently run this on our simulations and it looks to be quite slow. Some corners are very wide and will allow several different lines if conditions are wet, but it does look like there will only be a couple of overtaking possibilities if it is dry. Our team manager, Andy Stevenson, has also been out to Singapore to recce the track, the layout of the pit complex, and of course the lights. I think are well prepared.

Q. How will the team deal with the race being a night race?

A: In engineering terms, there is no difference between a race in the day or at night, as the set-up is exactly the same. The biggest difference will be the schedule. We won't be starting until later in the day and then we will finish a lot later than usual. In general we work for eight hours after the finish of a session so on Friday that will be a finish of around 7am! This means we will probably stick to a European time zone but the toughest challenge will be to avoid jet lag and fatigue, which is when mistakes occur.

Q. The car went well at Monaco. Do you see a street race as a chance to get a good result?

A: Yes, and if it's wet, which it easily can be, it's an opportunity. Over the last few races, since we've introduced the new seamless shift gearbox, we've really taken a step forward. We've seen that every weekend. We were in the top 10 in every practice session in Monza, and 12th in qualifying. You can argue that it was fuel loads, or the timing of when we went out, but you can't get lucky every time! So for these next few races we've got to look to pick something up.

Singapore preview quotes: Honda

Bridgestone evaluates new wet weather tyres

Formula One tyre supplier Bridgestone is evaluating data from its new wet weather tyres to see how effective the design is, following the first run for the new rubber at Jerez in Spain last week.

The Japanese company had been asked to create a single wet tyre with a view to it potentially becoming a replacement for the two tyres used in F1 at present.

The new rubber has a compound and tread pattern that is halfway between the current extreme and wet (intermediate) tyre.

Although Bridgestone has not confirmed how many drivers ran with the rubber during the rain-affected part of the test, a spokesman said that the data is now being looked at to determine whether to pursue the idea.

Bridgestone director of motorsport tyre development Hirohide Hamashima said recently he preferred the current option of having two wet types, but the single tyre idea had come about after a request from the teams.

"We prefer two types of wet tyres, it brings more safety," he told autosport.com. "But as you know the reason why we developed the one wet tyre is because it was requested from the teams. But now their opinion is different. They refuse one specification of wet tyre.

"They asked last year after the Nurburgring, when someone used standards and some extreme. Force India (then Spyker) led the race after a red flag. Maybe that is why - I guess."

BMW Sauber driver Nick Heidfeld said during the Jerez test that he could see no benefit to bringing the single wet tyre other than cutting costs.

"I don't think it's a good idea," he said. "With the extreme wets we have now, we have aquaplaning, so with these new wets that have a wider range and tread that is not as good for aquaplaning, it will be worse. I don't understand it."

Italy Friday quotes: Bridgestone

Q and A with Sebastien Buemi

When Sebastien Buemi was first pencilled in by Scuderia Toro Rosso for this week's test at Jerez in Spain he had no idea that the run would give him the chance to try out race-winning machinery as be bids to land a race seat in Formula One.

After his day of testing for Toro Rosso in Jerez, the Swiss driver appears to have left senior team figures impressed but, as he tells autosport.com, he is taking nothing for granted about his prospects for 2009.

Q. How did the test with Toro Rosso go?

Sebastien Buemi: It went well. We had a small issue in the morning with the rear suspension, so we had to stop. But we managed to find the problem and we could drive again and do the entire programme. So it was a good day. I was quite happy. We managed to do everything and be quite consistent towards the end of the day with the long runs.

Were you working on your own setup for the car, or were you given a programme by the team?

Q. SB: We had a part where we had a programme for the team, with constant speed and aero stuff. But there was still a bit of time to get me more into the car with the setup and do small things with the seat. Then we went with new tyres and did some changes, which made me understand the car.

Q. You've done some tests for Red Bull Racing. How does this car compare?

SB: There are not big changes between the cars, there are only small changes. There are small differences which make you have different grip, just get used to it. It is the same car in the end. It was good and not difficult to get used to it.

Q. Did you feel comfortable in the car?

SB: I am more comfortable in the Red Bull car at the moment because we were supposed to put my seat into the Toro Rosso and it didn't fit. So we had to do a new seat and we didn't really make a very good one. After the long run it was hurting my back and stuff like that.

Q. So what is the plan now? Are you fully focusing on getting into F1?

SB: My objective is for sure to be in F1 next season. On the first day I was feeling a bit of pressure about that, which was normal, but now it is over. I did my job.

Q. Do you think you did a good job?

SB: I think maybe with the new tyres it could have been a bit better, because I could not manage the last bit of the tyres. I think maybe the final tenths could have been a bit better, but my feedback and long runs with old tyres were good, I think. I don't know when we will get a decision, but we will know for sure.

Q. Are you excited by that?

SB: I am a bit excited, but I try to stay calm. I did my best, but maybe I will test again before they take a decision. So I have to wait and see.

