Dubai: The Mercedes AMG Petronas team is eyeing a positive conclusion to the season as they brace for the 18th round of the 2012 Formula 1 World Championship in Abu Dhabi this weekend.
Held at the 5.55-kilometre Yas Marina Circuit, the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is the only twilight race and Mercedes drivers Michael Schumacher — who is retiring at the end of the season — and Nico Rosberg cannot wait to rectify the mistakes committed during last week’s Indian Grand Prix.
At the Buddh International Circuit, both Schumacher and Rosberg finished outside the points. After starting 14th on the grid, Schumacher had problems with his gearbox to end in 22nd, while Rosberg could only manage a disappointing 11th.
“Abu Dhabi is one of the races I look forward to as the facilities there are state-of-the-art, very modern and very attractive,” said seven-time world champion Schumacher. ”And the timing of the race makes it even more appealing, making it something quite special and uniquely fun to race from day into night.
“I hope that what we learned about our car last weekend can be translated into something positive in Abu Dhabi.”
Rosberg believes Abu Dhabi could be a crucial race for the long-term plans of the Mercedes team. “The Abu Dhabi race is one of the highlights on the calendar and every year it seems to become better and better. I really enjoy driving the track, particularly with the unusual twilight conditions, and the setting around Yas Marina is very special,” the German-born driver said.
“On the track, tyre work will again be crucial this weekend. We are working hard on it and our goals will be to score some points and to learn for next year.”
Mercedes team principal Ross Brawn has been a firm backer in the Yas Marina Circuit, particularly as the Abu Dhabi-based Aabar are one of their partners. “The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has very quickly established itself as one of the most spectacular races on the calendar, and the Yas Marina Circuit is certainly one of the most impressive of the new Formula One venues,” Brawn said.
“Our team has had a challenging time during the season-ending flyaway races so far. However, we are continuing to work hard on improving our performance, while also taking the opportunity to look at developments which will be relevant next season. We would like to end the season on a positive note and hope to have a stronger result this weekend.”
