Kazeem speaks with Nasir

A: After one year of experience in Formula BMW I feel that I am able and will aim to win the championship. It will be difficult considering Formula BMW Europe is once again extremely competitive.

Q: What were biggest adjustments in single seaters compared to racing in karts?

A: The biggest adjustments would definitely have to be learning how to use the aerodynamics and also the whole process of a race weekend and testing is very different to that of a karting event.

Q3: Both of your teammates were in second year in 2008, was that a good learning experience?

A: Although it was hard to have two second year drivers as teammates last year, I believe that it enforced me and helped me to learn the art of driving a Formula BMW car quickly and also they helped me to understand the world of single-seater racing.

Q: Most races are on Grand Prix weekends, does that add to the pressure?

A: It definitely adds pressure, mainly because an F1 weekend is extremely busy and therefore it is difficult to book hotels close to the circuit. Therefore, getting to the circuit is pressurizing in itself.

Q: You raced in Valencia, how much fun is racing on a street course compared to Spa or Silverstone in the wet?

A: It was a great experience to drive the car through the streets of Valencia, although Valencia didn’t feel like a tight and twisty street circuit as it was a fairly wide fast circuit with great amounts of run-off area.

Q: What were the best and worst races for you last year?

A: My best race last year would have to be the last race of the season at Monza where there was torrential rain. I had to start at the back of the grid and in a 13 lap race I managed to get to eighth position from 26th on the grid. The worst race would have to have been Valencia where I started 9th. I entered the first corner and I was hit by another driver, who eventually drove over my car causing a fair bit of damage.

Q: What has been the biggest learning experience in taking driving instructions from Rob Wilson?

A: I’ve learned a great deal from Rob, and the main thing I have learned from him is how to be harmonized with the car, the surface and myself.

Q: Who would be main challengers for you for the championship?

A: It is hard to say at this point, I guess we shall find out at the first race.

Q: Last year you took part in Formula BMW Asia round at Sepang, any plans to compete in Formula BMW Americas events this year?

A: I have not made plans to take part in the Americas or the Pacific championship yet, but I would love to do the Singapore event and maybe the Interlagos event if it is possible.

Q: Your favorite track?

A: My favorite track would have to be Spa. Mainly because of how fast and flowing the track is with the elevation changes and such. Not to mention Eau rouge…

Q: F1 season starts at the end of this month, who would you put your two Liras on for the title?

A: It is hard to tell at the moment, but I reckon one of the Ferrari drivers or even possibly one of the Brawn drivers.

Q: What is the best advice you can give to rookies this season?

A: My advice would be not to put too much pressure on yourself in the first season as that will stop you from learning. Make sure you enjoy the entire experience as well.