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Singapore preview quotes: McLaren

Lewis Hamilton

Q. What are you looking forward to in Singapore?

A: "I'm looking forward to visiting the country, trying the food, seeing what the track is like, seeing what it will be like to race on. It is going to be an exciting weekend. The race will be quite a fun challenge, and I like a challenge! I've never raced at night before, but I don't think it is going to be a problem. It doesn't seem to be a problem in other sports and there have been huge preparations for this, so I think it will be great. We are racing on another street circuit, which are a particular favourite of mine. From what I understand it is wide and fairly flowing in nature, which is not what you usually expect from a street circuit, but it sounds like it will be pretty spectacular."

Q. Have your physical preparations changed in any way for this race?

A: "Singapore is going to be a unique challenge for every member of the team. Our doctor has prepared a very precise schedule for the drivers to stick to because all the sessions are so late in the day. Essentially we must not acclimatise to the local time, which is totally different to how we normally operate. Our training programmes ensure that over a race weekend we are at peak performance during the afternoons and as a result we are going to be staying in European time so this doesn't get disrupted.

"Apparently not acclimatising is much harder than adapting, because your body naturally wants to change. For the drivers, our meal, waking and sleeping rhythms will all be in European time, for example we will get up early afternoon for breakfast, have supper at 1am and go to bed at around 3am. It will be very different preparation to any other race but we'll try and do the best job we can."

Heikki Kovalainen

Q. Have you raced at night before?

A: "The Race of Champions was in the evening, in the stadium with the lights, but the races weren't long or serious so it's going to be all new. It will be interesting to see how it feels; how it's different, whether it's good or bad. Coming from Finland where we have 24hours of darkness in the winter, I don't think I will have any problems, I am used to that! The circuit looks fantastic, there seem to be a few overtaking opportunities, so hopefully it will be a good race. Races in cities always have a great atmosphere, so I am looking forward to it."

Q. Can you outline your fitness and sleeping regime?

A: "The main thing to consider is that we remain sharp at a later time in the day. We need to keep the rhythm correct and sleep well. This is all taken care of by the team, but it's still a big challenge. The team is taking every measure possible to ensure the timings of the weekend have no impact on our performance, to make sure we are physically ready. For example, the hotel rooms will be blacked out so we can sleep late into the day, special arrangements will be put in place to make sure the cleaners don't come into the room, as they would not expect people to be sleeping until early afternoon.

"The telephones will not ring, all those kind of things. We will essentially be isolated from the normal workings of the hotel. It is a much more demanding task to make sure you don't switch to the local time, because your body automatically wants to change, external factors such as light, temperature, humidity are all encouraging it. As with any flyaway race, the process will start from when we land in Singapore, we will stay up until early morning on the day we land."

Martin Whitmarsh, CEO Formula 1, Vodafone McLaren Mercedes

Q. What will be the key logistical challenge faced at the Singapore Grand Prix?

A: "Inevitably, ensuring all the team personnel have the opportunity to get enough sleep will be the main challenge over the course of the weekend. For example, the mechanics won't be going to bed until 4 - 5am, because we finish running late in the evening and there is a programme of work to complete prior to the next day.

There is a clear plan, because we know the timings of the sessions and how much work needs to take place after each of the sessions. The reality is, it will be hard work for the mechanics, engineers, support crew, marketing operation and we will take measures to support this, but I don't believe it will have a massive impact on the cars and the drivers, with the programme for Lewis and Heikki being very carefully planned and monitored."

Q. Is the team planning to take additional lighting?

A: "Ordinarily, the garage is lit for work at night anyway so that won't be a new phenomenon. There will be some functional lighting on the pitwall which we don't currently have, that will be the only addition. In the car the cockpit display is illuminated so that won't be a problem, and there is an assumption that there will be sufficient ambient luminosity that you can see knobs and buttons in a way you ordinarily could.

We are going with a variety of visors with high-contrast, different colourations, as with artificial light you will not have natural shadow and depth perception can be reduced. However, we are expecting the quality of light is so good that we wouldn't have to do anything, the purpose of floodlighting is to be operating as though it was daylight."

Q. Are there any other impacts the timing will have on the race?

A: "There is the potential for the temperature to drop, but I suspect it will still be warmer at 21:00 in Singapore than during Friday practice at Monza! We expect the ambient will be around 30 degrees centigrade, the track temperature will cool down for the evening but will still be close to 40 degrees centigrade, unless there is rain. If it rains, there is the unknown of whether there will be a problem with glare or the sparkle of light from droplets of rain that is greater than you would ordinarily get. To manage this potential, we are using coatings for the visors that won't allow droplets to collect."

Norbert Haug, Vice President, Mercedes-Benz Motorsport

Q. After Monza, Lewis's advantage in the Drivers' Championship is only one point. Are you getting nervous now?

A: "We see no reason to be. In his 31 Grands Prix so far, Lewis scored 187 points, six on average per race. During this period, no other Formula 1 driver collected more points. In 26 of his 31 Grands Prix, Lewis finished in the points, 20 of those occasions finishing on the podium. We now want to pick up our good shape of the second third of the season, then we head into the right direction."

