Ferrari expecting more in Canada 05 Jun 2007
After a disappointing Monaco Grand Prix, Ferrari are looking forward to a return to form at this weekend’s Canadian race. The Italian team are certain that their heavy defeat in Monte Carlo was more down to luck than lack of pace, and are optimistic that in Montreal they will reduce McLaren’s 20-point lead in the championship.
“We believe we will have a strong package for this event,” Ferrari’s sporting director, Stefano Domenicali, told the team's official website. “There is no reason why we should not be able to fight for the win in Montreal after a weekend in Monaco where our performance did not accurately reflect our potential.”
Felipe Massa crossed the line in Monaco over a minute behind the McLarens of Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton, while Kimi Raikkonen’s weekend was scotched by a costly accident during qualifying. Relegated to 16th on the grid, the Finn spent his race fighting through traffic and scored just one point.
To make doubly sure of an improved showing in Canada, Ferrari have introduced a series of revisions to the F2007 to suit Montreal’s distinct requirements. New front and rear wings, which were evaluated during May’s test in Paul Ricard, will be used, alongside a variety of other, less noticeable, aerodynamic modifications. With the Canadian circuit notoriously tough on brakes, the team have also worked hard to improve the car’s brake system and cooling ducts.
One thing not in Ferrari’s favour, however, is the fact that both Raikkonen’s and Massa’s cars will be fitted with the same engines they ran in Monaco. The Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve, with its long straights and quick corners, is a demanding track and Ferrari will be hoping the less strenuous Monaco race will have saved both V8s from being too overworked.
At last year’s Canadian Grand Prix, Massa finished fifth, three places behind team mate Michael Schumacher, who had been held off to the flag by a triumphant Fernando Alonso.
