‘Unique’ Interlagos tricky to master – Button

Jenson Button says that the demands of the Interlagos Circuit – the venue for this weekend’s Brazilian Grand Prix – make the track tricky to master as he approaches the penultimate round of the season.

Button claimed his world title at the track in 2009 and took his most recent Formula 1 win at Interlagos back in 2012.

“It’s a tricky circuit to get right but that makes it all the more exciting,” said Button, who remains out of contract for 2015.

“There’s more opportunities to overtake there than at other tracks, and the twisty infield section towards the end of the lap is a real challenge as you’re constantly on the limit trying not to out-brake yourself, so when you get it spot on it’s really rewarding.

“I last won there in 2012, and although our results since then haven’t lived up to our own expectations, it’s clear that we are steadily improving our package and our aim, of course, is to build on that this weekend.

“The altitude there and elevation changes make the track really unique, so getting set-up and the balance right from the get-go will be key, especially to adapt to the bumpy surface. Austin proved a more difficult race for us than we had hoped, but I’m focused on achieving the best result we can in Brazil and getting the most out of this great circuit.”

Team-mate Kevin Magnussen finished eighth in the United States Grand Prix last weekend and is eager for his first opportunity to drive the Interlagos circuit.

“The fact that the Grand Prix is only a week after the last race in Austin is a positive, as we’ll be pushing to maintain the momentum from last weekend and continuously build on our race performances, as we have been over the second half of the season,” said the Dane.

“Interlagos, like Austin, is one of only a few circuits that run anti-clockwise, so it’s cool that these two races are back to back.”