Q. What went wrong in Monza?

A: "Following the tyre choice in qualifying which unfortunately led to his 15th grid position, Lewis showed a great race and overtook impressively. With Heikki's second and Lewis's seventh places, the team still scored 10 points in Monza - more were possible. On the other side: In the previous six races Lewis alone scored as many points as both drivers of our toughest competitor."

Q. The Singapore Grand Prix, the first night race in Formula 1, will be the next event. What can we expect?

A: "The Singapore Grand Prix will be the fifth street race on the calendar after Melbourne, Monte Carlo, Montreal and Valencia and the first ever Grand Prix be held at night. Foremost, we look forward to the atmosphere of this first night race. About 1,500 extremely powerful light projectors have been installed four metres apart around the about five-kilometre long track, and they are said to illuminate the track brightly.

"In this unusual environment, the drivers have to focus on 23 corners per lap, six of them with speeds lower than 100 km/h. Once per lap, on the 700-metre full-throttle part along the Raffles Boulevard, the cars reach almost 300 km/h. This premiere will certainly be the most exciting in Formula 1 history -in the middle of the night, in the middle of the metropolis."

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Singapore to increase night running

Brawn defends new-look 2009 cars

Honda Racing team principal Ross Brawn believes Formula One fans will get used to the radical new look of next year's cars, after mixed reaction to the first public running of a 2009-spec wing last week.

Williams ran one of the smaller and higher rear wings during testing at Jerez in Spain last week as part of their evaluation of a 2009 rear end.

And although the new-look wing caused a few raised eyebrows in the paddock and among fans who saw photographs, Brawn believes that it will not take long for the sport to accept how 2009 F1 cars look.

"They don't look bad to me, you get used to them," said Brawn when asked if he felt next year's generation of cars would not be as good looking at this year's models.

"It is like when we had narrow tyres and grooved tyres, they looked weird when they started but then you adjust. So it is a bit difficult for me to comment completely.

"I think they look okay - and they look in many ways nicer because the bodywork doesn't have all this furniture, the vortex generators, fins and wings. The bodywork is relatively clean. It is a much bigger front wing and smaller higher rear wing, but we have had things like that in the past."

Brawn said, however, that it would be up to individuals to judge for themselves whether the new-look cars are 'better'. He said that the recent preview feature in Autosport about the 2009 regulations gave a pretty accurate glimpse of what the cars would be like.

"I don't think that graphic that Autosport did was so far off," said Brawn. "You could judge from that if you like it or not. It is a matter of taste."

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Symonds: Renault car better than Toyota's

Renault's director of engineering Pat Symonds believes the French team will have the upper hand over rivals Toyota in their fight for fourth place in the championship.

Renault have scored two consecutive four places in Belgium and Monza which, aided by Toyota's failure to score in those races, have allowed the former champions to be equal on points with the Japanese squad with four races left.

And Symonds reckons Renault's car is now generally stronger than Toyota's, although he admits he is expecting a very close fight in the remaining races.

"You can't get any closer than equality. Obviously, as the number of races decreases, even a constant gap becomes more difficult to deal with and so it's nice to have made up the ground we needed to so quickly," said Symonds.

"I do believe that on balance our car is better than the Toyota; it's very close and there are certainly days when they might be stronger than us and days when we are stronger than them.

"We beat them in Monza by out racing them as a team, but it's far from over and we know we are going to have a tough fight on our hands through to the end of the season."

Symonds also revealed the team will run a few new components at this weekend's Singapore Grand Prix as part of their final push for development in 2008.

"We will have the final updates for the R28 in Singapore, including a new front wing," he added.

"In previous years when we have been working on the new car in the wind tunnel, we have always hoped to see developments that we can use on the current car, but it's not the case this year because the aerodynamics for next season are so different.

"So this really is the end of the updates, other than any changes that may be made for reliability."

The Briton reckons Formula One's first night race will be a big challenge, especially for all team members, who will have to work on European times.

"I think it will have an impact on us and perhaps the biggest challenge will be managing the human performance of the team," Symonds added. "We've been working with our medical guys to make sure we are all prepared for it because travelling to the Far East is always quite hard and taxing on our bodies.

"The fact that we will be more or less operating on a European time zone will add a further dimension and confuse our body clocks even more. It's not something I'm worried about, but we need to keep it in mind as we're well aware that it's asking a lot of our mechanics and engineers.

"When we look back on Singapore, I think we will be talking mainly about how we coped with the logistical challenge."

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Italy Sunday quotes: Renault

Singapore preview quotes: Honda

Jenson Button: "For a flyaway race, it is always better to arrive as early as possible to acclimatise to the time zone, however for the night race in Singapore the situation is quite the opposite. I have spent some time on our simulator at the factory this week to familiarise myself as much as possible with the track layout before we get there.

