BAR duo predict better racing

The first corner has become a tight hairpin leading into a new stadium section, adding 560 metres to the tracks length. It now measures 3.196 miles.

The hairpin was designed to provide a new overtaking opportunity on a track that is thought to be dull and featureless by most drivers. Despite that, BAR driver Villeneuve always looks forward to the European Grand Prix.

"I have fond memories of the Nurburgring," said the Canadian. "I won my first GP at this circuit and my last race win was here also. I've only failed to finish here once in six years, so it's always been quite a successful circuit for me.

"Having said that, it's not a very exciting track to drive, and tha fans are too far away to add any visual excitement. Most corners at the Nurburgring are slow, whereas I prefer a circuit with lots of mid-speed and high-speed turns.

"The first part of the track will be a new experience this year because the first corner has been changed. It looks like the racing might be better than before because there will be another heavy braking area."

Panis said: "The Nurburgring has never been considered a particularly exciting track but the changes they've made to the first corner should make it better."

The BAR duo are hoping for another step forward in performance this weekend. Honda will give its new engine its debut in free practice and qualifying, but will revert to the older version for the race.