I came across this video online. It is from an amature video camera actually at the race in question, as Kubica crashed. It is a rare example to get an idea of how fast the cars go. As when watching on TV it isn't conveyed very well. Thankfully Kubica was OK after this horrific accident. A few years ago he wouldn't of survived, personally when I saw the accident live I feared it was a fatality.
Look out for the marshall getting a shock and trying to dive out of the way.
Thursday, 30 April 2009
FIA Formula One Cost Cap Q&A
The FIA have released this press release regarding their proposed cost capping in Formula One. Personally I think this is a great idea in the current climate and will hopefully make teams more innovative in designing to a budget (like the real world). It will hopefully make it viable for more teams to be a part of F1 in the future. However it all has to be properly regulated and checked, otherwise it's pointless.
Without further ado here is the press release in full:
Formula One Cost Cap Q&A 30/04/2009
Why does Formula One need cost capping?
Formula One faces a period of great uncertainty during this harsh recessionary period. Funding a team is increasingly seen as a discretionary spend for the majority of team owners and sponsors. To ensure a healthy grid all are agreed that costs need to be cut.
Two main philosophies have emerged, either i) reduce activity levels through very restrictive technical rules, plus a degree of standardization if required; or ii) restrict the money that teams are allowed to spend (cost capping).
The FIA believes that unfettered technical competition is part of Formula One’s DNA, and would like to see this flourish, but in an environment of strong, responsible and innovative management, not a spending race. For these reasons cost capping is preferred.
What is covered by the cost cap?
Everything except:
Marketing and promotion – we want Formula One teams to look good and to entertain their partners. We want manufacturers to show off their cars at exhibitions and city centre displays, and we want teams and their sponsors to promote Formula One through inclusion in advertising campaigns.
Drivers and young driver programmes – Formula One is the pinnacle of motor racing. Fundamental to this is attracting the world’s best drivers. Moreover we wish to encourage continued investment in young driver programmes.
Engine costs – In order to attract manufacturer owned teams to take up the cost capping option, the FIA have decided to exclude engine costs for 2010 (only)
Furthermore, we are allowing manufacturers to honor existing supply arrangements, provided there is no element of subsidy that could have a cartel-like affect on the engine market.
How did the FIA arrive at the £40m figure?
We arrived at the figure by analysing both revenues and costs in Formula One.
We know what the FOM (Formula One Management) revenue is likely to be in the future, and we have some understanding of realistic sponsorship revenues during the recession. Taken together, it’s possible to project total external revenues for all finishing positions in the Championship. At £40m we believe that 70 per cent of the grid can generate a profit. This transforms the business case for owning a Formula One team, for both manufacturers and private investors. The desired net result is to have a very healthy commercial environment for present and new owners.
We also had a good look at costs, and believe that £40m in combination with greater technical freedom will allow engineers to create Formula One cars even more interesting and exciting than today’s cars.
Will the £40m cap for 2010 be changed for future years?
As set out in the Regulations, the cap for future years will be decided by the FIA. In setting future years’ limits, the FIA will have regard to the progress of the project and the feedback from all stakeholders to the sport.
How does the FIA intend to police the cost cap?
Throughout the construction of the Regulations we have worked with expert forensic accountants.
The Regulations allow for the establishment of a Costs Commission to monitor and assist teams in complying with the Regulations. The Costs Commission will appoint auditors, and other financial experts as required, in order to do this.
A key factor is that all cost capped teams are businesses engaged in exactly the same activities and this enables consistent interpretation of the principles of the regulations. It is difficult to hide engineering activity or to falsify accounts consistently, given the traceability of transactions in today’s world and the access and inspection powers which the Costs Commission will have. The penalties for defrauding the FIA with regard to any willful transgression of any Regulation or any subversion of an investigation are well established.
Is a Costs Commission really needed?
The emphasis is on teams to demonstrate compliance, and to pro-actively seek clarification and interpretation of the Regulations. As the Cost Cap Regulations are new the FIA has decided to provide an appropriate resource, staffed with a small number of financial and technical experts, to deal with such issues, and to monitor compliance, such that the Regulations are effective.
Who pays for the Costs Commission, auditors and other experts, and doesn’t this just add costs, rather than removing them?
The cost capped teams will each pay an equal contribution to cover these costs. The costs involved will represent a tiny fraction of the costs saved in Formula One.
What is the penalty if a team exceeds the cost cap?
This depends on the case. The International Sporting Code covers transgressions in the same manner as for the technical or sporting regulations. There are no ‘fixed penalties’. The Cost Commission will judge the degree of misdemeanor and advise the FIA , who will determine any penalty.
What measures are there to prevent teams spending money this year on a car that will compete under cost cap in 2010?
The teams must demonstrate that they have adhered to the spirit of the regulations and spend no more than 50% of the value of the 2010 cap on the development of the 2010 car (in 2009). Furthermore, there are limits on the value of stock of car parts which can be carried into 2010.
How will you stop manufacturer backed teams from running hidden F1-related projects in their parent companies?
The question is actually asking ‘how will we stop manufacturer teams from cheating’. The principles of determining a fair market value for all activities which are undertaken for the benefit of a team (whether a manufacturer or not) are clearly set out in the Regulations.
No team would wish to be exposed as cheating, so we expect a healthy amount of self-policing. However, the rules are clear on this point, such activities must be declared and appropriately valued. Bear in mind the access that the costs commission and auditors have and their ability to compare reported costs across all cost capped teams.
Will teams be allowed to buy parts from other teams/manufacturers?
Yes, according to the FIA regulations, but one should bear in mind that contractual arrangements with the Commercial Rights Holder will place restrictions on such activities. Inter-team transactions are covered by the regulations.
How many teams do you expect to take up the budget option?
All those who wish to transform the commercial basis of participation for their owners and investors. The FIA believes that cost capping will prove attractive, and it hopes that over time all teams will join. So far, interest has been extraordinarily high from both existing teams and potential new entrants.
If a team decides not to become cost capped now, can it do so at a later date?
Yes, a team will be able to opt to become cost capped in advance of each year of its participation in the Championship.
Are you worried that F1 will effectively become a two-tier championship?
There is one set of Technical Regulations and as always there are choices for all teams as to how they decide to attack the Championships.
Without further ado here is the press release in full:
Formula One Cost Cap Q&A 30/04/2009
Why does Formula One need cost capping?
Formula One faces a period of great uncertainty during this harsh recessionary period. Funding a team is increasingly seen as a discretionary spend for the majority of team owners and sponsors. To ensure a healthy grid all are agreed that costs need to be cut.
Two main philosophies have emerged, either i) reduce activity levels through very restrictive technical rules, plus a degree of standardization if required; or ii) restrict the money that teams are allowed to spend (cost capping).
The FIA believes that unfettered technical competition is part of Formula One’s DNA, and would like to see this flourish, but in an environment of strong, responsible and innovative management, not a spending race. For these reasons cost capping is preferred.
What is covered by the cost cap?
Everything except:
Marketing and promotion – we want Formula One teams to look good and to entertain their partners. We want manufacturers to show off their cars at exhibitions and city centre displays, and we want teams and their sponsors to promote Formula One through inclusion in advertising campaigns.
Drivers and young driver programmes – Formula One is the pinnacle of motor racing. Fundamental to this is attracting the world’s best drivers. Moreover we wish to encourage continued investment in young driver programmes.
Engine costs – In order to attract manufacturer owned teams to take up the cost capping option, the FIA have decided to exclude engine costs for 2010 (only)
Furthermore, we are allowing manufacturers to honor existing supply arrangements, provided there is no element of subsidy that could have a cartel-like affect on the engine market.
How did the FIA arrive at the £40m figure?
We arrived at the figure by analysing both revenues and costs in Formula One.
We know what the FOM (Formula One Management) revenue is likely to be in the future, and we have some understanding of realistic sponsorship revenues during the recession. Taken together, it’s possible to project total external revenues for all finishing positions in the Championship. At £40m we believe that 70 per cent of the grid can generate a profit. This transforms the business case for owning a Formula One team, for both manufacturers and private investors. The desired net result is to have a very healthy commercial environment for present and new owners.
We also had a good look at costs, and believe that £40m in combination with greater technical freedom will allow engineers to create Formula One cars even more interesting and exciting than today’s cars.
Will the £40m cap for 2010 be changed for future years?
As set out in the Regulations, the cap for future years will be decided by the FIA. In setting future years’ limits, the FIA will have regard to the progress of the project and the feedback from all stakeholders to the sport.
How does the FIA intend to police the cost cap?
Throughout the construction of the Regulations we have worked with expert forensic accountants.
The Regulations allow for the establishment of a Costs Commission to monitor and assist teams in complying with the Regulations. The Costs Commission will appoint auditors, and other financial experts as required, in order to do this.
A key factor is that all cost capped teams are businesses engaged in exactly the same activities and this enables consistent interpretation of the principles of the regulations. It is difficult to hide engineering activity or to falsify accounts consistently, given the traceability of transactions in today’s world and the access and inspection powers which the Costs Commission will have. The penalties for defrauding the FIA with regard to any willful transgression of any Regulation or any subversion of an investigation are well established.
Is a Costs Commission really needed?
The emphasis is on teams to demonstrate compliance, and to pro-actively seek clarification and interpretation of the Regulations. As the Cost Cap Regulations are new the FIA has decided to provide an appropriate resource, staffed with a small number of financial and technical experts, to deal with such issues, and to monitor compliance, such that the Regulations are effective.
Who pays for the Costs Commission, auditors and other experts, and doesn’t this just add costs, rather than removing them?
The cost capped teams will each pay an equal contribution to cover these costs. The costs involved will represent a tiny fraction of the costs saved in Formula One.
What is the penalty if a team exceeds the cost cap?
This depends on the case. The International Sporting Code covers transgressions in the same manner as for the technical or sporting regulations. There are no ‘fixed penalties’. The Cost Commission will judge the degree of misdemeanor and advise the FIA , who will determine any penalty.
What measures are there to prevent teams spending money this year on a car that will compete under cost cap in 2010?
The teams must demonstrate that they have adhered to the spirit of the regulations and spend no more than 50% of the value of the 2010 cap on the development of the 2010 car (in 2009). Furthermore, there are limits on the value of stock of car parts which can be carried into 2010.