"Then I plan to arrive into Singapore just prior to the start of the race weekend to give myself a better chance of ensuring that I don't become accustomed to the time zone. We will be operating to a European timeframe which will be tough as it means staying awake throughout the night and sleeping for practically the whole day before starting the engineering and running schedule from 1700.

"We have approached the race weekend timing very carefully for this race and will concentrate on getting our rest and nutrition right to ensure the body is ready to react in the right way when required. The first night race is very exciting for the sport and I can't wait to see what conditions the floodlighting will present. It's going to be quite a challenge but one that I'm really looking forward to."

Rubens Barrichello: "The Singapore circuit looks very different to the other new street circuit on the calendar this season at Valencia. Singapore is a much slower lap with many first and second gear corners, although the back straight down to Turn 7 looks exciting in terms of carrying speed through the barriers.

"I have driven the circuit on our simulator which gives you a good idea of how the lap will be laid out and the braking points, however it doesn't give you any projection of how it is going to be racing under the lights! From what we have been told about the lighting system, it's actually going to be brighter than daylight for the drivers. I've watched the Moto GP race at Qatar and it doesn't look like it took place at night at all as the track is so bright.

"I race in 12 hour go-kart races every year and I actually did a 24 hour sportscar endurance race at Interlagos in 1994 where we practiced a lot in night conditions so I have some idea of the conditions. I was very surprised at how well the Valencia Street Circuit was set up for the first race there last month, so I expect Singapore will be of the same standard and I'm really looking forward to the challenge."

Ross Brawn, Team Principal: "The first Formula One night race, and of course a brand new circuit, presents a number of unique and exciting challenges for the team and we have greatly enjoyed working on these. First and foremost, it will be the first time that a Formula One race has been run under lights. We have done a great deal of research into this, particularly at the Moto GP race earlier this year, and our Sporting Director visited the Singapore track for the lighting test and was very impressed with the facilities. Talking to our Test and Reserve Driver Alex Wurz about his experience of the Le Mans 24-Hour Race has also been invaluable.

"The weather will be a key factor in the weekend. It will be hot, wet and very humid and local statistics tell us that there is a 50% chance of rain on any given day in September. These are difficult conditions to work in for both the team and the drivers; however it could lead to some very exciting on-track moments on a circuit which is lined with barriers.

"To prepare for the new track, both our drivers have been working on the simulator at our Brackley headquarters which assists with learning the track layout, gears and downforce levels. The circuit itself is tight, twisty and very narrow in places and it will be even slower than Monaco, with all of Monaco's traditional challenges. It will be a tough circuit for keeping the brakes cool and managing the engine, even more so in the high temperatures that we are expecting.

"With regards to aerodynamics, we will run the highest levels of wing of the season on the RA108 to give as much downforce as possible. The tyres are the soft and super soft compounds, the same specification as Monaco, and the unique challenge here is that the track temperatures will be more or less the same as the air temperatures and likely to fall as the evening progresses."

Ron Meadows, Sporting Director: "Delegates from the Formula One teams visited Singapore in July with the FIA and we were very impressed with the facilities at the Marina Bay circuit. The working conditions will be excellent as the pit garages are very spacious at 6 metres by 20 metres and each team will have a minimum of three garages to work in.

"At the time of our visit, the lights had been erected at the beginning and end of the lap and, having seen these, I have no concerns at all about visibility on the racetrack. Rather than using orange visors to brighten their field of vision, the drivers might use slightly tinted ones because the combination of the circuit lights, tail lights on other cars and dashboard lights could prove to be quite dazzling.

"The only potential concern is in the pitlane because the lights are positioned above the pits. This means the outside wheels will be in shadow during a pitstop which could make it difficult for the guys with the wheel guns; however this will be the same for all the teams.

"As for the track itself, it looks excellent. It's a proper street circuit that passes alongside some of Singapore's most famous landmarks and, like Monaco, it will be opened to the public for a few hours each day. As with all street tracks, the surface is not as smooth as a permanent racetrack and it varies in width. Some sections utilise a three-lane highway, while in other places the track is quite narrow and the barriers create a really enclosed feeling.

"The organisers are expecting there to be three overtaking opportunities around the lap and if that's the case, we have a lot to look forward to in the race. One of the biggest factors of the weekend could be the weather. It frequently rains during the evening in Singapore and the forecast looks like more of the same which will add another dimension to the challenge.

"In terms of equipment and personnel, we are treating Singapore as a normal flyaway race. However, when we arrive we will operate to a revised schedule. We will remain on European time for the duration of the event, which will mean working at night and sleeping during the day. Many aspects of the race weekend will be a step into the unknown for all the teams which should make it an interesting experience."

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Europe preview quotes: Honda

Singapore preview quotes: Bridgestone

Win worth wait for victorious Orange

Italy Sunday quotes: Renault

Di Montezemolo: Raikkonen will come good

Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo defended the team's decision to extend Kimi Raikkonen's contract and says the reigning world champion will come good again.

