Sauber: Key puts driver inexperience into perspective

The youth of the Sauber crew (24 years for Kobayashi, 21 for Perez) as the 2011 season approaches does not seem to scare its technical director, James Key. “ It's never ideal to be in our position with such inexperience, but it's certainly not to the detriment of the team ».

Despite his 21 grands prix on the clock, Kamui Kobayashi showed great potential by regularly dominating his teammates Pedro de la Rosa and Nick Heidfeld. “ Kamui is very good. He tried to help us as best as possible to understand the tires and how the car handles. We discussed together the weaknesses of the car and the work that remains to be done. His feedback reflects what we see », Explains James Key to our colleagues at Autosport.

As for Sergio Perez, fresh from the GP2 championship, he is a complete beginner in F1. However, the Mexican already seems to have found his feet despite going off the track during testing in Jerez and Catalunya. “ Sergio has a good understanding of things and starts making relevant comments before questions arise. He comes with his ideas and discusses them in the garage, which is positive about this internship » concludes James Key.