'Still so much history in Brazil,' says Grosjean

40

Romain Grosjean is gearing up for his sixth Brazilian GP at Interlagos, a challenging venue which combines a demanding layout with often changing weather conditions.

The Haas driver collected a point in Austin but endured a difficult weekend in Mexico, so the Frenchman will be looking to get himself back in the positive groove he enjoyed in Japan.

"It’s a pretty tough track with not much opportunity for a rest," explained Grosjean.

"Even in the straight lines you can’t rest as much as you would like. You’re at altitude as well, at 800 meters (2,625 feet), so coming from Mexico that’s nothing, but you’re still not at sea level.

"The weather can be challenging. It can be very warm and humid. It’s a pretty intense challenge but, at the end of the day, that’s what we’re looking for."

The Autodromo José Carlos Pace is also one of the few tracks which is run anticlockwise, a feature which adds additional physical stress.

"To be fair though, you know it’s Interlagos and you’re running anticlockwise because of the long pit straight and the long left-hand corner.

"It hurts your neck muscles more than normal. That said, a lap is a lap. You just flow through the corners, racing onto the next one."

Ayrton Senna's legacy remains ever-present in Sao Paulo and like his colleagues Grosjean has a soft spot for the legendary driver and Interlagos where the memories of his exploits still linger.

"Brazil is always special because of Ayrton Senna. On raceday you’ve got so much support from the fans.

"I remember Ayrton winning there in 1991 when he couldn’t hold the trophy in the air because he was so tired and had the pain in his arms from driving. Interlagos is a special place, and there’s so much history there.

INTERVIEW: Fernando Alonso: Why F1 is no longer just for heroes

TECHNICAL: Under the skin of the Ferrari SF16-H

F1i Classic: Brazil 1991 - Senna's pain and glory

FEATURE: Foul Play or Foul Language

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.