Sheldon van der Linde (BMW): "South Africa deserves to have a GP again"

Before securing his first Hypercar podium at the WEC's 6 Hours of Imola, the ever-smiling South African sat down with us for an interview in the Italian paddock. We discussed BMW's progress, the brand's importance to his family, and his dream of seeing Formula 1 and the WEC come to his home country.

Sheldon, how has the BMW M Hybrid V8 improved since last year? 

The biggest difference is the aerodynamic downforce. We've worked hard to increase downforce levels, which now allows us to be more consistent on all types of circuits. Winter testing has been invaluable, especially here…