How will you stop manufacturer backed teams from running hidden F1-related projects in their parent companies?
The question is actually asking ‘how will we stop manufacturer teams from cheating’. The principles of determining a fair market value for all activities which are undertaken for the benefit of a team (whether a manufacturer or not) are clearly set out in the Regulations.
No team would wish to be exposed as cheating, so we expect a healthy amount of self-policing. However, the rules are clear on this point, such activities must be declared and appropriately valued. Bear in mind the access that the costs commission and auditors have and their ability to compare reported costs across all cost capped teams.
Will teams be allowed to buy parts from other teams/manufacturers?
Yes, according to the FIA regulations, but one should bear in mind that contractual arrangements with the Commercial Rights Holder will place restrictions on such activities. Inter-team transactions are covered by the regulations.
How many teams do you expect to take up the budget option?
All those who wish to transform the commercial basis of participation for their owners and investors. The FIA believes that cost capping will prove attractive, and it hopes that over time all teams will join. So far, interest has been extraordinarily high from both existing teams and potential new entrants.
If a team decides not to become cost capped now, can it do so at a later date?
Yes, a team will be able to opt to become cost capped in advance of each year of its participation in the Championship.
Are you worried that F1 will effectively become a two-tier championship?
There is one set of Technical Regulations and as always there are choices for all teams as to how they decide to attack the Championships.
Wednesday, 29 April 2009
FIA Verdict On McLaren
The FIA have released this press statement about the meeting today with McLaren regarding their punishment for lieing to stewards at the Australian Grand Prix about Lewis Hamilton overtaking Glock under safety car conditions etc.
Press Release:
World Motor Sport Council 29/04/2009
At an extraordinary meeting of the World Motor Sport Council held in Paris on 29 April 2009, Vodafone McLaren Mercedes admitted five charges of breaching article 151c of the International Sporting Code relating to events at the Australian and Malaysian Grands Prix.
The following decision was taken:
“Having regard to the open and honest way in which McLaren Team Principal, Mr Martin Whitmarsh, addressed the WMSC and the change in culture which he made clear has taken place in his organisation, the WMSC decided to suspend the application of the penalty it deems appropriate.
“That penalty is a suspension of the team from three races of the FIA Formula One World Championship. This will only be applied if further facts emerge regarding the case or if, in the next 12 months, there is a further breach by the team of article 151c of the International Sporting Code.”
The full reasons for this decision will be issued shortly.
- - - - - - - - - - -
Martin Whitmarsh (Team Principal) had this to say:
"I would like to thank the FIA World Motor Sport Council members for affording me the opportunity to answer their questions this morning. We are aware that we made serious mistakes in Australia and Malaysia, and I was therefore very glad to be able to apologise for those mistakes once again. I was also pleased to be able to assure the FIA World Motor Sport Council members that we had taken appropriate action with a view to ensuring that such mistakes do not occur again."
It would appear that this is just a slap on the wrists for McLaren and a way of keeping an eye on them. Hopefully this is the end of it now and McLaren will fight to become a top team again. No doubt Lewis Hamilton is relieved that he won't be missing any races.
Press Release:
World Motor Sport Council 29/04/2009
At an extraordinary meeting of the World Motor Sport Council held in Paris on 29 April 2009, Vodafone McLaren Mercedes admitted five charges of breaching article 151c of the International Sporting Code relating to events at the Australian and Malaysian Grands Prix.
The following decision was taken:
“Having regard to the open and honest way in which McLaren Team Principal, Mr Martin Whitmarsh, addressed the WMSC and the change in culture which he made clear has taken place in his organisation, the WMSC decided to suspend the application of the penalty it deems appropriate.
“That penalty is a suspension of the team from three races of the FIA Formula One World Championship. This will only be applied if further facts emerge regarding the case or if, in the next 12 months, there is a further breach by the team of article 151c of the International Sporting Code.”
The full reasons for this decision will be issued shortly.
- - - - - - - - - - -
Martin Whitmarsh (Team Principal) had this to say:
"I would like to thank the FIA World Motor Sport Council members for affording me the opportunity to answer their questions this morning. We are aware that we made serious mistakes in Australia and Malaysia, and I was therefore very glad to be able to apologise for those mistakes once again. I was also pleased to be able to assure the FIA World Motor Sport Council members that we had taken appropriate action with a view to ensuring that such mistakes do not occur again."
It would appear that this is just a slap on the wrists for McLaren and a way of keeping an eye on them. Hopefully this is the end of it now and McLaren will fight to become a top team again. No doubt Lewis Hamilton is relieved that he won't be missing any races.
Swine Flu May Cancel Grand Prix
There are rumours that there may be Grand Prix cancelled due to the outbreak of swine flu across the globe. This is to stop it spreading between large groups of people. One other option may be to hold the races with no one present… in front of empty stands… No change to Bahrain then?A1GP have already confirmed that there will be no race in Mexico. This means that the A1GP formula, which is already struggling will now also be without it’s season ending race climax in Mexico. This is a major blow for A1GP. It remains to be seen if the formula will carry on after this year.
Tuesday, 28 April 2009
Ayrton Senna Documentary Film
A new documentary film will begin getting shot in May about the formula one career of Ayrton Senna. The film is being made by Working Title productions who have made several small budget but successful films such as About A Boy and Four Weddings And A Funeral. This undertaking is a new direction for them but no doubt they will probably do a good job. Formula One Management (FOM) has given permission to use old footage and the film is fully endorsed by the Senna family.I am excited about seeing some old race footage on the big screen. The likes of which we will never have seen. I just hope they don’t make Senna out to be a saintly person. Or for that matter make him seem like a mad control freak or overtly religious. But to show him as the loveable, complicated, passionate, flawed genius that I think most F1 fans remember him and loved him as.
McLaren And FIA In 'Lie Gate' Meeting Wednesday
Tomorrow McLaren go in front of the FIA at a meeting accused of bringing the sport into disrepute by getting Lewis Hamilton to lye about the safety car / Glock incident in Australia.
They face an array of penalties including being kicked out of the sport. Seeing as Hamilton has apologised and already had his points taken from him for Australia. Coupled with the fact Ron Dennis has left and they sacked sporting director Dave Ryan for telling Hamilton to lie. They will probably just get a slap on the wrists. However we will know tomorrow what will come of it all. Then hopefully it will all be done and dusted. The verdict will be posted here as it happens.
They face an array of penalties including being kicked out of the sport. Seeing as Hamilton has apologised and already had his points taken from him for Australia. Coupled with the fact Ron Dennis has left and they sacked sporting director Dave Ryan for telling Hamilton to lie. They will probably just get a slap on the wrists. However we will know tomorrow what will come of it all. Then hopefully it will all be done and dusted. The verdict will be posted here as it happens.
BBC Spanish Grand Prix Coverage
Friday 8th of May 2009
First practice: 1000-1130 (0900-1030 BST)
BBC coverage (UK): 0900-1030, Red Button/5 Live sports extra/online
Second practice: 1400-1530 (1300-1430 BST)
BBC coverage (UK): 1300-1430, Red Button/5 Live sports extra/online
Saturday 9th of May 2009
Third practice: 1100-1200 (1000-1100 BST)
BBC coverage (UK): 1000-1100, Red Button/5 Live sports extra/online
Qualifying: 1400 (1300 BST)
BBC coverage (UK): 1210-1415, BBC One/Red Button/5 Live sports extra/online
Qualifying replay: 1800-1000 (Sunday), BBC Red Button (Not on Freeview)
Sunday 10th of May 2009
Race: 1400 (1300 BST)
BBC coverage (UK): 1210-1500, BBC One/Red Button/5 Live/online.
Interactive forum: 1500-1600 ,BBC Red Button/online
Highlights: 1900-2000, BBC Three/Red Button/online
Race loop: 1600-0600 (Tuesday), BBC Red Button (Not on Freeview)
First practice: 1000-1130 (0900-1030 BST)
BBC coverage (UK): 0900-1030, Red Button/5 Live sports extra/online
Second practice: 1400-1530 (1300-1430 BST)
BBC coverage (UK): 1300-1430, Red Button/5 Live sports extra/online
Saturday 9th of May 2009
Third practice: 1100-1200 (1000-1100 BST)
BBC coverage (UK): 1000-1100, Red Button/5 Live sports extra/online
Qualifying: 1400 (1300 BST)
BBC coverage (UK): 1210-1415, BBC One/Red Button/5 Live sports extra/online
Qualifying replay: 1800-1000 (Sunday), BBC Red Button (Not on Freeview)
Sunday 10th of May 2009
Race: 1400 (1300 BST)
BBC coverage (UK): 1210-1500, BBC One/Red Button/5 Live/online.
Interactive forum: 1500-1600 ,BBC Red Button/online
Highlights: 1900-2000, BBC Three/Red Button/online
Race loop: 1600-0600 (Tuesday), BBC Red Button (Not on Freeview)
Bahrain Grand Prix Review
Round four and the first ‘Normal’ race we’ve had. A purpose built track, no rain and no safety car. All meant this was a lights to flag race. What a race it was too. I can’t remember the last time that there was a start with so much overtaking and dicing. It really was good to see. The KERS and new aerodynamic packages seem to be doing the trick. However it was noticeable that by the end of the race things were pretty settled and the use of different tyres and the new rules didn’t create the overtaking right up until the end of the race. With a dozen laps left nothing much really changed. However it was always custom that nothing changed after the first corner so things have improved markedly. I think that is reflected in the surge of interest in Formula One this season. Coupled with the fact that in this country we have a British world champion and an Englishman winning races now.Brawn managed to win but I think it was only through the brilliance of Jenson Button in the opening laps and the genius of Ross Brawn and his tactics which meant they won. It was also a lost opportunity for the Toyotas who must be kicking themselves. They just weren’t quite quick enough when they needed to be. However as they keep developing with the rest of the field it will be interesting to see if the Brawn gets swamped. Because at the moment I think the Brawn at most is only as good as the Toyotas and Red Bulls – not better. At Brawn GP they don’t seem to have the sponsorship and subsequently the money to develop with the rest of the field. The clear advantage they had at the beginning of the season is fast being eaten up by the rest of the field.
