Official Formula 1 thread

[Bronco_f1]

Well, I know there are some Formula 1 fans (or followers) here. The season starts next week :beer: .

I guess we can talk some Formula 1 in this thread during the season :rockon:

[tpryce93]

Well, I know
I've always wondered what he f1 in your name stood for. now i know

[Bronco_f1]

Seriously, any F1 fans here?

[bronc_fan23]

I used to be a fan when I lived in Germany, obvious reasons to you :D (schumacher)

[Bronco_f1]

I used to be a fan when I lived in Germany, obvious reasons to you :D (schumacher)

Very obvious :beer:

[Jaws]

Formula 1 fan here :D Looking forward to next weekend :beer:

[muse]

I really hope Raikkonen stays with Mclaren...I'm a big fan of his (also a Mclaren fan) and with Alonso driving for the team in 2007, it may get a bit exciting. I'm looking forward to this season, should be a good 'un.

[Jaws]

Some useful links:

Drivers and teams (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/formula_one/drivers/default.stm)

calendar and circuit guide (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/formula_one/circuit_guide/default.stm)


Rule changes for 2006

Technical:
Introducing 2.4-litre V8 engines to replace the three-litre V10 units. (Scuderia Toro Rosso allowed to use old engines with a rev limit to reduce their speed). Engines must again last two whole race weekends, with 10-place grid penalty imposed for premature changes. Tyre changes return for 2006, ending the one-season ban.

Qualifying:
A new three-part system: All cars on track - with low fuel - for first 15 minutes, with the six slowest eliminated, filling the last quarter of the grid. Remaining 16 cars on track - with low fuel - for the next 15 minutes. Six slowest again eliminated, leaving front of the grid to be decided.

Last 10 cars enter a 20-minute shoot-out to decide the front of the grid, with the fuel load they plan to start the race with. Cars can refuel afterwards - but only with the amount of fuel used in the final qualifying session. Tyre changes during the session are allowed.



The new qualifiying system looks to be interesting. I'm looking forward to seeing how it works out.

[y2cragie]

The new quali is what I like most. I actually suggested the system on another forum, and everyone laughed at me saying it wouldn't happen, 10 days later, oh look the same system is introduced, and they are all suddenly liking the idea. :goofy:
The switch to V8's is proving to be pointless as the car are already upto almost the same lap times they were last year. And in some cases they are faster.
If your a fan of Kimi's muse why do you want him to stay at Mclaren? He will never win the title there. The car is one of the best aerodynamicaly but the mercedes engine is quite possibly the most unreliable one out there. This year I think its going to be a close battle with Ferrari and Renault, no way in hell Ferrari will let last year happen again. Schumi actually said this years 248 in testing is the best he's been in, in a long time. He actually said that it was better than the F2004 car they had in testing in 04. And we all saw what that did. :eek:
With Super Augri (who will get killed) added to the grid, the improvements in the Williams, BMW and Honda teams, I really think this year could be the most competitive year on the track in the last 10 years.

[NJBRONCOSFAN]

Well, I'm definitely a fan of F1, but it's really difficult to catch the races as they are usually on sometime in the wee hours between 2 and 7 am (on a sunday morning that is!)..nonetheless, i'm able to catch several races a year, and I definitely keep up on what's going on.
That being said, I don't have a favorite team, or driver...I usually just hope for a good race regardless of the victor.

I root for Fisichella and Trulli because they are Italians.

I root for Nick Heidfeld, because he has a sweet Porsche GT2 that he drives off the track..anyone who chooses Porsche can't be all bad. ;)

And now I'll be sure to root for Scott Speed...finally an american in F1!

[Jaws]

And now I'll be sure to root for Scott Speed...finally an american in F1!

Well he definitely has the right name for the job! :D

[Bronco_f1]

Yes! We have some Formula 1 fans here! :beer:

[alan]

well no irish team this year....im just going to have support ferrari again o well :D :P

[Bronco_f1]

I really hope Raikkonen stays with Mclaren...I'm a big fan of his (also a Mclaren fan) and with Alonso driving for the team in 2007, it may get a bit exciting. I'm looking forward to this season, should be a good 'un.

I am a Montoya fan, but It's hard not to like Kimi. He's great.

Did you guys see the New McLAren??? It Kicks a** :beer:

[Bronco_f1]

Formula 1 fan here :D Looking forward to next weekend :beer:

British Broncomaniacs have to support McLaren :D

Did you see the new livery?

[Bronco_f1]

well no irish team this year....im just going to have support ferrari again o well :D :P

England is close to Ireland. You can support McLaren :beer:

[y2cragie]

I refuse to support mclaren. Their whole team are arrogent. From the top down. And I have met Ron Dennis, he is no better in person.

[broncolitis]

Why isn't this stickied I mean it's a whole other sport this should be a sticky.

[NJBRONCOSFAN]

Why isn't this stickied I mean it's a whole other sport this should be a sticky.
woah woah woah just relax man!
I'm sure it good time it'll be stickied..all in good time. :D

[Bronco_f1]

Mods, could you please sticky this thread with the other sports thread?

F1 is a sport, and we have to ramble starting Saturday :beer:

[Bronco_f1]

2 more days! I can't wait :beer:

[NJBRONCOSFAN]

Yes, I"m started to get excited about it to!!! :beer:

[Bronco_f1]

Yes, I"m started to get excited about it to!!! :beer:

:beer: Let's get ready to start those engines :beer:

[Bronco_f1]

Thanks for the sticky Jovi :beer:

Qualifying starts at 4 a.m. MST. I won't watch it because of the time. For all Broncomaniacs in Europe, don't miss it :D

[Jaws]

Thanks for the sticky Jovi

Qualifying starts at 4 a.m. MST. I won't watch it because of the time. For all Broncomaniacs in Europe, don't miss it :D

It was JWinn actually! ;)

Thank you Mugo :beer:

[y2cragie]

muhaha, Mclaren suck, Ferrari are looking good again. Life is good :D

[muse]

Monty didn't do too badly but christ, they'd better get it sorted out. Now.

[slick7]

I gotta support Scott Speed. USA USA 'bout time we had a bloddy yank to root for. Seriously these F1 cars are the finest racing machines in the world in my opinion. I live in NC and all I hear is Nascar all day long. I tell these guys that a F1 car would run circles around Tony Stewart and Dale Jr.

Did anyone see Jeff Gordon and Juan Pablo do the car swap at Indy a couple of years ago?

After they were done Jeff said to Juan "Somehow I don't think you got the same thrill that I did"

F1 kicks butt

[y2cragie]

Monty didn't do too badly but christ, they'd better get it sorted out. Now.
As is Mclaren they will sort it out just around the time it no longer matters. Far to many yes men on the team, not enough people who know what they are doing.

[slick7]

I didn't know Massa was driving the other Ferrari this year. I knew Ruebens left but I'm kinda surprised they went with Felipe. has he been one of their test drivers or something?

[y2cragie]

Massa used to be a Ferrari test driver but was a Sauber race driver last season. In my opinion Luca Badoer deserved the 2nd seat, he has been a loyal test driver for Ferrari for a long time, and has turned down numerous high level race seats to stay with the team. But this all comes down to sponsorship out of Brazil though.

[Bronco_f1]

It was JWinn actually! ;)

Thank you Mugo :beer:

Thanks JWinn :beer:

[Bronco_f1]

Monty didn't do too badly but christ, they'd better get it sorted out. Now.

Those problems need to be fixed. Kimi had a hard time :ugh:

[Bronco_f1]

5 more hours.

[Jaws]

Thoroughly enjoyable race with three worthy racers on the podium - Alonso, Schumi and Raikonnen.

How close was that final pit stop with Alonso just nudging out in front of Schumi. Raikonnen was awesome in getting from the back of the grid to third. Great debut for Rosberg too, seems to be a very promising driver.

[y2cragie]

There is absolutly nothing between the Renault and Ferrari at the moment. Malaysia is going to be very interesting, its going to be a case of who has the best strategy again I think. excellent weekend of racing throughout.

[muse]

Kimi's a god, didn't see the race though :( Hope my sister taped it...sounds like a great race though!

[Bronco_f1]

Wow, Kimi from last to 3rd? He is awesome. I couldn't watch the race either :ugh:

But it is saved an I surely will :beer:

[NJBRONCOSFAN]

Not a huge Kimi fan, but damn, if he had a reliable car who know where'd he have finished.

Great race all-around, just as everyone else has said!

[Bronco_f1]

A great race today. Kimi had bad luck again. Great job by Fisichella.

Alonso seems to be the favorite again

[NJBRONCOSFAN]

This race destroyed my sunday of basketba...race was on 2am local time here, ended 3:30 am...almost crashed into a tree on the way home driving half-asleep as I attempted to do my best Giancarlo Fisichella impression :D

[Jaws]

This race destroyed my sunday of basketba...race was on 2am local time here, ended 3:30 am...almost crashed into a tree on the way home driving half-asleep as I attempted to do my best Giancarlo Fisichella impression :D

Glad you're ok Giancarlo- formula 1 should come with a health warning!

[y2cragie]

Malaysia was rather dull compaired to Bahrain. That mainly came down to the early exit of Raikonnen and the lack of Jenson Button and a race pace. I think now we are done with the two toughest races of the season things will really start to get going. Australia will work to both the Mclaren and Ferrari's strengths. Both when balanced perfectly work so well round that track so I cant wait. Renault will be on a new engine so that's going to be a big advantage to them.

[Bronco_f1]

Well, the Australian GP was great! It was a fun race, even though Montoya dropped out after an unlucky race. A lot of Safety Cars :goofy: , Ferrari and Williams got "April Fooled" :D

The highlight of the race was Button's finish though. His car went Batmobile before dropping out 7 feet away from the finish line (yes that hurts, but was kind of funny)

[slick7]

I'm afraid I had to give up on the Austrailian GP. I watched as Alonso had a 20 second lead on Kimi after 20 laps. BORING!!!! I thought all teams had to use the same tire manufacturer this year. It seems like racing has vanished and its all up to the engineers. I would like to see closer racing and some passing on the track, not in the pits. I know F1 is nothing like NECKCAR, but I'm finding myself more and more disinterested in F1 lately.

[slick7]

Wow I just checked the F1 website and it looks like Kimi actually closed the gap a little. Did he race his way up there or did Fernando just slow down?

[y2cragie]

I am not entirely sure what happend with the australian GP, it seems Ferrari had a brain fart moment with both Massa and Schumi but oh well. Alonso slowed down rather than Kimi speeding up. The Mclarens look fast at points but they just don't have the consistent pace of renault.
I just want to point out, that when Ferrari were doing what Renault are doing now, people were all *****ing and moaning that the sport was boring and unfair, now Renault and Alonso are doing it, its suddenly exciting? Go figure. :duh: :goofy:

[Jaws]

I am not entirely sure what happend with the australian GP, it seems Ferrari had a brain fart moment with both Massa and Schumi but oh well. Alonso slowed down rather than Kimi speeding up. The Mclarens look fast at points but they just don't have the consistent pace of renault.
I just want to point out, that when Ferrari were doing what Renault are doing now, people were all *****ing and moaning that the sport was boring and unfair, now Renault and Alonso are doing it, its suddenly exciting? Go figure. :duh: :goofy:

I missed the race today and haven't seen any highlights or results. I take it alonso won but who else got on the podium and into the points?

[y2cragie]

I missed the race today and haven't seen any highlights or results. I take it alonso won but who else got on the podium and into the points?
Kimi was second and Ralf schumi 3rd. Button blew up and stopped 75 yards from the finishing line. Tactical desicion to avoid the engine change penalty for next race. But cost him 3 points.

[Jaws]

Kimi was second and Ralf schumi 3rd. Button blew up and stopped 75 yards from the finishing line. Tactical desicion to avoid the engine change penalty for next race. But cost him 3 points.

:cheers:

Kimi will be pleased to get a good race finally.

[Bronco_f1]

:cheers:

Kimi will be pleased to get a good race finally.


That was nice. But trust me, Button's finish and the 4 safety cars made the race so exciting I forgot about everything else :D

[Kapaibro]

That was nice. But trust me, Button's finish and the 4 safety cars made the race so exciting I forgot about everything else :D
Seeing Button go Boom was great, especially as the footage was from the car following him. The english announcers were all "Get out and push Jenson!"

Yay for Kimi, me likes Kimi!

[Bronco_f1]

Seeing Button go Boom was great, especially as the footage was from the car following him. The english announcers were all "Get out and push Jenson!"

Yay for Kimi, me likes Kimi!

Yes, it was a nice take. I wonder what Fisichella was thinking at that time

Yes, Kimi is a good driver. You'll probably perv on him too.

[y2cragie]

Seeing Button go Boom was great, especially as the footage was from the car following him. The english announcers were all "Get out and push Jenson!"

Yay for Kimi, me likes Kimi!
Damon Hill actually did that once but he was too far from the line to get the car across it, and the marshalls told him to stop for safety reasons. cant remember which race it was.

[y2cragie]

Looking like it could be a good weekend again for F1. The Ferraris and Renaults seem rather well matched. No doubt the Mclarens will do poorly in quali only to find pace for the race. As is the recent trend.

[Bronco_f1]

Looking like it could be a good weekend again for F1. The Ferraris and Renaults seem rather well matched. No doubt the Mclarens will do poorly in quali only to find pace for the race. As is the recent trend.

Yes, they don't do well on qualifying. Honda, on the other hand, has been dominant on qualifying but not races. I was surprised by Barrichello and Massa doing well though.

Schumacher broke Senna's pole record, oh well :ugh:

[y2cragie]

I'm glad for Schumi that he did. The simple fact is, he may not have the legacy of drivers like Senna or Mansell or stewart or fangio. But Michael is quite possibly the best driver to ever set foot in F1.
I am not to pleased he has broken it where he did though, I know he wont be either. Can still remember the day Senna died clearly and Murray Walkers announcement.

[Bronco_f1]

I did not know F1 back then, but I am sure Senna's death was a really sad day. I had a Brazilian friend who said he cried when it happened. Well, he was a kid back then

Well, Schumacher won the race this time. It was a fierce competition with Alonso. Schumi is back in shape, well, the Ferraris are. Bridgestone did a great job this weekend.

Other than that, the race was boring, and CBS doesn't make a very good broadcasting

[y2cragie]

Todays director was awful. Ok imola usually is pretty bad, but especially today. No team radio till the very end. And poorly selected TV images and shots.
Must admit there were times where I litterally couldn't watch.

[Bronco_f1]

We've got some Monaco action coming this weekend! :D

:beer:

[Jaws]

We've got some Monaco action coming this weekend! :D

:beer:

Cool, that's always one of my favourite races. :beer:

[Bronco_f1]

Cool, that's always one of my favourite races. :beer:

Monaco is truly one of the biggest GPs. I hope someday I'm able to go there

[DeuceOfClub]

Monaco 1st and 2nd practice results:


Free 1

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'16"712 156.742 Km/h
2. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'16"872 + 0'00"160
3. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'16"888 + 0'00"176
4. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'16"973 + 0'00"261
5. 4 MONTOYA McLaren Mercedes M 1'17"458 + 0'00"746
6. 38 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'17"869 + 0'01"157
7. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'17"949 + 0'01"237
8. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'18"329 + 0'01"617
9. 37 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'18"384 + 0'01"672
10. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'18"406 + 0'01"694
11. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'18"447 + 0'01"735
12. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'18"480 + 0'01"768
13. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'18"571 + 0'01"859
14. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'18"695 + 0'01"983
15. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'18"703 + 0'01"991
16. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'19"021 + 0'02"309
17. 17 VILLENEUVE BMW Sauber M 1'19"246 + 0'02"534
18. 15 KLIEN RedBull Ferrari M 1'19"543 + 0'02"831
19. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'19"651 + 0'02"939
20. 39 MONDINI Midland Toyota B 1'19"669 + 0'02"957
21. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'19"730 + 0'03"018
22. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'19"857 + 0'03"145
23. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'20"137 + 0'03"425
24. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'20"552 + 0'03"840
25. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'21"114 + 0'04"402
26. 23 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'21"594 + 0'04"882
27. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 2'06"592 + 0'49"880


Free 2

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'15"907 158.404 Km/h
2. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'16"075 + 0'00"168
3. 4 MONTOYA McLaren Mercedes M 1'16"138 + 0'00"231
4. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'16"221 + 0'00"314
5. 37 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'16"292 + 0'00"385
6. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'16"707 + 0'00"800
7. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'16"721 + 0'00"814
8. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'16"870 + 0'00"963
9. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'16"903 + 0'00"996
10. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'17"251 + 0'01"344
11. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'17"325 + 0'01"418
12. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'17"439 + 0'01"532
13. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'17"456 + 0'01"549
14. 39 MONDINI Midland Toyota B 1'17"497 + 0'01"590
15. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'17"603 + 0'01"696
16. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'17"704 + 0'01"797
17. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'17"744 + 0'01"837
18. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'17"812 + 0'01"905
19. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'17"845 + 0'01"938
20. 17 VILLENEUVE BMW Sauber M 1'17"874 + 0'01"967
21. 15 KLIEN RedBull Ferrari M 1'18"123 + 0'02"216
22. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'18"257 + 0'02"350
23. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'18"420 + 0'02"513
24. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'18"430 + 0'02"523
25. 23 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'18"731 + 0'02"824
26. 38 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'19"273 + 0'03"366
27. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'19"445 + 0'03"538
28. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'19"803 + 0'03"896



Last year poll: F. Alonso (Renault) - 1'16''281
Record Pole: J. Trulli (2004) - 1'13''985
Last year podium:
1. K. Raikkonen
2. N. Heidfeld
3. M. Webber

[NJBRONCOSFAN]

Yea, it is truly annoying that the race along with the last one i believe, are not shown live.

