Aston Martin warn against 'arrogant' expectations at Madrid F1 debut

Aston Martin chief trackside officer Mike Krack has stated it would be “arrogant” to enter the Madrid F1 weekend seeking to capitalise on the unknowns of a new track.

The Madring, the new host of the Spanish Grand Prix, will make its debut this weekend after several years in the making.

It marks the second home event for Fernando Alonso, who has endured a difficult year with Aston Martin so far, scoring just three championship points.

With all teams starting from scratch at Madrid and no historical data to rely on, it opens the window for an unsettled grid order.

But Krack has played down the expectation that it can lift itself up the order at the event.

“We need to keep our feet on the ground,” Krack told media including RacingNews365.

“We are where we are. We have a new track that we need to identify. We need to see. 

“We have done our preparation, but let's not forget we were out of Q1 only once. We have one Q2 this year. 

“So speaking about Q3, I think it would be a little bit arrogant, even.”

The Madring has been noted for its challenging layout, with some comparing it to the likes of Jeddah for its high-speed sections.

Following a Formula 3 test that saw 11 red flags for contact with the barrier, it has raised suspicions that there could be multiple incidents throughout the F1 weekend.

Should that be the case, Krack insisted it is important the team is there to pick up the pieces.

“This is on a normal qualifying - what you are saying is, if there is chaos and this kind of thing, you need to be prepared,” he said.

“We try to be prepared as much as we can, but the weekend, when your whole knowledge base is simulation and going around and having a look, you need to start conservatively and build your knowledge step by step.

“You need to try and do this better than the competition, but the competitors are very strong as well. 

“At the end of the day, I do not expect a major surprise. But if things turn chaotic, you need to be there and try to grab what you can. And the same applies for Sunday.”