Mercedes targets Spa repeat at Suzuka

Mercedes finished in the top six in Belgium and Italy © Sutton Images

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Mercedes is hoping to finish in the top six at the upcoming Japanese Grand Prix after a difficult round in Singapore last weekend.

Nico Rosberg finished seventh on the Marina Bay street circuit, but found himself battling with the Force Indias rather than assuming Mercedes' usual position behind the top three teams.

However, the characteristics of the Suzuka circuit in Japan are closer to Spa-Francorchamps and Monza where Mercedes was more competitive, and while the team is not expecting to challenge the top three on outright pace, motorsport vice-president Norbert Haug is hoping for a return to the success the team enjoyed in Belgium and Italy.

"The layout is unique and one of the drivers' favourites; a mega-challenging circuit that is said to divide the men from the boys," he said. "In terms of average lap speed, Suzuka ranks - together with Spa and Monza - among the top five of the season, which should mean our technical package should be better suited here than at the slower speed tracks. Having said that, it is clear to us that we cannot change the current pecking order at Suzuka; our target will be to produce performances like we delivered in Spa and Monza."

Mercedes driver Michael Schumacher is looking forward to returning to Suzuka, where has won six times before.

"Suzuka is a very special circuit, and one which has held great races, and great memories, for me over the years. I always enjoy the challenge of driving here and getting the technical setup of the car right to get the best from the demanding layout of the track. A great first sector, high-speed turns, and interesting corner combinations all make Suzuka one of the best race tracks of the year, and definitely one of my favourites. We will be working hard to make the most of our weekend here, and hopefully we can come away with a strong performance and some more points."

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