My Sebring...Roberto Gonzalez
Ahead of the WEC’s first visit back to America’s historic Sebring Raceway since 2012, we asked a number of drivers in our paddock about what it takes to get a good lap at Sebring, and what’s so special about the track. Next up, Roberto Gonzalez!
Roberto Gonzalez, No.31 DragonSpeed (LMP2)
“Sebring is a special place. To get a good lap there, like they say, you MUST respect the bumps. I would say the toughest part of driving there is getting a good set up, getting used to the bumps and to the changes of surface – from tarmac to concrete. In some areas the track is quite narrow so it’s quite challenging but it’s a fun event and I’m really looking forward to racing there.
“The atmosphere there is unique. It’s been going for so many years and the atmosphere hasn’t changed, it’s always the same. The infield is always full of people, they throw big parties, spend the whole week there, and the access for those guys to the cars, drivers and the paddocks is quite open. It’s also got tradition – very special and I love that place.
“I’ve told my team mates they should go off-roading a lot over the winter to get used to the bumps, but then just relax and take it easy. It’s a completely different event to what they’re used to in Europe but it’s a lot of fun and they shouldn’t expect to go really fast straight away. You have to learn your way around the track, each corner, the bumps and the track limits are not very clear with grass on the side so you can’t make a mistake like here in Europe. If you go a little bit off, you’ll hit the wall!”
WEC practice begins on Wednesday March 13, including a night practice, with qualifying taking place on Thursday March 14 from 9:30 pm and the green flag dropping for the 1000 Miles of Sebring at 4:00 pm on Friday March 15.