[anton...]

Yea, it is truly annoying that the race along with the last one i believe, are not shown live.

i get to see it live... :D

and with ur 300 channels... im sure u could get it live...

and what the hell is happening to michael the great?

why is he not winning?

im sick of renault....



:fight:

[y2cragie]

Quite simple, Ferrari have the fastest car on the high speed circuits with alot of slow corners, the renaults have the better car in the flowing circuits. Monaco renault will probably have the upper hand on tyres alone this weekend, I think they will again at silverstone. Ferrari should have an advantage in germany, hungary and turkey.

[Bronco_f1]

Yea, it is truly annoying that the race along with the last one i believe, are not shown live.

Yeah, and CBS coverage is not that good

[Bronco_f1]

Monaco is all about qualifying, because it is hard to pass. Definitely Renault should win this one (alonso)

[anton...]

Monaco is all about qualifying, because it is hard to pass. Definitely Renault should win this one (alonso)

do u like alonso? cos i sure as hell dont...

i hope he doesnt win....

but those damn reno's run as if hesus himself drove them.. while he was smitting other opponenets... and drinking coffee with the other hand... cos as we all know... coffee is god...

im sick of him being so dominant... then again... i wasnt complaining like 3 yrs ago when michael was kicking ass...

man... i hate going for a team that is not winning... its like betting on a damn overweight and amputee horse while yelling at the horses quadrapledgic jockey to get off the ground... and ride the damn thing....

u just cant win....

:D

[Bronco_f1]

I like Alonso, he is a good driver.

Anyhow, I am a McLaren fan, so I know what it feels to not win a championship in a long time (since Hakkinen, and I started watching F1 after he won the last McLaren championship)

Well, what happened today was very controversial, Alonso should have been in pole, but Schumacher's parking made him lose a bit of time that cost him the pole.

[DeuceOfClub]

Well, what happened today was very controversial, Alonso should have been in pole, but Schumacher's parking made him lose a bit of time that cost him the pole.

He (Schumacher) almost couldn’t resist laughing at the press conference.

That was borderline dirty, but he pulled it out elegantly.

[DeuceOfClub]

Careful!!! Spoilers ahead:























Qualifying Session

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'13"898 162.711 Km/h
2. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'13"962 162.570 Km/h
3. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'14"082 162.307 Km/h
4. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'14"140 162.180 Km/h
5. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'14"396 161.622 Km/h
6. 4 MONTOYA McLaren Mercedes M 1'14"664 161.041 Km/h
7. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'15"804 158.620 Km/h
8. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'15"857 158.509 Km/h
9. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'16"426 157.329 Km/h
10. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'16"636 156.898 Km/h

11. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'14"398 161.617 Km/h
12. 15 KLIEN RedBull Ferrari M 1'14"747 160.863 Km/h
13. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'14"969 160.386 Km/h
14. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'14"982 160.358 Km/h
15. 17 VILLENEUVE BMW Sauber M 1'15"052 160.209 Km/h
16. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'15"137 160.028 Km/h

17. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'15"598 159.052 Km/h
18. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'15"993 158.225 Km/h
19. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'16"236 157.721 Km/h
20. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'17"276 155.598 Km/h
21. 23 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'17"502 155.144 Km/h
22. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 0'00"000



A very strong qualy for Webber to top Raikkonen at 3rd.
A poor track day for BMW and Toyota.

Other than that, anyone outside the top 5 have almost zero chance of winning.

[y2cragie]

Having watched schumi from the start of his F1 career, i am pretty sure that was unintentional. When he does things to effect an outcome he does it blatently. Cutting up and hitting Damon Hill and the same with Villeneuve. He's smile and attitude were quite simple an, "i cant believe I did that" type of smile. Alonso on pole, perhaps, and I have no doubt regardless of the stewards enquiry he will ***** about it. I hope Ferrari have a 1 stop strategy down, because its going to take a while for those hard tyres to pay off. If Schumi keeps pole that is.

[DeuceOfClub]

I’m sorry but I’m not buying it…

Schumi is a computer… he will not make such an amateur mistake. That was a calculated breaks-lock IMO. But he is so good behind the will that it looks incidental.

[y2cragie]

If he did it on purpose, locking the brakes round Monaco, that was the biggest risk possible. There simply isn't any room to do that intentionally.
He had no need to do it anyway, Alonso was actually being slowed down at the end by another car anyway. We shall just have to see what happens I guess.
Schumi aint going to admit it, and the rest will always claim he did it on purpose.
Besides he's not the machine people seem to think, he actually get very frustrated at times especially when pushing hard, he does more work in the cockpit than any other driver, compair an onboard lap of his to alonso or kimi's and you'll see him making constant changes to the brake balance, the traction control and gear's. Its this which has caused him to crash in the past and will do so in the future. The Ferrari is a handful to drive even in his hands.

[y2cragie]

Oh well, back row for Michael. BS in my opinion but we cant have the Ferrari critics upset now can we. People complain about Ferrari getting special treatment, as far as I am concerned its renault and Mclaren who are the ones who get it. Everyone knew before quali this sort of thing would happen, no one was happy but they all agree'd to get on with it. Now its happend, lets all run and complain because it didn't work to their advantage. On the plus side I dont see Alonso finishing this race so hopefully his advantage wont go up.

[DeuceOfClub]

Here is how I see it:

At the time of the “incident” Schumi was on his way back to pit. He was more than 1sec’ off the pace and had no chance to improve his time.
No way a driver of his magnitude will risk his car in a lap that have no meaning.

I don’t think the decision is wrong but I would have no problem if it were different.

[Bronco_f1]

Well, the controversy is over. Schumacher will start from last place. I think that was fair, intentional or not

[y2cragie]

How is it fair if it was unintentional? Dropping him 10 places ok I perhaps would accept for unintentional.
This was a simple mistake, and the race and this years championship could be pretty much finished because of it. There is no evidence to say he cheated, the FIA have said so themselves, they were just left with little choice because good old Ron Dennis who couldn't produce a winning car on a proper track if his life depended on it, and Flavio "i have no F1 knowledge whatso ever (self admitted)" Briatore went and continued complaining.
Ah well maybe webber will jump Alonso and give williams a win. Or half the field ends up getting taken out at turn 1. We shall see.

[anton...]

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO..................











.....OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

:O

i dont think i could be more pissed about this news... WHO DOES THAT?!?!?

is schumi just ur avarage norman leigh lucid????!?!?!?!

ill tell u... NO HE IS NOT!?!?!

HOW COULD THOSE FOOLS DO THAT TO HIM!?!?!

who r they to do that?!?!

do u even know their names!!??!?!

NO U DONT!!!!!! nobody does... why?!?! why u ask?!?!? cos they r nobodies... and schumi should ignore these nobodies.. and race anyway... in pole position.. where he belongs... where the real bodies belong...

damn officials... death to them!!!!!!!!!! ALL.......!!!!!!
:fight:

:D

[y2cragie]

I think schumi did all he had to on the track where he needed to. 5th place from last is acceptable.
Annoyed about Alonso but hey if it falls in to place I guess he's just the lucky one this season.

[Bronco_f1]

Montoya finished 2nd. That is a good sign for McLaren

[Southstander]

IF you care the Classic F1 movie Grand Prix is comming to DVD on July 11

[anton...]

IF you care the Classic F1 movie Grand Prix is comming to DVD on July 11

no... i would say i do care.... no...

thanks though...

but is it a doco or is it a b grade movie?

:D

[Southstander]

It is one of the GREATEST racing movies of all time, it pioniered the use of cameras on the cars. It has an all star cast, it won 3 Ocsars. Alos I t was filmed at some of the legendary tracks of F1, Brands Hatch racing track, Kent, England, UK Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, Spa, Belgium, Clermont-Ferrand, Puy-de-Dôme, France, Monaco, Monza, Milan, Lombardia, Italy.

Also the cars driven by all most of the actors where filmed at speeds of and over 130 mph. It is well worth checking out

[DeuceOfClub]

Michael Schumacher talking after the Monaco Grand-prix:


"I am happy to have got up to fifth in the end, even though I started from pit lane. But I am still disappointed about what happened yesterday, especially in the light of today's performance. I was amazed at how tough the Stewards' decision was. I can understand that, from the outside, things might seem a bit strange, but if you don't have all the information you cannot give an appropriate judgement. The facts have to be examined in an open manner. I am sorry that Fernando's lap was ruined and it was definitely not my intention to do that. At the time, I did not know where his car was because I had been told nothing over the radio. I have been in Formula One for 16 years and I have got used to living with this sort of situation. We are only in the seventh round of the championship and there is still everything to play for. Everyone could see today that I am not the sort to give up."

[anton...]

It is one of the GREATEST racing movies of all time, it pioniered the use of cameras on the cars. It has an all star cast, it won 3 Ocsars. Alos I t was filmed at some of the legendary tracks of F1, Brands Hatch racing track, Kent, England, UK Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, Spa, Belgium, Clermont-Ferrand, Puy-de-Dôme, France, Monaco, Monza, Milan, Lombardia, Italy.

Also the cars driven by all most of the actors where filmed at speeds of and over 130 mph. It is well worth checking out


ohhh... i may try and get my hands on that...

thanks... cos i had no idea about the existance of this movie...

:beer:

[anton...]

Michael Schumacher talking after the Monaco Grand-prix:

yes..............

like a real galant and sportsmanlike superhuman machine who could win a grand prix... in a 1953 poo brown beetle with only 3 wheels...

this is why i looooove schumi....

long live the god of racing...

:salute:

[y2cragie]

And he then goes and blitzes the lap record at barcelona in testing the other day. Safe to say Monaco is long forgotten for him.
I am heading to the F1 test at Silverstone in a couple of weeks, just after the gp. I'll try and bring back as many pics as possible and post em for you guys. Sadly for us Ferrari fans, they only test at Silverstone before the GP. :mad:

[anton...]

And he then goes and blitzes the lap record at barcelona in testing the other day. Safe to say Monaco is long forgotten for him.
I am heading to the F1 test at Silverstone in a couple of weeks, just after the gp. I'll try and bring back as many pics as possible and post em for you guys. Sadly for us Ferrari fans, they only test at Silverstone before the GP. :mad:

well thats not the best news... but thanks buddy!!!

the pics will be much apprecited... as i really do wish to go... but i cannot...
damn water in the way... and im not the best of swimmers...

speaking of which... i went to the melbourne gp last yr... and it was sweet...!!!

but thats the best that ive done...

:D

[y2cragie]

Your lucky, I havent been to a gp in a loooong time. This will only be the second time I have even seen the modern F1 cars actually running, the last was an airshow a few years back. Before that It was the time of Damon hill and his williams championship year that I last went to a race.

[DeuceOfClub]

This week (Race #8) Silverstone, Britain.

http://www.formulagp2.com/2004/img/circuits/silverstone03_map.gif

Circuit length: 31.19 Miles
Lap Record: 1:18.739 (M. Schumacher, Ferrari, 2004)

2005 Podium:
1. Montoya
2. Alonso
3. Raikkonen



Greatest race ever (according to “F1 Racing”)

1987

Possibly Williams’ strongest ever driver line-up, Piquet and Mansell let their personal rivalry spill onto the track at Silverstone as they battled for supremacy within their team in front of the brit’s home crowd. ‘Our Nige’ came into the pits and took on new tires to cure vibration, leaving him 28 sec’ behind Piquet with just 29 laps remaining. For most people the game would have been up, but never one to let something so slight faze him, it took Mansell just 25 of those tours to reel Piquet in. the “Mansell Maniacs” in the grandstands went berserk as they witnessed the most famous dummy in F1 history on the run down to Stowe, which allowed ‘their’ man to sweep through to victory.

BTW Piquet and Mansell finished 1,2 (in that order) in the driver championship that year. With Senna a close 3rd (Lotus)




Here is a clip from the 1993 Silverstone GP.

Senna ( McLaren-Ford) doing everything he can to hold 2nd place against Alain Prost (Williams-Renault) and than to hold 3rd against M. Schumacher (Benetton-Ford). Some crazy moves.

Clip (youTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=oStMJUYrI0A&search=formula%201%20silverstone%20)

The Race leader at this point Damon Hill (Williams-Renault) retired later on due to engine problem. Prost, Schumacher finished 1,2 respectively and Senna finished 5th after running out of fuel.

[Bronco_f1]

Even though I'm hyped up about the World Cup, I'm sure Silverstone will be great this weekend. Especially since it is a Montoya's dominant territory

[DeuceOfClub]

Silverstone 1st and 2nd practice results:


Free 1

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'21"946 225.851 Km/h
2. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'22"003 + 0'00"057
3. 38 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'22"365 + 0'00"419
4. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'22"877 + 0'00"931
5. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'22"925 + 0'00"979
6. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'23"128 + 0'01"182
7. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'23"415 + 0'01"469
8. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'23"816 + 0'01"870
9. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'24"019 + 0'02"073
10. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'24"070 + 0'02"124
11. 39 MONDINI Midland Toyota B 1'24"087 + 0'02"141
12. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'24"145 + 0'02"199
13. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'27"724 + 0'05"778
14. 41 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'29"678 + 0'07"732



Free 2

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 38 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'21"082 228.258 Km/h
2. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'22"294 + 0'01"212
3. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'22"300 + 0'01"218
4. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'22"310 + 0'01"228
5. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'22"437 + 0'01"355
6. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'22"476 + 0'01"394
7. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'22"603 + 0'01"521
8. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'22"825 + 0'01"743
9. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'23"099 + 0'02"017
10. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'23"104 + 0'02"022
11. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'23"114 + 0'02"032
12. 37 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'23"140 + 0'02"058
13. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'23"194 + 0'02"112
14. 4 MONTOYA McLaren Mercedes M 1'23"199 + 0'02"117
15. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'23"499 + 0'02"417
16. 39 MONDINI Midland Toyota B 1'23"529 + 0'02"447
17. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'23"707 + 0'02"625
18. 17 VILLENEUVE BMW Sauber M 1'23"750 + 0'02"668
19. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'23"816 + 0'02"734
20. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'23"895 + 0'02"813
21. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'23"915 + 0'02"833
22. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'24"012 + 0'02"930
23. 15 KLIEN RedBull Ferrari M 1'24"158 + 0'03"076
24. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'24"167 + 0'03"085
25. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'24"392 + 0'03"310
26. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'24"666 + 0'03"584
27. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'25"870 + 0'04"788
28. 23 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'26"248 + 0'05"166
29. 41 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'27"908 + 0'06"826

[DeuceOfClub]

Careful, Spoilers ahead !!!









Very exciting qually session. Held me on the edge of my seat.
Alonso just got poll for the 4th consecutive race. Can someone please tell me why does he leave to McLaren???





P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-------------------------------------------------------------------
1. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'20"253 230.616 Km/h
2. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'20"397 230.203 Km/h
3. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'20"574 229.697 Km/h
4. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'20"764 229.157 Km/h
5. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'20"919 228.718 Km/h
6. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'20"943 228.650 Km/h
7. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'21"073 228.283 Km/h
8. 4 MONTOYA McLaren Mercedes M 1'21"107 228.187 Km/h
9. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'21"329 227.565 Km/h
10. 17 VILLENEUVE BMW Sauber M 2'15"990 136.095 Km/h

11. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'21"442 227.249 Km/h
12. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'21"567 226.901 Km/h
13. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'21"699 226.534 Km/h
14. 15 KLIEN RedBull Ferrari M 1'21"990 225.730 Km/h
15. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'22"076 225.493 Km/h
16. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'22"207 225.134 Km/h

17. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'23"129 222.637 Km/h
18. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'23"210 222.420 Km/h
19. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'23"247 222.322 Km/h
20. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'26"158 214.810 Km/h
21. 23 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'26"316 214.417 Km/h
22. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 0'00"000

[y2cragie]

Money Duece. Money.
I really dont expect Mclaren to be a factor in the race, I think finally they have gone for a much lighter fuel load in quali to get them up the front. Renault really did pull something special out of the bag for that time, but I really think they may be a good 3 to 4 laps lighter than the Ferrari's. If they arn't then Ferrari are in serious trouble.

[DeuceOfClub]

Can’t be just money. I’m sure that if given the chance Renault would have compare or get very close to the new contract numbers.
On top of that World-champion makes much more endorsement money and currently Renault are far better than everyone else.

Add the fact the Flavio Briatore is Alonso personal manager, and that puzzles even more.

:confused:

[y2cragie]

Renault are notorious for their money saving, they are I believe the lowest spending team in the top 6 or 7. and certainly the lowest of the big 3. Mclaren simply matched then beat any offer made by Renault. PLus remember Alonso did the deal behind Flavio's back.

[DeuceOfClub]

Even, it is just crazy / sad / stupid that the current best team and the current best driver couldn’t find a way to stay together.





