Planet-F1

Bridgestone preview the Malaysian GP

Tuesday 18th March 2008

Bridgestone admit they are facing a few challenges at the Sepang circuit which is quite severe on tyres.

Hirohide Hamashima - Director of Bridgestone Motorsport Tyre Development: "We look forward to the second race of the season in Malaysia. The Sepang circuit is one that has offered us many challenges over the years and it will be interesting to experience the new track surface.

"Sepang is quite severe on tyres as we have two long straights leading into low speed corners, meaning heavy braking. With no traction control or engine braking control this season drivers will have to be very careful not to lock their brakes and damage the tyres.

"The heat is a major reason why we bring the two hardest compounds from our range. Mechanical tyre grip is relied upon here as teams use low levels of downforce, and this puts the focus even more on the tyres. Also, we have seen rain many times at this track so we could see our wet and extreme wet tyres in use."