The Finn has come under criticism for a string of below par performances this season, and three races without a point mean he is now 21 points adrift of championship leader Lewis Hamilton and will have to play a supporting role to teammate Felipe Massa where possible in the final four races.

But di Montezemolo believes that despite his poor run of form, Raikkonen will come good again.

"I know some disagreed when we lengthened his contract, but we are talking about the world champion, who won the title in his first year at Ferrari," he told Italian newspaper Gazetta dello Sport.

"Kimi is like those great forwards in football who can't score for a while but, since they're good, sooner or later they find their way to the goal again, which is good for them and their teams."

The marque boss admitted that the team's pace in the wet has become an issue and that they were thankful that one day of last week's test at Mugello was run in the wet.

"The tests were very positive and one day was in the rain," he added. "We needed it a lot because we have a car that in similar circumstances struggles a lot to bring the tyres up to temperature."

Di Montezemolo also said that he doesn't need to give any advice to Massa for the remainder of the championship battle, or to Raikkonen about his role in the remaining races.

"Felipe doesn't need any, he's always done his job," said di Montezemolo. "He's very quick and he works in perfect harmony with the team. I appreciate his ability not to take risks in order to bring the car to the finish.

"Felipe and Kimi know well what they have to do because both of them race for Ferrari. The rules have always been clear, we all work for the team."

The Italian is confident Ferrari can win both championships this year, but is not looking forward to the inaugural Singapore Grand Prix next weekend.

"I have great confidence, obviously," he said. "For the 11th consecutive year, Ferrari are fighting for the title. We've had Williams, McLaren, and Renault coming and going, but we have always been there.

"The drivers are concentrating on what needs to be improved and on the next grand prix in Singapore. But I have the impression that it's another track where you can't overtake, Valencia-style.

"To go on with these circuits spells an ugly future for Formula One."

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Mallya: '09 the real test for Force India

Force India's chairman Vijay Mallya insists the 2009 season will be the real test for his team following a transitional season this year.

The Silverstone-based squad, who raced under the Spyker name last year, have not scored any points in 2008, which Mallya considers it was a year to make little progress ahead of a more important 2009.

"I've been measuring the progress of this team. We need to be more competitive, but 2009 will be the real test," said Mallya.

"I've always said that we will take baby steps in 2008, such as getting into Q2, and I think we have managed to do that.

"We are racing now, we are beating the Hondas and the Williams. In 2009 we have no excuses, I know that, and I will make sure that we perform."

Mallya said Toro Rosso's victory at the Italian Grand Prix last week had been somewhat of a boost for his own squad and he is hoping Force India can repeat the feat in a year's time.

"I could not be a happier man," he said of Toro Rosso's victory. "I went to Gerhard Berger and Franz Tost and congratulated them after qualifying, and of course after the race.

"It was fantastic that F1 proved that the independent teams can win. That's a source of great inspiration for Force India as well, I hope to be in the same position next year."

And, ahead of this weekend's Singapore Grand Prix, the Indian team owner admitted he is expecting rain, although he played down the chances of his drivers shining despite the car-equaling conditions.

"Definitely, it could be a lottery," he said. "I've been a resident of Singapore for the last 25 years, and one thing I can tell you is that it rains every night.

"You don't have to pray for rain, it just comes. People say that rain suits Force India, but rain has the same effect on everybody. It doesn't give a special opportunity for us alone. If it's a challenge for other drivers, it's equally a challenge for our drivers."

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Singapore preview quotes: BMW

Nick Heidfeld: "Everyone is really looking forward to the Singapore Grand Prix. Firstly because it's a new track, secondly because it's a street circuit and thirdly, of course, because we'll be driving at night. The floodlights should ensure it is actually as bright as during the day, but nobody has yet experienced how these light conditions will feel at Formula One speeds. I would have welcomed the chance to test on the track, especially in the rain. Rain combined with the artificial light is the great unknown for me with this race. The climate should be similar to that in nearby Kuala Lumpur, and - from experience - it rains frequently there, especially in the early evening.

"In principle, I think it's a great idea to hold a race at night. I'm more of a night person - I like to go to bed late, but am not a great early-riser. For that reason, the rhythm of this weekend should suit me. It's a question of adjustment. It's important to eat and sleep at the right times in order to ensure you're really on the button when you need to be. I doubt we'll have much free time, but as the race is taking place in the middle of the city I imagine we'll be able to absorb a fair amount and sense the atmosphere. I've never been to Singapore, apart from sitting in the airport, and am expecting it to be a vibrant and interesting Asian metropolis."

Robert Kubica: "I am looking forward to Singapore, as the Grand Prix will be the second new race of the season. Racing on new tracks is always interesting - I enjoy it very much and I am very excited. Beyond that, I am extremely happy to race on another street circuit as I am a big fan of street circuits. Lots of people consider it interesting that the race will start at night. But from a driver's perspective I think it does not make a big difference whether we race in the daylight or at night. There are still some question-marks regarding weather conditions and - related to the chance of rain - the light situation. I am sure the FIA have done everything to make it a safe race."

