Trulli: “Realistic objectives”

Jarno, how do you feel now?
I am really happy to join Lotus F1 Racing. The situation was quite difficult in November, when my old team decided to withdraw from the Formula 1. But I was convinced that I would stay in F1. I was in contact with Mike (Gascoyne, technical director) to explore the possibility of joining the new Lotus team. It quickly became very clear that this was a very good opportunity for me. I have been in Formula 1 for many years but there is something very motivating about helping a team to structure itself. Tony (Fernandes, director) has a lot of ambition, as does Mike and the whole of Malaysia. This level of enthusiasm is contagious for a pilot! I can't wait to take on this challenge.

What do you think you bring to Lotus F1 Racing?
I have driven for a few teams in my career, whether manufacturers or private teams, so I have a lot of experience. I hope this experience will be an asset for Lotus. We begin this challenge together and we must not underestimate the task at hand. Driving in F1 in 2010 is an attractive prospect, with the arrival of new teams. It will be a tough fight in the quest for results.

What do you think Lotus can hope for this season?
We need to set realistic goals for this first year. We are one of the new teams, so we will have to prove ourselves and earn the respect of the paddock. We must establish ourselves as the best of the new teams, before we see the gap that separates us from the others. The points distribution system has changed to reward the ten best drivers so I hope to see us progress towards the Top 10 for Abu Dhabi (last GP of the 2010 season).

Heikki Kovalainen will be your teammate in 2010. What is your impression?
It?s great to have a younger driver like Heikki alongside me. He has been in Formula 1 for a few years now, so he has progressed to become a competitive and more consistent driver. His experience gained in other teams will certainly help Lotus F1 Racing and I look forward to working alongside him. He will bring a different character and another driving style which should benefit the team in 2010.