Before the weekend in Suzuka, the scientific head of the rubber department, Spaniard Carlos Galballi, answered questions from Ferrari’s press service…
Q: How did you get to Ferrari? How did your passion for motorsport come about?
Carlos Galballic: I joined Ferrari in 2016, although I have been preparing for this for a long time. I have always loved technology and machines. After graduating as a mechanical engineer in Spain, I moved to Germany, where there is a long tradition of car production and more technical possibilities.
After working in the car industry for several years, I was lucky enough to move to Formula 1 – Sauber. After working hard in Switzerland, I was offered the opportunity to move to Italy and work for the most well-known brand in our industry, the decision was more than clear.
Q: How demanding is the Suzuka track on tires?
Carlos Galballic: The configuration includes high-speed sections with frequent changes of direction, it puts serious stress on the rubber. At the same time, the load on the right and left side of the tire in Suzuka is surprisingly symmetrical.
Due to the heavy workload Pirelli will bring to the podium three of the heaviest compositions – C1, C2 and C3 – this rare combination will be used only five times during the season, and in Japan – the last time.
Tire wear is high through long turns, the asphalt can be called medium or high abrasive. The combination of all these factors, together with the unpredictable weather, makes the Suzuka round a serious challenge for all aspects of tire work.
Q: How do you prepare for the Japanese Grand Prix in terms of working with rubber?
Carlos Galballic: As with other high-load circuits – in Barcelona, Silverstone or the Netherlands – it is important to find the right balance between warming up the tires for a fast lap and avoiding overloading the tires on long stretches. runs, which always requires a compromise between qualifying and the race.
Critical will be the long series of laps during Friday’s second practice – they will gather the necessary information to monitor tire wear in the race, give the riders the necessary advice and develop an effective strategy.
Source: F1 News
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