Exclusive interview with Mercedes F1 chief

Pune: Michael Schumacher may be struggling to find form this year, however Mercedes-Benz motorsport boss Norbert Haug believes the seven-time champion is still a force to reckon with. In an exclusive interview with IBNLive.com, Mercedes-Benz motorsport boss Norbert Haug talks about the team’s performance so far and what he expects for the remaining races

The last couple of races, especially Rosberg's performance, must have been encouraging for the team...

Well, we were better than during the first two GPs, but still not good enough for where we want to be. We have to, and we will, improve further, but this takes time for a team that was completely re-structured one and a half years ago.

Does the lack of race pace compared to qualifying, concern you?

We are working on further improvements and I think we are heading in the right direction.

Speculation is rife about the future of Michael Schumacher with some former drivers suggesting he may retire. Is Michael still a force to reckon with?

Absolutely, he will succeed again. He has the speed, the talent and the willpower to do so.

How do you think Mercedes GP's design approach has been for the first four races? Could it have been more aggressive, maybe like Lotus Renault?

The third and fourth races saw the team start twice from the second row on the grid, and scoring two fifth place finishes. We will build on that.

What upgrades are expected for the coming races? How much of a performance difference will they make?

We have quite a few things in the pipeline, but Ross (Brawn) will hit me if I tell. So, (there’s) no chance that I can be specific.

How has Paul di Resta fared in his debut season?

Great. Paul is doing a very good job and I am sure he will continue to do so.

What is your opinion about DRS considering some have termed the overtaking superficial?

I think it was a good idea and works very well. Thanks to the new Pirelli tyres, the DRS and committed drivers, the races are more thrilling than ever before.

What do you think about the 2013 engine regulations? Are you in favour of using 1.6 litre 4-cylinder engines instead of the V8s?

These are the published rules. Changes will only be possible should the FIA and the team decide to do so.