| bitterWRX | 04-15-2006 05:48 AM |
:lol:
Funny but man, people need to give Ide a break. He has had the worst possible entrance into F1:
bad car
no training
no experience team
a mediocre teammate who the team is focused on
There is no support for this guy. I almost feel bad for him.
Funny but man, people need to give Ide a break. He has had the worst possible entrance into F1:
bad car
no training
no experience team
a mediocre teammate who the team is focused on
There is no support for this guy. I almost feel bad for him.
| artkevin | 04-15-2006 09:45 AM |
[QUOTE=bitterWRX] I almost feel bad for him.[/QUOTE]
I do feel bad for him. From what I have heard he was a pretty good JTC racer so he knows how to drive a car. He just hasn't had any time to come to grips with a F1 machine. I blame the team more then him, they should have hired a Franc Montangy or Ralph Firman or Ricardo Zonta, someone with plenty of time behind the wheel. Sato whether you like him or not was a pretty good choice. He is pretty fast he just makes too many mistakes. With Ide you have no idea where the base level of the car is. Is he 6 seconds slower then Sato or is the car set up 3 and Ide 3 or the car 5 and Ide 1?
I do feel bad for him. From what I have heard he was a pretty good JTC racer so he knows how to drive a car. He just hasn't had any time to come to grips with a F1 machine. I blame the team more then him, they should have hired a Franc Montangy or Ralph Firman or Ricardo Zonta, someone with plenty of time behind the wheel. Sato whether you like him or not was a pretty good choice. He is pretty fast he just makes too many mistakes. With Ide you have no idea where the base level of the car is. Is he 6 seconds slower then Sato or is the car set up 3 and Ide 3 or the car 5 and Ide 1?
| JoD | 04-15-2006 10:47 AM |
[QUOTE=Student Driver]On it!
[IMG]http://static.flickr.com/47/128588867_66f4a17779.jpg[/IMG]
He's all dialed in now. I can even ship a set of matching carbon fiber yard flamingos.[/QUOTE]
LOL! Nice! It's all about the backwards "E".
On a side note - I do feel bad for the guy... You can't find the money to make him his own seat? That's sad.
We should start selling "Super Best Friends" T-shirts to raise money for him for a seat.
[IMG]http://static.flickr.com/47/128588867_66f4a17779.jpg[/IMG]
He's all dialed in now. I can even ship a set of matching carbon fiber yard flamingos.[/QUOTE]
LOL! Nice! It's all about the backwards "E".
On a side note - I do feel bad for the guy... You can't find the money to make him his own seat? That's sad.
We should start selling "Super Best Friends" T-shirts to raise money for him for a seat.
| Student Driver | 04-15-2006 12:29 PM |
Yeah well, I wrote I feel bad (well, sorry) for him first, so nahhhhh...
I figure we could film a video about the new shirts to either "Rumpshaker" or "Ide Got Back."
I figure we could film a video about the new shirts to either "Rumpshaker" or "Ide Got Back."
| artkevin | 04-15-2006 01:29 PM |
[QUOTE=Student Driver] "Ide Got Back."[/QUOTE]
:lol:
Seriously lol.
:lol:
Seriously lol.
| bitterWRX | 04-15-2006 02:49 PM |
[QUOTE=artkevin]I do feel bad for him. From what I have heard he was a pretty good JTC racer so he knows how to drive a car. He just hasn't had any time to come to grips with a F1 machine. I blame the team more then him, they should have hired a Franc Montangy or Ralph Firman or Ricardo Zonta, someone with plenty of time behind the wheel. Sato whether you like him or not was a pretty good choice. He is pretty fast he just makes too many mistakes. With Ide you have no idea where the base level of the car is. Is he 6 seconds slower then Sato or is the car set up 3 and Ide 3 or the car 5 and Ide 1?[/QUOTE]
Both Sato and Ide [I]are[/I] good drivers... I mean... F1 is as high as you can get and you can't get there by "accident."
But I agree with you, the team is for the most part, responsible for Ide's performance. For Sato, I think he is a good driver... but I think he gets a little too desperate at times and that's where his mistakes come in (ex. Suzuka 05). He's not the "mature" racer yet.
Both Sato and Ide [I]are[/I] good drivers... I mean... F1 is as high as you can get and you can't get there by "accident."
But I agree with you, the team is for the most part, responsible for Ide's performance. For Sato, I think he is a good driver... but I think he gets a little too desperate at times and that's where his mistakes come in (ex. Suzuka 05). He's not the "mature" racer yet.
| JoD | 04-15-2006 03:05 PM |
.....
| JoD | 04-15-2006 03:05 PM |
[QUOTE=Student Driver]
I figure we could film a video about the new shirts to either "Rumpshaker" or "Ide Got Back."[/QUOTE]
Jeebus, man - you're killin' me! :lol:
PS - sorry for double post. Computer difficulties.
I figure we could film a video about the new shirts to either "Rumpshaker" or "Ide Got Back."[/QUOTE]
Jeebus, man - you're killin' me! :lol:
PS - sorry for double post. Computer difficulties.
| Ferg | 04-17-2006 12:13 PM |
Little bit of news this morning.
[QUOTE]]Major setback for Prodrive's factory plans
Saturday, April 15th 2006, 12:47 GMT
Prodrive's plans to build a Formula One-spec factory in Warwickshire, England, have taken a major setback, as the local council joined opposition groups who claim the centre would be environmentally unsound.
Prodrive revealed plans to upgrade their current 200-staff factory to a facility that will house five times more employees, the new centre badged The Fulcrum.
However, shortly after submitting their plans for approval of local authorities, residents of the neighbouring towns begun a campaign against the expansion plans, saying it would destroy the local countryside.
And earlier this week, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council has also registered its opposition.
"We have objected, because we feel it is an inappropriate development on green belt land," a council spokeswoman told the local newspapers.
"Developments on green belt land need to meet special circumstances, and we do not believe this meets that criteria. We also believe it will encourage car travel. This conflicts with policies for less reliance on cars."
Prodrive, in turn, said the downside of increase car travel was more than mitigated by the high number of jobs the expansion will create for the area.
"There will be more traffic created because there will be hundreds more jobs created," a spokesman for Prodrive stated. "It is one of those clouds with a silver lining.
"But certainly we have looked at minimising the impact of traffic. It is a shame that we have these objections, especially as a lot of the new jobs will go to the local people."
But that argument was also rejected by Chris Lewis, a local member of council, who said the area was not suffering from unemployment.
"The one redeeming factor with this scheme is the claim that it will create 800 jobs," Lewis said.
"But most of those jobs will be for people with specialist and specific skills that we do not have in this location.
"We also have full employment in our community. so the opportunities would not be beneficial for us."[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]Alonso wants one-lap shoot-out for top 10
By Jonathan Noble Monday, April 17th 2006, 12:46 GMT
World champion Fernando Alonso believes an imminent shake-up of the final session of Formula One's new qualifying system should go much further than some are considering.
Although the first two parts of the new knockout format have proved a big hit with fans and F1 personnel, there has been mounting criticism about the final part - where drivers spend much of it just burning off fuel.
In all likelihood, the only change the FIA would make to the third session is shortening its length. However, Alonso believes that it should actually change to a single-lap shoot-out for the top 10 drivers.
His views come despite F1 bosses deciding to ditch single-lap qualifying after last season because they thought it was too boring.
"Last year we saw people in the grandstands screaming as the fast sectors went in," Alonso told this week's Autosport magazine. "It was really nice, I think, for the people.
"Not maybe for all the cars, but for the last 10 cars, you could see all the sectors and for the people it was fantastic. Maybe we are missing this.
"For the last 10 cars really it was a better procedure with one car only, with splits."
Speaking about the fuel burn-off procedure, Alonso said: "I don't like it too much. The laps we do without fuel are not nice and they make the qualifying boring. The people in the grandstand cannot enjoy it because they are for nothing."
Team bosses are set to meet soon to discuss whether the qualifying format needs tweaking for the remainder of the season.[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]Brawn reckons Schumacher will not retire
By Biranit Goren Monday, April 17th 2006, 15:59 GMT
Ferrari technical director Ross Brawn says he anticipates Michael Schumacher to let Ferrari know what he decides to do in the future within the next couple of months, but the Briton believes the seven times world champion will continue racing.
Schumacher's contract with Ferrari ends at the end of this year, and the team has already stated they will leave it to the German to decide what he wishes to do.
Brawn, who has worked with Schumacher since his F1 debut in all but the 1996 season, said the team will not pressure the driver to make a decision.
"Currently, there are discussions taking place, but it is up to Schumacher to decide," Brawn said in an interview with Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung.
"We did not set any deadlines for him, but I assume he will give Ferrari an answer in May or June."
Brawn added that he does not expect Schumacher to announce his retirement from racing, however.
"I see no reason for it," he said. "Michael is as motivated as always. And, he has more experience than any other driver in the field today.
"He needs a car capable of winning, though. And it's up to us to give him that."[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]]Major setback for Prodrive's factory plans
Saturday, April 15th 2006, 12:47 GMT
Prodrive's plans to build a Formula One-spec factory in Warwickshire, England, have taken a major setback, as the local council joined opposition groups who claim the centre would be environmentally unsound.
Prodrive revealed plans to upgrade their current 200-staff factory to a facility that will house five times more employees, the new centre badged The Fulcrum.
However, shortly after submitting their plans for approval of local authorities, residents of the neighbouring towns begun a campaign against the expansion plans, saying it would destroy the local countryside.
And earlier this week, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council has also registered its opposition.
"We have objected, because we feel it is an inappropriate development on green belt land," a council spokeswoman told the local newspapers.
"Developments on green belt land need to meet special circumstances, and we do not believe this meets that criteria. We also believe it will encourage car travel. This conflicts with policies for less reliance on cars."
