Hungarian Grand Prix – Racing Point’s Otmar Szafnauer says the team believe they have plenty of performance to find from their recent updates.
Racing Point brought a raft of significant aerodynamic updates to their RP19 for last weekend’s German Grand Prix, the first of several updates expected over the coming races as the team make use of their increased funding under new ownership in 2019.
After a steady start to 2019, and three pointless races prior to Hockenheim, Racing point returned to Q3 at Hockenheim with Sergio Perez before Lance Stroll made canny use of an aggressive tyre strategy to be a late podium contender. Stroll eventually finished in P4.
Ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, an idiosyncratic circuit more similar to Monaco than the medium speed circuits that make up the majority of the European calendar, team boss Otmar Szafnauer explained that there’s a lot of potential still to be unlocked: “Hungary will be another important test for our updated car and we have some more mechanical items to evaluate this weekend. Our performance in Germany shows we are moving in the right direction and I believe there are plenty more gains to be found with this new aero philosophy.”
“Reflecting on Germany, it was a case of highs and lows. Wet races can be a lottery, but it was a relief to end the day with some points in our pocket. We need to get back into the habit of regular points scoring. Historically we don’t have the best track record at the Hungaroring, but we will give it everything to try and come away with some points.”
Lance Stroll, following his P4 finish, said: “I think we made some progress with the car last week. The new parts have helped and we need to build on all that work this week.”
Continuing, the Racing Point driver said: “To be competitive in Hungary, you need lots of downforce and a set-up that is not too demanding on the tyres. There are lots of traction zones that put big energy through the tyres and the high track temperatures also make life difficult.
“The lap is tight and twisty, and there’s no real chance to catch your breath, so you really have to keep your concentration. It’s good fun, though, and very satisfying behind the wheel through the quicker corners, such as four and eleven. When the car is hooked up, you can really enjoy the flow of the circuit and find a nice rhythm.”