Mario Theissen, BMW Motorsport Director: "Singapore is the second unknown quantity on the calendar this year after Valencia. Both are city races, but in Singapore the action will also be taking place at night - and that in an Asian metropolis and against an amazing backdrop. This will give the event even more appeal and excitement. You only need to think of the special atmosphere you get at a football match under floodlights: the surroundings melt into the background, the action itself takes centre stage. I'm expecting this premiere in Singapore to be the highlight of the season.

"We had a look around the circuit at a meeting of team managers in Singapore and were given a demonstration of the lighting system. We were left very much with the impression that, although the race would be at night, it would actually be as bright as day. The only question remaining is whether the light will reflect from the track surface if it rains. That's something we'll only find out if we get a wet race.

"We're very much looking forward to another race in a booming region. I think the wide variety of circuits in the top category of motor racing this year makes sense and is the right approach. And, above all, it makes F1 extremely attractive for the spectators. The overall package represents probably the most spectacular mix of circuits there's ever been in Formula One.

"The recent back-to-back races at Spa and Monza saw Nick and Robert not only increase our number of podium finishes this year to ten, but also collect a total of 21 points - more than any other team. Now we're looking to follow up this good showing in the last couple of European races this year with a strong climax to the season."

Willy Rampf, Technical Director: "From the spectators' point of view, the Singapore Grand Prix - the first night race in the history of Formula One - will be a highlight in the truest sense of the word. The circuit has a large number of 90-degree corners in the 100 km/h speed band, which means that traction will take top priority. The downforce level is high, comparable to Monaco. As things stand, the biggest unknown is the track surface. Its lack of exposure to the sun is a factor that should not be underestimated, as the asphalt temperatures will be lower than at other races in this part of the world. That is something we'll need to take into account with the car set-up.

"Because this is a new circuit for all of us, we'll be relying one-hundred per cent on our simulation, which has proved to be very good in the past. The unusual working times will certainly demand a fair amount of all involved, but will also be an interesting experience. In Jerez we tested several new aerodynamic components which we'll be using in Singapore. I'm confident that we'll be able to continue our positive recent run of results and am looking forward to this new challenge."

Singapore preview quotes: Bridgestone

Stoddart 'torn' over customer cars

Former Minardi boss Paul Stoddart says he is still torn about whether customer cars deserve a place in Formula One, despite relishing in Scuderia Toro Rosso's maiden victory in Italy.

Stoddart sold Minardi to Red Bull in 2005 and says he loved seeing Toro Rosso take their well-deserved triumph at Monza.

However, with controversy about the use of customer cars in F1, Stoddart remains unsure if they are ultimately good for the sport.

When asked if it was better for F1 to have successful customer cars teams or an old Minardi-type constructor at the back of the grid, Stoddart told autosport.com: "I am torn on that question.

"The one thing that made me proud of Minardi was when we operated with a 10th or a 20th of our competitors' budgets and every now and again scored a few points when we punched above our weight.

"Toro Rosso have a world championship designer designing the cars, the resources of Red Bull, and one of the two top engines in competition this year and they made it all work, irrespective of what chassis is there. But part of me says is it fair?

"Is it fair for someone to spend 25 million compared to others spending half a billion, and be able to go out and win races? You can argue there is righteousness in both arguments and I am not taking anything away from the victory, but I do think F1 should be constructors only."

Stoddart admitted he also took some personal satisfaction from having kept Minardi alive during their difficult final years - and choosing not to sell it to the highest bidder.

"You cannot take away what Red Bull have done and what Gerhard (Berger) has done," explained Stoddart.

"There has been an improvement in the budget. It was a justification for turning down offers to sell the team to people who were going to shut it. I could have taken more money from people who would have closed it down, but I didn't."

And Stoddart is not ruling out further strong performances from Toro Rosso over the remainder of the season.

"He is certainly one of the people who has to be credited with the turnaround. You get times like this in F1, go back to Jordan in 1999 when the Mugen-Honda engine hit the sweet spot and the team could punch above their weight, it can happen.

"I believe in what they said, they have improved steadily. These are not gifted results, they have been earned results. And just look at the next four races. We have a complete unknown in Singapore, high potential for rain in China, Japan and Brazil, and they could end up anywhere.

"At the moment the car is performing to the max, it is down to a sweet spot of balance and being driven by two good drivers. Let's wish them all the best of luck."

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Q and A with Paul Stoddart

Theissen says no rift with Kubica

BMW motorsport director Mario Theissen has played down talk of a team rift with Robert Kubica - but admits the team and driver do share concerns about the progress they have made this year.

Kubica voiced worries in Monza last weekend about the way he felt the team were not pushing for the world championship as much as he believed they should. He said he felt at times he was the only one in the team who still believed they could win the title.

His comments prompted reports over the Italian Grand Prix that his relationship with the team had broken down completely, and there were even wild claims he could face sanctioning by the team for his remarks.

