Both Albers and Monteiro are looking forward to the race weekend and Monteiro said he was a fan of the unique layout of the figure of eight circuit.
"It's good to be back in Japan so soon after leaving China,” he said. “Back-to-back races mean that I can totally focus on my driving for two weekends rather than be interrupted by time away from the track. I like the circuit at Suzuka as it has such a unique layout. Corners such as 130R are extremely famous in
Formula One and require great driving to maximise the capability of the car. I had a good race here last year so I hope to improve upon what we have achieved so far," he continued.
Scuderia Toro Rosso – Vitantonio Liuzzi (#20), Scott Speed (#21):
Although their final result was nothing to shout about, Scuderia Toro Rossos qualifying effort in China showed that they are still making small but significant strides as their maiden season comes to a close.
A new circuit experience for both Vitantonio Liuzzi and
Scott Speed, further points to add to their single marker achieved back at Indianapolis may be somewhat out of reach, but they remain a team with something to prove around a demanding circuit, even if their rookie status could harm their chances.
Super Aguri F1 – Takuma Sato (#22), Sakon Yamamoto (#23):
This is the race Super Aguri have been waiting for since their plan to field an all-Japanese team was born at this very race twelve months ago.
With national hero Takuma Sato at the wheel and fellow popular youngster Sakon Yamamoto by his side, this is the race that Aguri Suzuki is hoping will prove that his tail ending team have what it takes to move towards the mid-field.
Indeed, Sato has always been quick at Suzuka, scoring his first ever points there with a fifth place finish for Jordan in 2002, while Yamamoto goes there with plenty of prior knowledge, not least when he impressed as Jordan’s third driver last season.