Prodrive, in turn, said the downside of increase car travel was more than mitigated by the high number of jobs the expansion will create for the area.
"There will be more traffic created because there will be hundreds more jobs created," a spokesman for Prodrive stated. "It is one of those clouds with a silver lining.
"But certainly we have looked at minimising the impact of traffic. It is a shame that we have these objections, especially as a lot of the new jobs will go to the local people."
But that argument was also rejected by Chris Lewis, a local member of council, who said the area was not suffering from unemployment.
"The one redeeming factor with this scheme is the claim that it will create 800 jobs," Lewis said.
"But most of those jobs will be for people with specialist and specific skills that we do not have in this location.
"We also have full employment in our community. so the opportunities would not be beneficial for us."[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]Alonso wants one-lap shoot-out for top 10
By Jonathan Noble Monday, April 17th 2006, 12:46 GMT
World champion Fernando Alonso believes an imminent shake-up of the final session of Formula One's new qualifying system should go much further than some are considering.
Although the first two parts of the new knockout format have proved a big hit with fans and F1 personnel, there has been mounting criticism about the final part - where drivers spend much of it just burning off fuel.
In all likelihood, the only change the FIA would make to the third session is shortening its length. However, Alonso believes that it should actually change to a single-lap shoot-out for the top 10 drivers.
His views come despite F1 bosses deciding to ditch single-lap qualifying after last season because they thought it was too boring.
"Last year we saw people in the grandstands screaming as the fast sectors went in," Alonso told this week's Autosport magazine. "It was really nice, I think, for the people.
"Not maybe for all the cars, but for the last 10 cars, you could see all the sectors and for the people it was fantastic. Maybe we are missing this.
"For the last 10 cars really it was a better procedure with one car only, with splits."
Speaking about the fuel burn-off procedure, Alonso said: "I don't like it too much. The laps we do without fuel are not nice and they make the qualifying boring. The people in the grandstand cannot enjoy it because they are for nothing."
Team bosses are set to meet soon to discuss whether the qualifying format needs tweaking for the remainder of the season.[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]Brawn reckons Schumacher will not retire
By Biranit Goren Monday, April 17th 2006, 15:59 GMT
Ferrari technical director Ross Brawn says he anticipates Michael Schumacher to let Ferrari know what he decides to do in the future within the next couple of months, but the Briton believes the seven times world champion will continue racing.
Schumacher's contract with Ferrari ends at the end of this year, and the team has already stated they will leave it to the German to decide what he wishes to do.
Brawn, who has worked with Schumacher since his F1 debut in all but the 1996 season, said the team will not pressure the driver to make a decision.
"Currently, there are discussions taking place, but it is up to Schumacher to decide," Brawn said in an interview with Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung.
"We did not set any deadlines for him, but I assume he will give Ferrari an answer in May or June."
Brawn added that he does not expect Schumacher to announce his retirement from racing, however.
"I see no reason for it," he said. "Michael is as motivated as always. And, he has more experience than any other driver in the field today.
"He needs a car capable of winning, though. And it's up to us to give him that."[/QUOTE]
| Ferg | 04-17-2006 12:35 PM |
Tad more from Brawn...
[QUOTE]Ferrari working on seamless shift
By Biranit Goren Monday, April 17th 2006, 16:12 GMT
Ferrari technical director Ross Brawn has revealed his team are currently working on a seamless shift gearbox, but they will not introduce it in the first half of the 2006 season.
McLaren, Honda and Williams are already running with the system, which allows drivers to change gear without any break in the delivery of power. BMW have also said last week that they will include such system in their 2007 car.
And now Ferrari are set to follow suit, with Brawn stating their system is already in the test phase.
"We are currently testing our system, but it will not be used in the first half of the season, " Brawn said in an interview with Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung.
"We initially had a very complex system in the works, which would have also promised us high reliability. But that system was complicated, not maintenance-friendly, heavy and expensive.
"So we the built a simpler one, which in turn comes with certain risks, so we still need a few more tests to minimize these risks.
"But it doesn't really bother us, because we could shorten the shifting times clearly with our current gearbox transmission. Michael [Schumacher] is rather enthusiastic about it.
"That gives us one and a half tenths of a second less per lap, while the seamless shift currently adds one and a half tenths."[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]Brawn: Ferrari well prepared for Imola
By Biranit Goren Monday, April 17th 2006, 16:31 GMT
Ferrari will arrive at their home Grand Prix in Imola next weekend well prepared and with a completely overhauled package, technical director Ross Brawn has said.
The Italian outfit has struggled to return to the top, after a lacklustre season last year and a disappointing start to the 2006 season.
But Brawn believes the team have now solved their problems and will bring to the San Marino Grand Prix a much stronger package.
"Our engine problem should be solved - the new piston design worked to our satisfaction in recent testing," Brawn told Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung.
"So this means we can use the maximum speed at Imola - In Melbourne, we had to reduce our revs by about 400 rpm to be safe.
"Also, Bridgestone tested a new tyre family - the trend is now towards softer rubber mixture - and we have also made changes on the car. We have a new aerodynamics package, and a revised rear wheel suspension. So we are well prepared."
Asked where he sees Ferrari stand in the pecking order, Brawn said: "The top four teams are very close. Renault have perhaps a small advantage, but it only takes a little more to change the order."
Brawn also dismissed suggestions that his team are lagging behind others who are using two wind tunnels, but he admitted the Italians were no longer ahead of their rivals in the aerodynamics department.
"It would be too simple to pin down Ferrari's problems in 2005 on the number of the wind tunnels we ran," Brawn told the German newspaper. "After all, our system of running with one wind tunnel was also in place in 2004.
"But five years ago, we were miles ahead in aerodynamics. Then we lost Nicholas Tombazis, James Allison and Antonia Terzi to the competition - and they naturally had knowledge of our secrets.
"Then our rivals finally understood on what level we are aerodynamics-wise, and how important it is. That led to our opponents re-adapting their approach and investing more in that direction, which inevitably has, in turn, cancelled our advantage."[/QUOTE]
5 days until San Marino :devil:
[QUOTE]Ferrari working on seamless shift
By Biranit Goren Monday, April 17th 2006, 16:12 GMT
Ferrari technical director Ross Brawn has revealed his team are currently working on a seamless shift gearbox, but they will not introduce it in the first half of the 2006 season.
McLaren, Honda and Williams are already running with the system, which allows drivers to change gear without any break in the delivery of power. BMW have also said last week that they will include such system in their 2007 car.
And now Ferrari are set to follow suit, with Brawn stating their system is already in the test phase.
"We are currently testing our system, but it will not be used in the first half of the season, " Brawn said in an interview with Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung.
"We initially had a very complex system in the works, which would have also promised us high reliability. But that system was complicated, not maintenance-friendly, heavy and expensive.
"So we the built a simpler one, which in turn comes with certain risks, so we still need a few more tests to minimize these risks.
"But it doesn't really bother us, because we could shorten the shifting times clearly with our current gearbox transmission. Michael [Schumacher] is rather enthusiastic about it.
"That gives us one and a half tenths of a second less per lap, while the seamless shift currently adds one and a half tenths."[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]Brawn: Ferrari well prepared for Imola
By Biranit Goren Monday, April 17th 2006, 16:31 GMT
Ferrari will arrive at their home Grand Prix in Imola next weekend well prepared and with a completely overhauled package, technical director Ross Brawn has said.
The Italian outfit has struggled to return to the top, after a lacklustre season last year and a disappointing start to the 2006 season.
But Brawn believes the team have now solved their problems and will bring to the San Marino Grand Prix a much stronger package.
"Our engine problem should be solved - the new piston design worked to our satisfaction in recent testing," Brawn told Frankfurter Allgemeine Sonntagszeitung.
"So this means we can use the maximum speed at Imola - In Melbourne, we had to reduce our revs by about 400 rpm to be safe.
"Also, Bridgestone tested a new tyre family - the trend is now towards softer rubber mixture - and we have also made changes on the car. We have a new aerodynamics package, and a revised rear wheel suspension. So we are well prepared."
Asked where he sees Ferrari stand in the pecking order, Brawn said: "The top four teams are very close. Renault have perhaps a small advantage, but it only takes a little more to change the order."
Brawn also dismissed suggestions that his team are lagging behind others who are using two wind tunnels, but he admitted the Italians were no longer ahead of their rivals in the aerodynamics department.
"It would be too simple to pin down Ferrari's problems in 2005 on the number of the wind tunnels we ran," Brawn told the German newspaper. "After all, our system of running with one wind tunnel was also in place in 2004.
"But five years ago, we were miles ahead in aerodynamics. Then we lost Nicholas Tombazis, James Allison and Antonia Terzi to the competition - and they naturally had knowledge of our secrets.
"Then our rivals finally understood on what level we are aerodynamics-wise, and how important it is. That led to our opponents re-adapting their approach and investing more in that direction, which inevitably has, in turn, cancelled our advantage."[/QUOTE]
5 days until San Marino :devil:
| StuBeck | 04-17-2006 12:55 PM |
I don't agree with Alonso's take on qualifying, they should just let people put in the fuel they want to afterwards and not punishing them for doing well like they are.
| bitterWRX | 04-17-2006 01:19 PM |
question: Is Ferrari overbooking themselves?
Rumor has it that Kimi signed with Ferrari. And Rossi has been testing for a seat... not saying that is going to be a contract. How long is Massa's contract? If Schumi is staying... it'll be packed. What's the deal?
They should start a "B" team and call it "Ferrossi"
:D
Rumor has it that Kimi signed with Ferrari. And Rossi has been testing for a seat... not saying that is going to be a contract. How long is Massa's contract? If Schumi is staying... it'll be packed. What's the deal?