But Theissen has said that the situation is nowhere near as bad as had been reported, and any friction between the team and Kubica are purely the result of the Pole's competitive instincts.

And, after holding two clear-the-air sessions with Kubica at Monza to go through any differences they had, Theissen thinks both Kubica and the team are agreed in what areas they must improve.

"We sat down twice over the Monza weekend and spent quite some time together," Theissen told autosport.com about the team's relationship with Kubica. "They (the reports of a rift) have been totally exaggerated.

"Robert was disappointed after the Spa race and he made some comments which were then turned into much harsher press statements. Then, after that, I was asked about the situation in Monza, and my comments were turned into harsh statements as well.

"I was asked in a Friday (press) briefing if the driver could be given a penalty for comments like this, and my answer was: 'I don't talk about contractual content'. The journalist then wrote that Theissen does not rule out a penalty!

"It just tells you that this is made out of almost nothing. There is certainly an issue we have to discuss, and it is about performance of the car. We have not developed as strongly as we expected. We have discussed this several times and I am sure we will keep up the discussions with Robert."

When asked if he felt the fact Kubica was so hard on the team was simply the result of his characteristic of being so tough on himself, Theissen said: "He has a competitive desire, but we have as well."

Kubica's third place finish in Monza has lifted him back into championship contention, and Theissen has promised the Pole that his team will do all they can to keep those title ambitions alive.

"The entire season has been up and down, and what we saw at Monza was amazing. So anything can happen and we will certainly push. If there is a chance we will take it."

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Q and A with Paul Stoddart

When Sebastian Vettel took a surprise victory for Scuderia Toro Rosso at the Italian Grand Prix, few men were happier than former Minardi boss Paul Stoddart.

The Australian, who sold the team to Red Bull at the end of 2005, still has close emotional ties to the outfit - and was delighted to see them achieve something many thought was impossible.

Autosport.com caught up with Stoddart for his views on the race, Vettel and the future of customer cars in Formula One.

Q. Did you watch the Italian Grand Prix?

Paul Stoddart: "I certainly did, I saw it twice. I watched it live and I also watched the highlights."

Q. What were your emotions as it all unfolded?

PS: "I was just really, really happy for all the guys. One of the prime things when I sold the team in 2005 was who would keep it in Faenza and keep the majority of the staff. Seeing it all come together was fantastic.

"It was not as though it was a gifted win, he went out there and won that race. It was a good day in F1."

Q. Could you ever have imagined Toro Rosso winning this season when we spoke at the team launch in Melbourne?

PS: "Not really. But never take away the impact of an Adrian Newey car. The only two engines that have shone this year are Ferrari and Mercedes-Benz, so put those two things together with a very, very talented guy, and you can see what happened.

"Then give it a chance at, of all the places, at Monza. If you were writing the script you could not have done it better. I was just pleased for Giancarlo (Minardi), I was one of the first people to text him and Massimo (team manager). It was a day for them. Red Bull/Toro Rosso will go on to bigger and better things."

Q. Do you take some personal satisfaction from having kept the team alive?

PS: "You cannot take away what Red Bull have done and what Gerhard (Berger) has done. There has been an improvement in the budget. It was a justification for turning down offers to sell the team to people who were going to shut it. I could have taken more money from people who would have closed it down, but I didn't."

Q. Giorgio Ascanelli talks about the belief the team have got now. Can you see that?

PS: "He is certainly one of the people who has to be credited with the turnaround. You get times like this in F1, go back to Jordan in 1999 when the Mugen-Honda engine hit the sweet spot and the team could punch above their weight, it can happen.

"I believe in what they said, they have improved steadily. These are not gifted results, they have been earned results. And just look at the next four races. We have a complete unknown in Singapore, high potential for rain in China, Japan and Brazil, and they could end up anywhere.

"At the moment the car is performing to the max, it is down to a sweet spot of balance and being driven by two good drivers. Let's wish them all the best of luck."

Q. What can you see the team doing in future?

PS: "First of all you have to got to sort the customer car issue out, this is not going to make it easier for the likes of customer cars and not make it easy for certain other teams wanting to give them stuff. It is an issue that needs sorting out.

"Technically now, with Honda closing Super Aguri, you have really only got Toro Rosso and a decision has to be made about customer cars. My view of if it will be extended for a bit longer, but don't be too surprised to see them change the rules. If they have to funds the build their own car, that could be the difference between a successful future and a troubled one."

Q. Is it better for F1 to have successful customer cars than an old Minardi at the back of the grid?

PS: "I am torn on that question. The one thing that made me proud of Minardi was when we operated with a 10th or a 20th of our competitors' budgets and every now and again scored a few points when we punched above our weight.

"Toro Rosso have a world championship designer designing the cars, the resources of Red Bull, and one of the two top engines in competition this year and they made it all work, irrespective of what chassis is there, but part of me says is it fair?