Total Driver Salaries per team / 2005

Ferrari $46.50m
McLaren-Mercedes $40.00m
Toyota $39.50m
Renault $18.25m
B.A.R.-Honda $10.25m
BMW-Williams $5.00m
Sauber-Petronas $4.50m
Red Bull $2.50m
Jordan $0.50m
Minardi $0.35m

[Bronco_f1]

Flavio did some impressive management to get his team to win at such a low budget. Thanks for the numbers Deuce :beer:

[DeuceOfClub]

Flavio did some impressive management to get his team to win at such a low budget. Thanks for the numbers Deuce :beer:



It is even more impressive when you look at the total Dollar amount spent.



Total budget per team / 2005

Toyota $499.05m
Ferrari $432.98m
McLaren-Mercedes $419.95m
B.A.R.-Honda $360.16m
BMW-Williams $360.12m
Renault $287.81m
Sauber-Petronas $161.32m
Red Bull $139.22m
Jordan $104.20m
Minardi $50.31m

Total $2,814,720,000

[Bronco_f1]

I feel bad for Toyota and Honda :D

I wish McLaren would do something with that budget and that talent, like win a championship (they are always 2nd or 3rd, but never win)

[y2cragie]

Urgh, cant justify going to the test tomorrow, only Midland will be there. Too far to travel for just them. Have to wait till sept now. :mad:

[DeuceOfClub]

This week (Race #9) Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Montreal, Canada.

http://www.tsn.ca/images/elements/auto_racing/circuit_montreal.jpg

Circuit length: 2.71 Miles
Lap Record: 1:13.622 (Barrichello, Ferrari, 2004)

2005 Podium:
1. Raikkonen
2. M. Schumacher
3. Barrichello



Greatest race ever (according to “F1 Racing”)

1998

One of the craziest races of all time. Wurz went upside downat the start, taking Trulli and Herbert with him. Hakkinen found himself with a boxful of neutrals at the restart, causing another incident as Ralf Schumacher spun to avoid him. Pedro Diniz’s contribution to F1 history continued as he spread turf all over the track after an off. Michael Schumacher won from Fisichella, despite being handed a stop-go penalty for pushing Frentzen into the wall as the Ferrari driver hurried to leave the pits.



Clips:


First a look at the driver which the circuit is named after: Gilles Villeneuve. This is from 1979 French GP. Villeneuve (Ferrari – Red) and Rene Arnoux (Renault – Yellow) fighting for 2nd place.
Clip (YouTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=MzXrGIPP2_k&mode=related&search=villeneuve)

And a short clip of his fatal crash in practice before the 1982 Britain GP.
Clip (YouTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=3AXIvuZX_3Y&mode=related&search=villeneuve=villeneuve)





And an “onboard” lap with M. Schumacher 1999 Canadian GP, with a disappointing ending:
Clip (YouTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=jruR_HIrySs&search=canada%20grand%20prix)

[y2cragie]

my personal favourate track.
Gotta love the wall of champions, and those new high curbs make it even more likely someones meeting with it.
nice onboard of schumi and the old ferrari, Its a good demo of how much Ferrari have changed their car and driving style. That was a very smooth car to drive, much like todays renault, it needed a fine touch and style.
Todays Ferrari, is simply foot to the floor on the gas for a straight, and foot to the floor on the brakes for a corner.

[DeuceOfClub]

It is one of my favorite tracks as well. The lap above shows it beauty and danger.

Cant say I completely agree with the remarks about Renault current car is similar to the old Ferrari, but F1 cars in general became more “digital” than “analog” to drive.

[DeuceOfClub]

found in my old bookmarks a link for the crash mentioned above. Wurz crash @ Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, 1998. Enjoy...

clip (direct link) (http://f1.online.videos.free.fr/videos/an90/99_canada_wurz.mpeg)

[DeuceOfClub]

Montreal 1st and 2nd practice results:


Free 1

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 38 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'16"390 205.519 Km/h
2. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'18"306 + 0'01"916
3. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'18"941 + 0'02"551
4. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'18"994 + 0'02"604
5. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'19"070 + 0'02"680
6. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'19"165 + 0'02"775
7. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'19"258 + 0'02"868
8. 37 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'19"681 + 0'03"291
9. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'20"154 + 0'03"764
10. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'20"646 + 0'04"256
11. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'20"799 + 0'04"409
12. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'20"861 + 0'04"471
13. 23 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'21"783 + 0'05"393
14. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'21"891 + 0'05"501
15. 41 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'23"159 + 0'06"769
16. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'23"179 + 0'06"789
17. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'24"029 + 0'07"639



Free 2

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 38 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'16"965 203.984 Km/h
2. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'17"095 + 0'00"130
3. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'17"337 + 0'00"372
4. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'17"490 + 0'00"525
5. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'17"627 + 0'00"662
6. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'17"805 + 0'00"840
7. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'17"848 + 0'00"883
8. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'18"009 + 0'01"044
9. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'18"015 + 0'01"050
10. 17 VILLENEUVE BMW Sauber M 1'18"035 + 0'01"070
11. 37 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'18"201 + 0'01"236
12. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'18"279 + 0'01"314
13. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'18"429 + 0'01"464
14. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'18"503 + 0'01"538
15. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'18"549 + 0'01"584
16. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'18"614 + 0'01"649
17. 4 MONTOYA McLaren Mercedes M 1'18"761 + 0'01"796
18. 15 KLIEN RedBull Ferrari M 1'18"865 + 0'01"900
19. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'18"868 + 0'01"903
20. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'18"907 + 0'01"942
21. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'19"048 + 0'02"083
22. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'19"099 + 0'02"134
23. 39 MONDINI Midland Toyota B 1'19"138 + 0'02"173
24. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'19"313 + 0'02"348
25. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'19"541 + 0'02"576
26. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'19"624 + 0'02"659
27. 41 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'20"197 + 0'03"232
28. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'20"262 + 0'03"297
29. 23 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'21"434 + 0'04"469

[y2cragie]

It is one of my favorite tracks as well. The lap above shows it beauty and danger.

Cant say I completely agree with the remarks about Renault current car is similar to the old Ferrari, but F1 cars in general became more “digital” than “analog” to drive.
They are only simmilar in the way they need to be driven.
It's been said in the past the Renault needs a smoother touch to drive it, as did the old Ferrari. Although its ironic because if you watch Alonso on half the tracks, he has the car setup with massive amounts of understeer and just throws the wheel and waits for the car to stop sliding. Bahrain and Imola were two good examples of that.

[DeuceOfClub]

Careful, Spoilers ahead !!!









Completely dominant performance from Renault as they captured 1st and 2nd for the second time this year.
Villeneeuve couldn’t get in the top-10 and his chances to finally win at his “home court” don’t look good. As BMW disappoint again after looking very good in practice (Kubica)
Surprisingly not a single flag in the qualy, I don’t expect that to happen tomorrow…






P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-------------------------------------------------------------------
1. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'14"942 209.490 Km/h
2. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'15"178 208.832 Km/h
3. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'15"386 208.256 Km/h
4. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'15"968 206.661 Km/h
5. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'15"986 206.612 Km/h
6. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'16"012 206.541 Km/h
7. 4 MONTOYA McLaren Mercedes M 1'16"228 205.956 Km/h
8. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'16"608 204.934 Km/h
9. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'16"912 204.124 Km/h
10. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'17"268 203.184 Km/h

11. 17 VILLENEUVE BMW Sauber M 1'15"832 207.031 Km/h
12. 15 KLIEN RedBull Ferrari M 1'15"833 207.029 Km/h
13. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'15"885 206.887 Km/h
14. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'15"888 206.879 Km/h
15. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'16"116 206.259 Km/h
16. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'16"301 205.759 Km/h

17. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'16"985 203.931 Km/h
18. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'17"016 203.849 Km/h
19. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'17"121 203.571 Km/h
20. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'17"140 203.521 Km/h
21. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'19"088 198.508 Km/h
22. 23 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'19"152 198.347 Km/h

[DeuceOfClub]

BTW, there is a rumor flying around on several boards that last week in a meeting between Flavio Briatore and Raikkonen, the later was offered a contract for next year.

I heard anywhere between 50m Euro for 3 years to 143m Dollars for 4 years.

[y2cragie]

Massa seems to have forgotten which pedal to use to go faster :D
Very good performance from Trulli, no doubt he'll be a rolling roadblock as usual, as long as Schumi can get past, I think Ross Brawn can get him to the front with a good pit strategy, with the straight line speed advantage the Ferraris have, they just need to find the corner speed.
Alonso though seems to have everything set for another win :mad:

[y2cragie]

BTW, there is a rumor flying around on several boards that last week in a meeting between Flavio Briatore and Raikkonen, the later was offered a contract for next year.

I heard anywhere between 50m Euro for 3 years to 143m Dollars for 4 years.
I think renault is a better fit for Raikonnen.
They are far more relaxed, which would suit him. And they dont have the chance of a problem of to number 1 drivers possibly in the team.
I just dont see Schumi and Raikonnen working together. No way Michaels going to be the #2 driver if he sticks around, and theres no way Kimi's going to do the grunt work in practise that Massa and Barrichello have done for Michael.

[DeuceOfClub]

This week (Race #10) Indianapolis, USA.

http://www.sportinglife.com/formula1/images2000/us330.jpg

Circuit length: 2.60 Miles
Lap Record: 1:10.399 (Barrichello, Ferrari, 2004)

2005 Podium: :mad: :ugh:
1. M. Schumacher
2. Barrichello
3. Monteiro



Greatest race ever (according to “F1 Racing”)

2001

Mika Hakkinen’s final F1 victory was a much needed boost for the sport in the wake of 9/11. a strategic race rather than an all-out dogfight, the grand-prix looked to be a straight contest between the Ferrari and Williams drivers. However, as the Blue-and-white challenge faded, suddenly Mika (McLaren-Mercedes) was in contention. He emerged from the pits ahead of Schumacher, then took the lead as a two-stopping Barrichello came in for his splash ‘n’ dash. The win sealed second place in the constructors’ points for Ron’s boys, but, more importantly, it gave us a last glimpse of the old Mika before he retired.





A look at the start of the 2004 US GP.
Clip (YouTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=eNjqWSUyQ8o&search=formula%20indianapolis)
Fernando Alonso jumped from eighth to third at the start in his Renault. But Alonso’s right-rear tire disintegrated approaching Turn 1 on Lap 9, causing his car to turn 90 degrees left and hit the outside retaining wall, ending his race. He was unhurt.
Look at the strong move Schumacher make to secure 2nd place behind Barrichello. Later (lap #6) Schumacher beat Barrichello to Turn 1.
Ferrari finished 1-2 (Schumacher – Barrichello) and Sato finished 3rd.


“onboard” lap with Barrichello from 2004:
Clip (YouTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=mjyCbmFP-Mc&search=formula%20indianapolis)

[y2cragie]

nice find on the video deuce.
I miss the F2004 so much. :ugh:

[DeuceOfClub]

Barrichello was very upset not winning:

“Unfortunately on the (Lap 6) restart, I had a lot of wheel spin which allowed Michael to take the slipstream and get past,” Barrichello said. “(In Turn 13) it was bottoming, it was so low. I didn’t have a chance to close the door.”

“It was good to have a 1-2 again for the team. I’m just disappointed, more than Canada, more than ever. I thought I had a win on my hands. We had a quick car, I was driving well, and I was pushing like hell.”

[DeuceOfClub]

Indianapolis 1st and 2nd practice results:


Free 1

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'12"083 209.359 Km/h
2. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'12"458 + 0'00"375
3. 38 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'13"008 + 0'00"925
4. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'13"090 + 0'01"007
5. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'13"189 + 0'01"106
6. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'13"710 + 0'01"627
7. 39 MONDINI Midland Toyota B 1'14"654 + 0'02"571
8. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'14"745 + 0'02"662
9. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'14"791 + 0'02"708
10. 37 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'15"018 + 0'02"935
11. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'15"091 + 0'03"008
12. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'15"532 + 0'03"449
13. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'15"647 + 0'03"564
14. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'15"971 + 0'03"888
15. 41 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'16"116 + 0'04"033
16. 23 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'16"489 + 0'04"406



Free 2

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'12"013 209.562 Km/h
2. 38 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'12"809 + 0'00"796
3. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'12"933 + 0'00"920
4. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'13"264 + 0'01"251
5. 39 MONDINI Midland Toyota B 1'13"327 + 0'01"314
6. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'13"346 + 0'01"333
7. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'13"387 + 0'01"374
8. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'13"397 + 0'01"384
9. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'13"474 + 0'01"461
10. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'13"554 + 0'01"541
11. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'13"688 + 0'01"675
12. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'13"691 + 0'01"678
13. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'13"725 + 0'01"712
14. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'13"735 + 0'01"722
15. 4 MONTOYA McLaren Mercedes M 1'13"825 + 0'01"812
16. 17 VILLENEUVE BMW Sauber M 1'13"857 + 0'01"844
17. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'13"946 + 0'01"933
18. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'14"011 + 0'01"998
19. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'14"050 + 0'02"037
20. 15 KLIEN RedBull Ferrari M 1'14"084 + 0'02"071
21. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'14"169 + 0'02"156
22. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'14"391 + 0'02"378
23. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'14"449 + 0'02"436
24. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'14"562 + 0'02"549
25. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'14"676 + 0'02"663
26. 37 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'14"839 + 0'02"826
27. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'15"063 + 0'03"050
28. 41 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'15"120 + 0'03"107

[DeuceOfClub]

Careful, Spoilers ahead !!!









Very strong Qualy for Ferrai. They looked much faster than the rest of the field, in fact one must wonder if they are not “super light” on fuel.
McLaren on the other hand will be lucky to score any points tomorrow if they will repeat today’s performance.
Alonso, with his worst starting position this season, seemed to suffer from severe understeer and will need a great start if he doesn’t want to miss the podium for the first time.






P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-------------------------------------------------------------------
1. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'10"832 213.056 Km/h
2. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'11"435 211.258 Km/h
3. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'11"920 209.833 Km/h
4. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'12"109 209.283 Km/h
5. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'12"449 208.301 Km/h
6. 17 VILLENEUVE BMW Sauber M 1'12"479 208.215 Km/h
7. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'12"523 208.088 Km/h
8. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'12"795 207.311 Km/h
9. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'13"174 206.237 Km/h
10. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'15"280 200.468 Km/h

11. 4 MONTOYA McLaren Mercedes M 1'12"150 209.164 Km/h
12. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'12"292 208.753 Km/h
13. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'12"792 207.319 Km/h
14. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'12"854 207.143 Km/h
15. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'12"864 207.115 Km/h
16. 15 KLIEN RedBull Ferrari M 1'12"925 206.941 Km/h

17. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'13"180 206.220 Km/h
18. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'13"496 205.334 Km/h
19. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'13"506 205.306 Km/h
20. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'13"787 204.524 Km/h
21. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'14"041 203.822 Km/h
22. 23 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'16"036 198.474 Km/h

[y2cragie]

I am 99% certain the Ferrari's arn't that light on fuel. They always work round this track. I am thinking other teams saw they would be quick so have fueled very heavy to try and give themselves a chance with pitstops. But at 1 second a lap they will need to have ferrari pitting around lap 15 or 16 and then they would need to go to about 26 or 27. If the Red cars go past lap 20 at that pace, they will just about have an entire pitstop in the pocket incase anything goes wrong. I think the BMW's could give Alonso serious problems because if he cant get his balance right, that 25 point lead is going to drop quite a bit.

[y2cragie]

So much for a fuel differance.
1 whole lap less. Incredible quali performance from the Ferrari's.
Nice to see them running the race at reduced rev's too. :D
Good performance from Trulli.

[DeuceOfClub]

Was an interesting race. Too bad we lost 8 cars after less than 6 laps. Ferrari were ahead of everyone with a complete package today.
Alonso had no chance today and I think he got lucky after R. Schumacher retired to secure 5th.
It might be an interesting year after all if Ferrari can thrive on today momentum.

Congrats to Liuzzi, scoring his first point.

[DeuceOfClub]

Juan Pablo Montoya steps down at McLaren (http://f1.racing-live.com/f1/en/headlines/news/detail/060711113156.shtml)


McLaren Mercedes confirmed this morning that the Colombian and the team have parted ways, effective immediately

with Pedro de la Rosa taking the race seat this weekend at the French Grand Prix.

[DeuceOfClub]

This week (Race #11) Magny-Cours, Circuit de Nevers.

http://www.etracksonline.co.uk/Europe/magny-cours_map.gif

Circuit length: 2.74 Miles
Lap Record: 1:15.377 (M. Schumacher, Ferrari, 2004)

2005 Podium:
1. Alonso
2. Raikkonen
3. M. Schumacher



Greatest race ever (according to “F1 Racing”)

2000

Arguably Coulthard’s best world championship victory. Hakkinen’s nightmare season meant McLaren needed a leader, and DC stepped up to the plate at Magny-Cours. A series of technical problems kept him off the pole position, but he was not to be beaten in the grand-prix. He tried once to get past Schumacher at the hairpin, but the German rudely closed the door on him. Coulthard was not amused, and made his displeasure known through an irate hand ‘gesture’. A few laps later, and a risky, wheel-banging effort made the move stick this time. Michael followed meekly for a few laps before his engine let go, allowing DC to lead home a McLaren one-two.



