Adrian Sutil comments on the current Formula 1 circuits

Adrian Sutil counts Montreal and Monaco amongst his favourite tracks (Getty Images)

Once regarded as a future championship competitor, Adrian Sutil seems to have drifted away from the radar of the top teams at this very point in time. It has to be said that the ‘Bar incident’ shook his reputation quite badly. Also, it has to be wondered if Adrian should have taken a cue from Lewis Hamilton’s textbook (We are talking about his move to Mercedes). Adrian’s progress seems to have stalled at Force India. Adrian has never ventured into others’ territory as of this moment, and we are not sure if it would have been worth a try for Adrian if he had made a move to some other team for the sake of it.

Going by his comments on various circuits, he seems to be sharing the public sentiments on the current venues of Formula One. Many fans feel that the current lot of circuits mainly due to the ‘Tilke-Drome’ hasve killed the classic tracks that were more challenging to the drivers. Adrian Sutil has shared his thoughts on the various circuits of the modern Formula One calendar and has revealed his favourite circuits. Here are some of the comments from a recent interview where Sutil discloses his view on some of his favourite circuits.

Silverstone

“It’s not my top favourite, but it’s a great place to drive a Formula One car. It’s fast and flowing, I enjoy the high-speed sections and also the newer start of the lap, which definitely makes it easier to overtake compared to the old layout.”

Shanghai International Circuit

“It’s an interesting circuit, although it’s not one of my favourites. It’s modern, of course, and there are some unusual corners, such as turn one – the long right hander.”

Sepang

“I finished fifth in Malaysia in 2010, so I have some good memories. It’s not my favourite track though”

Istanbul Park

“I enjoy going there. It’s a nice circuit: up and down, long straights and you can overtake. Turn Eight is very special – a fantastic corner to experience in an F1 car because of the high g-forces.”

So which circuit does Adrian really like to keep on racing? Here’s what he had to say in reply:

“Suzuka is a great circuit, one that suits me very well. I like it and it’s certainly one of my favourites. It’s a pure driver’s circuit. Some of the corners are outstanding, such as the ‘S’ curves and 130R, which is easily flat. It’s unusual to have so many amazing corners all in the same lap and getting them all right is the best feeling.”

And what about the classic circuits like Spa or Monza?

“I think Spa is the favourite for most drivers. It’s a real pleasure to drive there and I’ve had some good results. The high-speed corners are a really nice challenge and there are lots of overtaking opportunities. Plus, there is always the unknown of the weather and a good chance of rain” said Sutil.

“It’s a classic circuit, one of the old tracks, and you feel the history when you arrive there. And the Italian fans always give Monza a great atmosphere.” added the driver on Monza.

And if you wonder why Adrian picks Monaco and Montreal as his top favourite. He points out the challenging conditions of these circuits, as that brings out the best from the driver.

“Monaco is a special place for sure. I’ve always liked street races and Monaco is the best street circuit of them all. There’s no room for even the smallest mistake and that’s why it’s different to other tracks. You have to give the walls so much respect and build up your speed. More than anything it’s a test of your mental strength because you keep your concentration for nearly two hours during the race.”

“Montreal is definitely one my favourite races on the calendar because it’s a great city. It’s also an interesting and unusual track, and it can be a long race with different scenarios and strategy options. I like the circuit”

We can make out that Adrian’s favourites are the street circuits, an interesting choice for an Formula 1 competitor, but does it apply to all the street circuits?

“I think we all enjoy visiting Valencia. The city is beautiful and the weather is great, but to be honest the track is not one of my favourites.”

“Singapore is quite an interesting circuit. Perhaps not my favourite..”

There is nothing so pleasing to a driver as the crowd being really behind them; the more they hear the crowd, it would be more energising for them.

So which circuit does he thinks is the loudest in the current calendar?

“Interlagos is always a really special race. The crowd is very loud and they create an amazing atmosphere. Even when you are driving the car you can hear the crowd cheering.”

But then he surprises one and all with the following quote.

“With a good car I like almost every circuit”

Quotes courtesy: Autosport