MAY 25, 2010

Williams Compromised By Monaco Damage

Williams will head to this weekend's Turkish Grand Prix with a compromise set-up after suffering heavy damage to the race chassis of both Rubens Barrichello and Nico Hulkenberg during the Monaco GP.

Barrichello's car was damaged by the loose manhole cover which prompted the third Safety Car during the Monte Carlo race and Hulkenberg crashed at high speed in the Tunnel on the opening lap. Technical director Sam Michael explained: "We've spent the past week manufacturing new parts in readiness for Istanbul after the damage we sustained. All of the items that needed replacing have been replaced now, apart from the front wings which require more time. As a result, we have to revert back to a previous specification for Turkey and wait until Montreal for the updated version."

The team has also experienced some performance degradation from its engines as they reach their mileage limits, and Michael added: "Cosworth have been working hard on the issues we have been seeing during the first part of the season and have had some positive indications from their dyno work. Istanbul will be an opportunity to test how these solutions look on the track. In line with our development programme, both FW32s will also have new brake ducts for Istanbul and some additional mechanical changes."

Barrichello, who has impressed the team with his approach, said: "Returning from Monaco with a DNF for both cars was very disappointing, particularly as we now know the cause of my accident. I know everyone has been working hard in the factory, so we are all looking to have a much better race in Turkey. Istanbul is a favourite track of mine. It has a good layout; the corners all flow nicely into each other and that makes it a smooth lap to drive. Because the circuit runs anti-clockwise, the left-handers can be quite a challenge on your neck muscles but we all do extra training to compensate for that. The high speed, triple apex Turn 8 is the best part of the track, a real test, and I'm looking forward to it."

Team mate Hulkenberg echoed Barrichello's sentiments and, with prior experience of the circuit from GP2, is also targeting a strong performance.