Clips:


A lap with Pedro de la Rosa, who will be driving McLaren #2 car this week, at MC from 2005 practice session. (some “onboard”)
Clip (YouTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=W7ldoHal9wY&search=magny%20cours)

And an “onboard” lap with Alonso. With nice commentary.
Clip (YouTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=2ACda5j4zLM&search=magny%20cours)

[y2cragie]

the Alonso lap was from British TV, with Martin Brundle commentating. Brundle being an ex-F1 driver.

I dont like the French GP, Magny cours is a boring track, it provides little to no challenge to the drivers, as many have said and its only characteristic is that the surface is really smooth. wow.
New Ferrari cars, new Renualt engine. Should be interesting to see which has spent the new money best.

[DeuceOfClub]

Magny-Cours 1st and 2nd practice results:


Free 1

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 38 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'16"794 206.782 Km/h
2. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'17"133 + 0'00"339
3. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'18"160 + 0'01"366
4. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'18"752 + 0'01"958
5. 39 SUTIL Midland Toyota B 1'18"777 + 0'01"983
6. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'18"962 + 0'02"168
7. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'19"055 + 0'02"261
8. 17 VILLENEUVE BMW Sauber M 1'19"063 + 0'02"269
9. 37 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'19"311 + 0'02"517
10. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'19"401 + 0'02"607
11. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'19"465 + 0'02"671
12. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'19"806 + 0'03"012
13. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'20"335 + 0'03"541
14. 23 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'20"790 + 0'03"996
15. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'21"160 + 0'04"366
16. 41 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'23"891 + 0'07"097



Free 2

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 38 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'16"902 206.491 Km/h
2. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'17"498 + 0'00"596
3. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'17"750 + 0'00"848
4. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'17"859 + 0'00"957
5. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'17"916 + 0'01"014
6. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'17"938 + 0'01"036
7. 39 SUTIL Midland Toyota B 1'18"049 + 0'01"147
8. 37 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'18"175 + 0'01"273
9. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'18"274 + 0'01"372
10. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'18"639 + 0'01"737
11. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'18"721 + 0'01"819
12. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'19"005 + 0'02"103
13. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'19"013 + 0'02"111
14. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'19"108 + 0'02"206
15. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'19"140 + 0'02"238
16. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'19"183 + 0'02"281
17. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'19"259 + 0'02"357
18. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'19"413 + 0'02"511
19. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'19"589 + 0'02"687
20. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'19"692 + 0'02"790
21. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'19"701 + 0'02"799
22. 4 DE LA ROSA McLaren Mercedes M 1'19"809 + 0'02"907
23. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'19"996 + 0'03"094
24. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'20"003 + 0'03"101
25. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'20"135 + 0'03"233
26. 17 VILLENEUVE BMW Sauber M 1'20"154 + 0'03"252
27. 15 KLIEN RedBull Ferrari M 1'20"409 + 0'03"507
28. 23 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'21"132 + 0'04"230
29. 41 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'21"969 + 0'05"067

[DeuceOfClub]

Another 1-2 poll for Ferrari, after another impressive session. I wonder If it will stay that way entering turn #1?
What happened to Honda?







P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-------------------------------------------------------------------
1. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'15"493 210.345 Km/h
2. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'15"510 210.298 Km/h
3. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'15"785 209.535 Km/h
4. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'16"036 208.843 Km/h
5. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'16"091 208.692 Km/h
6. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'16"281 208.172 Km/h
7. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'16"345 207.998 Km/h
8. 4 DE LA ROSA McLaren Mercedes M 1'16"632 207.219 Km/h
9. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'18"272 202.877 Km/h
10. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'18"663 201.869 Km/h

11. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'16"129 208.588 Km/h
12. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'16"294 208.137 Km/h
13. 15 KLIEN RedBull Ferrari M 1'16"433 207.758 Km/h
14. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'17"027 206.156 Km/h
15. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'17"063 206.060 Km/h
16. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'17"105 205.948 Km/h

17. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'17"164 205.790 Km/h
18. 17 VILLENEUVE BMW Sauber M 1'17"304 205.418 Km/h
19. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'17"495 204.911 Km/h
20. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'17"589 204.663 Km/h
21. 23 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'18"637 201.935 Km/h
22. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'18"845 201.403 Km/h

[y2cragie]

I'll tell you what, that strategy from Pat Symonds to get Alonso into second, might have just saved him the championship. I am surprised Ross Brawn didn't see it coming, I think everyone did. But clearly the Ferrari Bridgestone package has blown past the rest of the field. Just shows how critical a setup a car like the Ferraris need to have though to be successful. Williams are just plum unlucky which is a shame. Another record for schumi, the only driver to win a GP 8 times, I think thats just about it now. I found it amazing Schumi is only 24 or 25 points away from scoring more points than Senna and Prost combined. :eek:
What a good first half to the race the toyota's had, nice to see them finally coming on strong. Hopefully they will play a bigger part in the German GP in 2 weeks, one of my fav's on the calender.
Anyone have anything more on the rumor Alonso is looking to get out of his Mclaren drive next year.
And Deuce, keep up the great preview and results posts, thank you for taking the time to put them together. :salute: :D

[DeuceOfClub]

Great race analysis, too bad (IMO) Alonso couldn’t pass Massa on lap #1, might have been a better race. Alonso showed once again how despite his age he is a mature F1 racer, making sure to get the best out of a problematic situation (that being Ferrari/Bridgestone obviously faster).
Will Raikkonen ever get a break?

Now regarding the rumor:
Team chiefs for both McLaren Mercedes and Renault wasted no time and have added their rebuttals to rumours at Magny Cours that Fernando Alonso might be trying to wiggle out of his 2007 contract.

...

Both camps are denying the story, but it is suggested that Alonso only signed the McLaren deal because Renault's commitment to formula one was uncertain at the end of last year.

[y2cragie]

whooo, german gp weekend is upon us, one of the highlights of the calender, even though the tracks a shell of its former self.

[DeuceOfClub]

This week (Race #12) Hockenheim, Germany. Hockenheimring.

http://www.toyotaf1indonesia.com/i/hockenheim_1.jpg

Circuit length: 2.84 Miles
Lap Record: 1:13.780 (Raikkonen, McLaren, 2004)

2005 Podium:
1. Alonso
2. Montoya
3. Button



Greatest race ever (according to “F1 Racing”)

2004

Jenson Button’s finest hour in Formula 1 so far. This should have been his maiden grand prix victory, had he not suffered an engine failure (and accompanying 10-place grid penalty) during practice. Starting 13th, he made the climb up to second look easy, but ran out of laps to catch Schumi, who took his 11th win from 12 races. All this and driving one handed, too, as Jense dealt with a broken helmet strap.



Clips:


The start of the 1994 Grand Prix at Hockenheim. 10 cars didn’t make it to turn 1.
Clip (YouTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=qAdbWaSUVYk&search=Hockenheim)

Alain Prost (McLaren-TAG) running out of fuel in the final turn of the 1986 Grand Prix. Look at him trying to push the car over the finish line…
Both McLaren drivers (Keke Rosberg was the other one) ran out of fuel in the final lap and finish 5th (AP) and 6th (KR).
Clip (YouTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=yLGJTFKxtp0&search=Hockenheim)

Raikkonen (McLaren-Mercedes) and Montoya (Williams-BMW) fighting for 4th in the 2002 Hockenheim Grand Prix.
Clip (YouTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=TxfDvwyjFUI&search=Hockenheim)

And a look at the start of the 2001 Grand Prix. M. Schumacher (Ferrari, start from 4th) lose fuel pressure and Luciano Burti (Prost-Acer start 16) run full speed into him.
Clip (YouTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=VWl042C1m0Q&search=Hockenheim)

[y2cragie]

thanks mate, i have been looking for that prost clip for ages:) its one of those classic moments you just know you wouldn't see today.

[DeuceOfClub]

Hockenheim 1st and 2nd practice results:


Free 1

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'16"349 215.673 Km/h
2. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'16"523 + 0'00"174
3. 38 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'17"343 + 0'00"994
4. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'17"439 + 0'01"090
5. 37 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'17"835 + 0'01"486
6. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'18"085 + 0'01"736
7. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'18"328 + 0'01"979
8. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'18"539 + 0'02"190
9. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'18"664 + 0'02"315
10. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'18"795 + 0'02"446
11. 39 WINKELHOCK Midland Toyota B 1'18"964 + 0'02"615
12. 17 VILLENEUVE BMW Sauber M 1'18"972 + 0'02"623
13. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'19"214 + 0'02"865
14. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'19"507 + 0'03"158
15. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'20"102 + 0'03"753
16. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'20"132 + 0'03"783
17. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'20"575 + 0'04"226
18. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'20"950 + 0'04"601
19. 23 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'21"218 + 0'04"869
20. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'34"942 + 0'18"593



Free 2

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 38 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'16"225 216.024 Km/h
2. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'16"502 + 0'00"277
3. 37 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'16"549 + 0'00"324
4. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'17"040 + 0'00"815
5. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'17"205 + 0'00"980
6. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'17"294 + 0'01"069
7. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'17"344 + 0'01"119
8. 4 DE LA ROSA McLaren Mercedes M 1'17"516 + 0'01"291
9. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'17"519 + 0'01"294
10. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'17"542 + 0'01"317
11. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'17"672 + 0'01"447
12. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'17"844 + 0'01"619
13. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'17"895 + 0'01"670
14. 39 WINKELHOCK Midland Toyota B 1'17"962 + 0'01"737
15. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'18"082 + 0'01"857
16. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'18"164 + 0'01"939
17. 15 KLIEN RedBull Ferrari M 1'18"223 + 0'01"998
18. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'18"366 + 0'02"141
19. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'18"460 + 0'02"235
20. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'18"616 + 0'02"391
21. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'18"636 + 0'02"411
22. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'18"643 + 0'02"418
23. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'18"991 + 0'02"766
24. 17 VILLENEUVE BMW Sauber M 1'19"113 + 0'02"888
25. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'19"232 + 0'03"007
26. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'19"365 + 0'03"140

[y2cragie]

Its now official. Another set of changes has failed.
The switch to V8's has once again failed to slow the cars down. Schumi's Q2 time of 1:13.778 is faster than the track record set in 2004 by Kimi Raikonnen and lets face it 2004 was when F1 cars were getting ridiculously fast.
Also Raikonnens pole time is I believe faster than last years. Renaults, or should I say what renaults? Alonso is getting very worried, you could see it in his radio call's and now we will get to see if he's really that cool under presure or if he has yet to really be put under real presure. Should be a Ferrari 1-2 and hopefully Kimi can get himself into 3rd. Great to finally see Honda back up with the lead pack. This return to form of Mclaren and Honda really must be worrying Renault in general as they are all cars to take the points off Alonso when he needs to finish 2nd every race, as barring mistakes or reliability problems, I cant see Schumacher finishing lower than 2nd this season. Fingers crossed. Todays quali is exactly why I love this track. :D :beer:

[DeuceOfClub]

Hockenheim qualifying results:





P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-------------------------------------------------------------------
1. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'14"070 222.309 Km/h
2. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'14"205 221.904 Km/h
3. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'14"569 220.821 Km/h
4. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'14"862 219.957 Km/h
5. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'14"894 219.863 Km/h
6. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'14"934 219.745 Km/h
7. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'15"282 218.730 Km/h
8. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'15"923 216.883 Km/h
9. 4 DE LA ROSA McLaren Mercedes M 1'15"936 216.846 Km/h
10. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'16"326 215.738 Km/h

11. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'15"094 219.277 Km/h
12. 15 KLIEN RedBull Ferrari M 1'15"141 219.140 Km/h
13. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'15"150 219.114 Km/h
14. 17 VILLENEUVE BMW Sauber M 1'15"329 218.593 Km/h
15. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'15"380 218.445 Km/h
16. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'15"397 218.396 Km/h

17. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'16"399 215.532 Km/h
18. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'17"093 213.591 Km/h
19. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'17"185 213.337 Km/h
20. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'17"836 211.552 Km/h
21. 23 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'20"444 204.694 Km/h
22. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 0'00"000

[DeuceOfClub]

Its now official. Another set of changes has failed.
The switch to V8's has once again failed to slow the cars down. Schumi's Q2 time of 1:13.778 is faster than the track record set in 2004 by Kimi Raikonnen and lets face it 2004 was when F1 cars were getting ridiculously fast.
Also Raikonnens pole time is I believe faster than last years. Renaults, or should I say what renaults? Alonso is getting very worried, you could see it in his radio call's and now we will get to see if he's really that cool under presure or if he has yet to really be put under real presure. Should be a Ferrari 1-2 and hopefully Kimi can get himself into 3rd. Great to finally see Honda back up with the lead pack. This return to form of Mclaren and Honda really must be worrying Renault in general as they are all cars to take the points off Alonso when he needs to finish 2nd every race, as barring mistakes or reliability problems, I cant see Schumacher finishing lower than 2nd this season. Fingers crossed. Todays quali is exactly why I love this track. :D :beer:


The cars will get faster regardless of the regulations. Next year they will try to control it with the tires. It’s amazing that in only 2 years the manufacturers overcame a 200HP deficit and are closing in on the 2004 lap records.

Renault are “officially” in a slump, while Ferrari look better and better every week. I do have to wonder, though, about their fuel level. Alonso is frustrated but will see tomorrow how it will affect him, so far this season his driving haven’t been changed and he stay cool. (last race was a great example).

I also would like to “welcome back” Honda, I missed them and this is a good track for Button.

But the big story for me is Kimi. Almost forgotten this season he had a great weekend so far. I just “know” something bad will happen tomorrow.

And how did BMW perform so averagely on their home track?

Last story is the “new” car from Super Aguri. It is defiantly stronger and I believe that by next season they will surpass Midland. (Shame on the colors scheme, though)

[y2cragie]

Hungary this weekend, My favourate track from a drivers point of view. its probably the most challenging for them of the year. One medium speed corner after the next, theres no real chance to rest, and its harder on the driver than places like Monaco. Even more interesting, there is a chance it could rain and be a cool temp race. Thats a rarity for the track, could pose the big question, Super hard tyres for longevity and just pray it heats up on sunday, or risk softer tyres, and just hope the temps stay low. I see another Ferrari win but not the walk over of germany.

[DeuceOfClub]

This week (Race #13) Hungary, Budapest. Hungaroring.

http://www.gpracing.net192.com/circuits/maps/hungaroring_main.gif

Circuit length: 2.72 Miles
Lap Record: 1:19.071 (M. Schumacher, Ferrari, 2004)

2005 Podium:
1. Raikkonen
2. M. Schumacher
3. R. Schumacher



Greatest race ever (according to “F1 Racing”)

1998

The ultimate expression of Ferrari’s greatness. Schumacher’s driving and Brawn’s tactics came together perfectly to get the better of McLaren when the Scuderia really shouldn’t have had a prayer. Three-stopping compared to the two-stop McLarens, Schumi treated the race as an extended qualifying session, banging in lap after lap at a blistering pace. Hakkinen and Coulthard had no answer, and the famous victory was sealed when McLaren out-thought themselves on pit strategy.



Clips:


From the 1986 Hungary Grand Prix: two Brazilian drivers fighting for first place. Nelson Piquet (Williams-Honda) tries to overtake Ayrton Senna (Lotus-Renault) from the inside but brake too late. Than in one of the most exciting maneuvers in F1 history in the same corner overtake him from the outside and power-slide his car to a drift and block Senna inside line. Stunning!!!
Clip (YouTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=9yNJOSntzE4&search=Hungaroring)

A very short clip from the 1989 grand prix. After starting 12 on the grid Nigel Mansell (Ferrari) passes the entire field. Here an amazing 2 car pass over Ayrton Senna (McLaren- Honda) and the Stefan Johansson (Onyx-Ford) who was one lap behind and was, obviously, blocking Senna.
Mansell finished 25sec’ faster than Senna and completed the race (77 laps) without any pit stops.
Clip (YouTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=8n5LIIYo0ts&search=Hungaroring)

“Onboard” lap with M. Schumacher in his last year pole position lap. (1:19.882)
Clip (YouTube) ( http://youtube.com/watch?v=ilP98e88NzM&search=Hungaroring)

[DeuceOfClub]

Hungaroring 1st and 2nd practice results:


Free 1

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'21"624 193.223 Km/h
2. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'22"396 + 0'00"772
3. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'22"499 + 0'00"875
4. 4 DE LA ROSA McLaren Mercedes M 1'22"730 + 0'01"106
5. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'22"941 + 0'01"317
6. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'23"553 + 0'01"929
7. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'23"659 + 0'02"035
8. 37 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'23"999 + 0'02"375
9. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'24"620 + 0'02"996
10. 39 WINKELHOCK Midland Toyota B 1'25"194 + 0'03"570
11. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'25"424 + 0'03"800
12. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'25"477 + 0'03"853
13. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'26"678 + 0'05"054
14. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'26"680 + 0'05"056
15. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'27"321 + 0'05"697
16. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'29"765 + 0'08"141
17. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'30"110 + 0'08"486
18. 23 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'30"353 + 0'08"729



Free 2

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'21"778 192.859 Km/h
2. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'23"097 + 0'01"319
3. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'23"189 + 0'01"411
4. 37 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'23"195 + 0'01"417
5. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'23"498 + 0'01"720
6. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'23"747 + 0'01"969
7. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'23"771 + 0'01"993
8. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'23"931 + 0'02"153
9. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'23"934 + 0'02"156
10. 17 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'24"106 + 0'02"328
11. 4 DE LA ROSA McLaren Mercedes M 1'24"252 + 0'02"474
12. 39 WINKELHOCK Midland Toyota B 1'24"381 + 0'02"603
13. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'24"445 + 0'02"667
14. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'24"450 + 0'02"672
15. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'24"465 + 0'02"687
16. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'24"609 + 0'02"831
17. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'24"623 + 0'02"845
18. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'24"793 + 0'03"015
19. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'24"854 + 0'03"076
20. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'25"038 + 0'03"260
21. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'25"152 + 0'03"374
22. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'25"393 + 0'03"615
23. 15 KLIEN RedBull Ferrari M 1'25"647 + 0'03"869
24. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'25"843 + 0'04"065
25. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'25"968 + 0'04"190
26. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'26"198 + 0'04"420
27. 23 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'26"877 + 0'05"099

[anton...]

schumi is coming second overall!!!

wooot!!!

