Glock: Malaysian GP one of the toughest

Virgin's Timo Glock is looking forward to the Malaysian Grand Prix this coming weekend, even though he regards it as one of the most physically challenging races on the F1 schedule.

Glock left Australia somewhat frustrated and post-event said the squad is flirting with disaster as it is sailing dangerously close to the 107 per cent rule in qualifying and therefore potentially risks missing the cut for the grand's prix [see separate story - click here]. As such he has modest expectations for the second round and has reiterated that the team's main goal will once again be to get both cars to the finish.

"Malaysia is one of the hardest races on the F1 calendar and one for which fitness is very important," Glock said. "The heat and humidity are really punishing and so this is where the physical training really pays off.

"I feel like I have got back on track very quickly with the fitness side of things and I am spending the time between Australia and Malaysia making sure I am fully acclimatised and ready for the challenge.

"I have lots of good memories from Malaysia - I finished on the podium in 2009 after chasing the leader, Jenson Button, before the race got red-flagged due to the big rainstorm. The Sepang track has a lot of character and it's very physical, with Turn 14 being one of the toughest corners of all. It's a race I will enjoy so we will try to make the best of our current package and aim to get both cars to the finish."

Rookie team-mate Jerome D'Ambrosio meanwhile can't wait to take in his second F1 race and try and capitalise on all he learned in Australia.

"I really enjoyed the whole experience of my debut Grand Prix. I learned a lot in Melbourne and I was very happy with the weekend as a starting point, so I'm looking forward to more of the same in Kuala Lumpur," he added.

"I do know this track - the Sepang International Circuit - as I competed here in GP2 Asia. It's a really interesting circuit layout and the challenge of racing in these tough conditions gives you a lot of satisfaction because it's the best way of finding out just how fit you are.

"I think our focus will be on trying to do a better job in qualifying and getting both cars home again. Small but important steps for us until we get to Europe," summed-up the Belgian.