Hulkenberg and Perez positive for Malaysian Grand Prix

Melbourne – The second round of the 2013 FIA Formula One World Championship takes place in Malaysia next weekend from 22nd to 24th of March.

Nico Hulkenberg, Sauber

Photo by: XPB Images

After the Sauber F1 Team's driver Nico Hülkenberg was not able to start the race in Melbourne due to a problem with the fuel system, he and Esteban Gutiérrez now have the chance to aim for a positive result in Sepang.

Hülkenberg's Sauber C32 was sent back to Hinwil and will be examined thoroughly. He will start with a new chassis in Malaysia.

Nico Hülkenberg (car number 11): "Compared to Melbourne, the track in Malaysia has different characteristics. It’s a fast track with long high-speed corners, which should suit our car well.

For the drivers Malaysia is always a challenge because of the high temperatures and the humidity. Lastly there is always a chance of rain, which can be interesting, especially at the start of the race.“

Esteban Gutiérrez (car number 12): "With the experience of an entire race here in Melbourne, I can now look at where I can improve as a driver and where we can improve as a team.

Sepang is a good track, which I know from GP2. Now I’m looking forward to driving the track in a Formula One car. “

Tom McCullough, Head of Track Engineering: “The Sepang circuit is a medium to high speed one, and we look forward to seeing how the C32 performs there.

The circuit is technically challenging as there are also two long straights that require an efficient car and also several low speed corners.

The circuit's characteristics and typically high temperatures are also a real challenge for the tyres, which is why Pirelli will bring the medium and hard compounds.

The weather can also play a significant part during the race weekend as late afternoon rain showers are common. Our target for the race is to finish with both cars in the points.”

Sauber F1 Team