:beer: :beer: :beer:

[y2cragie]

Schumi's race to lose really.
He's gotten into Alonso's head like no other, Alonso's cracking like a walnut and this is a track Schumi loves. His long runs in free practice were incredible, one lap after the other all within a couple of tenths of each other. Tyres are looking good. Massa's underlined the pace of the car with his top time.

[y2cragie]

even more proof Alonso's cracking.
Fernando Alonso has been punished for dangerous driving following an altercation with Robert Doornbos in Friday practice for the Hungarian Grand Prix.

The world champion will have two seconds added to his fastest lap time in each segment of Saturday’s qualifying.

Alonso gesticulated angrily at Doornbos after the Red Bull third driver held him up on a new-tyre run on Friday afternoon and then appeared to brake-test the Dutchman going into the first corner.

The two drivers were summoned to the stewards’ office to give their versions of the incident, and Alonso was later called back a second time.

After lengthy deliberations the stewards handed the Spaniard two time penalties of one second each for separate offences.

The first was for “unnecessary, unacceptable and dangerous” driving in the incident with Doornbos, the other for overtaking under a yellow flag.

The penalties mean that Alonso will be hard pressed to make it past the knockout qualifying stages on Saturday, and is likely to start from the middle of the grid or below.

That will seriously dent his chances of a good result given that overtaking is notoriously difficult at the Hungaroring (though it is marginally easier than it used to be after changes to the circuit layout in 2003).

[DeuceOfClub]

It’s getting hotter…

Schumacher given two second penalty


With Fernando Alonso facing a most difficult afternoon after being charged with dangerous driving and receiving a two-second penalty in each qualifying session today, Michael Schumacher has also been handed the same penalty.

AFP France reports that the Ferrari driver, fastest in practice this morning, passed another car after the red flags had been deployed to halt the session. Jenson Button’s Honda engine had expired, putting oil down on the circuit.

That means that both Alonso and Schumacher head into qualifying with time penalties to be added to their best lap times.


Alonso involved in Schumacher penalty


The latest theory in the Hungaroring paddock is that it was no coincidence that Fernando Alonso was involved in Michael Schumacher's 'red flag' incident.

One of the cars Schumacher passed illegally during Saturday practice was none other than the reigning World Champion, who is locked in battle for 2006 honours with the 37-year-old.

Given Alonso's existing two-second penalty, it is suggested that the Spaniard deliberately slowed his Renault to tempt Schumacher to pass, knowing that doing so would cost him a date with the Stewards.

Everyone in a red uniform chose their words very carefully on Saturday afternoon, including Ferrari boss Jean Todt who said 'everyone can draw their own conclusions'.

Ross Brawn added: "I leave it to you to decide if the penalty is fair."

Speaking to reporters, Schumacher, too, implored interested analysts to 'look at the video'.

"The pictures speak a clearer language," he added.

Pressed for why reporters should dash off to watch a replay, Schumacher added: "What I said is not difficult to understand; look at the video and form an opinion."

[y2cragie]

And schumi blows it aswell. Even worse he was only 2 tenths away from getting into the top ten shootout. Incredible speed from him, so hopefully its either really hot tomorrow, or it rains, as there is no-one better in the rain than Schumi.
Amazing lap from Kimi for pole, this is finally his chance to shine. This could essentially be a battle for the second seat at Ferrari.

[DeuceOfClub]

Hungaroring qualifying results:





P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-------------------------------------------------------------------
1. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'19"599 198.138 Km/h
2. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'19"886 197.426 Km/h
3. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'20"085 196.936 Km/h
4. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'20"092 196.919 Km/h ***
5. 4 DE LA ROSA McLaren Mercedes M 1'20"117 196.857 Km/h
6. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'20"266 196.492 Km/h
7. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'20"759 195.292 Km/h
8. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'20"924 194.894 Km/h
9. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'21"132 194.394 Km/h
10. 17 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'22"049 192.222 Km/h

11. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'20"623 195.622 Km/h
12. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'20"875 195.012 Km/h ***
13. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'20"890 194.976 Km/h
14. 15 KLIEN RedBull Ferrari M 1'21"207 194.215 Km/h
15. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'21"364 193.840 Km/h ***
16. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'23"767 188.279 Km/h

17. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'22"068 192.177 Km/h
18. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'22"084 192.140 Km/h
19. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'22"317 191.596 Km/h
20. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'22"967 190.095 Km/h
21. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'23"146 189.686 Km/h ***
22. 23 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'24"016 187.721 Km/h



*** = Two seconds penalty.
*** = 10 grid spots penalty.

[y2cragie]

Finally Jensons done it :D
How much more bad luck can Kimi have honestly? Renault well this was what ferrari needed, and instead of taking it and pitting Michael for tyres despite perhaps losing the podium, they kept him out, no excuse for that.
Best race of the season by far. :beer:

[Jaws]

Finally Jensons done it
How much more bad luck can Kimi have honestly? Renault well this was what ferrari needed, and instead of taking it and pitting Michael for tyres despite perhaps losing the podium, they kept him out, no excuse for that.
Best race of the season by far.

You mean to say Jenson won? :O

Wow, that's pretty cool :D

I forgot about the race :duh:

[y2cragie]

Aye, came from 14th to do it, same place Hill and Mansell won their first races. and Mansell won the championship.
He was slightly helped by, Kimi driving up the back of Liuzzi kind of like Schumi and Coulthard at spa a few years back. Also by Fisi being fisi and crashing out, Alonso taken out with a driveshaft failure and then Michael finally being taken out by heidfeld in the last few laps after driving for some 20 laps on bald tyres. But not to take anything away from his win, it was a great drive in the horrible conditions. :D :beer:

[y2cragie]

http://www.itv-f1.com/News_Article.aspx?PO_ID=36972
Just to add to the drama, you gotta feel for Kubica, but quite simply I cant because it gives schumi a point and Ferrari an extra 2 for the constructors :D what next to add to the confusion? :eek:

[DeuceOfClub]

What an amazing race…
So many stories and plot-lines.

I literally sat on the edge of my seat for the entire race.


I’m happy for Jenson, for finally winning one after so many races and several “almosts”

Kimi was once again unlucky; this time I think it was totally a driver-fault, running into a lapped driver is inexcusable.

What a race for Alonso, he was clearly the fastest driver in the first half, and showed great wet-condition ability. His first 5 laps were a work of art. So aggressive and decisive and such great result. I thought he might be able to attack Button for 1st after his tire change, but his good fortune ran out today. (I think it his first DNF since Monaco last year?)

It seemed that Schumi fate was tied with Alonso today…one have to admire how this guy never gives-up. On the other hand his moves over De La Rosa and Heidfeld (Including cutting the corners) were not to my liking. I believe an appeal will be handed either from Renault or Midland.




It’s a big shame we won’t be able to see a race like today next year, when the F1 circuit moves to a “sole tire manufacture”. Michelin mid-tire were by far superior to Bridgestone. I was some what surprised as “traditionally” Bridgestone were suppose to be better under this condition.
I hope this “sole tire manufacture” rule will be changed back in 2008 (not gonna’ happen)

[y2cragie]

Hey Deuce, I agree on what schumi did to de la rossa and Heidfeld. I think they are the only ones who can appeal though. Renault have nothing to appeal. Incredible how the balance of power in the wet has shifted to michelin, although I think the Bridgestones also showed in damp conditions/ dry conditions they were the better tyre. Michelin have the greater operating window as it gets wetter which is a huge advantage.
I agree about the tyre situation, i'd have liked to have seen perhaps goodyear back in the sport, that would have made it a level playing field all over.

[DeuceOfClub]

????????????????????????????????


'Raikkonen signed five-year deal at Ferrari' (http://www.f1racing.net/en/news.php?newsID=126202)
03 August 2006

According to Finnish tabloid Ilta-Sanomat, Ferrari has exercised its option on Kimi Raikkonen to race for the Italian team next season. This means the Finn would have signed a five-year-contract.

The story is based on the Finnish tabloid's reliable sources, which are close to Kimi Raikkonen. According to the source Raikkonen's contract is worth around 160 million euros and thus the 26-year-old would earn 32 million euros a year.

Michael Schumacher said in Hockenheim he will announce his future plans in Monza and it is very likely that Raikkonen's plans will be announced shortly after Schumacher's decision was announced.

[y2cragie]

good for Kimi, now he'll have the car, almost certainly the team mate, and no more excuses.
Ferrari's plan as a whole will be announced at Monza, schumi, the 2nd driver, whether todt and brawn staty or retire.

[DeuceOfClub]

Villeneuve replaced for the remaining of 2006

Following discussions last week, Jacques Villeneuve, who did not attend the race in Hungary last weekend as he was replaced by Robert Kubica for the entire event, will not be racing with the BMW Sauber F1 Team for the remainder of the 2006 F1 season

"Last week, the Team informed us of its decision to review its options for next year, including assessing Robert Kubica in a race environment at Hungary without offering me any assurance about my race seat beyond Hungary. Therefore, the Team and I agreed to part ways with immediate effect. This is really disapointing as I was looking forward to working with BMW on longer terms - going into next season capitalizing on our common experiences . I will now have more time to concentrate on future projects.
Finally, I would like to thank the Team, especially my engineers and the Team's sponsors with whom I have had real pleasure working with in the last year" commented Villeneuve.

Jacques Villeneuve will be unavailable for comments for the next week and information concerning his future will be announced as soon as it is possible.

[y2cragie]

Also,
Webber and Coulthard confirmed for red bull racing in 2007.
And the engine freeze will be introduced after China this year and remain in effect until 2009 when new advances will be introduced.
been a busy monday.

[DeuceOfClub]

I can’t believe we have to wait 2 more weeks till the next race.

At the mean time here is a funny memories from a practice you don’t see anymore in F1.



From the 1986 Mexican GP.
Philippe Alliot (Ligier-Renualt) who finished 6th gives a ride to Rene Arnoux (Ligier-Renualt) and Stefan Johansson (Ferrari) back to the pit-lane. After both retired in the last 5 laps.
Than he himself ran out of fuel, so Johansson promptly stick his thumb out and stop Nelson Piquet (Williams-Honda / finished 4th) and all 3 climb on board.
Funny stuff.
Clip (YouTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=RzeGSNhUJIY)


And here is another short clip from 1991 British GP.
Nigel Mansell (Williams-Renault) after winning stop and pick up Ayrton Senna (McLaren-Honda) who ran out of fuel in the last lap (finished 4th).
One of the marshals try to stop him with no success.
Clip (YouTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=3AdJDqGd19M)

[Bronco_f1]

Sorry for not being here lately. Thanks for all the information you guys posted, some things I did not know.

The Hungarian GP was great! The best one so far this season:beer:

It was nice to see Button get his first win. I agree with Deuce, Formula 1 should have kept the two tire manufacturers, it was nice to see them contrast with each other on different tracks. I think it was a mistake to change to only one manufacturer

[DeuceOfClub]

This week (Race #14) Turkey. Istanbul, Istanbul Park

http://moto.zonebg.com/common/d_images/2006-05-04-istanbul_park.jpg

Circuit length: 3.31 Miles
Lap Record: 1:24.770 (Montoya, McLaren. 2005)

2005 Podium:
1. Raikkonen
2. Alonso
3. Montoya



Greatest race ever (according to “F1 Racing”)

2005 (Obviously)

A good debut grand prix, though. There was plenty of drama in qualifying, as the drivers got acquainted with the daunting Turn 8. in the race, McLaren were looking good for the one-two finish they so desperately needed until Montoya needlessly collided with Monteiro, eventually allowing Alonso to nick second place and two vital extra points. The Ferraris had a nightmare in Turkey – Schumacher had an ignominious tangle with Webber and Barrichello ended up a lap down in 10th.



Clips:


Highlights from last year Grand-Prix:
Clip (YouTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=jP-VB14NDv0)

“Onboard” lap with Alonso, with the driver commentaries.
Clip (YouTube) ( http://youtube.com/watch?v=odyQuBkw1p0)

[y2cragie]

Its official, the mass damper has been perminantly banned. :paper:

[DeuceOfClub]

Turkish GP 1st and 2nd practice results:


Free 1

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'28"315 217.594 Km/h
2. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'28"777 + 0'00"462
3. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'28"785 + 0'00"470
4. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'28"959 + 0'00"644
5. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'29"193 + 0'00"878
6. 4 DE LA ROSA McLaren Mercedes M 1'29"376 + 0'01"061
7. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'29"780 + 0'01"465
8. 38 VETTEL BMW Sauber M 1'29"964 + 0'01"649
9. 37 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'30"391 + 0'02"076
10. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'30"576 + 0'02"261
11. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'30"838 + 0'02"523
12. 39 MONDINI Midland Toyota B 1'30"846 + 0'02"531
13. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'31"416 + 0'03"101
14. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'31"475 + 0'03"160
15. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'31"566 + 0'03"251
16. 41 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'31"814 + 0'03"499
17. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'31"904 + 0'03"589
18. 23 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'32"212 + 0'03"897
19. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'32"497 + 0'04"182



Free 2

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 38 VETTEL BMW Sauber M 1'28"091 218.147 Km/h
2. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'28"164 + 0'00"073
3. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'28"506 + 0'00"415
4. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'28"598 + 0'00"507
5. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'28"614 + 0'00"523
6. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'28"819 + 0'00"728
7. 37 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'28"848 + 0'00"757
8. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'29"042 + 0'00"951
9. 4 DE LA ROSA McLaren Mercedes M 1'29"112 + 0'01"021
10. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'29"214 + 0'01"123
11. 39 MONDINI Midland Toyota B 1'29"719 + 0'01"628
12. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'29"741 + 0'01"650
13. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'29"858 + 0'01"767
14. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'29"890 + 0'01"799
15. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'30"006 + 0'01"915
16. 41 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'30"491 + 0'02"400
17. 17 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'30"502 + 0'02"411
18. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'30"504 + 0'02"413
19. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'30"509 + 0'02"418
20. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'30"551 + 0'02"460
21. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'30"775 + 0'02"684
22. 15 KLIEN RedBull Ferrari M 1'30"889 + 0'02"798
23. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'31"015 + 0'02"924
24. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'31"091 + 0'03"000
25. 23 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'31"316 + 0'03"225
26. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'31"519 + 0'03"428
27. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'31"526 + 0'03"435
28. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'31"540 + 0'03"449
29. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'32"102 + 0'04"011

[DeuceOfClub]

Turkish GP qualifying results:





P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-------------------------------------------------------------------
1. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'26"907 221.119 Km/h
2. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'27"284 220.164 Km/h
3. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'27"321 220.071 Km/h
4. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'27"564 219.460 Km/h
5. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'27"569 219.448 Km/h ***
6. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'27"785 218.908 Km/h
7. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'27"790 218.895 Km/h
8. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'27"866 218.706 Km/h
9. 17 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'28"167 217.959 Km/h
10. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'29"436 214.866 Km/h

11. 15 KLIEN RedBull Ferrari M 1'27"852 218.741 Km/h
12. 4 DE LA ROSA McLaren Mercedes M 1'27"897 218.629 Km/h
13. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'27"973 218.440 Km/h
14. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'28"257 217.737 Km/h
15. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'28"386 217.419 Km/h
16. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'28"639 216.798 Km/h ***

17. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'29"136 215.590 Km/h
18. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'29"158 215.536 Km/h
19. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'29"250 215.314 Km/h
20. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'29"901 213.755 Km/h
21. 23 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'30"607 212.090 Km/h
22. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'30"850 211.522 Km/h




*** = 10 grid spots penalty.

[y2cragie]

What a lap from Schumi in quali 2 :eek: Just a shame he messed up Q3, great lap from Massa to give him his 1st pole.
I dont think the others have a chance in the race. Alonso dragged his Renault round well to get his place though. I think this race could be a really good one, shame the Mclarens and Honda's are nowhere. :brick:

[DeuceOfClub]

Another blown opportunity by Ferrari / Schumacher. What a bonehead idea to pit Michael with Massa?

Fisichella proved once again that he does not deserve to be Renault #1 driver next year. (did he ever?)
And Kimi received anther DNF.