They should start a "B" team and call it "Ferrossi"
:D
| Ferg | 04-17-2006 01:29 PM |
Massa is signed for only the 2006 season and unless he starts getting results it'll be his only season.
The rumors about Kimi have yet to be anything other than rumors, although terribly persistent rumors so there's more than likely some truth behind them. I'd give it a 50/50 chance of him moving to Ferrari. It really all depends on what sort of car McLaren can give him this year, or if you belive the hype he's already got a signed contract from Maranello in his back pocket.
Schumacher has yet to decide on his future...
Rossi...who knows really. Either it's just a talented guy having some fun or he's serious, in either case we'll know soon enough.
Having too many talented drivers on the books is becoming par for the course in F1, just ask Ron Dennis or Flav.
The rumors about Kimi have yet to be anything other than rumors, although terribly persistent rumors so there's more than likely some truth behind them. I'd give it a 50/50 chance of him moving to Ferrari. It really all depends on what sort of car McLaren can give him this year, or if you belive the hype he's already got a signed contract from Maranello in his back pocket.
Schumacher has yet to decide on his future...
Rossi...who knows really. Either it's just a talented guy having some fun or he's serious, in either case we'll know soon enough.
Having too many talented drivers on the books is becoming par for the course in F1, just ask Ron Dennis or Flav.
| artkevin | 04-17-2006 01:34 PM |
Whats up with the Nico/McLaren rumors? Ron already has Kimi/JPM/Gary Paffet/Lewis Hamilton and WC Frenando Alonso. Why would he poach Nico? Just to spite Frank?
| Ferg | 04-17-2006 01:39 PM |
Nico is a hot item right now, driving for a second teir team (sorry Frank!) so naturally there's poaching rumors floating around.
I think he's got a pretty iron-clad deal with Williams, although everything has it's price.
I don't see Nico jumping ship just yet.
Webbo might move to Renault to partner Kovallainen (sp?) if Fissi get's the boot.
Stupid silly season..we're not even four races in yet! :lol:
I think he's got a pretty iron-clad deal with Williams, although everything has it's price.
I don't see Nico jumping ship just yet.
Webbo might move to Renault to partner Kovallainen (sp?) if Fissi get's the boot.
Stupid silly season..we're not even four races in yet! :lol:
| Bonzo | 04-17-2006 01:50 PM |
The super pole or one lap qualy was exciting in real life a few years ago.
I think that is a good idea for the final 10 spots. I enjoy watching each car going for it. We currently get snippets of each car when and if the cameras are rolling/taping.
I think that is a good idea for the final 10 spots. I enjoy watching each car going for it. We currently get snippets of each car when and if the cameras are rolling/taping.
| Student Driver | 04-17-2006 04:30 PM |
I don't know, I like the current system and it's the only reason I watch qualifying. I could see them reducing the final stage a bit, or simply closing up the percentage a touch on what the slowest lap can be to "count" for fuel.
As for the screaming in the stands that Alonso heard, it must have been from Trulli landing pole again... ;)
As for the screaming in the stands that Alonso heard, it must have been from Trulli landing pole again... ;)
| StuBeck | 04-17-2006 07:39 PM |
You're almost always going to miss the fast lap, this is why you need to watch the online timing to see if someone's on a quick one. I actually like that its more chaotic because you honestly can't tell very well from the outside of the car whether someone is fast or not.
| finnRex | 04-17-2006 08:51 PM |
[QUOTE=Ferg]Massa is signed for only the 2006 season and unless he starts getting results it'll be his only season.
The rumors about Kimi have yet to be anything other than rumors, although terribly persistent rumors so there's more than likely some truth behind them. I'd give it a 50/50 chance of him moving to Ferrari. It really all depends on what sort of car McLaren can give him this year, or if you belive the hype he's already got a signed contract from Maranello in his back pocket.
Schumacher has yet to decide on his future...
Rossi...who knows really. Either it's just a talented guy having some fun or he's serious, in either case we'll know soon enough.
Having too many talented drivers on the books is becoming par for the course in F1, just ask Ron Dennis or Flav.[/QUOTE]
You are right about Kimi+Ferrari rumors. They are just that. But it is getting hard to believe otherwise considering F1 magazine is basically telling everyone its a done deal. BUT, they have been wrong before(though I just can't think of any times off the top of my mind).
Do you think that Ferrari(mainly Schumi) would let Kimi drive next to him? It could honestly go either way. I think Schumi could leave with a legacy behind him, teaching Kimi how to take care of "his team". At the same time he could do what he's been doing all along, say no to Kimi and have an obvious #2 driver. Or he could retire.
Me personally, I think it'd be cool as all out if Schumi would teach Kimi how to bring the team around him. Am I holding my breathe? No. I do feel that Kimi's best hopes of winning a DC is with either Renault or Ferrari(in that order).
Oh, Kevin, Ron Dennis said about JPM that he has never -NEVER- had a driver work as hard as Juan has since the end of last season. Hats off to him:). If you get a chance to read the magazine, do so. Interesting reads in this months issue.
Mika
The rumors about Kimi have yet to be anything other than rumors, although terribly persistent rumors so there's more than likely some truth behind them. I'd give it a 50/50 chance of him moving to Ferrari. It really all depends on what sort of car McLaren can give him this year, or if you belive the hype he's already got a signed contract from Maranello in his back pocket.
Schumacher has yet to decide on his future...
Rossi...who knows really. Either it's just a talented guy having some fun or he's serious, in either case we'll know soon enough.
Having too many talented drivers on the books is becoming par for the course in F1, just ask Ron Dennis or Flav.[/QUOTE]
You are right about Kimi+Ferrari rumors. They are just that. But it is getting hard to believe otherwise considering F1 magazine is basically telling everyone its a done deal. BUT, they have been wrong before(though I just can't think of any times off the top of my mind).
Do you think that Ferrari(mainly Schumi) would let Kimi drive next to him? It could honestly go either way. I think Schumi could leave with a legacy behind him, teaching Kimi how to take care of "his team". At the same time he could do what he's been doing all along, say no to Kimi and have an obvious #2 driver. Or he could retire.
Me personally, I think it'd be cool as all out if Schumi would teach Kimi how to bring the team around him. Am I holding my breathe? No. I do feel that Kimi's best hopes of winning a DC is with either Renault or Ferrari(in that order).
Oh, Kevin, Ron Dennis said about JPM that he has never -NEVER- had a driver work as hard as Juan has since the end of last season. Hats off to him:). If you get a chance to read the magazine, do so. Interesting reads in this months issue.
Mika
| bitterWRX | 04-17-2006 09:08 PM |
This is a rumor too, but I thought the suggestion of Schumi leading a VW/Audi for a F1 team is interesting.
| artkevin | 04-17-2006 09:49 PM |
[QUOTE=finnRex]You are right about Kimi+Ferrari rumors. They are just that. But it is getting hard to believe otherwise considering F1 magazine is basically telling everyone its a done deal. BUT, they have been wrong before(though I just can't think of any times off the top of my mind).
Do you think that Ferrari(mainly Schumi) would let Kimi drive next to him? It could honestly go either way. I think Schumi could leave with a legacy behind him, teaching Kimi how to take care of "his team". At the same time he could do what he's been doing all along, say no to Kimi and have an obvious #2 driver. Or he could retire.
Me personally, I think it'd be cool as all out if Schumi would teach Kimi how to bring the team around him. Am I holding my breathe? No. I do feel that Kimi's best hopes of winning a DC is with either Renault or Ferrari(in that order).
Oh, Kevin, Ron Dennis said about JPM that he has never -NEVER- had a driver work as hard as Juan has since the end of last season. Hats off to him:). If you get a chance to read the magazine, do so. Interesting reads in this months issue.
Mika[/QUOTE]
JoD got me a subscription to F1 Racing Mag but I have every issue for about 5 years back. :banana:
I for one don't think Kimi has signed jack as of yet. He will most likely go to the team that can offer him the best chance to win the WDC and right now it doesn't look like Ferrari. I also tend not to believe any of the speculation about drivers changing from 3rd parties. The Alonso to McLaren deal just kind of proved its all a guessing game to me.
Do you think that Ferrari(mainly Schumi) would let Kimi drive next to him? It could honestly go either way. I think Schumi could leave with a legacy behind him, teaching Kimi how to take care of "his team". At the same time he could do what he's been doing all along, say no to Kimi and have an obvious #2 driver. Or he could retire.
Me personally, I think it'd be cool as all out if Schumi would teach Kimi how to bring the team around him. Am I holding my breathe? No. I do feel that Kimi's best hopes of winning a DC is with either Renault or Ferrari(in that order).
Oh, Kevin, Ron Dennis said about JPM that he has never -NEVER- had a driver work as hard as Juan has since the end of last season. Hats off to him:). If you get a chance to read the magazine, do so. Interesting reads in this months issue.
Mika[/QUOTE]
JoD got me a subscription to F1 Racing Mag but I have every issue for about 5 years back. :banana:
I for one don't think Kimi has signed jack as of yet. He will most likely go to the team that can offer him the best chance to win the WDC and right now it doesn't look like Ferrari. I also tend not to believe any of the speculation about drivers changing from 3rd parties. The Alonso to McLaren deal just kind of proved its all a guessing game to me.
| JoD | 04-18-2006 08:05 AM |
JoD will deny the existence of Kimi to Ferrari rumors as long as she can. They make her very sad. :(
| Ferg | 04-18-2006 10:54 AM |
More on the silly season rumors...
[QUOTE][B]Schumacher only considering Ferrari option[/B]
By Jonathan Noble Tuesday, April 18th 2006, 10:29 GMT
Michael Schumacher has insisted that he is not even considering offers from other teams as he continues to ponder whether to stay in Formula One with Ferrari.
