Softer tyre compounds for Melbourne

In Bahrain and Malaysia, the BMW Sauber F1 Team faced extreme conditions. Heat and high humidity were demanding for the drivers and cars. Regarding autumnal Melbourne, the main focus lies on different challenges which also affect the tyres.

Nick Shorrock Formula One Director of the BMW Sauber F1 Team's tyre partner Michelin says: "After our successes in the heat of Bahrain and the intense humidity of Malaysia, we anticipated very different circumstances at Albert Park."

Due to the re-scheduling of the race, the BMW Sauber F1 Team expects cooler conditions during the 22nd Australian Grand Prix. The track in the second biggest city of the country offers several full-speed sections, followed by mostly chicane-like corners.

"The Melbourne race is slightly later in the year than usual. It will be autumn in Australia and track temperatures should be the coolest we have come across so far this season," adds Shorrock. "Together with our partners we have, as usual, worked hard to develop suitable products - we will be using slightly softer compounds than we did for the previous two races, in order to generate optimum temperatures and minimise the risk of graining at a track that subjects tyres to significant lateral loads."