Congrats to Massa, great weekend. And how refreshing it was to hear the Brazilian anthem once again. :D

[y2cragie]

Sadly Ferrari had no other choice, not pitting would have been madness, and pitting him a lap later would have put him right near the back of the pack. What he needed to do was back Alonso up a little more than he did and slow right down going into the pits, so as not to be stopped behind Massa in the pits, he didn't do that well enough and it cost him. I feel sorry for Massa, he drives a blinding race, but had Schumi passed Alonso then Massa would have had to let Michael past, he was appoligising for Schumi despite it being his first win. Thats just not fair on the guy.
The story from Renault is that Fisi span to avoid hitting Alonso in the first corner and they appreciate and are proud of the race he drove. I dont believe it, but they have to make the best of it.
What can Kimi do to catch a break?

[DeuceOfClub]

Zonta, Piquet, to Renault - reports
Speculation from Istanbul

Eurosport France reported on Sunday afternoon from Istanbul that Toyota test driver Ricardo Zonta is on the verge of switching to the same role at Renault for 2007.

It was additionally reported that Nelson Piquet Jr, the GP2-driving son of his namesake and championship winning father, has signed a ten-year contract with Renault boss Flavio Briatore's 'FFBB' driver management company.

The reports give credence to hardening speculation that current Renault tester Heikki Kovalainen is likely to be Giancarlo Fisichella's race teammate at the team next year.

[Bronco_f1]

Great to see Massa get his first win. I didnt think he had the talent when he first joined, but he proved me wrong

[DeuceOfClub]

FIA unveil the 2007 F1 calendar
Belgium returns as Europe and San Marino exit

Australia March 18
Malaysia April 08
Bahrain April 15
Spain May 13
Monaco May 27
Canada June 10
US June 17
France July 01
UK July 08
Germany July 22
Hungary August 05
Turkey August 26
Italy September 09
Belgium September 16
China September 30
Japan October 07
Brazil October 21

Following a fax vote by the World Motor Sport Council, the FIA today announced the Formula One calendar for next year.

The season kicks off in Melbourne after Bahrain was given the honour this year. Spa Francorchamps returns to the schedule next season after a season off, while the European Grand Prix and the San Marino Grand Prix are off the 17-race calendar.

[y2cragie]

san marino is still in the works thus the 4 week break between bahrain and spain.
Great that Spa is back :D

[y2cragie]

http://www.itv-f1.com/News_Article.aspx?PO_ID=37182
Man what a dumb mistake, especially if it costs the country its race. :eek:

[DeuceOfClub]

That is so stupid, but if found “guilty” (If you can call it) I can understand.

It would be a shame, though. It is a great track.

[DeuceOfClub]

Rome meeting to rescue Imola race
Meeting set with Bernie Ecclestone

Members of an upcoming meeting are hoping that the presently axed San Marino Grand Prix at Imola will soon be back on track.

The Agenzia Giornalistica Italia agency reported on Friday that, as a response to the FIA's exclusion of the race on next year's calendar, key figures will discuss how to rescue the relationship with Bernie Ecclestone.

Italian government representatives, regional chiefs and mayor Massimo Marchignola are all slated to be at the meeting in Rome next Wednesday, the Imola town council confirmed in a statement.

[DeuceOfClub]

This week (Race #15) Monza, Italy. Autodromo Nazionale di Monza.

http://www.frontrowgb.com/images/circuits_small/Monza.jpg

Circuit length: 3.59 Miles
Lap Record: 1:21.046 (Barrichello, Ferrari, 2004)

2005 Podium:
1. Montoya
2. Alonso
3. Fisichella



Greatest race ever (according to “F1 Racing”)

1973

One of Jackie Stewart’s (Tyrrell-Ford) finest drives. A Puncture put the Scot dead last as he fought for the world title with reigning champion Emerson Fittipaldi (Lotus-Ford). Rejoining the race, JYS set the place alight, carving his way past car after car and making it up to fourth place by the end. Stewart may not have won, but it was enough to clinch him a third and final drivers’ crown. Ronnie Peterson led home Fittipaldi in the first Lotus one-two finish for five years.



Clips:


A very nice and long (10min’) look at Monza races 1996-2001
Clip (YouTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=NZwV3jaiCUA)

And just for kicks, short review of Sir Stirling Moss (Vanwall) winning the 1957 GP. (in colors!!!)
Clip (YouTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=pf0HP52IFh4)

[DeuceOfClub]

Flavio Briatore re-signs with Renault
Kovalainen to race as Piquet and Zonta take test roles

Renault today announced the beginning of a new era for the reigning world champions, from the start of the 2007 season. Under the continued, dynamic leadership of Flavio Briatore and his senior technical staff, Giancarlo Fisichella and Heikki Kovalainen will lead the French manufacturer’s challenge in the 2007 season, aided by a team of test drivers composed of Brazilians Ricardo Zonta and Nelson Piquet Jr.

Managing Director Flavio Briatore, 56, has renewed his contract for the 2007 and 2008 seasons. Having led Renault’s Formula 1 operations since 2000, when it purchased the Benetton team, Briatore is perfectly placed to manage the team into its next competitive cycle.

Furthermore, Briatore has reconfirmed the current technical management structure, which has championship winning credentials. This will ensure continuity at the team’s technical centres of Enstone (UK) and Viry-Châtillon (FR) under the respective leadership of Bob Bell and Pat Symonds, and André Lainé and Rob White. This stability will be crucial as the team adapts to significant short-term technical changes: the transition to a single tyre supplier from 2007, the introduction of homologated engines and the brand new Technical Regulations that will come into force in 2008.

...







More reports say Schumacher to retire
At the end of the 2006 season

Following the lead of Germany's Bild newspaper, the Italian sports media is now also reporting that Michael Schumacher has decided to retire from F1.

After it was confirmed that Kimi Raikkonen is definitely not a part of the Renault line-up for 2007, La Gazzetta dello Sport wrote on Wednesday that the task to announce Schumacher's withdrawal after 15 years in the cockpit will fall on Jean Todt at Monza on Sunday.

At the same time, Ferrari is expected to confirm the 2007 lineup of Raikkonen alongside Felipe Massa.

''One cannot comment on everything that is written,'' said Schumacher's spokeswoman, Sabine Kehm.

''You will have to wait until Sunday.''

The 37-year-old German himself was in Venice on Wednesday, attending a PR event alongside Massa.

He continued to stick to a team agreement to keep quiet until Sunday, but was quoted by Gazzetta dello Sport as reflecting on his five titles and eleven seasons for the red team.

''I do not have colleagues (at Ferrari),'' he said, ''instead I have friends.

''After more than ten years I am nearly Italian and the experience has been beautiful.''







Red Bull 'loan' Vettel to BMW Sauber
A two-year deal for the F3 racer and F1 tester

Sebastian Vettel is being loaned to BMW by Red Bull, according to the owner of the energy drink outfit, billionaire Dietrich Mateschitz.

The 62-year-old Austrian revealed that teenager Vettel, who debuted impressively for BMW-Sauber as a Friday driver in Turkey, nonetheless remains contracted to Red Bull.

Mateschitz told Swiss magazine Motorsport Aktuell that 19-year-old Vettel, who reverted to his Red Bull-liveried F3 cockpit last weekend to complement his Red Bull helmet, has been 'loaned' to BMW for two years.

"After that we can get him back," he confirmed.

[DeuceOfClub]

Monza surprise leaves Michelin in trouble
Resurfacing causing some problems at Monza

Michael Schumacher's quest to close the 12-point gap to championship rival Fernando Alonso received a boost at the Monza test last week, where Michelin runners found their tyres to be poorly suited to the track.

While Ferrari supplier Bridgestone is understood to have not encountered the same trouble, French marque Michelin had to totally abandon its planned selection for the Italian Grand Prix as the surprise track resurfacing had rendered its tyres too hard.

The resurfacing, from Curva Grande to the Ascari chicane, led some Michelin runners to complain about a severe lack of grip, particularly in the Lesmos.

David Coulthard told Speed TV: "The lack of grip was a bit scary in places. It seems to have been a pretty random resurfacing, which hardly anyone knew about."

[y2cragie]

wow, busy news week.
I'm getting more of the feeling Schumi will stay on another year. These news reports are all assuming the because Raikonnen is joining Ferrari, Schumi wont stick around, which is rubbish.

[y2cragie]

Another update.
Teams are now expecting a wet weekend in Monza, this could really throw the tyres that are too hard into a spiral. Although most weather sites I can check out, suggest dry sunday, but a bit of rain on saturday. :ugh:

[DeuceOfClub]

Monza 1st and 2nd practice results:


Free 1

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 38 VETTEL BMW Sauber M 1'23"263 250.469 Km/h
2. 17 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'23"745 + 0'00"482
3. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'23"868 + 0'00"605
4. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'24"037 + 0'00"774
5. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'24"196 + 0'00"933
6. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'25"413 + 0'02"150
7. 37 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'25"578 + 0'02"315
8. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'25"766 + 0'02"503
9. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'26"708 + 0'03"445
10. 23 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'27"310 + 0'04"047
11. 41 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'27"597 + 0'04"334
12. 39 MONDINI Midland Toyota B 1'28"444 + 0'05"181



Free 2

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 38 VETTEL BMW Sauber M 1'22"631 252.385 Km/h
2. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'23"138 + 0'00"507
3. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'23"182 + 0'00"551
4. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'23"414 + 0'00"783
5. 4 DE LA ROSA McLaren Mercedes M 1'23"970 + 0'01"339
6. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'24"034 + 0'01"403
7. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'24"330 + 0'01"699
8. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'24"577 + 0'01"946
9. 17 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'24"813 + 0'02"182
10. 41 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'24"943 + 0'02"312
11. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'24"985 + 0'02"354
12. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'25"027 + 0'02"396
13. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'25"040 + 0'02"409
14. 15 KLIEN RedBull Ferrari M 1'25"108 + 0'02"477
15. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'25"160 + 0'02"529
16. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'25"277 + 0'02"646
17. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'25"316 + 0'02"685
18. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'25"318 + 0'02"687
19. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'25"356 + 0'02"725
20. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'25"500 + 0'02"869
21. 39 MONDINI Midland Toyota B 1'25"586 + 0'02"955
22. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'25"707 + 0'03"076
23. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'25"755 + 0'03"124
24. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'25"878 + 0'03"247
25. 37 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'26"058 + 0'03"427
26. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'26"118 + 0'03"487
27. 23 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'26"705 + 0'04"074

[DeuceOfClub]

Ferrari strong as Vettel impresses again
Italian GP - Second practice

Sebastian Vettel topped the timesheets once again this afternoon at Monza in his BMW Sauber. Free of engine mileage restrictions and able to use new tyres at will, the young German test driver set the pace with a best lap of 1:22.631s, half a second clear of compatriot Michael Schumacher.

The Ferrari team may not have topped the timesheets, but running just one set of Bridgestone tyres each, lapped the 5.793 KM circuit eight-tenths clear of any other race rival. With Schumacher second fastest, Felipe Massa was third fastest and like his team-mate found his second flying lap yielded the fastest time on each stint.

It was another character-building session for the Honda squad as Anthony Davidson took to the circuit right at the start of the session with a fresh 2007-spec Honda powerplant fitted only to suffer another engine failure eight laps later. Regular race drivers Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello, believed to also have the new engine fitted, did not leave the pits today and are expected to return to the 2006-spec units ahead of Saturday practice without penalty.

Alex Wurz was fourth fastest in his Williams Cosworth putting in a good number of laps for the squad. Regular race drivers Nico Rosberg and Mark Webber set the 13th and 20th best times respectively.

Pedro de la Rosa was fifth fastest in his McLaren Mercedes ahead of team-mate Kimi Raikkonen who did not take part in the test at the circuit following the Turkish Grand Prix. Nick Heidfeld was seventh fastest in his BMW Sauber ahead of Championship leader Fernando Alonso in his Renault.

With Giancarlo Fisichella back in 15th position, the lap times do not tell the real story of Renault’s ultimate pace at the Italian circuit. While they may struggle to beat Ferrari, they are most certainly not a second and a half off the pace of their title rivals.

Robert Kubica sat out most of the 60-minute session before putting in a short run in the final minutes to set the ninth best time while Franck Montagny used his testing role well for Super Aguri Honda as he set the tenth best time.

Christijan Albers set the 11th best time in his MF1 Toyota ahead of Jarno Trulli in the leading Toyota. Christian Klien was 14th in his Red Bull Ferrari with team-mate David Coulthard four positions back in the sister machine. In between Fisichella was 5th ahead of the second M16 of Tiago Monteiro and Ralf Schumacher in the second Toyota.

Anthony Davidson wound up 19th best with his early run in the Honda ahead of Webber, Giorgio Mondini in the third Mf1 Toyota. Toro Rosso predicted a tough weekend and so far it seems to be just so with Tonio Liuzzi and Scott Speed 22nd and 23rd ahead of tester Neel Jani. Robert Doornbos was just 25th in his Red Bull while Takuma Sato and Sakon Yamamoto brought up the bottom of the timesheets for Super Aguri Honda.

[y2cragie]

Kimi, pole, Schumi 2nd, and Alonso demoted to 10th due to blocking Massa.
Heck of a quali session. :beer:

[y2cragie]

Well, there it is, the end of the greatest career in Formula one. :sad:

[DeuceOfClub]

That was a very nice setting to announce his retirement.
F1 will not be the same without him.


And now with only 3 races to go the lead is down to 2 points. Wow!


(Congrats Kubica)

[frenchfan]

That was a very nice setting to announce his retirement.
F1 will not be the same without him.


And now with only 3 races to go the lead is down to 2 points. Wow!


(Congrats Kubica)Yeah... But what a boring race at Monza... Hopefully there was that race in the pits between Alonso & Kubica...

But I do agree... Schumi is an awesome driver and we'll miss him... But everyone needs to retire a day...

It's a painful year about retirement :
Zinedine Zidane (soccer)
Andre Agassi (Tennis)
Micheal Schumacher (F1)...

Wow...

[DeuceOfClub]

Robert Doornbos replaces Klien at Red Bull
Klien released from Red Bull with immediate effect

Following Christian Klien’s decision to pursue other options within Formula One, Red Bull Racing has agreed to release him from his contract with immediate effect.

The team’s test and reserve driver Robert Doornbos will contest the last three races of the season for the team, alongside David Coulthard.

“Further to Christian’s recent decision, we have released him to focus on the next stage of his career," stated Team Principal Christian Horner.

"Having done a solid job for us in the third car this season and having previously completed in eight Grand prix, Robert is the logical replacement. He will start preparing for his Red Bull Racing debut at the team’s test in Jerez this week.”

Robert Doornbos was naturally delighted with the decision

“It’s fantastic to know that I’m going to be racing again, I’m really looking forward to it," the former Minardi racer said.

"Friday testing and helping the team this year has been great experience, but to get back out on to the race track on Sunday is what it’s all about. I’ve got to know the guys at Red Bull Racing really well this season, so I’ll be working with them all closely to do the best job I can for the team and myself.”

Klien has been linked to a move to the Spyker MF1 Racing team.

[DeuceOfClub]

Alonso: Schumi's good...
But is F1's most unsporting driver

Reigning world champion Fernando Alonso believes that for all his talent, German championship rival Michael Schumacher has been the most unsporting driver in the history of Formula One.

Schumacher announced his end-of-season retirement after his victory in the Monza Grand Prix in Italy on Sunday, but not before reducing his deficit on the Spaniard to just two points with three races remaining.

It means Schumacher is now in contention for an eighth world title - however that has failed to impress Renault driver Alonso.

Schumacher's critics talk of his questionable racing ethics, and purists argue that the German should not be included in the pantheon of greatest racing drivers alongside Juan Manuel Fangio of Argentina, Scotland's Jim Clark or Englishman Stirling Moss.

And Alonso, who had a disastrous weekend of racing at Monza, was keen to join those who have often questioned the less sporting aspects of the 37-year-old German's statistically impressive career.

"He's been the most penalised and is the most unsporting driver in the history of Formula One," Alonso said in daily sports paper Marca on Tuesday.

Alonso even claimed that French football legend Zinedine Zidane, who capped his retirement from football with an audacious World Cup final headbutt on Italian rival Marco Materrazzi, had gone out with more glory.

"Despite his headbutt, Zidane even left with more glory," added Alonso.

In Saturday's qualifying Alonso was relegated from fifth to tenth on the grid for an infringement which Renault contested vehemently, and he then failed to finish the race on Sunday when his engine blew.

Alonso now only has races in China, Japan and Brazil, the season-ender on October 22, to defend his title against Schumacher.

The Spaniard did give his German rival some credit, however. "He's been the best driver in the sport, and competing against him has been an honour," said Alonso.