Ferrari gave a big sigh of relief after Kimi put in a solid race to come in 6th and score their first points of the season. Even despite Massa being squeezed into Kimi at the first corner by Barrichello. For a heart stopping moment I thought they were going to take each other out. Thankfully they didn’t but Massa’s car was sufficiently damaged to not be competitive.
Unbelievable really to think how dominant Ferrari were at the end of last season. They will be pleased to be off the mark and will be getting all the new parts, including a rear diffuser for the next race at Barcelona. Rumour has it that unless the new parts make a major difference then Ferrari are going to scrap this season’s development and just pour all their resources into next years car. With the points difference being so huge after four races then unless they start scoring big straight away it seems like a reasonable thing to do. However it is a bit of a shame for the sport for Ferrari to give up for the rest of the year.
BMW Sauber had a horrid time in Bahrain. Both the cars coming plumb last. Their be analysing the race and working out what exactly went wrong. Simply seems they had to pit to repair the cars after the first couple of laps and although they fuelled them long there was not a safety car so they couldn’t take advantage. Game over.
Mark Webber had an amazing first couple of laps to drive through the field (his opening lap can be seen here). However he only came in 11th at the end of the race which shows how important qualifying is. Ironically his qualifying position was not his fault and although Sutil (who blocked him in qualifying) got a three place penalty it is no help to Webber. The man with no luck continues to have no luck. He must be rousing the lost opportunity as Vettel is making off with the lions share of the teams points and establishing himself as the teams leader going for the championship.
In two weeks time all eyes will be on the developments the team bring to the first European race. Ferrari especially will be looking to make the new developments count. McLaren will also be looking to push into the top three. So it is going to be very tight. We will also find out if the new rules really are improving overtaking as the Catalunya circuit is notorious for producing stagnant non overtaking races. In the last 8 races the pole sitter has won the race. Let's hope it's not a yawn fest.
Monday, 27 April 2009
Sunday, 26 April 2009
Bahrain Grand Prix Results
1. BUTTON Brawn
2. VETTEL Red Bull +7.1s
3. TRULLI Toyota +9.1s
4. HAMILTON McLaren +22.0s
5. BARRICHELLO Brawn +37.7s
6. RAIKKONEN Ferrari +42.0s
7. GLOCK Toyota +42.8s
8. ALONSO Renault +52.7s
9. ROSBERG Williams +58.1s
10. PIQUET Renault +1m05.1s
11. WEBBER Red Bull +1m07.6s
12. KOVALAINEN McLaren +1m17.8s
13. BOURDAIS Toro Rosso +1m18.8s
14. MASSA Ferrari +1 lap
15. FISICHELLA Force India +1 lap
16. SUTIL Force India +1 lap
17. BUEMI Toro Rosso +1 lap
18. KUBICA BMW +1 lap
19. HEIDFELD BMW +1 lap
20. NAKAJIMA Williams +9 laps
Fastest Lap: TRULLI 1m34.556s
2. VETTEL Red Bull +7.1s
3. TRULLI Toyota +9.1s
4. HAMILTON McLaren +22.0s
5. BARRICHELLO Brawn +37.7s
6. RAIKKONEN Ferrari +42.0s
7. GLOCK Toyota +42.8s
8. ALONSO Renault +52.7s
9. ROSBERG Williams +58.1s
10. PIQUET Renault +1m05.1s
11. WEBBER Red Bull +1m07.6s
12. KOVALAINEN McLaren +1m17.8s
13. BOURDAIS Toro Rosso +1m18.8s
14. MASSA Ferrari +1 lap
15. FISICHELLA Force India +1 lap
16. SUTIL Force India +1 lap
17. BUEMI Toro Rosso +1 lap
18. KUBICA BMW +1 lap
19. HEIDFELD BMW +1 lap
20. NAKAJIMA Williams +9 laps
Fastest Lap: TRULLI 1m34.556s
Saturday, 25 April 2009
Bahrain Grand Prix Qualifying Press Conference
Bahrain Grand Prix Qualifying Press Conference available from the FIA with drivers Jarno Trulli (Toyota), Timo Glock (Toyota) and Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull).
1. TRULLI Toyota
2. GLOCK Toyota
3. VETTEL Red Bull
4. BUTTON Brawn
5. HAMILTON McLaren
6. BARRICHELLO Brawn
7. ALONSO Renault
8. MASSA Ferrari
9. ROSBERG Williams
10. RAIKKONEN Ferrari
11. KOVALAINEN McLaren
12. NAKAJIMA Williams
13. KUBICA BMW
14. HEIDFELD BMW
15. PIQUET Renault
16. BUEMI Toro Rosso
17. FISICHELLA Force India
18. WEBBER Red Bull
19. SUTIL Force India*
20. BOURDAIS Toro Rosso
* penalised 3 places for impeding Webber
Grid For The Bahrain Grand Prix
2. GLOCK Toyota
3. VETTEL Red Bull
4. BUTTON Brawn
5. HAMILTON McLaren
6. BARRICHELLO Brawn
7. ALONSO Renault
8. MASSA Ferrari
9. ROSBERG Williams
10. RAIKKONEN Ferrari
11. KOVALAINEN McLaren
12. NAKAJIMA Williams
13. KUBICA BMW
14. HEIDFELD BMW
15. PIQUET Renault
16. BUEMI Toro Rosso
17. FISICHELLA Force India
18. WEBBER Red Bull
19. SUTIL Force India*
20. BOURDAIS Toro Rosso
* penalised 3 places for impeding Webber
Friday, 24 April 2009
Bahrain Grand Prix Free Practice Session Two
1. ROSBERG Williams 1m33.339s
2. ALONSO Renault 1m33.530s
3. TRULLI Toyota 1m33.616s
4. VETTEL Red Bull 1m33.661s
5. WEBBER Red Bull 1m33.676s
6. BUTTON Brawn 1m33.694s
7. SUTIL Force India 1m33.763s
8. GLOCK Toyota 1m33.764s
9. BARRICHELLO Brawn 1m33.885s
10. NAKAJIMA Williams 1m33.899s
11. HAMILTON McLaren 1m33.994s
12. FISICHELLA Force India 1m34.025s
13. BUEMI Toro Rosso 1m34.127s
14. BOURDAIS Toro Rosso 1m34.366s
15. PIQUET Renault 1m34.411s
16. MASSA Ferrari 1m34.564s
17. KUBICA BMW 1m34.605s
18. RAIKKONEN Ferrari 1m34.670s
19. KOVALAINEN McLaren 1m34.764s
20. HEIDFELD BMW 1m34.790s
2. ALONSO Renault 1m33.530s
3. TRULLI Toyota 1m33.616s
4. VETTEL Red Bull 1m33.661s
5. WEBBER Red Bull 1m33.676s
6. BUTTON Brawn 1m33.694s
7. SUTIL Force India 1m33.763s
8. GLOCK Toyota 1m33.764s
9. BARRICHELLO Brawn 1m33.885s
10. NAKAJIMA Williams 1m33.899s
11. HAMILTON McLaren 1m33.994s
12. FISICHELLA Force India 1m34.025s
13. BUEMI Toro Rosso 1m34.127s
14. BOURDAIS Toro Rosso 1m34.366s
15. PIQUET Renault 1m34.411s
16. MASSA Ferrari 1m34.564s
17. KUBICA BMW 1m34.605s
18. RAIKKONEN Ferrari 1m34.670s
19. KOVALAINEN McLaren 1m34.764s
20. HEIDFELD BMW 1m34.790s
British Grand Prix In Doubt
The Wheatcroft family, which owns Donington Park, have announced that they’ve launched legal proceedings against the circuit operator, Donington Ventures Leisure Ltd who owe them 2.5 million in rent.Proceedings have been issued by the law firm Browne Jacobson LLP against Donington Ventures Leisure Ltd.
“It is with great reluctance that we have taken this decision,” said Kevin Wheatcroft. “Donington Ventures Leisure Ltd owe us nearly £2.5m in rent dating back to September 2008. Despite receiving numerous reassurances over a number of months they have consistently failed to meet their financial obligations under the terms of the lease. We have held off taking legal action for as long as possible but have been left with no choice but to commence proceedings to recover the outstanding rent and forfeit the lease.”
If this goes ahead Donington Ventures Leisure Ltd will loose their 10 year lease and the British Grand Prix there. The bad thing is Bernie Ecclestone has said that if Donnington isn’t sorted and ready to go by 2010 the British Grand Prix won’t stay at Silverstone. There simply won’t be one by the looks of it! However is this really such a surprise? Bernie has been looking for a way to free up a race space on the calendar for a fly away race where they will pay lots of money. My heart sinks at the thought of another fly away race, in an empty desert, under floodlights, in front of empty grandstands instead of the British Grand Prix.
Bahrain Grand Prix Free Practice Session One
1. HAMILTON McLaren 1m33.647s
2. HEIDFELD BMW 1m33.907s
3. KUBICA BMW 1m33.938s
4. ROSBERG Williams 1m34.227s
5. BUTTON Brawn 1m34.434s
6. KOVALAINEN McLaren 1m34.502s
7. BARRICHELLO Brawn 1m34.531s
8. MASSA Ferrari 1m34.589s
9. WEBBER Red Bull 1m34.827s
10. RAIKKONEN Ferrari 1m34.827s
11. NAKAJIMA Williams 1m34.880s
12. VETTEL Red Bull 1m34.938s
13 PIQUET Renault 1m34.974s
14. SUTIL Force India 1m35.021s
15. TRULLI Toyota 1m35.036s
16. FISICHELLA Force India 1m35.042s
17 GLOCK Toyota 1m35.333s
18. ALONSO Renault 1m35.348s
19. BOURDAIS Toro Rosso 1m35.353s
20. BUEMI Toro Rosso 1m35.369s
2. HEIDFELD BMW 1m33.907s
3. KUBICA BMW 1m33.938s
4. ROSBERG Williams 1m34.227s
5. BUTTON Brawn 1m34.434s
6. KOVALAINEN McLaren 1m34.502s
7. BARRICHELLO Brawn 1m34.531s
8. MASSA Ferrari 1m34.589s
9. WEBBER Red Bull 1m34.827s
10. RAIKKONEN Ferrari 1m34.827s
11. NAKAJIMA Williams 1m34.880s
12. VETTEL Red Bull 1m34.938s
13 PIQUET Renault 1m34.974s
14. SUTIL Force India 1m35.021s
15. TRULLI Toyota 1m35.036s
16. FISICHELLA Force India 1m35.042s
17 GLOCK Toyota 1m35.333s
18. ALONSO Renault 1m35.348s
19. BOURDAIS Toro Rosso 1m35.353s
20. BUEMI Toro Rosso 1m35.369s
Thursday, 23 April 2009
Thursday's Bahrain Grand Prix Press Conference
Thursday's Bahrain Grand Prix Press Conference available from the FIA with drivers Timo Glock (Toyota), Robert Kubica (BMW Sauber), Nelson Piquet (Renault) and Kimi Raikkonen (Ferrari).
