21 May 2012

Paul Di Resta gets set for a busy week in Monaco. 

Paul, tell us what Monaco means to you…
The Monaco Grand Prix is probably the highlight of the year and the race that every driver wants to win. It’s always a really busy weekend: the grandstands are packed, the yachts are in the harbour and everybody is looking for the best view. When the weather is nice it really helps make for an electric atmosphere.

Along with Silverstone it’s another home race for you. Does it feel extra special?
It’s where I live now and it’s interesting to see how much busier Monaco gets when the race comes to town. It’s really nice to go home each night, sleep in your own bed and enjoy your own space. Also, I will have a lot of family and friends around me who come down to watch the race. 

Let’s talk about the lap and which parts stand out for you…
It’s a circuit that’s all about confidence and commitment, and you need to build up your speed through the weekend to extract the maximum laptime. There are some great corners, such as Casino Square where you arrive at 185 mph and brake as you turn into a blind corner. Then there’s the slowest corner of the year, the hairpin, taken in first gear using maximum steering lock. For the end of the lap through the swimming pool you really feel the downforce and you need a car that can ride the bumps and kerbs. It’s a real challenge for drivers and engineers to get the perfect car.

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