2008 TURKISH GRAND PRIX PREVIEW
The Turkish Grand Prix at the Istanbul Speed Park marks the next stop on the 2008 Formula 1 calendar.
The race was introduced to the sport in 2005 with the event taking place at the Istanbul Speed Park in the Tepeören - Tuzla area near Istanbul, on the Asian side of the Bosporus river.
Following his accident at the Spanish Grand Prix, Heikki Kovalainen will be required to pass the mandatory FIA fitness checks, which are required after any concussion, before participating in the race. These will take place at the Istanbul circuit on Thursday 8th May.
LEWIS HAMILTON
Following a solid result in Spain, what are your thoughts ahead of the Turkish race?
"Qualifying was surprising close in Spain, both at the front of the grid and in the midfield. Whilst there are clear chances to overtake at the Istanbul Speed Park, it is going to be vital to qualify well. The balance of the car felt good in Spain, and this is really key at Turkey because of the high speed corners. You need to have a stable balance to be quick through them, such as turn three. You also need a very stable car through turn eight, to ensure you conserve your Bridgestone Potenzas and that you are able to carry speed through there. This section of the track is key as you can gain a lot of time."
HEIKKI KOVALAINEN
It is a few days since we last caught up with you, how are you feeling now?
"I am feeling good, the stiffness in my neck has pretty much gone and I have been back training. I left Spain on Thursday and went back to Finland, where I have spent some time working with the team doctor at our facility there on ensuring I am fit for the race. Initially during the week we were doing some light training before starting on my full programme just before the weekend. Lewis will also be here over the weekend doing his training before the race. Next stage for me is the fitness test at the track in Turkey on Thursday with the FIA. I can’t wait to get back into the car and race with the team next weekend, but at the end of the day that decision is out of my hands, the FIA will make it based on safety grounds only."
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