[y2cragie]

I'll post what I posted on another site concerning Alonso and his recent attitude. The first few lines are in response to a comment about simmilar things happening in the 80's early 90's for referance.
The big differance.
back when guys like Senna and Prost were racing, these things happend. But unlike guys like Alonso and JV, they didn't whine about it, they went out and got their own back by beating them on the track. Those were the times when all that mattered was winning. And those drivers knew they could win on any given day.
Nowadays, guys like Alonso and JPM and JV are all so insecure in themselves, that they take it to the press instead. I cant believe they really think this gets to Schumacher he's seen it all and heard it all. The only place to hurt this guy is on the track, just look at his reaction in Turkey. But Alonso knows he cant do that every race, so instead he'll goto the press and whine on camera. People complain Michael doesn't speak to the press enough, but on the plus side when he does, he always has something interesting to say, it's always put across intelligently and you'll never hear him talking crap about another driver. I find it better to only hear that from him once a week, than 3 days a week worth of. "they are trying to cheat me" crap from Alonso.
He has the various ways he can go to appeal, as do Renault for all these so called injustices. Let the legal team sort it, its not the Drivers concern.

[DeuceOfClub]

It’s got a lot to do with the “change of generation” in F1. And the changes in sport coverage in the last 20 years.
When M.S. had his F1 debut Alonso wasn’t even 10 years old.

M.S. even as a rookie was an “old school” driver. Trying to get any advantage he can to achieve his goal: win a race. Many times he got away with things and many other didn’t.

You can go back to 1994, his first world championship, which was one of the most exciting (and tragic) years in F1 history. When coming to the last race M.S. (Benetton-Ford) had a 1-point lead over Damon Hill (Williams-Renault). I’m sure you remember lap 35. (Clip (YouTube) (http://youtube.com/watch?v=IQOT7Y9YCio)).
I believe he would not be awarded W.C. if it happened today!!!

For me it was a natural thing, I remember many battles that escaladed into much more than that. And back in the days (darn, I sound like an old man) the cars wouldn’t break with any touch.




One last word, I think you are mistaken to put JPM name in that list. Regardless of what I think of him as a driver I see him as an “old-school” driver. And I think that’s part of the reason he is not in F1 anymore.

[y2cragie]

Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against JPM, I just think conidering the team he drove for he was far too outspoken. Mclaren's always been about letting the boss do the talking which is something Alonso will now have to learn. But JPM's other problem was his temper in the car, everytime he was cut up or someone did even the slightest thing wrong, he would be on the radio yelling and swearing. He'll be much better in nascar where thats the sort of thing teams fans and networks want.
As for 94 and 97 and monaco sadly those 3 moments of stupidity will mark what should have been the greatest career unquestionably to everyone, as arguably a great career.
Hell even without the 94 championship he's still 6 time champ possibly 7 anyway.

[DeuceOfClub]

And to think we supposed to have Spa this weekend.

:brick: :brick: :brick: :brick: :ugh:

[y2cragie]

Still no good reason for it not being on the calender.
Major F1 test at silverstone wednesday, I will definatly be going to this one as all the teams except Honda and ferrari will be testing, including some F1 debuts for Hamilton and Piquet jr. I'll bring back as many photos as I can for you guys.

[y2cragie]

Just back from Silverstone, incredible fun.
Piquet's engine went bang, into the final couple of corners, then Ralfs went bang just as he was coming into the pits after having to come in after Piquets. Hamilton looked pretty good though.
I'll post a link to some of the pictures.

[y2cragie]

http://public.fotki.com/y2cragie/f1_testing/

[DeuceOfClub]

Great pictures, thank you.

[Bronco_f1]

Nice pics Y2 :beer:

Geez, I miss Montoya :ugh:

[DeuceOfClub]

Geez, I miss Montoya :ugh:

LOL :hammer: (http://youtube.com/watch?v=Vvev5NaWdj4)

[Bronco_f1]

LOL :hammer: (http://youtube.com/watch?v=Vvev5NaWdj4)

oh my! :heh: :heh:

[Broncholio]

I come from Formula UN :D

[Bronco_f1]

I come from Formula UN :D

Im trying to get what you mean, but I don't :ugh:

You'll need to explain :D

[DeuceOfClub]

This week (Race #16) China, Shanghai. Shanghai International Circuit.

http://www.castrol.com/liveassets/bp_internet/castrol/STAGING/brand_assets/Castrol/images/racing/circuit_f1_china_375x241.gif

Circuit length: 3.38 Miles
Lap Record: 1:32.238 (M. Schumacher, Ferrari, 2004)

2005 Podium:
1. Alonso
2. Raikkonen
3. R. Schumacher



Greatest race ever (according to “F1 Racing”)

2005

Alonso rounds off a triumphant season, securing Renault their first constructors’ title under phenomenal pressure from McLaren. Michael Schumacher’s season ended in ignominy as he collided with Albers on his way to the grid. Montoya’s race was ruined when he hit a loose drain cover, all but sealing the crown for the Enstone team.



Clips:


“Onboard” lap with Barrichello from his China 2004 qualifying lap (pole position). 1:34.012.
Clip (YouTube) ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3eBda4u8ko4)

2005 China GP highlights. 3:13min’
(Not a very good clip, but I got nothing better.)
Clip (YouTube) ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oSaQGEFixww)

[y2cragie]

This is the crucial race for the title really. If either Schumi or Alonso fail to finish I truely believe the title will go to the other man.

[Bronco_f1]

*rooting* Alonso! Alonso! :salute:

[frenchfan]

*rooting* Alonso! Alonso! :salute:I hope Renault & Alonso will do better than the last fews races...

[DeuceOfClub]

This is the crucial race for the title really. If either Schumi or Alonso fail to finish I truely believe the title will go to the other man.

If Renault (and Michelin) didn’t improve in the last 3 weeks they will have a problem catching up with Ferrari in the next 3 races.
Ferrari has been much better in the last few races and the only thing keeping Alonso in it is his big early lead and superb driving. (look how poor Fisichella did lately).

I sure hope both M.S and Alonso will finish the next 3 races or at least than none of them will retire due to technical issues.

This season was one of the most exciting one in recent years, I hope it stays that way till the end.

[frenchfan]

If Renault (and Michelin) didn’t improve in the last 3 weeks they will have a problem catching up with Ferrari in the next 3 races.
Ferrari has been much better in the last few races and the only thing keeping Alonso in it is his big early lead and superb driving. (look how poor Fisichella did lately).

I sure hope both M.S and Alonso will finish the next 3 races or at least than none of them will retire due to technical issues.

This season was one of the most exciting one in recent years, I hope it stays that way till the end.I agree... Fisichella is not good... I think he might improve if he wants to stay more in the team.

BTW, question to F1 expert : what do you think about the special Ferrari's back wheels ? IMO they are illegals because they improve the comportment of the car (in french, i will say aerodynamisme, but no clue about the english word), which is illegal on moving stuff... I hope people will understand my question :confused:

[y2cragie]

Hi French fan.
I am not really fond of them, A from a visual stand point, and B: because they are probably more of a grey area than the Renault mass damper thing. Ron Dennis put it best.
They may be race legal as part of the brake system, but the second you change the tyres, they become illegal as your breaking parc Ferme rules since its against the rules to change any part of the braking system once under parc ferme conditions.
But if you count them as part of the tyre system, then they count as the moveable aerodynamic device that you were on about.
So how Ferrari and several of the other teams, are getting away with it, is beyond me. And you all know I am a big Ferrari fan(well to be fair, Schumi fan, especially after their handling of his retirement) But I really think they need banning. Or at least an official explination from the FIA as to how they are within the rules.

[frenchfan]

Hi French fan.
I am not really fond of them, A from a visual stand point, and B: because they are probably more of a grey area than the Renault mass damper thing. Ron Dennis put it best.
They may be race legal as part of the brake system, but the second you change the tyres, they become illegal as your breaking parc Ferme rules since its against the rules to change any part of the braking system once under parc ferme conditions.
But if you count them as part of the tyre system, then they count as the moveable aerodynamic device that you were on about.
So how Ferrari and several of the other teams, are getting away with it, is beyond me. And you all know I am a big Ferrari fan(well to be fair, Schumi fan, especially after their handling of his retirement) But I really think they need banning. Or at least an official explination from the FIA as to how they are within the rules.
Thanks for your analysis Y2....
I agree about the mass damper, but renault was not the only team to use it (though it's true that they invented it and the used it better than any other team).

I think the ferrari's wheels have to be considered as aerodynamic devices, and so they are illegal... But well, FIA often makes strange decisions... :confused:

Anyway, I like Ferrari & Schumi too... (though I would like to see renault & Alonso world champion)... But I think FIA treat Ferrari in a different way than other teams...

BTW, what do you think of the Monza affair about Alonso & Massa ? I've seen the images and I can't believe that Massa was annoyed by Alonso. And even if he was, Alonso had tyres troubles and that was not his fault... What's your point my friend ?

[DeuceOfClub]

Rain forecast for Chinese Grand Prix
Early predictions for race day

Rain could fall on the third annual Chinese Grand Prix this weekend, according to local forecasts around Shanghai.


It was cloudy but warm and dry in the country's biggest city throughout Tuesday morning and afternoon, and Shanghai is expected to enjoy similar weather throughout the week, including qualifying on Saturday.


Darker clouds and scattered thunder storms could move overhead by the morning of race day, however, according to the English-language Chinese TV channel CCTV9.

[DeuceOfClub]

German Grand Prix to alternate
Nurburgring for next year and Hockenheim for ‘08

The German Grand Prix will alternate between the tracks at Nurburgring and Hockenheim over the next four years, Hockenheim chiefs confirmed Wednesday.

The Nurburgring will host next year's German Grand Prix and the 2009 edition while Hockenheim have secured the rights for 2008 and 2010.

Since 1995 there have been two Formula One races in Germany but one was dropped from the calendar as spectator revenue fell.

Not enough fans were turning up for the two races and with Germany's seven-time World Champion Michael Schumacher in retirement next season attendances were expected to drop further.


Hockenheim, with debts of 29 million euros, was the favourite to be axed - after recording a reported three million euro loss at this year's Grand Prix - but the deal to alternate tracks has given them an extended foothold in motor sport.

[DeuceOfClub]

Shanghai 1st and 2nd practice results:


Free 1

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'35"574 205.324 Km/h
2. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'35"591 + 0'00"017
3. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'37"291 + 0'01"717
4. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'37"712 + 0'02"138
5. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'37"734 + 0'02"160
6. 39 PREMAT Midland Toyota B 1'37"787 + 0'02"213
7. 38 VETTEL BMW Sauber M 1'37"913 + 0'02"339
8. 17 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'38"062 + 0'02"488
9. 37 AMMERMULLER RedBull Ferrari M 1'38"460 + 0'02"886
10. 41 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'38"464 + 0'02"890
11. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'39"000 + 0'03"426
12. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'39"217 + 0'03"643
13. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'39"428 + 0'03"854
14. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'39"494 + 0'03"920
15. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'39"887 + 0'04"313
16. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'39"947 + 0'04"373
17. 23 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'41"415 + 0'05"841
18. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'45"890 + 0'10"316



Free 2

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'35"539 205.399 Km/h
2. 38 VETTEL BMW Sauber M 1'35"579 + 0'00"040
3. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'35"714 + 0'00"175
4. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'36"599 + 0'01"060
5. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'36"641 + 0'01"102
6. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'36"739 + 0'01"200
7. 41 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'37"278 + 0'01"739
8. 37 AMMERMULLER RedBull Ferrari M 1'37"678 + 0'02"139
9. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'37"698 + 0'02"159
10. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'37"718 + 0'02"179
11. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'37"861 + 0'02"322
12. 4 DE LA ROSA McLaren Mercedes M 1'38"022 + 0'02"483
13. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'38"045 + 0'02"506
14. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'38"062 + 0'02"523
15. 39 PREMAT Midland Toyota B 1'38"098 + 0'02"559
16. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'38"276 + 0'02"737
17. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'38"888 + 0'03"349
18. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'38"959 + 0'03"420
19. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'39"080 + 0'03"541
20. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'39"118 + 0'03"579
21. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'39"179 + 0'03"640
22. 17 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'39"217 + 0'03"678
23. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'39"522 + 0'03"983
24. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'39"570 + 0'04"031
25. 23 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'39"636 + 0'04"097
26. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'40"155 + 0'04"616
27. 15 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'40"214 + 0'04"675
28. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'40"319 + 0'04"780
29. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'41"315 + 0'05"776

[Broncholio]

Im trying to get what you mean, but I don't :ugh:

You'll need to explain :D

I guess you have not seen Talladega Nights :D

[DeuceOfClub]

I guess you have not seen Talladega Nights :D

Obviously, you’re not a golfer.

[slick7]

Obviously, you’re not a golfer.
OMG A Big Lebowski quote. Nice one Deuce. Definately in my top 5 of all time. You just made me break out my DVD for another viewing. Maybe I can find something else from the flick that's appropriate. CP to you.

[DeuceOfClub]

Shanghai GP qualifying results:





P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-------------------------------------------------------------------
1. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'44"360 188.038 Km/h
2. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'44"992 186.906 Km/h
3. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'45"503 186.000 Km/h
4. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'45"503 186.000 Km/h
5. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'45"754 185.559 Km/h
6. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'45"775 185.522 Km/h
7. 4 DE LA ROSA McLaren Mercedes M 1'45"877 185.343 Km/h
8. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'46"206 184.769 Km/h
9. 17 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'46"632 184.031 Km/h
10. 15 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'48"021 181.665 Km/h

11. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'45"851 185.389 Km/h
12. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'45"968 185.184 Km/h
13. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'45"970 185.181 Km/h ***
14. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'46"172 184.828 Km/h
15. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'46"413 184.410 Km/h
16. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'47"419 182.683 Km/h

17. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'48"894 180.208 Km/h
18. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'49"098 179.871 Km/h
19. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'49"542 179.142 Km/h
20. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'49"903 178.554 Km/h
21. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'50"326 177.869 Km/h
22. 23 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'55"560 169.813 Km/h




*** = 10 grid spots penalty.

[y2cragie]

An absolute nightmare of a session for the Bridgestone runners. How they can go from having an unbeatable rain tyre, to being so poor in the conditions is beyond me..
Hopefully from my point of view it will dry out, but hey a rain race is always fun. To have 2 in a season is quite rare. And with Brazil and japan both being rain susceptable races. Who knows. :eek:

[DeuceOfClub]

I raised my eyebrow after Hungary. But you think Bridgestone will work 24/7 to make sure they have a good tire if another race will be wet.
I do hope we’ll have dry-condition; such a wet track will result in many DNFs. And gives Renault a huge advantage.

Both Alonso and Michael showed how better they are than everyone else. And it was nice to see the new drivers hold their water.


In other news: both the new 555-Honda and Spyker new color-scheme are ugly IMO. Hopefully they can get their act together for next year. :D


BTW: Sato and Albers were bumped to the end of the grid, so Massa will start at 20th.

[y2cragie]

I agree the honda is quite ugly, but when you see the Spyker up close in person its actually quite nice. Its not a dull as it seems on tv. It's a lot like the Mclaren, you need to see it on the track to appreciate it fully. IMO.

I think Bridgestone will be ok in japan, if it rains their factory is not far from Suzuka so as long as they get the tyres flown in before saturday they are as far as I am aware free to change them if they get it wrong.

[DeuceOfClub]

Well , McLaren will have a new color scheme for 2007. Very Orange.

http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41247000/jpg/_41247188_mclaren203.jpg


And I agree, even on my TV the Spyker is not as bad as the 555

[y2cragie]

Mclaren are changing their paint again?
I am surprised at that because the one they have now cost them a huge amount of money to do.
I dont like that winter test one at all. :eek: :ugh: :brick:

[DeuceOfClub]

Yes. The 2007 car (MP4-21 I think) will be orange. After they signed a huge new sponsorship deal with Vodafone. (signed last December)

McLaren seal deal with Vodafone (http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula_one/4527512.stm)

Ferrari left stunned by Vodafone defection (http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,5923-1930736,00.html)




http://www.autoblog.com/media/2006/01/mclarenmp421debut.jpg

http://www.autoblog.com/media/2006/01/mp421side.jpg

[DeuceOfClub]

When I started to seriously follow F1. McLaren colors were Red-White Marlboro.

http://www.ff1.it/ff1/sezioni/f1/mondiali/grandi/1986.jpg

[y2cragie]

What a waste of money on the current scheme then.
Its bad enough Ferrari are not using the real Ferrari red. Now Mclaren changing the best scheme on the grid. :brick:

[y2cragie]

When I started to seriously follow F1. McLaren colors were Red-White Marlboro.

http://www.ff1.it/ff1/sezioni/f1/mondiali/grandi/1986.jpg
Thats definatly the one they are most famous for. It was the scheme they had when I also started watching. Much like williams and their old blue and gold scheme.

[DeuceOfClub]

Sharing is caring…

Formula One - All Cars (http://www.hweitzmann.net/f1/page_01.htm) (Through 2003)

[y2cragie]

Great link thanks :beer:
CP to you as soon as i have one free for ya.

