Theissen delighted with 'brilliant yield'

Two runner-up finishes, 19 points and an impressive pace: the BMW Sauber F1 Team has made a great start to the 2008 Formula One season. An opinion that is shared by BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen:

"This was another great performance by our BMW Sauber F1 Team. Robert succeeded in establishing himself behind the two Ferraris right from the start. He drove a truly impressive race and by finishing runner-up he not only secured his second podium finish but also the best result of his Formula One career to date. I'm particularly happy for him as he had a lot of bad luck in the season opener in Australia.

"While Robert was able to gain one position at the start, Nick unfortunately dropped back by several places. However, he succeeded in battling his way back up to sixth place - also thanks to a fine overtaking manoeuvre when he passed two cars at the same time - I regard his race as a success also.

"Now the first two rounds of the 2008 Formula One season are history. In both Melbourne and Sepang, spectators witnessed interesting and spectacular motor racing. Therefore, one thing is guaranteed: Formula One enthusiasts can look forward to a thrilling season at the pinnacle of motor racing.

"Obviously, our conclusion, following the overseas back-to-back races, is a very positive one: Robert on the first row of the Australian GP grid, two runner-up finishes, secured by Nick and Robert and eleven points scored at Sepang, Nick's fastest race lap and second position in the Constructors' Championship with 19 points under our belt - that's clearly more than we had expected prior to the season kick-off. It's a brilliant yield and a strong basis for the coming races.

"Since the roll-out at Valencia in mid-January, we have improved consistently. We refused to be misled, kept on working in a structured way and got the appropriate package of measures off the ground. Successfully.

"Nevertheless, you shouldn't draw any premature conclusions. We still have to work to get on a par with the two top teams. But the way we have opted for is the right one. Furthermore, we have not yet tapped our car's full potential. Therefore, I'm confident that we will be able to achieve the goal we've set ourselves for the 2008 season: to close the gap to the top teams and to secure our maiden Grand Prix win. Everybody is working hard to help us realise this goal, at the racetrack, during testing, as well as in Munich and Hinwil."