Come race day, all hopes were high. I had a great warm-up, which convinced me that the team could really leave a mark on the event. Overall, our performance level was indeed higher than Audi's. That said, strategy was the real key. A strategy we devised "live" based on traffic conditions.
I was fifth and running faster than Audi's Timo Scheider, but I could not overtake him and it was slowing me down significantly. The crew decided to anticipate my first pit stop, after which I went on to complete a long 24-lap stretch with the same tires. I consistently recorded the same quick lap times and managed to gain a few places. For me, that's the story of the race, right there.
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After the last refueling, I wound up second behind Gary Paffett. I kept pushing and pushing and I got right on his tail. However, I could not find an opening and I chose not to risk anything. This second place was very important for the team and me. Everyone had worked really hard.
And since the top performers at Hockenheim (Kristensen, Scheider and Jarvis) couldn't repeat their success at Lausitzring, the driver standings are now pretty tight. I'm trailing the overall leader by just four points.
The next event will take place at Norisring, where I've always had good results. There will be a one-month break in the meantime, though, and every team will have plenty of time to make adjustments and get ready for the race. I don't expect any free pass from anyone…
See you soon!
Bruno Spengler
www.brunospengler.com
www.hugoboss.com
photo:René Fagnan