The seven-time world champion is expected to decide within the next two months about whether he wants to remain in F1, and his manager Willi Weber revealed last week that Renault were interested in a deal.
But speaking in The Times, Schumacher played down any talk of him moving to another team - and he claims he sees no reason why he will not stay on with Ferrari.
"It is very likely that I would stay with the colour red," he said. "There are obviously other options but at this stage, I won't consider them. Why should I?
"I am so happy here. We have such a good relationship and we have known each other for so long that I would have to have a very good reason to move to another team.
"It is more complex than just considering myself. There are a lot of other factors that are very important, such as whether the team is competitive and what other things are going on and I need to verify those."
Although Schumacher's eventual decision about staying with Ferrari will likely depend on the competitiveness of the team, the German has said he has no complaints about the current 248 F1 despite a troubled start to the campaign.
"People have quoted me as saying that Imola could be the crucial race, but that's not the case," he added. "I foresee a lot of potential in the fight for the championship, particularly with the speed of our car and what is coming in terms of development.
"This championship hasn't gone away. We might need a bit of luck sometimes, but I am hoping we have had our ration of bad luck already."[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE][B]Todt laughs off Schumacher's Renault link[/B]
By Michele Lostia Tuesday, April 18th 2006, 09:53 GMT
Ferrari team chief Jean Todt has labelled as "nonsense" the possibility that Michael Schumacher could move to Renault next season.
"That's nonsense of the highest kind," Todt told the Neue Zurcher Zeitung newspaper. "It's so stupid it doesn't cause me any reaction. Besides, I think one of our strengths is not to react to such rumours.
"On the day we feel like announcing our drivers, we'll do it. It certainly won't be the papers forcing us to do it."
Schumacher's manager Willi Weber revealed last week world champions Renault had shown interest in the German driver, whose contract with Ferrari ends this season.
The seven-time world champion has said he will decide his future around summer.
Schumacher's uncertain future has meant Ferrari have been subject to lots of speculation about their future drivers over the past months.
Kimi Raikkonen and MotoGP champion Valentino Rossi have been the names linked more often with a Ferrari seat.
Rossi's decision on his future is expected over the next two months, although Todt said Ferrari would be "prudent" in choosing their drivers.
"We must be prudent with our decisions, because if Rossi in a Ferrari doesn't win for two consecutive races, he would be immediately crucified from all sides," he said.
Todt also praised Schumacher's current teammate Felipe Massa, but the Frenchman admitted he is expecting better results from him.
"At the moment I would expect better results from him, but I'm sure they'll come," Todt added. "I like Massa very much: he's intelligent, capable, and Formula One hasn't yet gone to his head like to many others." [/QUOTE]
[QUOTE][B]Wheldon turned down BMW F1 offer[/B]
By Alastair Himmer Tuesday, April 18th 2006, 04:31 GMT
Indianapolis 500 winner Dan Wheldon has revealed that he rejected an offer from the BMW-Sauber team to become their Formula One test driver this season because they would not guarantee him a race seat in 2007.
Wheldon, the first British winner of the Indy 500 since Graham Hill in 1966, ended speculation last November about a switch to F1 after his contract with the Andretti Green Racing team expired by joining Ganassi Racing.
But Wheldon admits that Formula One remains his passion and will not rule out a move to F1 as early as next year - but only if he received an offer he could not refuse.
"I did have offers to go to Formula One," Wheldon told Reuters in a recent interview. "I do love Formula One - there's no doubt about it. It's what I grew up knowing.
"But I felt none of the offers were good enough in order to leave America. If I accomplish what I did last year I think that would be a good opportunity to move on."
Wheldon's form in winning six IRL races almost earned him a move to the BMW-Sauber Formula One team.
"I was going to be a test driver to start with but they couldn't necessarily guarantee me a race seat for 2007," he said before this week's Indy Japan 300 race.
"I wanted a way of being judged so that if I did a good enough job I would get moved up. They couldn't set anything out in stone to give me that opportunity.
"I have huge amounts of respect for (BMW-Sauber's motorsport director) Mario Theissen, but we will just have to see what the future holds."
Wheldon, whose manager Julian Jakobi also represents McLaren's Juan Pablo Montoya, insists he is in no rush to make the step-up to Formula One.
Wheldon's quest for back-to-back IRL titles began with victory at the tragedy-hit Homestead-Miami Speedway, where rival driver Paul Dana was killed in a crash during the race warm-up.
"I've got a point to prove this year," said Wheldon, who is bidding for a third consecutive Japanese victory his week. "I wanted a new challenge. I want to win in a different team.
"Right now my focus is Indy cars but you never know in this business."
The 27-year-old is also aware that another successful IRL season could see him emulate Montoya's jump to Formula One in 2001.
"I said when I first came here that I wouldn't ever think about leaving the States until I'd won the Indianapolis 500 or the championship," said Wheldon.
"I thought personally the opportunity might have arisen last year where I could have done something with Honda in Formula One but it didn't. We'll have to see what happens when the right opportunity arrives."
Wheldon's immediate goal is to keep on doing what he does best - dominating the opposition.
"People forget about you if you are not winning consistently," he said. "Let's continue to do that and see what doors open then.
"Formula One's always been a great passion of mine. Mr. Jakobi is staying ahead of what's going on and planning for my future."[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE][B]Schumacher only considering Ferrari option[/B]
By Jonathan Noble Tuesday, April 18th 2006, 10:29 GMT
Michael Schumacher has insisted that he is not even considering offers from other teams as he continues to ponder whether to stay in Formula One with Ferrari.
The seven-time world champion is expected to decide within the next two months about whether he wants to remain in F1, and his manager Willi Weber revealed last week that Renault were interested in a deal.
But speaking in The Times, Schumacher played down any talk of him moving to another team - and he claims he sees no reason why he will not stay on with Ferrari.
"It is very likely that I would stay with the colour red," he said. "There are obviously other options but at this stage, I won't consider them. Why should I?
"I am so happy here. We have such a good relationship and we have known each other for so long that I would have to have a very good reason to move to another team.
"It is more complex than just considering myself. There are a lot of other factors that are very important, such as whether the team is competitive and what other things are going on and I need to verify those."
Although Schumacher's eventual decision about staying with Ferrari will likely depend on the competitiveness of the team, the German has said he has no complaints about the current 248 F1 despite a troubled start to the campaign.
"People have quoted me as saying that Imola could be the crucial race, but that's not the case," he added. "I foresee a lot of potential in the fight for the championship, particularly with the speed of our car and what is coming in terms of development.
"This championship hasn't gone away. We might need a bit of luck sometimes, but I am hoping we have had our ration of bad luck already."[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE][B]Todt laughs off Schumacher's Renault link[/B]
By Michele Lostia Tuesday, April 18th 2006, 09:53 GMT
Ferrari team chief Jean Todt has labelled as "nonsense" the possibility that Michael Schumacher could move to Renault next season.
"That's nonsense of the highest kind," Todt told the Neue Zurcher Zeitung newspaper. "It's so stupid it doesn't cause me any reaction. Besides, I think one of our strengths is not to react to such rumours.
"On the day we feel like announcing our drivers, we'll do it. It certainly won't be the papers forcing us to do it."
Schumacher's manager Willi Weber revealed last week world champions Renault had shown interest in the German driver, whose contract with Ferrari ends this season.
The seven-time world champion has said he will decide his future around summer.
Schumacher's uncertain future has meant Ferrari have been subject to lots of speculation about their future drivers over the past months.
Kimi Raikkonen and MotoGP champion Valentino Rossi have been the names linked more often with a Ferrari seat.
Rossi's decision on his future is expected over the next two months, although Todt said Ferrari would be "prudent" in choosing their drivers.
"We must be prudent with our decisions, because if Rossi in a Ferrari doesn't win for two consecutive races, he would be immediately crucified from all sides," he said.
Todt also praised Schumacher's current teammate Felipe Massa, but the Frenchman admitted he is expecting better results from him.
"At the moment I would expect better results from him, but I'm sure they'll come," Todt added. "I like Massa very much: he's intelligent, capable, and Formula One hasn't yet gone to his head like to many others." [/QUOTE]
[QUOTE][B]Wheldon turned down BMW F1 offer[/B]
By Alastair Himmer Tuesday, April 18th 2006, 04:31 GMT
Indianapolis 500 winner Dan Wheldon has revealed that he rejected an offer from the BMW-Sauber team to become their Formula One test driver this season because they would not guarantee him a race seat in 2007.
Wheldon, the first British winner of the Indy 500 since Graham Hill in 1966, ended speculation last November about a switch to F1 after his contract with the Andretti Green Racing team expired by joining Ganassi Racing.
But Wheldon admits that Formula One remains his passion and will not rule out a move to F1 as early as next year - but only if he received an offer he could not refuse.
"I did have offers to go to Formula One," Wheldon told Reuters in a recent interview. "I do love Formula One - there's no doubt about it. It's what I grew up knowing.
"But I felt none of the offers were good enough in order to leave America. If I accomplish what I did last year I think that would be a good opportunity to move on."
Wheldon's form in winning six IRL races almost earned him a move to the BMW-Sauber Formula One team.
"I was going to be a test driver to start with but they couldn't necessarily guarantee me a race seat for 2007," he said before this week's Indy Japan 300 race.
"I wanted a way of being judged so that if I did a good enough job I would get moved up. They couldn't set anything out in stone to give me that opportunity.
"I have huge amounts of respect for (BMW-Sauber's motorsport director) Mario Theissen, but we will just have to see what the future holds."
Wheldon, whose manager Julian Jakobi also represents McLaren's Juan Pablo Montoya, insists he is in no rush to make the step-up to Formula One.
