Gastaldi: Lotus has big expectations for Monaco

Deputy Team Principal Federico Gastaldi shares with us his thoughts on the team’s performance and looks forward to the most prestigious race in the calendar.

What does Monaco mean for the team?

The Monaco Grand Prix is the real highlight of the calendar. First of all, the street circuit that is Monaco presents a very big challenge for the drivers because of the configuration and the pure nature of the track – it is narrow with next to no run-off areas and then there are all the barriers! Preparations for the race start a day earlier than normal as the first two Free Practice sessions are on the Thursday. Monte Carlo is also a very social event and our agendas are certainly not short of commitments throughout the week. From a business point of view it is also the place where we hold discussions with new prospects and where we have the opportunity to spend time with our existing partners. We are also planning a number of exciting announcements in the run up to the race so watch this space.

Do you enjoy the special atmosphere of the Principality?

For sure I do enjoy the atmosphere of Monaco a lot. It’s a different model of race weekend than anywhere else mixing motorsport at the highest level with the most incredible social scene. We are very close to the fans which I think is just fantastic. They get access to the track itself shortly after the running and they can really live Formula One at the very heart of it. I feel very privileged to be part of this event.

How do you stop team-mates from driving into each other?

Of course these things can happen and it is part of racing, even if it’s not ideal. Drivers always want to be on the front and at the end they are competing. They take risks and sometimes we see situations like the one we saw in Barcelona occur.

What are the challenges at this time of the season?

We need to keep improving the level performance. We are much more competitive than last year – of course we have the new engine but it is also due to the aerodynamic and mechanical improvements made in 2015. The car’s performance is very solid and we have big expectations for Monaco and indeed for the next upcoming races. Enstone keeps doing a great job and I’d like to thank everyone for the big efforts they are making. Our people are our best asset and we have two good experienced drivers. Let’s continue to score points and gain places in the field.

The team scored points these last three races, what are your hopes for Monte Carlo?

Again, the level of competitiveness of the E23 is there. We need to have a little bit of luck and have a clear weekend. We have every chance of being able to score points with both cars in Monte Carlo.

Did the team make good progress at the test?

Yes it did. Pastor was testing a number of parts and working on preparations for next Grands Prix. He has shown a great deal of confidence around a circuit that he knows well. His feedback was very constructive for the team. Jolyon, who drove on the second day of testing, did a great job and it was a nice surprise for the team to see him do so well and complete a solid day’s work. The team now looks forward in implementing findings of testing in Monaco.

What advice would you give the drivers ahead of the race on the streets of the Principality?

I would say to them to be careful in the first corner at the race start!