"Is it fair for someone to spend 25 million compared to others spending half a billion, and be able to go out and win races? You can argue there is righteousness in both arguments and I am not taking anything away from the victory, but I do think F1 should be constructors only."

Q. And what do you make of Vettel?

PS: "It was a tremendous performance, but it was not just this one. It has been coming for a long time. We all saw him pouring his heart out and he has been popping up in difficult conditions. He will go on to tremendous performances.

"There are youngsters there in F1 who are babies and I don't mean to be rude to them. You talk about Hamilton, Kubica and Vettel, they are young, young guys who have a long future ahead of them.

"Vettel is world championship material. He had a car yesterday capable of showing what he could do, and he did it."

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Singapore preview quotes: Bridgestone

Hirohide Hamashima - Bridgestone Director of Motorsport Tyre Development: "The layout looks challenging and we have not seen any races on the circuit so teams will be relying solely on their simulations before cars take to the track.

"As with any street course, we expect finding grip to be the focus for many and the grip level to change over the weekend. The circuit layout looks interesting and this will be a very exciting, unique race track.

"We have looked at many different aspects regarding a race taking place at night and we have no specific concerns. Bridgestone have good experience in endurance motor races which run at night so this has been useful.

"The temperatures will be cooler than during the day and there will be no heat generated from the sun's radiation, but we predict an ambient and track temperature of around 27 degrees Celsius, which is warmer than some tracks we visit during the day. Ultimately, the way the tyre works at night will be the same as it works during the day."

McLaren happy with Kovalainen's second

McLaren F1 CEO Martin Whitmarsh says Heikki Kovalainen has no reason to be disappointed with his performance in last weekend's Italian Grand Prix.

He qualified alongside Sebastian Vettel on the front row of the grid at Monza, but was unable to challenge the Scuderia Toro Rosso driver at any point during the race and had to settle for second place.

Kovalainen looked disheartened on the podium but Whitmarsh defended the Finn's pace and claimed the team were not unhappy with the result.

"Heikki has no reason to feel disappointed," he said. "The reality is that he didn't put a foot wrong all weekend and he looked blindingly fast in dry, damp, and full-wet conditions. Fuel-corrected he would have been on pole position comfortably.

"He struggled a little with visibility in the early stages of the race and had a few difficulties with his tyres and brake temperatures, but we are not disappointed with his result. I think we recovered very well from Saturday, very consciously played the numbers correctly on Sunday, and secured a sizeable haul of constructors' points.

"Let's not forget that Heikki is fearsomely quick, but is still very much developing his approach. We have a clearly defined programme for him in the weeks and months ahead and feel certain that he will only grow stronger."

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McLaren deny FIA picking on them

Tost calls for customer cars rethink

Formula One should reconsider the decision to ban customer cars from the sport in 2010 in a bid to help make the sport more economically viable.

That is the view of Scuderia Toro Rosso team principal Franz Tost, who believes that the way Red Bull have managed to successfully run two teams shows how costs can easily be driven down in the sport.

He sees there being little benefit from forcing small teams like his to become constructors, because of the unnecessary financial outlay needed to produce a car.

"There are six manufacturer teams and 12 places, so I think there should be six manufacturer teams and six private teams, and each private team should work together with a manufacturer," said Tost, whose team will have to become constructors from 2010 unless F1's regulations change.

"The philosophy with Red Bull was always to have one engineering centre providing the two teams with the car. We have halved the costs, because our budget is a quarter of that of other teams and we are able to win.

"That means that what we have done so far from the efficiency and economic point of view is the right way to go. But the regulations are something different and therefore we have to change."

Tost believes in the current financial climate it is crazy to force teams to build their own cars, when manufacturers could so easily have the option to run their own works outfit and a customer partner.

"Look at what happens today in the economy," he said. "The great car manufacturers work together. Why do they work together? They do not want to spend so much money on development and research, which is exactly right because in the end the result nearly is the same.

"We are searching for a wind tunnel. I can tell you now with 150 people working in a wind tunnel, we will not bring a revolutionary car onto the starting grid because it is not possible from the regulation or the physics. All the cars look nearly the same.

"Colour them white and I will make a bet with you that there are not five people who can tell you which car belongs to which team. But regulations are regulations and we are pushing in this direction."

Toro Rosso are due to increase their staff numbers by 80 in the near future as they ramp up their preparations to become a constructor, as a lot of work is put in to finding suitable wind tunnel facilities.

"We are in negotiations with several wind tunnels and it's a tremendous job," said Tost. "I'm not convinced this is the correct way to go in Formula One."

In the shorter term, and despite Sebastian Vettel's shock victory in the Italian Grand Prix, Tost says he will be happy to finish the season with just a few more points-scoring finishes.

"We will move forward but we must keep our feet on the ground," he said. "If we score points in the last four races then I am quite happy. I don't think that we will be in the position to win another race this year because Ferrari, McLaren and BMW are still ahead of us. Not just a little ahead, but far ahead."

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