Wheldon's quest for back-to-back IRL titles began with victory at the tragedy-hit Homestead-Miami Speedway, where rival driver Paul Dana was killed in a crash during the race warm-up.
"I've got a point to prove this year," said Wheldon, who is bidding for a third consecutive Japanese victory his week. "I wanted a new challenge. I want to win in a different team.
"Right now my focus is Indy cars but you never know in this business."
The 27-year-old is also aware that another successful IRL season could see him emulate Montoya's jump to Formula One in 2001.
"I said when I first came here that I wouldn't ever think about leaving the States until I'd won the Indianapolis 500 or the championship," said Wheldon.
"I thought personally the opportunity might have arisen last year where I could have done something with Honda in Formula One but it didn't. We'll have to see what happens when the right opportunity arrives."
Wheldon's immediate goal is to keep on doing what he does best - dominating the opposition.
"People forget about you if you are not winning consistently," he said. "Let's continue to do that and see what doors open then.
"Formula One's always been a great passion of mine. Mr. Jakobi is staying ahead of what's going on and planning for my future."[/QUOTE]
| Student Driver | 04-18-2006 04:25 PM |
Didn't Wheldon already turn down that offer from BMW for the same reason? Or maybe I was just seeing into the future a while ago...
| meebs | 04-18-2006 06:11 PM |
I like that the silly season started so early this season! :p
| Student Driver | 04-18-2006 06:55 PM |
[QUOTE=Student Driver]Didn't Wheldon already turn down that offer from BMW for the same reason? Or maybe I was just seeing into the future a while ago...[/QUOTE]
A HA! Page 47:
[url]http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showpost.php?p=13155016&postcount=1158[/url]
[quote="Ferg in all his copy and pasting glory"]Wheldon still looking at F1
By Jonathan Noble Thursday, March 23rd 2006, 12:09 GMT
IndyCar champion Dan Wheldon blah blah blah...
[b]He came closest to landing a deal with the BMW-Sauber team, but rejected an offer in the end because there was no promise of a race drive. [/b][/quote]
I guess the news is a bit slow lately.
A HA! Page 47:
[url]http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showpost.php?p=13155016&postcount=1158[/url]
[quote="Ferg in all his copy and pasting glory"]Wheldon still looking at F1
By Jonathan Noble Thursday, March 23rd 2006, 12:09 GMT
IndyCar champion Dan Wheldon blah blah blah...
[b]He came closest to landing a deal with the BMW-Sauber team, but rejected an offer in the end because there was no promise of a race drive. [/b][/quote]
I guess the news is a bit slow lately.
| Ferg | 04-19-2006 09:59 AM |
How big a number would it take...?
[QUOTE]Red Bull boss plans Schumacher approach
By Jonathan Noble Wednesday, April 19th 2006, 09:00 GMT
Red Bull boss Dietrich Mateschitz has dropped a major hint that he is going to try and lure Michael Schumacher away from Ferrari for next season - after denying that an offer is already on the table for the seven-times world champion.
Schumacher is set to decide within the next few months about whether he wants to continue in Formula One, and Mateschitz has said he will talk with the German after that decision is made to see if there is a chance he will switch to Red Bull Racing.
The news comes amid speculation that Kimi Raikkonen will move from McLaren to Ferrari next year - forcing Schumacher to decide whether he wants to race against the Finn in the same team or seek pastures new.
Mateschitz certainly has the kind of money that Schumacher would demand and, with an Adrian Newey-designed RB3 already being penned, there is every chance the team will be closer the front of the field in 2007.
And although Mateschitz has laughed off talk that Schumacher and Red Bull Racing was likely to happen - and even diverted attention away from his team by suggesting a deal with BMW would make more sense - he has openly admitted that he does plan to speak to Schumacher later this year.
"Michael Schumacher at Red Bull? I wish it was true," said Mateschitz. "Within all this, I also believe that Kimi Raikkonen will join Ferrari. But I could also foresee another possibility for Michael, which was not discussed at all, that he could go to BMW.
"Apart from 'hello', I have not spoken to Michael, but in June or July we will have a word with him."
Schumacher has stood firm in refusing to talk about his future plans, despite continued questions by the media.
"As a basic principle I do not comment on speculation, since any comment I could make would only lead to more rumours," he said recently.[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]Haug: Raikkonen still to decide future
By Jonathan Noble Wednesday, April 19th 2006, 09:10 GMT
Mercedes-Benz have insisted that they are not worried about the fresh wave of speculation suggesting that Kimi Raikkonen's switch to Ferrari is a done-deal - and claim that there is every chance McLaren can retain the Finn in 2007.
Raikkonen has been at the centre of a media frenzy about his future plans, with recent rumours suggesting that confirmation of his deal with Ferrari would even come at this weekend's San Marino Grand Prix.
But after Ferrari sporting director Jean Todt moved to play down the Raikkonen talk earlier this week, Mercedes-Benz motorsport boss Norbert Haug has insisted that the situation for his team remains unchanged - and that it is up to them to produce a quick car that convinces Raikkonen to stay at McLaren in 2007.
"Nothing has changed," explained Haug. "Both Kimi and his management have reaffirmed that no decision has been taken yet. And I can hardly imagine that such a decision would be taken behind our back.
"In fact, we remain rather cool, since in the past, many strange things have been written. Just take the story that Michael Schumacher would join us, which was sold as a fact, with the slight catch however that it turned out to be far-fetched.
"I should have actually collected all those stories, also the ones about Kimi and Ferrari, and I should send them out at an appropriate time - let's say next Christmas."
Haug adds that rumours suggesting a deal between Raikkonen and Ferrari was signed as early as last year does not make sense � because of the struggles that the Italian outfit were facing throughout the 2005 season.
"Common sense would demand that Kimi signing a deal with Ferrari as early as last year is not very logical. Why should he do such a thing at a time when he was sitting in the quickest car around and when Ferrari was in a deep low?"[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]Patrick not pushing for F1 chance
By Alastair Himmer Wednesday, April 19th 2006, 08:49 GMT
Danica Patrick says she is happy to be racing in the Indy Racing League, although wouldn't rule out a switch to Formula One if the opportunity arose.
Patrick, in her second-season in the IRL with Rahal Letterman Racing, says she has heard speculation linking her with an F1-switch although presently she is happy in America.
"I think it's very flattering. I feel very lucky to have people talking about Formula One and to potentially have that as an opportunity," Patrick told Reuters in an interview.
"But at this point in time I'm very happy where I'm at. I enjoy living in the States and being near my friends and family. I don't know what's going to happen in the future."
Patrick became the first woman to lead the Indianapolis 500 last year, finishing the race in fourth.
Once "dead set" on racing in Formula One, Patrick admits she is not yet ready for the punishing grind of the F1 circuit.
"I think being away from all of your family and friends...it's something that isn't ideal for me right now," she said before this week's Indy Japan 300.
"Maybe one day I'll want to have a big, beautiful place in Monaco. If I'm happy off-track, I do well on-track. Maybe it will work out with Formula One in the future."
Patrick's desire for a stable base was brought into sharp focus when teammate Paul Dana was killed in an horrific crash at this season's opening IRL race at Homestead-Miami.
"It's obviously a very sad situation," said Patrick. "It's unfortunate but it's a reality and something we as drivers...know can happen. It's our job to get on with it and keep racing.
"We will focus on that while at the same time keeping in mind that life is precious."
Further speculation about a future switch to Formula One is likely to gather momentum, however, if Patrick scores her maiden IRL win this season.
"Maybe - absolutely," she smiled. "Who knows what's going to happen? That might be the option and then I'll be happy and lucky that they want me. But right now I'm good where I'm at."
Were she to eventually switch, Patrick would join a small but elite set of females who have plied their trade in the tough world of F1.
Only Italian Lella Lombardi met with any tangible success. Lombardi, who participated in 17 Grands Prix between 1974 and 1976, became the only woman point-scorer with a sixth-place finish at the 1975 Spanish Grand Prix.
[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]Red Bull boss plans Schumacher approach
By Jonathan Noble Wednesday, April 19th 2006, 09:00 GMT
Red Bull boss Dietrich Mateschitz has dropped a major hint that he is going to try and lure Michael Schumacher away from Ferrari for next season - after denying that an offer is already on the table for the seven-times world champion.
Schumacher is set to decide within the next few months about whether he wants to continue in Formula One, and Mateschitz has said he will talk with the German after that decision is made to see if there is a chance he will switch to Red Bull Racing.
The news comes amid speculation that Kimi Raikkonen will move from McLaren to Ferrari next year - forcing Schumacher to decide whether he wants to race against the Finn in the same team or seek pastures new.
Mateschitz certainly has the kind of money that Schumacher would demand and, with an Adrian Newey-designed RB3 already being penned, there is every chance the team will be closer the front of the field in 2007.
And although Mateschitz has laughed off talk that Schumacher and Red Bull Racing was likely to happen - and even diverted attention away from his team by suggesting a deal with BMW would make more sense - he has openly admitted that he does plan to speak to Schumacher later this year.
"Michael Schumacher at Red Bull? I wish it was true," said Mateschitz. "Within all this, I also believe that Kimi Raikkonen will join Ferrari. But I could also foresee another possibility for Michael, which was not discussed at all, that he could go to BMW.
"Apart from 'hello', I have not spoken to Michael, but in June or July we will have a word with him."
Schumacher has stood firm in refusing to talk about his future plans, despite continued questions by the media.
"As a basic principle I do not comment on speculation, since any comment I could make would only lead to more rumours," he said recently.[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]Haug: Raikkonen still to decide future
By Jonathan Noble Wednesday, April 19th 2006, 09:10 GMT
Mercedes-Benz have insisted that they are not worried about the fresh wave of speculation suggesting that Kimi Raikkonen's switch to Ferrari is a done-deal - and claim that there is every chance McLaren can retain the Finn in 2007.
