Not worried about driving at night - Piquet jr.

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The ING Renault F1 Team prepares for round fifteen of the 2008 Formula 1 World Championship: the Singapore Grand Prix. Rookie Nelson Piquet Junior is eager to see what Singapore is like in race configuration and of course to see what's it like to race in the dark.

Nelson, you had a great fight through the pack in Monza, but finished outside the points. What do you take from this race, which was difficult for all the drivers?

"I made good progress in the race and I had good pace, especially considering the fuel load that I started the race with, and so I'm happy about that. But I finished outside the points, which is disappointing especially when the battle for fourth place in the constructors' championship is so close. Once again, my race was decided after qualifying and I'm determined to improve on that this weekend in Singapore."

It's a new circuit, and we will see the first ever night race. Are you worried about that or looking forward to the challenge?

"I'm definitely looking forward to it. I have had to learn lots of circuits this year so it's not something that worries me, and like Valencia the track in Singapore will be a new challenge for all the drivers and won't be such a disadvantage for a rookie. I'm not worried about driving at night as I know that the organisers have made great efforts to ensure the level of visibility will be as good as if we were racing in the day. So I'm really eager to see what it's like when we get there and see Singapore in race configuration."

Have you prepared for this race in a special way?

"I have done some planning with my physiotherapist to make sure that my body clock does not adjust to Singapore time. So I will have clearly defined hours of sleep, some techniques aimed at reducing the impact of daylight on my body, and a different meal regime with a large breakfast followed by several light meals. These are some of the things that I will be doing to be in the best shape possible."

What are your aims for this race?

"Considering that we haven't driven the track, it's difficult for me to say if it's a track that is likely to suit me. So to say what I can aim for is difficult. However, I certainly want to have a better qualifying session because I know this is essential for having a successful Grand Prix, especially on a street circuit."