Sauber's Key doubts DRS effect to be big at Monza

Teams are not getting enough time to respond to the FIA's decisions about DRS, according to Sauber's James Key.

Sauber Technical Director James Key

Photo by: Nikki Reynolds

For the first time in 2011, there will be two independent DRS overtaking zones at Monza this weekend, each with a separate activation point.

"It's going to be a pretty major asset for a following car," predicted McLaren's Jenson Button.

But with top teams bringing special rear wings to Monza for the Italian venue's uniquely high speed layout, Key is not so sure the full potential of the DRS will be seen this weekend.

"They FIA always let us know about the DRS areas a week before the race," said the Swiss team Sauber's technical boss.

"It is very important in the development of the wing to know how often we will be able to use it. But the design (for Monza) was already set in July."

Auto Motor und Sport also quoted Key as revealing that Sauber expected there to be only one DRS zone at Monza.

"We don't know yet how effective the DRS will be," the Briton continued, referring to the fact that rear wings for Monza are already designed to severely reduce drag and produce less downforce.

"We think the effect (of DRS at Monza) will be half the normal amount," added Key.