Theissen about Bahrain GP

Following a long and intensive preparation for the 2006 season, the BMW Sauber F1 Team is now looking to secure a good result in next weekend's Bahrain Grand Prix. BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen talks about the challenge in the desert.

"Dear motorsport enthusiasts,
Since the starting shot was fired for the new BMW Sauber F1 Team, eight months have passed. In this short development time we have been working very efficiently. We have integrated the Munich and Hinwil sites, got the expansion project under way, signed up our drivers, found strong partners and sponsors, got an interim vehicle up and running and then the BMW Sauber F1.06.

After an intensive winter testing programme, our drivers have given the car the thumbs up. The engineers are also convinced that a major leap has been made compared to the previous year. We can say that things are looking good at this stage of development. What our achievements so far will look like on the race track we don't yet know. We aren't expecting any miracles to happen, we just want to make the most of our possibilities and advance step by step.

In terms of the technical regulations, the switch from V10 to V8 engines is the biggest change. Along with all the other engine manufacturers, that is going to keep us on our toes beyond the start of the season. In the first Grand Prix races in particular, reliability will play a crucial role.

From a commercial point of view, Formula One's move to the Middle East is a welcome one in particular for BMW as a premium manufacturer. In 2005, BMW recorded a growth in sales of around 25 percent in Bahrain. The whole team is looking forward to Bahrain and being able to take first stock.

Yours sincerely,
Mario Theissen"