Sauber finding the best set-up in Austin

November 16th, 2012 (F1plus Team).- Like most of the times, a good part of the first practice session was devoted to learn the circuit, check on the tires and bringing more grip to the track.

Sauber drivers were able to complete the programme they had set for both drivers, with Kamui Kobayashi obtaining better numbers than his teammate Sergio Perez.

The Japanese driver finished 8th and 9th in the two practice sessions, and the overall sensation is that more could have been achieved.

“The high speed corners of the new circuit are very enjoyable, I really like driving here.

"The first session was about getting familiar with the track and waiting for the tarmac to improve for a better grip level. In the beginning of the second session I did a 20-lap long run on hard tyres before we then had a break due to a broken exhaust. But the mechanics fixed the car quickly and I was able to go out on medium compound tyres as well.

"I must say I have big warm up problems with both compounds. It just doesn’t work in qualifying if you need ten laps to get the tyres to work. We will now go and look for solutions.“ Kobayashi said.

Sergio regards the race in Austin as his home Grand Prix. Tens of thousands of Mexicans are expected to attend. Sergio is wearing a special helmet design for the race weekend: It is dominated by the colors of Mexico – green, white and red – and features the shape of the state of Texas in the background with Sergio’s initials over this.

The Mexican did not have the best of the days, but there's room for improvement. He finished the morning session with the 10th best time while in the afternoon he was moved down to 14th.

“We had a good day in terms of getting all the programme done without any issues. The track is amazing, and I especially like the first sector a lot. I really believe we will see a great race here and I can’t wait to race in front of so many Mexicans.

Nevertheless I am not happy with the balance of my car yet, but I’m confident we will manage to improve it.“ Pérez Said.