The aerodynamics circuit par excellence - Klien

Despite being just 23-years-old, Christian Klien, one of the official BMW Sauber F1 Team's test drivers, is an experienced racer. After all, he has contested 46 Formula One races, to date. Therefore, the Austrian knows the key factors for a successful race at the "Circuit de Catalunya".

Christian regards the venue of the Spanish GP as "The aerodynamics circuit par excellence." Good wind-tunnel work is crucial here, he reveals. "Should our car work well here, I will see a lot of happy faces this Sunday in the BMW Sauber F1 Team garages", says the Austrian. "For then, my team-mates, Nick Heidfeld and Robert Kubica, should have what it takes to battle it out at the front end of the field in the remaining 14 rounds of the season. "

In the race, held at the 4.655-kilometre circuit located close to Spain's metropolis Barcelona, the BMW Sauber F1.08 will have to cope with numerous aerodynamic challenges. High-speed bends and medium-fast corners alternate, resulting in an enormous strain on the tyres. Furthermore, the lap features the long pit-straight. Consequently, even perfect downforce in the corners won't be enough to shine in Spain - a good top speed is also vital. "If you are ten or more kilometres too slow at Barcelona, rain is the only thing that might help you," adds Klien.

Still, the numerous corners and the pit-straight aren't the only factors the BMW Sauber F1 Team engineers have to take into account. Christian explains an aerodynamic phenomenon which occurs only at Barcelona. "Several years ago, an extremely high grandstand was erected next to the pit-straight. What nobody would have believed is that the 'tunnel' that was created has an incredible impact on the car's aerodynamics. Due to the changed pressure ratios one car had its rear wing ripped off at top speed."