Panis hopes for change of luck at Spa

Olivier Panis expects the Belgian Grand Prix to bring a change of fortunes for Toyota.

The Germany-based team have struggled so far this season and were so disappointed by their performances they sacked Panis’ team-mate Cristiano da Matta before the Hungarian Grand Prix.

A new car was introduced two races ago but has yet to pull Toyota up the grid, something Panis believes will change when the team get to Spa-Francorchamps next week.

Panis, who has scored five of Toyota’s eight points this season, said: “The pace of the new car in the race at Hungary was pretty good, so it was a shame that I didn’t really have the opportunity to show it.

“We know that the car is a good step forward, as we proved in Friday and Saturday’s practice sessions, when we were easily within the top 10.

Unfortunately, I was again prevented from showing what I can do.

“I have my sights firmly set on the top eight in the remaining five races of the season.

“I must say I’m delighted to be going back to the Belgian Grand Prix. Spa is absolutely my favourite circuit and I think it is the best we have in Formula One.

“I was upset to see the race taken off the calendar last year and I think it should suit the characteristics of our car.

“We are overdue some championship points, and I certainly plan to score some in Spa – both me and the team have worked hard this year and we deserve a strong result.” Ricardo Zonta will again partner Panis in Belgium despite retiring from his Toyota debut at the Hungaroring.