The 2008 French GP Preview

Heading to the classic European track, Circuit de Nevers in Magny-Cours, the teams are looking at a technical track that needs medium-high downforce and rewards efficient aerodynamics, overall balance and smooth traction out of corners. It has a mix of high, medium and low speed corners, a fast chicane with vicious kerbs, a long straight and heavy braking.

Historically, the surface is smoother than most, though that is becoming less obvious as time passes, so low ride heights are the norm, despite the aggressive kerbs on the chicane that must be ridden well. The high speed corners and significant traction areas ensures that tyre wear rates are high. The circuit has a very definite racing line, and drafting is difficult, so even with the hairpin, overtaking is tough, placing the emphasis on qualifying well and delivering on a strong race strategy.