Force India Aero Updates
Force India are bringing a load of new aero updates to Bahrain. This includes a new undertray and one of the controversial double decker diffusers which have just been officially made legal. Team boss Vijay Mallya had this to say:“We are planning to introduce a significant aerodynamic upgrade for the Bahrain Grand Prix, including a new floor and an interim diffuser. Amongst other items, we also plan to use new auxiliary wings on the front wing and reprofiled sidepods to incorporate the amended rear end. We have been planning this upgrade since the debut of the VJM02 as part of our scheduled aerodynamic cycle and it will represent a good step forward for the team. Although we nevertheless expect other teams to have moved forward as well, we hope this will keep us racing with the rest of the field.”
They seem pretty chuffed with themselves and sure it will make a difference. However they were like this at Spa in 2007 and nothing really came of it. So I'm not holding my breath for it to make a difference. If it does make any difference that will no doubt be eaten up by the improvements of most of the other teams who are introducing all new aero bits and bobs for the Spanish Gran Prix.
Dave Richards Keen On Formula 1 Return
It would seem that Dave Richards (of BAR and Renault infamy) is keen to make a return to Formula 1... Which is no great surprise as he has been linked to making a comeback with various teams over the last few years. With all the talk about Lola he has taken the opportunity to stick his oar in regarding a possible comeback. It would be good to see the Formula 1 grid be filled out again... Providing they provide some good racing.
A BBC article is available on what he has to say here.
A BBC article is available on what he has to say here.
Lola Consider Entering F1 In 2010
Head of Lola motorsport, Martin Birrane has been quoted as saying at a recent conference:“The announcement that Formula 1 teams may opt for a prudent, financially responsible ‘cost-capped’ regime from 2010 has resulted in us deciding to fully evaluate the opportunity to develop a car to compete in the FIA Formula One World Championship. Providing world-class engineering excellence, offering high-quality solutions governed by a tightly controlled financial regime has been part of Lola’s DNA over the last decade. The current necessity for Formula 1 to adopt a responsible approach in times of economic uncertainty has created the ideal conditions for us to consider developing a car for the world championship. Lola possesses the technical resources, capability and know-how to develop cars capable of competing at the very highest levels of international motor sport, including Formula 1. We are therefore embracing the WMSC’s timely announcements and assessing a relevant programme for F1 with a view to making formal entry in the coming weeks.”
This would all make it seem that Lola are really considering racing. Their last attempt at an F1 campaign ended up going bust before it even started in Australia. Although the cars got there they never turned a wheel! That was back in 1997. Previously in the 60s, 70s and 80s they had limited success in F1. However they have had success in American racing series such as Indy Car and the Le Mans series.
Lola would no doubt be a welcomed addition to a dwindling F1 field. It would seem that the cost capping mooted would be effective in attracting more teams. Let’s hope it does.
Bahrain F1 Doctor Suspended
On the BBC, Bill Law who is the BBC World Current Affairs reporter has reported the doctor who supervises Formula 1's Bahrain Grand Prix is under suspension in the run-up to this year's race. To read the full report click here.
Wednesday, 22 April 2009
Bahrain Grand Prix Preview
The fourth event of the 2009 Formula One season will take place in Bahrain. Located south of the capital Manama and designed by German architect Hermann Tilke the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) covers an area of 170 hectares. It has five circuit variants, the longest being the Grand Prix course at 5,412km.
The circuit, which is located in the middle of the desert, offers drivers challenges they have not yet faced this season. Due to its unusual location the possibility of sand being blown onto the track is very real. Sand will minimise grip on the track and will see drivers putting engines through their paces. This year, the Bahrain International Circuit announced its partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme which will see the circuit take on environmental initiatives as part of its "BIC Go Green" campaign. In 2007 it was named an 'FIA Institute Centre of Excellence' in recognition of its excellent safety, race marshalling, medical facilities and high technology standards.
BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT – INTERESTING FACTS
• Welsh granite was chosen along with over 12,000 tonnes of stone for the construction of the track.
• Drivers don’t spray the traditional champagne on the podium upon winning. Although alcoholic beverages are legal in Bahrain the drivers spray a non-alcoholic rose water drink known as Waard instead.
Circuit data
Length of lap: 5.412km
Offset: 0.246km
Total number of race laps: 57
Total race distance: 308.238km
Speed limits in the pit lane: 60km/h during practice sessions; 100km/h during race
The circuit, which is located in the middle of the desert, offers drivers challenges they have not yet faced this season. Due to its unusual location the possibility of sand being blown onto the track is very real. Sand will minimise grip on the track and will see drivers putting engines through their paces. This year, the Bahrain International Circuit announced its partnership with the United Nations Environment Programme which will see the circuit take on environmental initiatives as part of its "BIC Go Green" campaign. In 2007 it was named an 'FIA Institute Centre of Excellence' in recognition of its excellent safety, race marshalling, medical facilities and high technology standards.
BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT – INTERESTING FACTS
• Welsh granite was chosen along with over 12,000 tonnes of stone for the construction of the track.
• Drivers don’t spray the traditional champagne on the podium upon winning. Although alcoholic beverages are legal in Bahrain the drivers spray a non-alcoholic rose water drink known as Waard instead.
Circuit data
Length of lap: 5.412km
Offset: 0.246km
Total number of race laps: 57
Total race distance: 308.238km
Speed limits in the pit lane: 60km/h during practice sessions; 100km/h during race
Tuesday, 21 April 2009
Next Formula 1 Coverage On The BBC
On TV
Formula 1 2009, The Bahrain Grand Prix - Qualifying
25 Apr 2009 11:10 - 13:15 BBC One
Formula 1 2009, The Bahrain Grand Prix
26 Apr 2009 12:10 - 15:00 BBC One
Formula 1 2009, The Bahrain Grand Prix - Highlights
26 Apr 2009 19:00 - 20:00 BBC Three
On Radio
Formula 1 24/04/2009
24 Apr 2009 07:55 - 08:35 BBC Radio 5 live sports extra
Formula 1 17/04/2009
24 Apr 2009 11:55 - 13:35 BBC Radio 5 live sports extra
5 live Formula 1 24/04/2009
24 Apr 2009 21:30 - 22:00 BBC Radio 5 live
On Red Button/Website
Interactive TV and website coverage
Formula 1 2009, The Bahrain Grand Prix - Qualifying
25 Apr 2009 11:10 - 13:15 BBC One
Formula 1 2009, The Bahrain Grand Prix
26 Apr 2009 12:10 - 15:00 BBC One
Formula 1 2009, The Bahrain Grand Prix - Highlights
26 Apr 2009 19:00 - 20:00 BBC Three
On Radio
Formula 1 24/04/2009
24 Apr 2009 07:55 - 08:35 BBC Radio 5 live sports extra
Formula 1 17/04/2009
24 Apr 2009 11:55 - 13:35 BBC Radio 5 live sports extra
5 live Formula 1 24/04/2009
24 Apr 2009 21:30 - 22:00 BBC Radio 5 live
On Red Button/Website
Interactive TV and website coverage
Monday, 20 April 2009
Chinese Grand Prix Review
Two wet races in succession. This time Red Bull made a great 1 – 2 in China. Their first grand prix win and sure enough they did it with a 1 – 2. It was good to see Vettel win again after doing the same for the sister team at Monza last year. Mark Webber did an excellent job as always but Vettel seemed to just have the legs on him at first and then managed to peg him all the way to the end. Things may have been closer if Mark hadn’t made that mistake and ran wide loosing time fighting back past Button. But it never really looked like anyone else’s grand prix to take.Button did an excellent job although it was apparent that the Brawn GP isn’t as dominant in the wet. Their diffusers create aerodynamic down force. So when going slower in the wet they just don’t have as much grip. Whereas the Red Bulls don’t and rely on mechanical grip enabling them to handle excellently in the wet.
Both McLaren and Renault had new diffusers for the race and both improved in the dry qualifying. However Alonso’s decision to pit early and run a light fuel load in Q3 didn’t do him any favours and he spent the day playing catch up not being able to utilise the effect of the new diffuser in the wet. McLaren didn’t fair much better struggling in the wet with Hamilton making more spins and offs than anyone else it would seem. However he was sufficiently fast to make the difference. This made for some interesting racing as he sliced through the field.
The weather yet again threw up some great racing with drivers slipping off and then racing back. The whole two hour race was full of dicing for places too many to mention. It was noticeable how close 5th to 12th seemed to be all the time. Even in the dying stages any one of about five people could of taken the final few points places.
I hope this is the case as we go on through the season and not just indicative of the weather. As of yet we haven’t had a ‘normal’ grand prix where the weather or a unique track hasn’t effected the outcome. I am looking forward to Bahrain and hopefully we can have something more of an ordinary race. But hopefully still with all the excellent racing.
Noticeably Ferrari had yet another abysmal race with Massa having electrical problems and Kimi complaining of a lack of power. Ferrari however have been optimistic in the press that their new development pieces will help them be much more competitive when introduced in Spain. They need it to stop the worst start to a season for them since 1981. If they hadn’t of had reliability problems they would of probably picked up a couple of points and maybe nicked a podium by now. Having said that it’s not excuse.
My heart goes out to force India who seem destined to always have a great points place snatched from them. In the last few laps Sutil crashed out with aquaplaning. They were unlucky last year at Monaco as well with Kimi Raikkonen hitting them. I hope they have more luck in future. Their a plucky team and who can’t support the underdog?
