A favourite for both of the drivers, Heidfeld admits he loves returning to Magny-Cours for the French Grand Prix, as he finds the weekend more relaxing that usual. He is also looking forward to getting back in the car having missed the
Jerez test to rest his neck muscles.
"I always enjoy racing in Magny-Cours," the German said. "A lot of people aren't so keen on the circuit, particularly as it's way out in the French provinces. It's a beautiful area, but unfortunately there's no time to enjoy the scenery. There are lots of little chateaux with rooms to rent. I always stay at one of them, in a very idyllic location and surrounded by a proper moat. It has a very special charm of its own.
"On the sporting side too, I have fond memories of Magny-Cours, where I have won F3 and Formula 3000 races. It's quite a challenging circuit, especially the two chicanes. They're obscured from view and very narrow at the apex. Basically the track offers everything: a high-speed section, but slow turns as well."
Villeneuve, meanwhile, also feels at home in France, no doubt helped by his French-Canadian origins, but insists he likes the circuit too. He also scored one of Sauber's best results there last year with eighth place and is confident of more of the same this year.
"Last year's French Grand Prix was one of our best races and the car is running very strongly at the moment, so I am looking forward to it as we should have a good weekend. It is a fun track to drive and there is usually some good racing on."
MF1 Racing - Tiago Monteiro (#18), Christijan Albers (#19):
MF1 Racing may have come away from Indianapolis minus the points they were looking to take advantage of on a day of high attrition, but they can be encouraged by the upturn of pace they should around the American circuit.
