01 Oct 2012

Paul Di Resta talks about his best finish in Formula One and hopes to build on the momentum in Japan.

Paul, you said your result in Singapore was your best day in Formula One – does it give you extra confidence for the rest of the year?
When we qualified sixth we knew it was going to be tough to even maintain that in the race, but things worked out very well and I was able to challenge Fernando for a podium in the final stint. I think we learned a lot in Singapore about how to get the most from the car and the aim now is to try and repeat the form we showed towards the end of the race. If we can do that, the momentum will carry on.

You raced at Suzuka for the first time last year – what did you think of the track?
It’s a track that’s all about aero so it’s a real test of your car. I also found it very technical with corners like the ‘S' curves where you need a good change of direction. Finding the sweet spot isn’t easy because half the track is made up of straights so you need efficiency as well as downforce for the high-speed corners. Tyre degradation is also high so a neutral car is what you need during the race.

Do you enjoy visiting Japan?
The thing that surprised me last year was the commitment and enthusiasm of the fans. Even on Thursday the grandstands were busy. So that makes it a special race and the fact that it’s a track with a lot of history. I also enjoy Japanese food, although the challenge is making sure you order the right thing!

• Previous
• Next