Raikkonen has been at the centre of a media frenzy about his future plans, with recent rumours suggesting that confirmation of his deal with Ferrari would even come at this weekend's San Marino Grand Prix.
But after Ferrari sporting director Jean Todt moved to play down the Raikkonen talk earlier this week, Mercedes-Benz motorsport boss Norbert Haug has insisted that the situation for his team remains unchanged - and that it is up to them to produce a quick car that convinces Raikkonen to stay at McLaren in 2007.
"Nothing has changed," explained Haug. "Both Kimi and his management have reaffirmed that no decision has been taken yet. And I can hardly imagine that such a decision would be taken behind our back.
"In fact, we remain rather cool, since in the past, many strange things have been written. Just take the story that Michael Schumacher would join us, which was sold as a fact, with the slight catch however that it turned out to be far-fetched.
"I should have actually collected all those stories, also the ones about Kimi and Ferrari, and I should send them out at an appropriate time - let's say next Christmas."
Haug adds that rumours suggesting a deal between Raikkonen and Ferrari was signed as early as last year does not make sense � because of the struggles that the Italian outfit were facing throughout the 2005 season.
"Common sense would demand that Kimi signing a deal with Ferrari as early as last year is not very logical. Why should he do such a thing at a time when he was sitting in the quickest car around and when Ferrari was in a deep low?"[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]Patrick not pushing for F1 chance
By Alastair Himmer Wednesday, April 19th 2006, 08:49 GMT
Danica Patrick says she is happy to be racing in the Indy Racing League, although wouldn't rule out a switch to Formula One if the opportunity arose.
Patrick, in her second-season in the IRL with Rahal Letterman Racing, says she has heard speculation linking her with an F1-switch although presently she is happy in America.
"I think it's very flattering. I feel very lucky to have people talking about Formula One and to potentially have that as an opportunity," Patrick told Reuters in an interview.
"But at this point in time I'm very happy where I'm at. I enjoy living in the States and being near my friends and family. I don't know what's going to happen in the future."
Patrick became the first woman to lead the Indianapolis 500 last year, finishing the race in fourth.
Once "dead set" on racing in Formula One, Patrick admits she is not yet ready for the punishing grind of the F1 circuit.
"I think being away from all of your family and friends...it's something that isn't ideal for me right now," she said before this week's Indy Japan 300.
"Maybe one day I'll want to have a big, beautiful place in Monaco. If I'm happy off-track, I do well on-track. Maybe it will work out with Formula One in the future."
Patrick's desire for a stable base was brought into sharp focus when teammate Paul Dana was killed in an horrific crash at this season's opening IRL race at Homestead-Miami.
"It's obviously a very sad situation," said Patrick. "It's unfortunate but it's a reality and something we as drivers...know can happen. It's our job to get on with it and keep racing.
"We will focus on that while at the same time keeping in mind that life is precious."
Further speculation about a future switch to Formula One is likely to gather momentum, however, if Patrick scores her maiden IRL win this season.
"Maybe - absolutely," she smiled. "Who knows what's going to happen? That might be the option and then I'll be happy and lucky that they want me. But right now I'm good where I'm at."
Were she to eventually switch, Patrick would join a small but elite set of females who have plied their trade in the tough world of F1.
Only Italian Lella Lombardi met with any tangible success. Lombardi, who participated in 17 Grands Prix between 1974 and 1976, became the only woman point-scorer with a sixth-place finish at the 1975 Spanish Grand Prix.
[/QUOTE]
| BillT | 04-19-2006 10:39 AM |
Shouldn't Danica worry about winning an IRL race before even thinking that F1 might be a possibility?
| TimStevens | 04-19-2006 10:42 AM |
[QUOTE=BillT]Shouldn't Danica worry about winning an IRL race before even thinking that F1 might be a possibility?[/QUOTE]
What are you talking about? She has boobs and can make it through a lap in a race without crashing (but just one). That's all it takes for Bernie.
I really, really hope she doesn't get a drive. I just can't see her being anywhere but at the back of the pack, and I'd rather the US not be known for putting a novelty on the grid.
What are you talking about? She has boobs and can make it through a lap in a race without crashing (but just one). That's all it takes for Bernie.
I really, really hope she doesn't get a drive. I just can't see her being anywhere but at the back of the pack, and I'd rather the US not be known for putting a novelty on the grid.
| artkevin | 04-19-2006 11:52 AM |
F1 in HD!
Pit Pass is reporting that FOM will be broadcasting F1 in HD by the Norht American rounds. Even if you don't have HD (i don't :( ) you'll still get a crisper image.
[url]http://www.pitpass.com/fes_php/pitpass_news_item.php?fes_art_id=27731[/url]
Pit Pass is reporting that FOM will be broadcasting F1 in HD by the Norht American rounds. Even if you don't have HD (i don't :( ) you'll still get a crisper image.
[url]http://www.pitpass.com/fes_php/pitpass_news_item.php?fes_art_id=27731[/url]
| TimStevens | 04-19-2006 11:57 AM |
Oooh... interesting. Will anyone in the US pick up HD coverage, though?
I highly doubt it. But, this should mean some high-def downloadable versions of the races :)
I highly doubt it. But, this should mean some high-def downloadable versions of the races :)
| Student Driver | 04-19-2006 01:33 PM |
[quote]"Nothing has changed," explained Haug. "Both Kimi and his management have reaffirmed that no decision has been taken yet. [b]And I can hardly imagine that such a decision would be taken behind our back."[/b][/quote]
LOL!
"Well, since we shocked the world by snatching Alonso, only one move like this can happen per competitive year. We burned that up, so it can't happen again until sometime in 2007."
If Shumachinacker moved to NASCAR, would that count for the "Shocking driver move of the year" in 2008? :)
[quote="Jean Todt"]We should have seen it coming, what with Michael's fascination with Harley Davidson motorbikes, pickup trucks, and overly aggressive left turns. So, we at Ferrari have introduced a $150,000 USD family sedan to be homologated to the US market for NASCAR eligibility. We have also sent in engineers disguised as "rednecks" to witness several of these races. We hope they blend in with the local crowd, but one can never know."[/quote]
A Ferrari engineer in preparation for a NASCAR race, yesterday:
[img]http://static.flickr.com/44/131440761_22736da117_o.jpg[/img]
LOL!
"Well, since we shocked the world by snatching Alonso, only one move like this can happen per competitive year. We burned that up, so it can't happen again until sometime in 2007."
If Shumachinacker moved to NASCAR, would that count for the "Shocking driver move of the year" in 2008? :)
[quote="Jean Todt"]We should have seen it coming, what with Michael's fascination with Harley Davidson motorbikes, pickup trucks, and overly aggressive left turns. So, we at Ferrari have introduced a $150,000 USD family sedan to be homologated to the US market for NASCAR eligibility. We have also sent in engineers disguised as "rednecks" to witness several of these races. We hope they blend in with the local crowd, but one can never know."[/quote]
A Ferrari engineer in preparation for a NASCAR race, yesterday:
[img]http://static.flickr.com/44/131440761_22736da117_o.jpg[/img]
| StuBeck | 04-19-2006 01:41 PM |
I think its more that people are telling Danica she's headed for F1. She doesn't seem to pimp herself out or anything its just because she's a female who does decently that the media is putting her up on this pedastal and everyone takes it out on her...and not the media. Remember she turned down an offer from Honda to test it too.
| TimStevens | 04-19-2006 01:42 PM |
Yep, I gotta give her a lot of credit for that.
| Ferg | 04-19-2006 01:49 PM |
There's been "Danica to F1" rumors floating around ever since she finished second to Anthony Davidson at the British Formula Ford Festival back in 2000. Without a doubt one of the hardest, most competative races in the world.
Ever since then there's been rumors that she's had a "letter" from Bernie in her back pocket giving her a nigh free pass into F1.
True or not? Who knows.
Ever since then there's been rumors that she's had a "letter" from Bernie in her back pocket giving her a nigh free pass into F1.
True or not? Who knows.
| Student Driver | 04-19-2006 01:55 PM |
Maybe she's a bit nervous that she can't make it in F1? I mean, it would seem to make more sense to get all the open wheel experience she can in an environment she's competitive in before making the leap. I was holding out for Katherine Legge after watching a couple of her races. Now [i]that[/i] is a fierce driver. That, and I think she's a touch insane. Either way, she should do well.
| artkevin | 04-19-2006 03:11 PM |
Legge is insane or Danica?
I love the way Katherine drives. Reminds me of JPM. She held up well at Long Beach. After she spun you could tell how much strength it takes to hussle a Champ Car around that circut by how hard she was breathing. She looked like she had just been in a fight.
I love the way Katherine drives. Reminds me of JPM. She held up well at Long Beach. After she spun you could tell how much strength it takes to hussle a Champ Car around that circut by how hard she was breathing. She looked like she had just been in a fight.
| Chromer | 04-19-2006 03:20 PM |
[QUOTE=TimStevens]Oooh... interesting. Will anyone in the US pick up HD coverage, though?
I highly doubt it. But, this should mean some high-def downloadable versions of the races :)[/QUOTE]
Does CBS still have the Canadian and USGPs? If so, they'll definitely carry it in HD if it's available to them.
Not much HD gets torrented, unfortunately. It makes for really big files. A two-hour broadcast at full resolution and not compressed TOO hard can be as much as 10 gigs.
I highly doubt it. But, this should mean some high-def downloadable versions of the races :)[/QUOTE]
Does CBS still have the Canadian and USGPs? If so, they'll definitely carry it in HD if it's available to them.
