The BMW Sauber F1 Team is currently working flat-out on the development of its 2009 challenger amid many important changes brought to the regulations.

Although drivers Nick Heidfeld and Robert Kubica have already covered the first test kilometres, BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen is of the opinion that it's far too early for any prognoses regarding the coming season.

In particular, the new regulations make for numerous unknowns. Consequently, Theissen thinks that it is not yet possible to predict which teams will be involved in the battle for the title.

"Due to the new regulations there's going to be reshuffle," says Theissen. "Therefore, we could witness numerous surprises next year."

Amongst other major changes, the reduction of aerodynamic elements and the return of slick tyres had an obvious effect on every car's design, thereby opening the door to a shake-up of the usual order.

"I just can hope that we will be able to continue on our path without being affected by this development," he added, underlining the effect he believes the 2009 regulations will have.
For Robert Kubica, fourth in the 2008 Formula One Drivers' Championship, the changes have not affected his confidence regarding next year's on-track action. In fact, the course he has set for the coming season is clear: he intends to fight for the title.

"We have done so in 2008," says the Pole, "and I hope that we will be able to secure an even better result next year. Everything is possible and I will give my very best."

"I think that we have what it takes to realise our goal," he stated. "You need a good package, good performance and good results - and then we will just have to wait and see what happens."

D.B. © CAPSIS International

 

The more I look at it, the more I like the new BMW-Sauber car. Best of luck to Kubica this year. I'd love to see him get more podiums.

 

it's just nuts how much aerodynamic addenda has been removed by the new set of regulations. whichever team can adapt the quickest will really have an edge.

 

so true that's the way it is whenever there are changes in regulations the quickest to conform are usually the most successful