Weather is crucial factor in Belgium - Kubica

The circuit at Spa-Francorchamps is not only known for its many fast turns. As BMW Sauber Formula One Team driver Robert Kubica is well aware, the weather also plays a major role in the Belgium Ardennes.

At over 7 kilometres, the "Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps" is the longest course on the race calendar. Despite this, the drivers of the BMW Sauber F1 Team will know every centimetre of the circuit when they hit the track for the first training session in Belgium on 5th September. However, the circuit can still throw up some surprises. "A crucial factor is the weather in Belgium," explains Kubica. "It can rain in one sector and by dry in another." For this reason it is important to be prepared for all eventualities.

Despite the challenges posed by the Belgian circuit, it is still one of the highlights of the year for Robert. "I am really looking forward to this race," says the 23-year-old. "From my point of view the race in Spa is one of the best Grands Prix on the calendar. It is a very unique track with high-speed corners you can approach with different racing lines. The most famous corners in Spa-Francorchamps are definitely Eau Rouge and the Bus Stop chicane, which was modified before last year's race."

"The circuit is very long and very tricky. You have to find the right balance and the right configuration of the car in order not to lose any lap time," says Robert, pointing out the key requirements for obtaining a good result in Spa.