Not much HD gets torrented, unfortunately. It makes for really big files. A two-hour broadcast at full resolution and not compressed TOO hard can be as much as 10 gigs.
| TimStevens | 04-19-2006 03:30 PM |
[QUOTE=Chromer]Does CBS still have the Canadian and USGPs? If so, they'll definitely carry it in HD if it's available to them.
Not much HD gets torrented, unfortunately. It makes for really big files. A two-hour broadcast at full resolution and not compressed TOO hard can be as much as 10 gigs.[/QUOTE]
Ohh... I forgot about that.
They're covering this weekend's race, and I'm not sure what the other one is.
Not much HD gets torrented, unfortunately. It makes for really big files. A two-hour broadcast at full resolution and not compressed TOO hard can be as much as 10 gigs.[/QUOTE]
Ohh... I forgot about that.
They're covering this weekend's race, and I'm not sure what the other one is.
| JoD | 04-19-2006 04:13 PM |
[QUOTE=Student Driver]LOL!
"Well, since we shocked the world by snatching Alonso, only one move like this can happen per competitive year. We burned that up, so it can't happen again until sometime in 2007."
If Shumachinacker moved to NASCAR, would that count for the "Shocking driver move of the year" in 2008? :)
A Ferrari engineer in preparation for a NASCAR race, yesterday:
[img]http://static.flickr.com/44/131440761_22736da117_o.jpg[/img][/QUOTE]
:lol: Nice one, man!
"Well, since we shocked the world by snatching Alonso, only one move like this can happen per competitive year. We burned that up, so it can't happen again until sometime in 2007."
If Shumachinacker moved to NASCAR, would that count for the "Shocking driver move of the year" in 2008? :)
A Ferrari engineer in preparation for a NASCAR race, yesterday:
[img]http://static.flickr.com/44/131440761_22736da117_o.jpg[/img][/QUOTE]
:lol: Nice one, man!
| Student Driver | 04-19-2006 04:26 PM |
[QUOTE=JoD]:lol: Nice one, man![/QUOTE]
Thank you, thank you. The others just ignore me now. ;)
Thank you, thank you. The others just ignore me now. ;)
| Student Driver | 04-19-2006 04:27 PM |
[QUOTE=artkevin]Legge is insane or Danica?
I love the way Katherine drives. Reminds me of JPM. She held up well at Long Beach. After she spun you could tell how much strength it takes to hussle a Champ Car around that circut by how hard she was breathing. She looked like she had just been in a fight.[/QUOTE]
Legge is. Fantastic driver, and can really "strong-arm" the competition when pushed.
I love the way Katherine drives. Reminds me of JPM. She held up well at Long Beach. After she spun you could tell how much strength it takes to hussle a Champ Car around that circut by how hard she was breathing. She looked like she had just been in a fight.[/QUOTE]
Legge is. Fantastic driver, and can really "strong-arm" the competition when pushed.
| StuBeck | 04-19-2006 05:07 PM |
The thing with F1 is it really depends on the team yo uhave, and the support you get. There are many drivers who got into F1 but went into the wrong teams and never did anything and saw their careers tank.
CBS is not showing the USGP if I recall correctly, its a wierd 4 races they're showing. Torrents don't have to be too big either in HD, I download scrubs and the office in HD and they're 180 megs at around 20 minutes. That's 1.2 gigs for 2 hours.
CBS is not showing the USGP if I recall correctly, its a wierd 4 races they're showing. Torrents don't have to be too big either in HD, I download scrubs and the office in HD and they're 180 megs at around 20 minutes. That's 1.2 gigs for 2 hours.
| grippgoat | 04-19-2006 08:13 PM |
[QUOTE=TimStevens]What are you talking about? She has boobs [/QUOTE]
Barely. :alien:
-Mike
Barely. :alien:
-Mike
| Chromer | 04-19-2006 08:57 PM |
[QUOTE=StuBeck]Torrents don't have to be too big either in HD, I download scrubs and the office in HD and they're 180 megs at around 20 minutes. That's 1.2 gigs for 2 hours.[/QUOTE]
There is a release group out there that puts "HDTV" into the names of all their files. Don't be fooled though, mostly the resolution on those is 512x384, which is definitely nowhere near hi-def. Search for "show name" plus 720p or 1080i, and check the size of those...
[/hijack]
There is a release group out there that puts "HDTV" into the names of all their files. Don't be fooled though, mostly the resolution on those is 512x384, which is definitely nowhere near hi-def. Search for "show name" plus 720p or 1080i, and check the size of those...
[/hijack]
| Ferg | 04-20-2006 12:58 PM |
So, counting down the days until April 28th...
[QUOTE]FIA decides on 12 teams for 2008
By Jonathan Noble Thursday, April 20th 2006, 16:46 GMT
Motor racing's governing body have made their decision about the 12 teams who have been grated entries to the 2008 Formula One world championship, autosport.com has learned.
A public announcement revealing the elected outfits, however, will not be made until next week.
The FIA have spent the last week examining details of the 22 teams that lodged their applications last month in a bid to finalise their entry list.
Although an information-gathering meeting with all the prospective entrants, scheduled for shortly after the Australian Grand Prix, had to be cancelled, the FIA subsequently asked for details from each team about their plans, including infrastructure and budget projections, for 2008.
These dossiers had to be delivered to the FIA by the middle of last week and, following examination of that information, the decision has now been taken about who will be on the list.
Although the 12 successful teams have not yet been informed about their entries, sources have revealed that those outfits whose entries have been rejected have been written to.
Autosport.com understands that all of the current 11 teams have been granted an entry to the 2008 championship - which means that just one slot is available for a new team.
The favourite outfit to grab that position is David Richards' Prodrive organisation, who are hoping to base their F1 team at a new factory they are building at Honiley in Warwickshire.
Prodrive certainly appear to be ramping up their plans for 2008. According to a report in this week's Autosport, Prodrive are chasing a deal for customer Cosworth engines for 2008 in their bid to be as competitive as possible for their entry.
Richards said: "We're entirely serious about this. Most other people have applied by the seat of their pants, but we have had meetings with Bernie Ecclestone and other very senior figures.
"But there's no point in wasting a lot of energy and expense until we hear."
Richards was unavailable for comment on Thursday, however, to confirm whether his team had been granted the entry.
The other strong contender for the 12th slot is Carlin Motorsport, who had hoped to base their operation out of the old Penske factory at Poole in Dorset, which they are planning to buy.
Team boss Trevor Carlin was also unavailable for comment but told autosport.com last week that his entry did have the blessing of FIA president Max Mosley � who has been in close contact with the team about their F1 aspirations.
"I spoke to Max before we put the entry in," said Carlin. "I had the entry form on my desk, and I sent him a fax saying I was going to call him to outline our plans that afternoon, because I knew he was going to be in the office.
"I wanted to ask him if I was going to waste my time or his time or not, and he actually called us. He said, 'no, I would like you to do it. We feel that you are one of the right teams for this and please put your entry in.' That was it. We sent it off and now we are waiting."
The official entry list for 2008 will be published by the FIA on April 28, in a bid to allow those teams who are competing a chance to join discussions aimed at framing the rules package for that season.[/QUOTE]
My money has to be on Prodrive, so for 2008 we'll be seeing the following...
Renault
McLaren-Mercedes
Ferrari
Toyota
Honda
Red Bull Racing
Scuderia Toro Rosso
Super Aguri Racing
BMW-Sauber
Williams
Midland
Prodrive (Cosworth?)
The only real question marks are Toyota, who have hinted they may withdrawl before 2008, Midland, who seem to be beating potential buy-out offers away with a carbon fiber stick lately, and Super Aguri, who simply may not be around that long if they can't get a new car onto the grid.
I'm a little dissapointed they only want to allow one more team onto the grid...I had hoped that at least two completely new outfits would be joining..Carlin and Prodrive.
Prodrive Cosworth does have a rather nice ring to it however. :D
[QUOTE]FIA decides on 12 teams for 2008
By Jonathan Noble Thursday, April 20th 2006, 16:46 GMT
Motor racing's governing body have made their decision about the 12 teams who have been grated entries to the 2008 Formula One world championship, autosport.com has learned.
A public announcement revealing the elected outfits, however, will not be made until next week.
The FIA have spent the last week examining details of the 22 teams that lodged their applications last month in a bid to finalise their entry list.
Although an information-gathering meeting with all the prospective entrants, scheduled for shortly after the Australian Grand Prix, had to be cancelled, the FIA subsequently asked for details from each team about their plans, including infrastructure and budget projections, for 2008.
These dossiers had to be delivered to the FIA by the middle of last week and, following examination of that information, the decision has now been taken about who will be on the list.
Although the 12 successful teams have not yet been informed about their entries, sources have revealed that those outfits whose entries have been rejected have been written to.
Autosport.com understands that all of the current 11 teams have been granted an entry to the 2008 championship - which means that just one slot is available for a new team.
The favourite outfit to grab that position is David Richards' Prodrive organisation, who are hoping to base their F1 team at a new factory they are building at Honiley in Warwickshire.
Prodrive certainly appear to be ramping up their plans for 2008. According to a report in this week's Autosport, Prodrive are chasing a deal for customer Cosworth engines for 2008 in their bid to be as competitive as possible for their entry.
Richards said: "We're entirely serious about this. Most other people have applied by the seat of their pants, but we have had meetings with Bernie Ecclestone and other very senior figures.
"But there's no point in wasting a lot of energy and expense until we hear."
Richards was unavailable for comment on Thursday, however, to confirm whether his team had been granted the entry.
The other strong contender for the 12th slot is Carlin Motorsport, who had hoped to base their operation out of the old Penske factory at Poole in Dorset, which they are planning to buy.
Team boss Trevor Carlin was also unavailable for comment but told autosport.com last week that his entry did have the blessing of FIA president Max Mosley � who has been in close contact with the team about their F1 aspirations.