With only a week separating the Chinese from Bahrain Grand Prix there will be no time for teams to change much on the cars and the pecking order will no doubt be very similar to China. Let’s just hope the racing is as close and exciting.
Sunday, 19 April 2009
Chinese Grand Prix Press Conference
Post-Race Press Conference organised by the FIA for the 2009 Chinese Grand Prix is available here with Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull), Mark Webber (Red Bull) and Jenson Button (Brawn GP).
Chinese Grand Prix Result
1. VETTEL Red Bull 1h57m43.49s
2. WEBBER Red Bull +11.0s
3. BUTTON Brawn +45.0s
4. BARRICHELLO Brawn +1m03.7s
5. KOVALAINEN McLaren +1m05.1s
6. HAMILTON McLaren +1m11.9s
7. GLOCK Toyota +1m14.5s
8. BUEMI Toro Rosso +1m16.4s
9. ALONSO Renault +1m24.3s
10. RAIKKONEN Ferrari +1m31.8s
11. BOURDAIS Toro Rosso +1m34.2s
12. HEIDFELD BMW +1m35.8s
13. KUBICA BMW +1m46.9s
14. FISICHELLA Force India +1 lap
15. ROSBERG Williams +1 lap
16. PIQUET Renault +2 laps
R. SUTIL Force India +6 laps
R. NAKAJIMA Williams +13 laps
R. MASSA Ferrari +36 laps
R. TRULLI Toyota +38 laps
Fastest lap: BARRICHELLO 1m52.592s
2. WEBBER Red Bull +11.0s
3. BUTTON Brawn +45.0s
4. BARRICHELLO Brawn +1m03.7s
5. KOVALAINEN McLaren +1m05.1s
6. HAMILTON McLaren +1m11.9s
7. GLOCK Toyota +1m14.5s
8. BUEMI Toro Rosso +1m16.4s
9. ALONSO Renault +1m24.3s
10. RAIKKONEN Ferrari +1m31.8s
11. BOURDAIS Toro Rosso +1m34.2s
12. HEIDFELD BMW +1m35.8s
13. KUBICA BMW +1m46.9s
14. FISICHELLA Force India +1 lap
15. ROSBERG Williams +1 lap
16. PIQUET Renault +2 laps
R. SUTIL Force India +6 laps
R. NAKAJIMA Williams +13 laps
R. MASSA Ferrari +36 laps
R. TRULLI Toyota +38 laps
Fastest lap: BARRICHELLO 1m52.592s
Saturday, 18 April 2009
China Qualifying and Press Conference
Qualifying showed the new diffuser on the Renault made a difference. It also demonstrated Red Bull are going to be hard to beat when they get a diffuser, as their fast enough now to win by the looks of it!
1. VETTEL Red Bull
2. ALONSO Renault
3. WEBBER Red Bull
4. BARRICHELLO Brawn
5. BUTTON Brawn
6. TRULLI Toyota
7. ROSBERG Williams
8. RAIKKONEN Ferrari
9. HAMILTON McLaren
10. BUEMI Toro Rosso
11. HEIDFELD BMW
12. KOVALAINEN McLaren
13. MASSA Ferrari
14. NAKAJIMA Williams
15. BOURDAIS Toro Rosso
16. PIQUET Renault
17. KUBICA BMW
18. SUTIL Force India
19. GLOCK Toyota*
20. FISICHELLA Force India
* five-place penalty for gearbox change
Qualifying finished like this:
1. VETTEL Red Bull
2. ALONSO Renault
3. WEBBER Red Bull
4. BARRICHELLO Brawn
5. BUTTON Brawn
6. TRULLI Toyota
7. ROSBERG Williams
8. RAIKKONEN Ferrari
9. HAMILTON McLaren
10. BUEMI Toro Rosso
11. HEIDFELD BMW
12. KOVALAINEN McLaren
13. MASSA Ferrari
14. NAKAJIMA Williams
15. BOURDAIS Toro Rosso
16. PIQUET Renault
17. KUBICA BMW
18. SUTIL Force India
19. GLOCK Toyota*
20. FISICHELLA Force India
* five-place penalty for gearbox change
Here is the Post-Qualifying Press Conference organised by the FIA at the 2009 Chinese Grand Prix. With Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull), Fernando Alonso (Renault) and Mark Webber (Red Bull).
It will be interesting to see the weights of the cars and see how lightly the teams are fueled. I suspect the Red Bull's are light and the Renault lighter to get their graining soft tyres out of the way in a quick early stint. No doubt the Brawn GP's will move up the field during the first stops. As will Kimi Raikkonen who traditionally fuels heavy.
Friday, 17 April 2009
Friday's Chinese FIA Press Conference
Friday's Chinese FIA Press Conference with team principals; Norbert Haug (Mercedes),
Christian Horner (Red Bull) and Mario Theissen (BMW Sauber) is available here.
Christian Horner (Red Bull) and Mario Theissen (BMW Sauber) is available here.
Chinese Grand Prix Free Practice Session Two Times
1. BUTTON Brawn 1m35.679s
2. ROSBERG Williams 1m35.704s
3. BARRICHELLO Brawn 1m35.881s
4. WEBBER Red Bull 1m36.105s
5. VETTEL Red Bull 1m36.167s
6. TRULLI Toyota 1m36.217s
7. NAKAJIMA Williams 1m36.377s
8. GLOCK Toyota 1m36.548s
9. KOVALAINEN McLaren 1m36.674s
10. BOURDAIS Toro Rosso 1m36.800s
11. SUTIL Force India 1m36.829s
12. MASSA Ferrari 1m36.847s
13. HAMILTON McLaren 1m36.941s
14. RAIKKONEN Ferrari 1m37.054s
15. BUEMI Toro Rosso 1m37.219s
16. PIQUET Renault 1m37.273s
17. KUBICA BMW 1m37.491s
18. HEIDFELD BMW 1m37.544s
19. ALONSO Renault 1m37.638s
20. FISICHELLA Force India 1m37.750s
2. ROSBERG Williams 1m35.704s
3. BARRICHELLO Brawn 1m35.881s
4. WEBBER Red Bull 1m36.105s
5. VETTEL Red Bull 1m36.167s
6. TRULLI Toyota 1m36.217s
7. NAKAJIMA Williams 1m36.377s
8. GLOCK Toyota 1m36.548s
9. KOVALAINEN McLaren 1m36.674s
10. BOURDAIS Toro Rosso 1m36.800s
11. SUTIL Force India 1m36.829s
12. MASSA Ferrari 1m36.847s
13. HAMILTON McLaren 1m36.941s
14. RAIKKONEN Ferrari 1m37.054s
15. BUEMI Toro Rosso 1m37.219s
16. PIQUET Renault 1m37.273s
17. KUBICA BMW 1m37.491s
18. HEIDFELD BMW 1m37.544s
19. ALONSO Renault 1m37.638s
20. FISICHELLA Force India 1m37.750s
Chinese Grand Prix Free Practice Session One Times
1. HAMILTON McLaren 1m37.334s
2. BUTTON Brawn 1m37.450s
3. BARRICHELLO Brawn 1m37.566s
4. KOVALAINEN McLaren 1m37.672s
5. WEBBER Red Bull 1m37.752s
6. TRULLI Toyota 1m37.764s
7. ROSBERG Williams 1m37.860s
8. GLOCK Toyota 1m37.894s
9. ALONSO Renault 1m38.089s
10. BOURDAIS Toro Rosso 1m38.195s
11. RAIKKONEN Ferrari 1m38.223s
12. VETTEL Red Bull 1m38.274s
13. BUEMI Toro Rosso 1m38.307s
14. SUTIL Force India 1m38.319s
15. MASSA Ferrari 1m38.418s
16. HEIDFELD BMW 1m38.456s
17. FISICHELLA Force India 1m38.460s
18. KUBICA BMW 1m38.463s
19. NAKAJIMA Williams 1m38.730s
20. PIQUET Renault 1m38.825s
2. BUTTON Brawn 1m37.450s
3. BARRICHELLO Brawn 1m37.566s
4. KOVALAINEN McLaren 1m37.672s
5. WEBBER Red Bull 1m37.752s
6. TRULLI Toyota 1m37.764s
7. ROSBERG Williams 1m37.860s
8. GLOCK Toyota 1m37.894s
9. ALONSO Renault 1m38.089s
10. BOURDAIS Toro Rosso 1m38.195s
11. RAIKKONEN Ferrari 1m38.223s
12. VETTEL Red Bull 1m38.274s
13. BUEMI Toro Rosso 1m38.307s
14. SUTIL Force India 1m38.319s
15. MASSA Ferrari 1m38.418s
16. HEIDFELD BMW 1m38.456s
17. FISICHELLA Force India 1m38.460s
18. KUBICA BMW 1m38.463s
19. NAKAJIMA Williams 1m38.730s
20. PIQUET Renault 1m38.825s
Thursday, 16 April 2009
Thursday’s Chinese Grand Prix Press Conference
Thursday's Press Conference organised by the FIA for the 2009 Chinese Grand Prix is available here with Rubens Barrichello (Brawn GP), Heikki Kovalainen (McLaren Mercedes), Kazuki Nakajima (Williams), Jarno Trulli (Toyota), Mark Webber (Red Bull).
Ferrari Not Running KERS In China
Ferrari has come up against it. After a reshuffle of pit personnel and Michael Schumacher suddenly not turning up at China to advise (after his decision to put Kimi Raikkonen on wets at Malaysia he’s probably worried about Kimi thumping him). Stefano Domenicali, team principal reveals further changes for this weekend.
“We found a problem with the KERS on Kimi’s car in Sepang and we have therefore decided not to run KERS this weekend in Shanghai. We need to understand what happened to the system from the point of view of safety and reliability. It has delivered a performance benefit, but if it is not running safely and reliably, we can no longer take the risk of running it."
Also Ferrari’s new aero package, including a newly designed rear end to the car with all new double decker diffuser will not be making an appearance until Spain in two races time. So Ferrari are just going to have to do the best they can with what they have and hope they don’t drop too many points. However it seems hard to see them doing any better than a 3rd or 4th and Kimi and Felipe Massa being in the region of 20 points behind everyone by race 5. So unless the new Ferrari bits and bobs transform it into an awesome car of dominance it seems hard to see Kimi or Massa going for the championship this year. However stranger things have happened. Remember Williams in 1991?