[Bronco_f1]

Shanghai GP qualifying results:





P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-------------------------------------------------------------------
1. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'44"360 188.038 Km/h
2. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'44"992 186.906 Km/h
3. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'45"503 186.000 Km/h
4. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'45"503 186.000 Km/h
5. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'45"754 185.559 Km/h
6. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'45"775 185.522 Km/h
7. 4 DE LA ROSA McLaren Mercedes M 1'45"877 185.343 Km/h
8. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'46"206 184.769 Km/h
9. 17 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'46"632 184.031 Km/h
10. 15 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'48"021 181.665 Km/h

11. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'45"851 185.389 Km/h
12. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'45"968 185.184 Km/h
13. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'45"970 185.181 Km/h ***
14. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'46"172 184.828 Km/h
15. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'46"413 184.410 Km/h
16. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'47"419 182.683 Km/h

17. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'48"894 180.208 Km/h
18. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'49"098 179.871 Km/h
19. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'49"542 179.142 Km/h
20. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'49"903 178.554 Km/h
21. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'50"326 177.869 Km/h
22. 23 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'55"560 169.813 Km/h




*** = 10 grid spots penalty.

Yay! an All-Renault front row :beer:

[Bronco_f1]

When I started to seriously follow F1. McLaren colors were Red-White Marlboro.

http://www.ff1.it/ff1/sezioni/f1/mondiali/grandi/1986.jpg

I like that car too, although I started watching in 2000, when they had the design that was changed this season. I liked this season's painting too--I don't want to see the orange livery, that red and black was one of the first things I that made me a McLaren fan and now it will change :ugh:

[Bronco_f1]

I guess you have not seen Talladega Nights :D

I'm not really a Nascar fan, but I heard the movie is really funny and I might take a look :beer:

[y2cragie]

What a race, I haven't been that nervous since Imola :eek: :beer: :D

[DeuceOfClub]

Great race.

I thought Alonso lost a gear when he went on consecutive 47s, but once again it was a bad strategy by Renault.
Schumacher drove absolutely amazing today and deserved to win.

Tie with 2 races to go. :heh:





:brick: :hammer: :brick: @ Kimi

[y2cragie]

I bet you Kimi is already picking out his red underwear :D
As a point really but highly unlikely, Schumacher will win the title with a win in Japan and Alonso not scoring a point.

[DeuceOfClub]

If Renault continues to have 20sec’ pits it sure will make it easier... :nono:

[y2cragie]

It does seem the racing gods are against Fernando this year. I dont think the race was as close as it finished simply because Michael backed off to save his engine. You know Fisi backed off to let Alonso through aswell, which is the only right thing to do.
Everything is even, as it should be, time to shut up and race as far as I am concerned, especially Renault and Alonso. They've talked a lot of crap but shown nothing. The best two drivers in the world, no excuses no complaining just do the business in the last two races.

[DeuceOfClub]

Cosworth to exit Formula One
Ferguson disappointed with Spyker decision

Spyker-MF1's decision to sign a customer Ferrari engine contract for 2007 means that Cosworth is certain to exit F1 at the end of the year.

"It is the end of Cosworth in Formula One for 2007", a visibly disappointed Cosworth Director Bernard Ferguson admitted in Shanghai, "but it is not the end of Cosworth."

He told reporters that, after losing current partner Williams to a semi-works Toyota supply, Cosworth then could not meet Dutch car maker's Spyker desire - ultimately fulfilled by Ferrari - for a broad engine deal that extended to road cars.

Ferguson was quoted in the New York Times on Sunday as complaining that the question of engines has been playing 'far too important a role' in the sport.

Northampton-based Cosworth is the last independent engine maker on the grid.

He said of his comments: "Formula one engine manufacturers are spending anything between the small amount that we spend and $250m a year developing engines, and over that period perhaps they improve by two or three percent."

"When everybody has spent it and everybody has improved two or three percent, they're all pretty much back where they started from."

[slick7]

Michael and Fernando, tied with two to go. It should be an exciting finish to the season. I find myself roooting for Michael only because Flavio really rubs me the wrong way. Nothing personal against Alonso but his team manager just comes off so arrogant to me. But then I guess some of us Americans come off the same way to the rest of the world sometimes as well. :beer: Here's to both of them for driving their donkeys off this year.

[tpryce93]

I've always wondered what he f1 in your name stood for. now i know
:offtopic:

i posted this post 6 months ago. why am i just now getting a cp for it and from whom? :confused:

[Bronco_f1]

:offtopic:

i posted this post 6 months ago. why am i just now getting a cp for it and from whom? :confused:

I did not send it to you. I may have sent it the day you asked me that, which was a loong time ago

[Bronco_f1]

Great race.

I thought Alonso lost a gear when he went on consecutive 47s, but once again it was a bad strategy by Renault.
Schumacher drove absolutely amazing today and deserved to win.

Tie with 2 races to go. :heh:







I unfortunately couldnt watch the race :(, but I saw that Michael won, which I didnt really expect from Alonso starting on pole and the Bridgestone tires struggling on qualifying. Now it really seems that Michael will win it because the momentum has completely switched to his side :ugh:

[Bronco_f1]

I bet you Kimi is already picking out his red underwear :D
As a point really but highly unlikely, Schumacher will win the title with a win in Japan and Alonso not scoring a point.

No, I think Alonso will score points on both races, but Michael may very well win at least one of the two (I think he will win one more race and score enough points for the championship) I am rooting for Alonso, but Schumacher better not pull a "Villenueve" :D

[y2cragie]

He's not going to do it again i'm certain of it. But you just know it'll be asked to him a thousand times if he's leading the points going into Brazil. :hammer:

[DeuceOfClub]

Bridgestone order new wet tyre for Suzuka
A different specification

Bridgestone has decided to bring a different specification of rain tyre to this weekend's Japanese grand prix after French rival Michelin proved the class in the wet in Shanghai.

Although Ferrari's Michael Schumacher rose from sixth on the grid to win the Chinese race, he only found pace with intermediate tyres on a drying track.

In Saturday's sodden qualifying, the German struggled behind five superior Michelin runners, while the majority of the Bridgestone-shod field huddled at the bottom of the order.

The F1 circus is presently on a frantic four-day jump from Shanghai to Suzuka, but it is understood that - in response to Bridgestone's qualifying nightmare - the company has ordered shipment of an unscheduled specification of rain tyre to Japan.

"All I want to say is that we will try our best to improve" technical manager Hisao Suganuma said.

[DeuceOfClub]

Sato excluded for last lap incident
Albers picks up a time penalty

Takuma Sato has been disqualified from Sunday's Chinese Grand Prix for his part in a controversial last lap multiple collision.

The Super Aguri Honda driver failed to pay heed to blue warning flags warning him that he was about to be passed by cars running firmly in the points. He had been classified 14th in the provisional result.

After an investigation by the race Stewards, Sato and Christijan Albers of the Spyker MF1 team were both found to be in breach of the regulations for the same offence.

Sato refused to allow Nick Heidfeld lap him and as a result held the BMW Sauber driver up resulting in Jenson Button, Pedro de la Rosa and Rubens Barrichello passing the German in a last lap scramble.

Sato had been found guilty of ignoring blue flags before and reprimanded earlier in the season, but it was a first offence for Albers.

Albers was penalised with a 25 seconds time penalty. The outcome was that Albers moved up from 16th to 15th despite his penalty because of Sato's exclusion.

The exclusion of Sato does nothing for Heidfeld who was the victim of Sato’s driving.

[y2cragie]

Bridgestone order new wet tyre for Suzuka
A different specification

Bridgestone has decided to bring a different specification of rain tyre to this weekend's Japanese grand prix after French rival Michelin proved the class in the wet in Shanghai.

Although Ferrari's Michael Schumacher rose from sixth on the grid to win the Chinese race, he only found pace with intermediate tyres on a drying track.

In Saturday's sodden qualifying, the German struggled behind five superior Michelin runners, while the majority of the Bridgestone-shod field huddled at the bottom of the order.

The F1 circus is presently on a frantic four-day jump from Shanghai to Suzuka, but it is understood that - in response to Bridgestone's qualifying nightmare - the company has ordered shipment of an unscheduled specification of rain tyre to Japan.

"All I want to say is that we will try our best to improve" technical manager Hisao Suganuma said.
So that suggests they were using the hungary spec tyre again, morons. :ugh:

[DeuceOfClub]

Honda to stick with current drivers in 2007
''We don't plan any changes''

Honda look set to race beyond the 2006 season with the same driver lineup, team officials suggested on Tuesday.

The Japanese carmaker's president of racing development, Yasuhiro Wada, tipped Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello to stay in the white and red cars next year. "We don't plan any changes", he said.

Given that in August 2005 the team announced ‘a multi-year deal from 2006’ for Barrichello and a month later ‘a multi-year extension’ to Button’s contract, this is hardly earth shattering news. There was however some pressure on Barrichello to raise his game earlier in the season and now he has found form with the team and running a similar pace to Button.

Team Principal Nick Fry was also sending out messages at the press call with reporters in Tokyo, insisting that the current pairing has worked 'extremely well' in 2006.

But Wada-san had to confess that the results in 2006 have fallen below expectations, with Button's breakthrough win in Hungary only heightening the pressure.

The Japanese said: "We should be looking to win races and hopefully we can start at Suzuka this week".

[y2cragie]

haha, honda winning in Japan, thats not going to happen without the top 3 drivers all coming down with food poisoning.

[Bronco_f1]

haha, honda winning in Japan, thats not going to happen without the top 3 drivers all coming down with food poisoning.

hey, don't lose faith on the former grand prix winner, Jenson Button........ :eek:

[y2cragie]

hey, don't lose faith on the former grand prix winner, Jenson Button........ :eek:
I've never had any faith in him. In my opinion Lewis Hamilton is the next big british driver. Jeson only won because Alonso Schumi and Raikonnen all failed to finish.

[DeuceOfClub]

Suzuka, obviously, is a very important race for both Honda and Toyota (Also for Midland/Spyker and Super Aguri)

Japan is crazy about F1 and the sport has many rabid fans there.

But in all fairness it will be very hard to any of them to even reach the podium.




BTW, this will be the last race at Suzuka in the near future. Starting next year the Japanese GP is moving to Fuji Circuit.

“The circuit, (Fuji) which hosted the 1976 title-deciding race that crowned Britain's James Hunt as champion by one point, has been absent from the calendar since 1977 when an accident involving Sweden's Ronnie Peterson and Canadian Gilles Villeneuve killed two spectators.”

Since than the track was modified twice, most recently in 2005 and was completely refurbished.

This is sad news for fans of Suzuka (myself included). Although, sometimes not as exciting as other tracks Suzuka IMO the ultimate racing track feature every obstacle a driver can face.

Fuji might offer more overtaking opportunities but is a very unimaginative track.

Fuji official site (http://www.fsw.tv/english/index.html)

[y2cragie]

I cant agree more.
This along with Brazil counts as my favourate race of the season. Its fitting the last race there could decide the championship one last time. It'll be back I have no doubt about it.

[DeuceOfClub]

Suzuka 1st and 2nd practice results:


Free 1

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'45"349 198.438 Km/h
2. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'46"138 + 0'00"789
3. 38 VETTEL BMW Sauber M 1'46"585 + 0'01"236
4. 37 AMMERMULLER RedBull Ferrari M 1'47"162 + 0'01"813
5. 39 SUTIL Midland Toyota B 1'47"773 + 0'02"424
6. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'47"814 + 0'02"465
7. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'47"838 + 0'02"489
8. 41 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'47"918 + 0'02"569
9. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'47"919 + 0'02"570
10. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'48"042 + 0'02"693
11. 23 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'50"479 + 0'05"130



Free 2

P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-----------------------------------------------------------------
1. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'34"337 221.601 Km/h
2. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'34"408 + 0'00"071
3. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'34"565 + 0'00"228
4. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'34"863 + 0'00"526
5. 36 DAVIDSON Honda M 1'34"906 + 0'00"569
6. 38 VETTEL BMW Sauber M 1'34"912 + 0'00"575
7. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'35"002 + 0'00"665
8. 4 DE LA ROSA McLaren Mercedes M 1'35"064 + 0'00"727
9. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'35"343 + 0'01"006
10. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'35"367 + 0'01"030
11. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'35"375 + 0'01"038
12. 37 AMMERMULLER RedBull Ferrari M 1'35"433 + 0'01"096
13. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'35"528 + 0'01"191
14. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'35"866 + 0'01"529
15. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'36"176 + 0'01"839
16. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'36"180 + 0'01"843
17. 35 WURZ Williams Cosworth B 1'36"234 + 0'01"897
18. 17 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'36"299 + 0'01"962
19. 41 MONTAGNY S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'37"354 + 0'03"017
20. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'37"441 + 0'03"104
21. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'37"501 + 0'03"164
22. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'37"596 + 0'03"259
23. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'37"702 + 0'03"365
24. 40 JANI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'37"741 + 0'03"404
25. 15 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'37"788 + 0'03"451
26. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'38"533 + 0'04"196
27. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'38"779 + 0'04"442
28. 23 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'38"955 + 0'04"618
29. 39 SUTIL Midland Toyota B 1'43"914 + 0'09"577

[DeuceOfClub]

Fisichella takes the Friday honours
Japanese GP - Second practice

The second hour of Friday practice saw a frantic last minute dash as the rains that dominated the morning session cleared away and the 5.807KM circuit dried rapidly. Much of the session was run on the intermediate tyres, but the final ten minutes saw all head out on the grooved slicks to gather some vital data. With the circuit improving by the lap, it was Giancarlo Fisichella who topped the timesheets for Renault with a best lap of 1.34.337sas the chequered flag flew.

Felipe Massa was second fastest in his Ferrari just 0.071s slower than Fisichella while Michael Schumacher took the third fastest time with title rival Fernando Alonso slotting into fourth. Like the championship battle itself, there is again nothing in it at Suzuka.

Anthony Davidson was fifth fastest in his Honda with regular racer Jenson Button pitting just before the chequered flag and dropping down the order to seventh. Rubens Barrichello was 13th best but with the times falling on each lap, it is difficult to read too much into them.

Sebastian Vettel did a solid job once again for BMW Sauber as he recorded the sixth fastest time ahead of Button and Pedro de la Rosa in the lead McLaren Mercedes. Jarno Trulli was ninth best in his Toyota ahead of Kimi Raikkonen who opted to pit his McLaren just before the end of the session. With Ralf Schumacher taking 11th, Toyota seems to have found more pace than they have displayed in recent weeks.

Third Red Bull Ferrari driver Michael Ammermuller was the first man to brave the circuit on the grooved slicks, vaulting from just outside the top ten to a solid p1 on his very first timed lap with the new rubber. He was the trigger for the remainder of the field to make the switch away from the intermediate tyres. Ammermuller ended the session with the 12th fastest time with team-mate David Coulthard and Robert Doornbos down in 22nd and 25th.

The Williams Cosworth duo of Mark Webber and Nico Rosberg proved closely matched as they set the 14th and 15th best times respectively just ahead of Christijan Albers in the leading Spyker MF1 Toyota and the third Williams of Alex Wurz.

Robert Kubica was 18th fastest in his BMW Sauber ahead of Franck Montagny, the Toro Rosso duo of Tonio Liuzzi and Scott Speed, Coulthard, Tiago Monteiro, and Neel Jani. Takuma Sato was 26th ahead of Nick Heidfeld and Sakon Yamamoto while Spyker MF1 Toyota driver Adrian Sutil brought up the rear after what seemed to be an engine failure mid-session.

Once again it is close between Renault and Ferrari and the interesting things about today’s running is that the two rivals are closely matched this weekend be it in the wet or the dry.

[y2cragie]

Well I think its quite clear with a 1:28.9 in Q2 by Schumi, the other guys might aswell just get some go-karts and race tomorrow. They'll be just as close by the end :eek: I dont think anyone ever expected a sub 90 second lap round suzuka. Damn Massa though :brick: :D

[DeuceOfClub]

Suzuka GP qualifying results:





P. No Driver Team - Engine Tyres Times Ave/Gaps
-------------------------------------------------------------------
1. 6 MASSA Ferrari B 1'29"599 233.320 Km/h
2. 5 M.SCHUMACHER Ferrari B 1'29"711 233.028 Km/h
3. 7 R.SCHUMACHER Toyota B 1'29"989 232.308 Km/h
4. 8 TRULLI Toyota B 1'30"039 232.179 Km/h
5. 1 ALONSO Renault M 1'30"371 231.326 Km/h
6. 2 FISICHELLA Renault M 1'30"599 230.744 Km/h
7. 12 BUTTON Honda M 1'30"992 229.748 Km/h
8. 11 BARRICHELLO Honda M 1'31"478 228.527 Km/h
9. 16 HEIDFELD BMW Sauber M 1'31"513 228.440 Km/h
10. 10 ROSBERG Williams Cosworth B 1'31"856 227.587 Km/h

11. 3 RAIKKONEN McLaren Mercedes M 1'30"827 230.165 Km/h
12. 17 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'31"094 229.490 Km/h
13. 4 DE LA ROSA McLaren Mercedes M 1'31"254 229.088 Km/h
14. 9 WEBBER Williams Cosworth B 1'31"276 229.033 Km/h
15. 20 LIUZZI Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'31"943 227.371 Km/h
16. 19 ALBERS Midland Toyota B 1'33"750 222.989 Km/h

17. 14 COULTHARD RedBull Ferrari M 1'32"252 226.610 Km/h
18. 15 DOORNBOS RedBull Ferrari M 1'32"402 226.242 Km/h
19. 21 SPEED Toro Rosso Cosw. M 1'32"867 225.109 Km/h
20. 22 SATO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 1'33"666 223.189 Km/h
21. 18 MONTEIRO Midland Toyota B 1'33"709 223.086 Km/h
22. 23 YAMAMOTO S. Aguri F1 Honda B 0'00"000