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Formula Sprint 2
Japanese Grand Prix
Suzuka International Racing Course
Tuesday 2nd of April 2024 19:00:00
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May 20, 2002
S.C.U.M is looking to score a strong result at the Monaco Grand Prix this weekend, the team mindful of technical problems it has endured recently but have nominated Monte Carlo as an event where "anything can happen". Despite solid tests and engine upgrades from Renault, S.C.U.M has been faring poorly lately, securing no points in Spain and Imola.

Monaco is a unique layout on the calendar that demands high downforce and a precise balance, but S.C.U.M, like some of the lesser teams, goes into the race with a chance of scoring points.

"Austria was a shame for us as we felt we were more competitive there than we were in Spain and didn't take any reward," said Team Manager Colin Green. "Our competitiveness is increasing every race, but Monaco can always throw in a few surprises! It's very important to find the right set-up there as the track is so unique. You need a high downforce balance, which must always take into account the very low levels of grip in Monaco."

"We tested at our Kikatinalong facility last week to work on finding the best set-up for the car as well as running various tyre compounds from Michelin all in preparation for this weekend, so I think we go to Monte Carlo well-equipped. We also carried out some straight-line tests in the UK, which is crucial to see how the aerodynamic package works under various conditions. I think we have a better idea of how we measure up to some of the cars further up the tables now so we want to continue to show the progress we are making."

Rab Harding is now a part-time Monaco resident, so he is looking forward to the event and believes his team can do well there.

"Monaco is a great venue for a race and, in my opinion, is the best race on the calendar,' said the Australian.

'It's my home for now, so I have extra opportunities to prepare myself for the race as I drive the streets most days so I really know them like the back of my hand. It's very tight with some really good hairpins making it a very enjoyable track to drive. The circuit demands your full concentration at all times and you cannot afford to make any mistakes.'

'We tested at Kikatinalong last week to simulate some of the circumstances we will find at Monaco, grip levels etc., and we were pleased with our performance so that should give us plenty of data to help us with set-up for this weekend."

Early in the season Regan generated a lot of publicity for himself - being competitive with car's with much more horsepower than his own and with drivers with much more experience. Harding also showed some early form after he took over the driving role from Brazil onwards. Despite the early promise the team has struggled badly since a horrible weekend in Spain but both drivers are very confident that they can turn the corner starting here in Monaco.

Regan drove a 1956 Connaught Type C in the Historic Monaco Grand Prix held over the weekend, peddling it into 2nd place. "I like Monte Carlo - I had a very exciting race here last weekend!" Regan remembers. "It's a very exhilarating track to drive, but it does not give any room at all for mistakes, which makes it a real challenge.

The corners are slow, with some very tight chicanes that are really tricky as the streets are so tight. As you have to be really focused all the time, it's very demanding psychologically as well as physically, but I'm looking forward to the challenge."