“We found a problem with the KERS on Kimi’s car in Sepang and we have therefore decided not to run KERS this weekend in Shanghai. We need to understand what happened to the system from the point of view of safety and reliability. It has delivered a performance benefit, but if it is not running safely and reliably, we can no longer take the risk of running it."
Also Ferrari’s new aero package, including a newly designed rear end to the car with all new double decker diffuser will not be making an appearance until Spain in two races time. So Ferrari are just going to have to do the best they can with what they have and hope they don’t drop too many points. However it seems hard to see them doing any better than a 3rd or 4th and Kimi and Felipe Massa being in the region of 20 points behind everyone by race 5. So unless the new Ferrari bits and bobs transform it into an awesome car of dominance it seems hard to see Kimi or Massa going for the championship this year. However stranger things have happened. Remember Williams in 1991?
Ron Dennis Finally Leaves
Hasn't he left already I hear you say. Well after much "will he won’t he" and half measures about standing down as acting head and being there in an advisory capacity etc... etc… It seems he’s finally cut his ties.“As of today, Ron Dennis has handed his responsibility as Chief Executive Officer of McLaren Racing to Martin Whitmarsh, who will be responsible to the board for the activities of McLaren Racing in addition to his role of Team Principal of Vodafone McLaren Mercedes,” confirmed a McLaren statement.
He’s leaving at a controversial time with McLaren set to get a spanking by the FIA over lying to stewards about overtaking at Australia. Having said that McLaren have been in all sorts of legal issues over cheating and other things since 2007. Whatever time he picked to go seems like it wouldn’t be perfect timing.
But what a balls up Ron Dennis has made of leaving McLaren. Why did he not just say good bye at the end of the season have a glass of champagne listen to three cheers of for he’s a jolly good fellow and be on his way. I suppose things are never that easy or clear cut when Ron is involved.
Wednesday, 15 April 2009
FIA Rule On Diffuser Appeal
Press Release:
International Court of Appeal - Decision 15/04/2009
The FIA International Court of Appeal has decided to deny the appeals submitted against decisions numbered 16 to 24 taken by the Panel of the Stewards on 26 March at the 2009 Grand Prix of Australia and counting towards the 2009 FIA Formula One World Championship.
Based on the arguments heard and evidence before it, the Court has concluded that the Stewards were correct to find that the cars in question comply with the applicable regulations.
Full reasons for this decision will be provided in due course.
---
... So that means the points stay with Brawn GP, Toyota and Williams, along with their diffuser. So now the other seven teams will all scramble to produce their own diffusers to make up for the .5 second a lap advantage Brawn GP, Toyota and Williams have got from their diffusers. All the teams will have them by the start of the European races. Apart from maybe Red Bull who will have to modify their car to be able to fit the new design of diffuser.
This is good news for Brawn GP, Toyota and Williams. As not only do they keep their points they will have a development edge on the others while they catch up. Brawn GP and Jenson Button must now be sitting pretty for the championship. Unless Ferrari can pull something out of the bag. BMW Sauber, Toyota, Red Bull and the rest seem too far away, especially Renault and McLaren.
It waits to be seen if any of the other seven teams will run the new diffusers at China this weekend. I suspect that some of the teams will have them ready to go as many people expected this outcome. Look for the teams with plenty of funding to perhaps bring them out straight away.
International Court of Appeal - Decision 15/04/2009
The FIA International Court of Appeal has decided to deny the appeals submitted against decisions numbered 16 to 24 taken by the Panel of the Stewards on 26 March at the 2009 Grand Prix of Australia and counting towards the 2009 FIA Formula One World Championship.
Based on the arguments heard and evidence before it, the Court has concluded that the Stewards were correct to find that the cars in question comply with the applicable regulations.
Full reasons for this decision will be provided in due course.
---
... So that means the points stay with Brawn GP, Toyota and Williams, along with their diffuser. So now the other seven teams will all scramble to produce their own diffusers to make up for the .5 second a lap advantage Brawn GP, Toyota and Williams have got from their diffusers. All the teams will have them by the start of the European races. Apart from maybe Red Bull who will have to modify their car to be able to fit the new design of diffuser.
This is good news for Brawn GP, Toyota and Williams. As not only do they keep their points they will have a development edge on the others while they catch up. Brawn GP and Jenson Button must now be sitting pretty for the championship. Unless Ferrari can pull something out of the bag. BMW Sauber, Toyota, Red Bull and the rest seem too far away, especially Renault and McLaren.
It waits to be seen if any of the other seven teams will run the new diffusers at China this weekend. I suspect that some of the teams will have them ready to go as many people expected this outcome. Look for the teams with plenty of funding to perhaps bring them out straight away.
Tuesday, 14 April 2009
BBC TV And Radio Coverage
On TV
Formula 1 2009, The Chinese Grand Prix - Qualifying18 Apr 2009 06:000 - 8:15 BBC One
Formula 1 2009, The Chinese Grand Prix 19 Apr 2009 07:00 - 10:00 BBC One
Formula 1 2009, The Chinese Grand Prix - Highlights 19 Apr 2009 19:00 - 20:00 BBC Three
On Radio
Formula 1 17/04/2009 17 Apr 2009 02:55 - 04:35 BBC Radio 5 live sports extra
Formula 1 17/04/2009 17 Apr 2009 06:55 - 08:35 BBC Radio 5 live sports extra
5 live Formula 1 17/04/2009 17 Apr 2009 21:30 - 22:00 BBC Radio 5 live
On Red Button/Website
Interactive TV and website coverage
Formula 1 2009, The Chinese Grand Prix - Qualifying18 Apr 2009 06:000 - 8:15 BBC One
Formula 1 2009, The Chinese Grand Prix 19 Apr 2009 07:00 - 10:00 BBC One
Formula 1 2009, The Chinese Grand Prix - Highlights 19 Apr 2009 19:00 - 20:00 BBC Three
On Radio
Formula 1 17/04/2009 17 Apr 2009 02:55 - 04:35 BBC Radio 5 live sports extra
Formula 1 17/04/2009 17 Apr 2009 06:55 - 08:35 BBC Radio 5 live sports extra
5 live Formula 1 17/04/2009 17 Apr 2009 21:30 - 22:00 BBC Radio 5 live
On Red Button/Website
Interactive TV and website coverage
Chinese Grand Prix Preview
The third event of the 2009 Formula One World Championship takes place in China. The Shanghai International Circuit, Shanghai, designed by Hermann Tilke, is one of the world’s most impressive Formula One circuit facilities. Tilke took his inspiration for the layout of the track from the Chinese Shang character, which means above. Constructed on the site of ancient paddy fields the Shanghai International circuit has an overall length of 5,451km and features 7 left and 9 right hand turns.The circuit was designed to maximise spectator viewing and to push the drivers to their limits. Its combination of narrowing turns and straight lines with rising and falling gradients will offer drivers opportunities to overtake which is certain to add to the excitement of the event. The circuit’s challenging corners and long straights are sure to be both technically and physically demanding for drivers.
CHANGES TO THE CIRCUIT SINCE 2008
• The artificial grass on the exit of turn 10 has been renewed.
• The white lines around the edge of the track have been doubled in width.
• The pit entry has been widened immediately before the pit lane itself.
OTHER CHANGES AT THE SEPANG INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT
• Two sections of the track have been nicknamed “snails” (Turns 1, 2, 3 with closing radius and turns 10, 11 and 12 with opening radius).
• The total FIA safety fencing used around the circuit comes to 9,350 metres.
• The total number of concrete piles used in construction is 40,000 totalling 800,000 metres.
Circuit data
Length of lap: 5.451km
Offset: 0.190km
Total number of race laps: 56
Total race distance: 305.066km
Speed limits in the pit lane: 60km/h during practice sessions; 100km/h during race
FIA Diffuser Ruling Today
The final ruling about the much talked about diffusers in F1 will be ruled upon today in Paris. With the FIA then deciding what action to take if they are deemed illegal. The three teams in question (Brawn, Toyota, Williams) could loose all their points or just be stopped from racing any more with the diffusers.
"I've heard several of them complaining about the cost, but there are lots of things teams copy from each other and the cost doesn't get debated.” Team principal Ross Brawn said regarding teams using the same rear diffuser designs in question on his cars, (Brawn) Toyota and Williams.
"I think some teams will be able to do it very quickly, but for other teams it will be more difficult because of their suspension configuration (Red Bull) or other elements of the car," added Brawn.
Whichever way the judges rule in Paris, the outcome is going to have a significant effect on the season.
"The championship could be more or less decided," warned Renault's Fernando Alonso. "If the diffusers are legal, then the Brawn's are going to be nearly unreachable for any other team."
"I've heard several of them complaining about the cost, but there are lots of things teams copy from each other and the cost doesn't get debated.” Team principal Ross Brawn said regarding teams using the same rear diffuser designs in question on his cars, (Brawn) Toyota and Williams.
"I think some teams will be able to do it very quickly, but for other teams it will be more difficult because of their suspension configuration (Red Bull) or other elements of the car," added Brawn.
Whichever way the judges rule in Paris, the outcome is going to have a significant effect on the season.
"The championship could be more or less decided," warned Renault's Fernando Alonso. "If the diffusers are legal, then the Brawn's are going to be nearly unreachable for any other team."
F1rejects.com Podcast
Malaysian GP Edition - 10th April, 2009F1 Talking Points / Discussion of Malaysian GP / News from Other Categories (IRL) MP3 format, 11.9mb, 34 mins.
Yet another cracking podcast from the Australian boys at http://www.f1rejects.com/.
