There is a very special atmosphere at the Nurburgring

Next weekend, the Grand Prix of Europe takes place on the Nürburgring. BMW Motorsport Director, Mario Theissen, speaks about the race in the Eifel and the prospects of the BMW Sauber F1 Team and its drivers.

The Nürburgring hosts a Formula One race for the 36th time this weekend and BMW Sauber F1 Team driver Nick Heidfeld holds fond memories of the 5,148 kilometre long track. In 2005, he recorded his first ever pole position here and finished the race in second place. This is, however, not the only reason why the BMW Sauber F1 Team is glad to return to the Nürburgring. "I am looking forward to the race," BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen says. "It is one of our two home races. It's always nice to come here and it is always an exciting time. There is a very special atmosphere at the Nürburgring race."

Following the Grand Prix of San Marino, where both BMW Sauber Team drivers unfortunately failed to finish in the point standings, Theissen is optimistic that the team can achieve a better result at the home GP. He explains: "I think we have reason to be confident because the car does provide the necessary basic performance. As long as we are able to utilise this potential, we have a good chance of collecting points at the Nürburgring."

This year, the Grand Prix of Europe is being held for the 10th time. The new Nürburgring was re-opened on 12th May 1984, following the terrible accident of Niki Lauda in 1976, which ultimately put an end to the Formula One history of the legendary Nordschleife.