I'm well rested and motivated

Nelson Piquet Jr.

After a three-week summer break, the ING Renault F1 Team prepares for round twelve of the 2008 Formula 1 World Championship: the European Grand Prix in Valencia. The race will take place on the all-new street circuit in the Spanish city.

Nelson, you had a solid race in Hungary, building on your result in Germany. Is this the breakthrough you have been waiting for?
"I don't know, but I'm certainly happy to have scored points in Hungary. It was important for the team and for me and overall it was a very positive weekend. The car worked well, I did a lot of laps during free practice on Friday and Saturday morning and I was on the pace all weekend and felt comfortable. It's always nice to have that sort of weekend and I hope to continue like this for the rest of the season."

You are preparing to contest the first European Grand Prix held in Valencia: a new circuit for all the drivers. How are you approaching this race?
"This season I have already learned several new circuits, but the difference this time is that all the drivers will be in the same position and having to learn the circuit. I think that from the point of view of the championship it's interesting to visit new tracks: it's an extra challenge for the drivers as well as the teams. I have worked hard with the team to approach this race in the best shape possible and I will try to get on the pace quickly and maximize every lap in practice."

What do you think of the track?
"It's a street circuit so it will be quite tricky, but also very interesting. It's never easy to learn a new circuit, but, as I have said, this time all the teams and drivers will be in the same position. It will be interesting to see who can get comfortable fastest."

What are your expectations for this new race?
"I would like to have another solid weekend, starting off with a good day of practice on Friday, qualifying in the top 10 and showing good race pace to hopefully finish in the points. That's how I will approach this race. After the summer break, I am well rested and motivated to have a great end to the season."