Wednesday, 8 April 2009
McLaren Called Before The FIA
The FIA have released this press release:
World Motor Sport Council
07/04/2009
EXTRAORDINARY MEETING OF THE WORLD MOTOR SPORT COUNCIL
Vodafone McLaren Mercedes has been invited to appear before an extraordinary meeting of the FIA World Motor Sport Council in Paris on Wednesday, 29 April, 2009, to answer charges that, in breach of Article 151c of the International Sporting Code, it
* on 29 March, 2009, told the stewards of the Australian Grand Prix that no instructions were given to Hamilton in Car No. 1 to allow Trulli in Car no. 9 to pass when both cars were behind the safety car, knowing this statement to be untrue;
* procured its driver Hamilton the current World Champion, to support and confirm this untrue statement to the stewards;
* although knowing that as a direct result of its untrue statement to the stewards, another driver and a rival team had been unfairly penalised, made no attempt to rectify the situation either by contacting the FIA or otherwise;
* on 2 April, 2009, at a second hearing before the stewards of the Australian Grand Prix, (meeting in Malaysia) made no attempt to correct the untrue statement of 29 March but, on the contrary, continued to maintain that the statement was true, despite being allowed to listen to a recording of the team instructing Hamilton to let Trulli past and despite being given more than one opportunity to correct its false statement;
* on 2 April, 2009, at the second stewards' hearing, procured its driver Hamilton to continue to assert the truth of the false statement given to the stewards on 29 March, while knowing that what he was saying to the stewards was not true.
- - - - -
So the above in my mind categorically shows how annoyed the FIA are with McLaren. They have just sacked the suspended Dave Ryan who supposedly instructed Hamilton to lie. This however I don't think is going to go far enough... McLaren are in for it. What the FIA will do will be waited to be seen. But the last time they got in this much trouble for illegally copying Ferrari's designs and cheating by using spys they were kicked out of the championship.
World Motor Sport Council
07/04/2009
EXTRAORDINARY MEETING OF THE WORLD MOTOR SPORT COUNCIL
Vodafone McLaren Mercedes has been invited to appear before an extraordinary meeting of the FIA World Motor Sport Council in Paris on Wednesday, 29 April, 2009, to answer charges that, in breach of Article 151c of the International Sporting Code, it
* on 29 March, 2009, told the stewards of the Australian Grand Prix that no instructions were given to Hamilton in Car No. 1 to allow Trulli in Car no. 9 to pass when both cars were behind the safety car, knowing this statement to be untrue;
* procured its driver Hamilton the current World Champion, to support and confirm this untrue statement to the stewards;
* although knowing that as a direct result of its untrue statement to the stewards, another driver and a rival team had been unfairly penalised, made no attempt to rectify the situation either by contacting the FIA or otherwise;
* on 2 April, 2009, at a second hearing before the stewards of the Australian Grand Prix, (meeting in Malaysia) made no attempt to correct the untrue statement of 29 March but, on the contrary, continued to maintain that the statement was true, despite being allowed to listen to a recording of the team instructing Hamilton to let Trulli past and despite being given more than one opportunity to correct its false statement;
* on 2 April, 2009, at the second stewards' hearing, procured its driver Hamilton to continue to assert the truth of the false statement given to the stewards on 29 March, while knowing that what he was saying to the stewards was not true.
- - - - -
So the above in my mind categorically shows how annoyed the FIA are with McLaren. They have just sacked the suspended Dave Ryan who supposedly instructed Hamilton to lie. This however I don't think is going to go far enough... McLaren are in for it. What the FIA will do will be waited to be seen. But the last time they got in this much trouble for illegally copying Ferrari's designs and cheating by using spys they were kicked out of the championship.
Monday, 6 April 2009
McLaren Are Likely To Face FIA Disciplinary
It’s been reported that McLaren are likely to face disciplinary action from the FIA after their conduct with race stewards regarding the Hamilton, Trulli incident at the Australian grand prix. The FIA will probably discuss it during their next meeting or may arrange one especially to discuss how to handle McLaren. McLaren may also get called to a hearing infront of the FIA.
An FIA spokesman said they are awaiting a report from its race observer and more should be known by Wednesday. The action taken against McLaren could be anything from a small fine to being kicked out of the championship. However Lewis Hamilton should not receive any further punishment as he has already been disqualified from the Australian Grand Prix for ‘deliberately misleading’ stewards.
An FIA spokesman said they are awaiting a report from its race observer and more should be known by Wednesday. The action taken against McLaren could be anything from a small fine to being kicked out of the championship. However Lewis Hamilton should not receive any further punishment as he has already been disqualified from the Australian Grand Prix for ‘deliberately misleading’ stewards.
2009 Malaysian Grand Prix Review
Yet another exciting race. But what a shame it was ruined by the time they chose to start the race. I think greed got the better of the sport. TV channels wanted to show the race at a better time supposedly for viewers but no doubt more to do with advertising. So the race was shifted to a 5 in the evening start in Malaysia. However as every local would tell you when the sun starts to go in the temperature drops slightly and the heavens open… This usually happens around five in the evening. So it came as no surprise when just before six the rain became too heavy and the race was stopped. Now usually a bit of rain makes things exciting but in Malaysia the rain is torrential monsoon weather. There is no English summer rain in Malaysia. Interestingly since the race the Malaysian Officials have stated they will look into the race start time. Let’s hope they move it back a couple of hours.This rain though caused nearly all the talking points of the race. Not just the stupid starting time. The first incident of note was Nico Rosberg making the most amazing start. He got such a run down the outside it was quite impressive. It was interesting to see the KERS cars not making much use of the KERS at the beginning of the race. The long run up to turn one was meant to give them an advantage but didn’t appear to. Kimi used his boost to good effect but was left out on the outside of turn one and the three places he gained he lost two on the inside so only made up one spot. Using the KERS helped him get past but the only place to get past was the outside which meant it left him open to be taken straight away on the inside. Soon after that his KERS broke and it wasn’t clear if KERS was being much help to anyone in the field.
Places were traded in the same fashion we had at Melbourne and hopefully this will continue for the rest of the season. That was until that the heavens opened. Then in traditional F1 style all hell broke loose. These cars are simply not designed to race in these conditions and it showed in Malaysia. No one seemed to be able to keep it on the island. Most noticeably Alonso, Hamilton and Vettel had trouble. All three of them bad weather experts were unable to control the new cars in rain.
There were winners and losers in the rain and more importantly the choices made by the teams and drivers on which tyres to be on. The best choice was Timo Glock to run the intermediates. He made an excellent choice as the rain didn’t come as quickly as expected. The big loser was Kimi Raikonnen. Having put in an excellent qualifying lap in an off form Ferrari with heavy fuel he then fought well to be in 5th with no KERS. Then when pitting at the first round of stops why oh why did Ferrari put him on full wets when the track was dry? It was a major mistake and left him trailing 40 seconds off the pace for lap after lap. When the rain finally came it was too late and his tyres were burnt out. The team made the decision and Kimi didn’t appear too happy in a post race interview about the decision. Without this error he may well have got some points. As it stands Ferrari only have 1 point. They have a long way to go to get back on terms with BMW Sauber, Red Bull and Brawn GP.
The rain came down and the race was stopped. About 45 minutes had to be killed while the clock counted down to 2hrs and the end of the race. It was obvious they couldn’t race and that it wouldn’t start in time. This left the BBC furiously busking for the remainder of the show. They did a good job and their own cameras in the pit lane were excellent. Something we didn’t have much of with ITV. However David Coulthard continued to irritate me and pretty much be useless. His insight is next to useless. His words of wisdom little more than a casual fan could pass on. Eddie Jordan was OK and the rest of the team did a good job. But Coulthard? Can he not go and do after dinner talks?
There were two interesting moments in the pits the BBC cameras did pick up. One was of Kimi having an ice cream in his shorts while everyone else sat in the rain waiting for a restart. Kimi obviously felt the race wasn’t going to restart and had given up. Whereas other drivers were still psyching themselves up, staying focused, talking tactics and preparing the cars etc. I think it shows how little Kimi takes things seriously. He knew he would be given the 10 minute warning to restart but had already figured things were too bad. Is he just really cool about it all and already figured it was a waste of time or does he not care? I suppose when your plum last and annoyed at the team what else can you do. He certainly was a far cry from Mark Webber anxiously talking to all the drivers about the conditions.
The other interesting moment was when Hamilton was interviewed and thought he was 5th and was actually 7th. It shows the level of confusion in a team as to what’s going on and the fact the team member off screen told Hamilton not to worry and that they were in ‘discussion’ about it. It gives off the impression McLaren question everything. You must wonder if that affects the attitude the stewards and FIA take towards the team.
Another incidental thing which happened while watching the race was at the end my girlfriend asked what the results were. When I said Timo Glock was third she asked how can a team be third? She thought the commentators had been saying team O’Glock… Easy mistake to make but it tickled me.
It now remains to be seen if the April the 14th FIA meeting deems the diffusers legal or not. Personally I think they will be deemed legal because the other teams have already started designing and manufacturing their own diffusers. Which would suggest everyone is expecting them to be. This in a way is good news for those not running them, most noticeably Ferrari and BMW Sauber. As when they run them they should be on a par with the Brawn GP or at least a lot closer to their pace. The rain today also played into the hands of Ferrari as only half points were awarded as the race was under three quarters distance. This means the advantage is limited after the first two races to 15 points for Button and not 20 as it would have been.
There are two weeks now until the Chinese Grand Prix and it remains to be seen if the other teams can catch up with the Brawn GP car. If the diffuser is deemed legal I think they will. If it is found to be illegal they will probably be a little closer. So we wait until the 14th of April with baited breath.
Malaysian Grand Prix in 90 seconds
The BBC have a brilliant service including an excellent synopsis of each race which is just 90 seconds and sums up all the key points. If you would like to view the Malasian Grand Prix short highlights go here.
Post Race FIA Malaysian Grand Prix Press Conference
The post race press conference by the FIA is available here.
Saturday Post Qualifying FIA Press Conference
Post Qualifying Press Conference by the FIA is available here.
Friday, 3 April 2009
FIA Friday Press Conference
The FIA Friday press conference with Ross Brawn (Brawn GP), John Howett (Toyota), Adam Parr (Williams), Martin Whitmarsh (McLaren Mercedes) is available here.
I’m No Liar Insists Hamilton
McLaren's sporting director Dave Ryan has been suspended after 35 years with McLaren for instructing Lewis Hamilton to ‘withhold information’.Lewis said at a press conference “I'm not a liar or a dishonest person," he went on to say how it was "definitely the worst thing I've experienced in my life".
