Formula 1 is back this week, with the Japanese Grand Prix.
For the team at Haas, there is energy in the air following a “successful” Chinese Grand Prix.
Both Oliver Bearman and Esteban Ocon finished in the points in Shanghai, and as a result, Haas heads to Suzuka sitting sixth in the F1 Constructors’ Championship standings, just three points behind Williams, and Ferrari.
“After a very successful weekend in Shanghai, we’re energized to come to Japan,” said Team Principal Ayao Komatsu in the team’s media preview. “Suzuka is a very challenging circuit both for drivers and engineers to setup the car right. Even though we raced competitively in Shanghai, we know that we still carry a fundamental car issue that was exposed in Melbourne.
“We’re going into this weekend with our eyes wide open to tackle any challenges we might face and aim to get the best out of the VF-25 and our drivers.”
For the rookie Bearman, this weekend marks his first race at the historic Suzuka circuit. However, Bearman does have some experience driving at this track, having participated in a Super Formula testing session at the circuit before this week.
“I’m really excited to race in Japan. The track looks fantastic and our partnership with Toyota GAZOO Racing it’s going to be a great event for the whole team,” said Bearman. “I was lucky enough to drive the Super Formula car around 2/2 Suzuka, and that track comes alive. It was great experience and the fans were fantastic. To have all that support – at just a test – was amazing so I can’t wait to see everyone again. the track looks like a highlight, I’m really looking forward to this one.”
On the other side of the garage, Ocon has substantial experience at Suzuka, including a fourth-place finish in 2022 in a rain-shortened Japanese Grand Prix. The veteran driver is happy to make his return to Japan.
“Personally, I’m so happy to be back and race in Japan again this weekend. The fans here are incredible, always so passionate and knowledgeable about our sport. I’ve seen some very creative outfits over the years, and the people are always so kind with gifts and their support in general,” began Ocon.
“In terms of the track itself, and I say this often, Suzuka is for me the best circuit on the calendar. There’s so much to like about this circuit, particularly the first sector, which is incredibly fast and flowing. You have to be really committed and precise in your driving, in qualifying especially, and that’s what makes it extra special and rewarding when you put in a good lap.
“I also love the history and old-school feel of the track and, when you add such fantastic fans, it really makes it a highlight of our season to race in Japan,” added Ocon. “I’ve had some good results here in the past, such as P4 in 2022, and we hope to be able to be in the mix to fight for another strong result this weekend and start this triple-header in a positive way.”