Hamilton continued "I could not tell you how sorry I am for the embarrassment, I sincerely apologise to the race stewards for wasting their time and making them look silly. When I went into the meeting, I had no intention (to lie). I just wanted to tell my story and see what happened. I was misled and that's just how it went. I want to say sorry to all my fans. I am not a liar or a dishonest person, I am a team player. If the team ask me to do something, I generally do it. But I felt awkward and uncomfortable. This is not an easy thing to do, to step back and realise I was in the wrong. But I was in the wrong, I was misled."
So Hamilton was asked to lie in front of the stewards. He went in and lied in front of the stewards. So I ask the question; “How is he not a liar and dishonest to do this?”
It doesn’t matter if he is told by the team to do this he should know better. I think this shows how much Hamilton is a product of McLaren and how much they control him. It also shows Hamilton is pretty devoid of scruples or common sense. While at this point in his life he can pull the ‘young, inexperienced and influenced’ card he won’t be able to do it any longer. He should simply know better! No doubt his card is marked now by the FIA too. Also I’m sure the Queen is happy she honoured a liar.
FIA Thursday Press Conference
The FIA Thursday press conference is available here with Sébastien Bourdais (Toro Rosso), Jenson Button (Brawn Gp), Lewis Hamilton (Mclaren Mercedes), Kimi Räikkönen (Ferrari), Nico Rosberg (Williams) and Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull).
Thursday, 2 April 2009
FIA Press Release On Stewards Decision Regarding Trulli / Hamilton
You can read the whole press release for the Australian Trulli / Hamilton incident here. It also includes sound clips which allow you to hear what Lewis Hamilton said after the race and also the pit to team radio.
I think this pretty clearly lays out the facts. The bottom line is "The Race Director specifically asked Hamilton whether he had consciously allowed Trulli to overtake. Hamilton insisted that he had not done so." Whereas on the radio you can clearly hear him be instructed to and say he's let him by. So it would appear Hamilton and the McLaren team were 'economical' with the truth at best.
I think this pretty clearly lays out the facts. The bottom line is "The Race Director specifically asked Hamilton whether he had consciously allowed Trulli to overtake. Hamilton insisted that he had not done so." Whereas on the radio you can clearly hear him be instructed to and say he's let him by. So it would appear Hamilton and the McLaren team were 'economical' with the truth at best.
Hamilton Stripped Of Third Place
The FIA have stripped Lewis Hamilton of third and all his points including the constructors points "for providing evidence deliberately misleading to the stewards at the hearing on 29 March". This was the incident involving Jarno Trulli while the safety car was out at the end of the race. The stewards have re-instated Trulli into third place. This is yet again another incident involving Hamilton. It seems controversy follows him constantly.Trulli has since the incident protested his innocence "When the safety car came out towards the end of the race, Hamilton passed me but soon after he suddenly slowed down and pulled over to the side of the road," he said. "I thought he had a problem so I overtook him as there was nothing else I could do."
Hamilton told Speed TV "I was forced to go by. I slowed down as much as I could. I was told to let him back past, I don't know if that's the regulations, and if it isn't, then I should have really had third."
It would appear now evidence has come to the attention of the FIA and they have informed the race stewards who have then subsequently punished Hamilton and reinstated Trulli. However with the information not being disclosed and no television footage of the incident to view it is hard to make a decision as a fan. The one thing which is known however is that race stewards either have it in for Hamilton or he consistently bends the rules - you be the judge. But I can guarantee this won't be the last time Hamilton gets pulled up like this in front of the stewards.
Wednesday, 1 April 2009
Press Conferences
The FIA press conferences over the Malaysian Grand Prix weekend will be as follows:
Thursday April 2, 1500 hours local time (0700 GMT):
Sebastien Bourdais (Toro Rosso), Jenson Button (Brawn GP), Lewis Hamilton (McLaren), Kimi Raikkonen (Ferrari), Nico Rosberg (Williams) and Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull).
Friday April 3, 1600 hours local time (0800 GMT):
Ross Brawn (Brawn GP), John Howett (Toyota), Adam Parr (Williams) and Martin Whitmarsh (McLaren).
The qualifying and post-race conferences with the top three drivers will take place straight after the session.
I will place a link to the transcripts as they are available.
Thursday April 2, 1500 hours local time (0700 GMT):
Sebastien Bourdais (Toro Rosso), Jenson Button (Brawn GP), Lewis Hamilton (McLaren), Kimi Raikkonen (Ferrari), Nico Rosberg (Williams) and Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull).
Friday April 3, 1600 hours local time (0800 GMT):
Ross Brawn (Brawn GP), John Howett (Toyota), Adam Parr (Williams) and Martin Whitmarsh (McLaren).
The qualifying and post-race conferences with the top three drivers will take place straight after the session.
I will place a link to the transcripts as they are available.
Malaysian Track Guide
Race InformationLaps: 56
Circuit length: 5.543 kilometre (3.444 mi)
Race length: 310.408 km (192.887 mi)
First held: 1962
Last held: 2008
Most wins (drivers): Michael Schumacher (3)
Most wins (constructors): Ferrari (5)
Last race (2008)
Pole position: Felipe Massa, Ferrari, 1:35.748
Podium:
1. Kimi Räikkönen, Ferrari, 1h 31m 18.555s (203.971 km/h)
2. Robert Kubica, BMW Sauber, +19.570s
3. Heikki Kovalainen, McLaren-Mercedes, +38.450s
Fastest lap: Nick Heidfeld, BMW Sauber, 1:35.366
These three websites give you further statistics and information on the Malaysian Grand Prix:
Official FIA Malaysian Track Guide
Official Malaysian Grand Prix Website
Wikipedia Page for the Malaysian Grand Prix
Malaysian Grand Prix BBC Coverage
The BBC will be covering all the action. Their times are as follows:Friday 3 April
Practice (Times TBC): 0255-0435, BBC Red Button/BBC Radio 5 Live sports extra/online
0655-0835, BBC Red Button/BBC Radio 5 Live sports extra/online
Saturday 4 April
Practice: 0655-0805, BBC Red Button/BBC Radio 5 Live sports extra/online
Qualifying: 0900-1130, BBC One/BBC Radio 5 Live sports extra/online
Re-run: 1300-1430, BBC One
Sunday 5 April
Race: 0900-1200, BBC One/BBC Red Button/Radio 5 Live/online
Interactive Forum: 1200-1300, BBC Red Button/online
Highlights: 1900-2000, BBC Three/BBC Red Button/online
Hamilton Goes To Brawn!
F1 Live have reported this shock News:
In a surprise statement issued shortly after midnight on this date, the highly competitive Brawn GP team shocked the F1 community by announcing that Lewis Hamilton is switching to the Brackley-based outfit for the remainder of the 2009 season.
The reigning World Champion will therefore leave the McLaren Mercedes team with immediate effect, and will be wearing the Brawn operation’s white overalls at this week-end’s Malaysian Grand Prix.
“It was a logical decision to make when considering the situation both our teams are facing at present,” Ross Brawn stated. “Everyone is very confident in regards to our potential in both the drivers’ and constructors’ championships.”
It seems that Brawn GP’s current budget, combined with the lack of performance provided by McLaren’s new single-seater, provoked an important brainstorming session within the Mercedes camp which ultimately resulted in pushing the daring plan forward and putting the best chances on their side.
“You have to look at the numbers,” explained Norbert Haug, VP of Mercedes-Benz Motorsports. “By switching Lewis and part of our budget to Brawn – which is already Mercedes-powered – statistically we can manage to win both championships this season.”
“I know there’s only been one race so far this year,” Haug admitted, “but it adds up. ”
“This is really a wonderful gesture,” said a smiling Hamilton. “This is the best way for me to help my regular team move forward. With the spotlight on me at Brawn while I win all these races, McLaren don’t have to worry about having a World Champion aboard and all that pressure.”
“Really,” he added, “I don’t know why I hadn’t thought of this myself!”
Ron Dennis, Martin Whitmarsh and Anthony Hamilton issued a joint statement which reads: “We have raised this child to be a World Champion again and again (…) this is a bold step in preserving that goal.”
The situation means that either Jenson Button or Rubens Barrichello will have to move aside to make place for Hamilton. The decision regarding who will sit in the vacated McLaren car has not yet been made, but the news was obviously badly received.
“I think not,” said Button. “You see, I’m spotted to be the next Brit F1 star.”
In a surprise statement issued shortly after midnight on this date, the highly competitive Brawn GP team shocked the F1 community by announcing that Lewis Hamilton is switching to the Brackley-based outfit for the remainder of the 2009 season.
The reigning World Champion will therefore leave the McLaren Mercedes team with immediate effect, and will be wearing the Brawn operation’s white overalls at this week-end’s Malaysian Grand Prix.
“It was a logical decision to make when considering the situation both our teams are facing at present,” Ross Brawn stated. “Everyone is very confident in regards to our potential in both the drivers’ and constructors’ championships.”
It seems that Brawn GP’s current budget, combined with the lack of performance provided by McLaren’s new single-seater, provoked an important brainstorming session within the Mercedes camp which ultimately resulted in pushing the daring plan forward and putting the best chances on their side.
“You have to look at the numbers,” explained Norbert Haug, VP of Mercedes-Benz Motorsports. “By switching Lewis and part of our budget to Brawn – which is already Mercedes-powered – statistically we can manage to win both championships this season.”
“I know there’s only been one race so far this year,” Haug admitted, “but it adds up. ”
“This is really a wonderful gesture,” said a smiling Hamilton. “This is the best way for me to help my regular team move forward. With the spotlight on me at Brawn while I win all these races, McLaren don’t have to worry about having a World Champion aboard and all that pressure.”
“Really,” he added, “I don’t know why I hadn’t thought of this myself!”
Ron Dennis, Martin Whitmarsh and Anthony Hamilton issued a joint statement which reads: “We have raised this child to be a World Champion again and again (…) this is a bold step in preserving that goal.”
The situation means that either Jenson Button or Rubens Barrichello will have to move aside to make place for Hamilton. The decision regarding who will sit in the vacated McLaren car has not yet been made, but the news was obviously badly received.
“I think not,” said Button. “You see, I’m spotted to be the next Brit F1 star.”
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