"I spoke to Max before we put the entry in," said Carlin. "I had the entry form on my desk, and I sent him a fax saying I was going to call him to outline our plans that afternoon, because I knew he was going to be in the office.
"I wanted to ask him if I was going to waste my time or his time or not, and he actually called us. He said, 'no, I would like you to do it. We feel that you are one of the right teams for this and please put your entry in.' That was it. We sent it off and now we are waiting."
The official entry list for 2008 will be published by the FIA on April 28, in a bid to allow those teams who are competing a chance to join discussions aimed at framing the rules package for that season.[/QUOTE]
My money has to be on Prodrive, so for 2008 we'll be seeing the following...
Renault
McLaren-Mercedes
Ferrari
Toyota
Honda
Red Bull Racing
Scuderia Toro Rosso
Super Aguri Racing
BMW-Sauber
Williams
Midland
Prodrive (Cosworth?)
The only real question marks are Toyota, who have hinted they may withdrawl before 2008, Midland, who seem to be beating potential buy-out offers away with a carbon fiber stick lately, and Super Aguri, who simply may not be around that long if they can't get a new car onto the grid.
I'm a little dissapointed they only want to allow one more team onto the grid...I had hoped that at least two completely new outfits would be joining..Carlin and Prodrive.
Prodrive Cosworth does have a rather nice ring to it however. :D
| NYEJ25 | 04-20-2006 03:11 PM |
I don't think Renault will be around after 2007. Just a hunch.
| Ferg | 04-20-2006 03:13 PM |
According to Flavio they will, and he's not the type to bull**** for bull****'s sake.
[QUOTE]Briatore: "The future commitment of Renault is we want to stay in F1. But we want F1 to be more efficient, less costly, as simple as that. It's difficult, if you have somebody in the group who says this is what the shareholders want. And other people's shareholders might say you need to win, whatever the money. A different agenda, no? Sometimes we are not in the same area.
"Renault want to stay in F1, like Ferrari, like Cosworth, on one condition - a more efficient F1. We want to win, but we need to cut dramatically the costs. On the other side, you have people saying we want to win, whatever the cost. In the mean time, you see that the people more sensible are winning, and the people not sensible are losing!"[/QUOTE]
Toyota is the big question mark. Teams run by large commities always run into trouble when the results don't come.
[QUOTE]Briatore: "The future commitment of Renault is we want to stay in F1. But we want F1 to be more efficient, less costly, as simple as that. It's difficult, if you have somebody in the group who says this is what the shareholders want. And other people's shareholders might say you need to win, whatever the money. A different agenda, no? Sometimes we are not in the same area.
"Renault want to stay in F1, like Ferrari, like Cosworth, on one condition - a more efficient F1. We want to win, but we need to cut dramatically the costs. On the other side, you have people saying we want to win, whatever the cost. In the mean time, you see that the people more sensible are winning, and the people not sensible are losing!"[/QUOTE]
Toyota is the big question mark. Teams run by large commities always run into trouble when the results don't come.
| artkevin | 04-20-2006 03:28 PM |
Flavio sounds so smart when you read his quotes, because he is. The problem is when you see him. He really looks like he couldn't give two ****s while he's bangin' models and lving the life on a yatch.
Max wrote an article in this month's F1 Racing Mag saying that Flavio is an extremely asstute and thoughtful man that makes everything he touches turn to gold. I guess I agree w/ Max for once.
Max wrote an article in this month's F1 Racing Mag saying that Flavio is an extremely asstute and thoughtful man that makes everything he touches turn to gold. I guess I agree w/ Max for once.
| meebs | 04-20-2006 03:34 PM |
[QUOTE=Ferg]
Prodrive Cosworth does have a rather nice ring to it however. :D[/QUOTE]
How about they just lop off 4 cylinders from this bad boy and stick with Subaru? :D
[img]http://www.iwoc.co.uk/images/subaru/subaruflat12.jpg[/img]
Prodrive Cosworth does have a rather nice ring to it however. :D[/QUOTE]
How about they just lop off 4 cylinders from this bad boy and stick with Subaru? :D
[img]http://www.iwoc.co.uk/images/subaru/subaruflat12.jpg[/img]
| Ferg | 04-20-2006 03:55 PM |
Is Motori-Moderni still in business?
Coloni-Subaru...I don't think they ever made it past prequalifying :(
Coloni-Subaru...I don't think they ever made it past prequalifying :(
| meebs | 04-20-2006 04:52 PM |
[QUOTE=Ferg]Is Motori-Moderni still in business?
Coloni-Subaru...I don't think they ever made it past prequalifying :([/QUOTE]
I can't find anything stating that they are still around...
[quote=http://www.grandprix.com]
ENGINES: MOTORI MODERNI SPA
Name: Motori Moderni SpA
In the middle of the summer of 1984 the Euroracing Alfa Romeo Formula 1 team announced that it was replacing its chief engineer in F1, Carlo Chiti. He was staying on with the company but his job as engine designer was handed over to Gianni Tonti of Lancia. Chiti was not happy and Giancarlo Minardi saw an opportunity. He approached Chiti and asked him if he would like to design a Formula 1 turbocharged engine for the Minardi team to use. Chiti was interested and Minardi then found the backing for the idea from his partner Piero Mancini, a big Fiat dealer in Florence.
Motori Moderni SpA was established in Novara in the autumn and Chiti aimed to have an engine ready for the following season. Minardi did the first two races of the year with Cosworth engines and debuted the Motori Moderni V6 at Imola with Pierluigi Martini driving. Martini qualified 19th. He took part in most of the races and finished eighth in Australia. For the following year the M185 chassis was updated and the cars were driven by Alessandro Nannini and Andrea de Cesaris but without any major results.
Mancini's plans to enter his own Arno team in F1 with an AGS-designed chassis flopped but AGS did eventually appear with a Motori-Moderni engine at the end of 1986 with Ivan Capelli driving a revamped Renault F1 chassis, which had been renamed the JH21C. The car failed to finish at both F1 races it took part in that year.
The following year AGS switched to Cosworth engines and Minardi struggled with the engine with Nannini being joined by Spaniard Adrian Campos. In November 1987 Motori Moderni announced that it was pulling out of F1.
In the course of 1988 Chiti designed a new flat 12 engine for the new 3.5-liter normally-aspirated F1 regulations. This was tested by Minardi but was then sold to Subaru. The Japanese car company bought the Coloni Formula 1 team and Bertrand Gachot was hired to drive. The program was a complete disaster. In July 1989 Subaru withdrew and sold the team back to Enzo Coloni.[/quote]
Coloni-Subaru...I don't think they ever made it past prequalifying :([/QUOTE]
I can't find anything stating that they are still around...
[quote=http://www.grandprix.com]
ENGINES: MOTORI MODERNI SPA
Name: Motori Moderni SpA
In the middle of the summer of 1984 the Euroracing Alfa Romeo Formula 1 team announced that it was replacing its chief engineer in F1, Carlo Chiti. He was staying on with the company but his job as engine designer was handed over to Gianni Tonti of Lancia. Chiti was not happy and Giancarlo Minardi saw an opportunity. He approached Chiti and asked him if he would like to design a Formula 1 turbocharged engine for the Minardi team to use. Chiti was interested and Minardi then found the backing for the idea from his partner Piero Mancini, a big Fiat dealer in Florence.
Motori Moderni SpA was established in Novara in the autumn and Chiti aimed to have an engine ready for the following season. Minardi did the first two races of the year with Cosworth engines and debuted the Motori Moderni V6 at Imola with Pierluigi Martini driving. Martini qualified 19th. He took part in most of the races and finished eighth in Australia. For the following year the M185 chassis was updated and the cars were driven by Alessandro Nannini and Andrea de Cesaris but without any major results.
Mancini's plans to enter his own Arno team in F1 with an AGS-designed chassis flopped but AGS did eventually appear with a Motori-Moderni engine at the end of 1986 with Ivan Capelli driving a revamped Renault F1 chassis, which had been renamed the JH21C. The car failed to finish at both F1 races it took part in that year.
The following year AGS switched to Cosworth engines and Minardi struggled with the engine with Nannini being joined by Spaniard Adrian Campos. In November 1987 Motori Moderni announced that it was pulling out of F1.
In the course of 1988 Chiti designed a new flat 12 engine for the new 3.5-liter normally-aspirated F1 regulations. This was tested by Minardi but was then sold to Subaru. The Japanese car company bought the Coloni Formula 1 team and Bertrand Gachot was hired to drive. The program was a complete disaster. In July 1989 Subaru withdrew and sold the team back to Enzo Coloni.[/quote]
| meebs | 04-20-2006 04:56 PM |
Even more interesting!
[quote]
The MM/Subaru engine later saw use in offshore powerboat racing and is currently used in the Swedish Koeniggsegg supercar. Curiously, during the same period Mercedes also designed a flat 180-degree 12-cylinder engine, the M291, for use in their C291 Group C car. This engine gave Michael Schumacher and Karl Wendlinger victory at Autopolis in the Sportscar World Championship season finale. Earlier this engine was plagued by oil-scavenging problems but they were solved and the engine was ultimately reliable enough to win but still hefty at 170kg. [/quote]
[quote]
The MM/Subaru engine later saw use in offshore powerboat racing and is currently used in the Swedish Koeniggsegg supercar. Curiously, during the same period Mercedes also designed a flat 180-degree 12-cylinder engine, the M291, for use in their C291 Group C car. This engine gave Michael Schumacher and Karl Wendlinger victory at Autopolis in the Sportscar World Championship season finale. Earlier this engine was plagued by oil-scavenging problems but they were solved and the engine was ultimately reliable enough to win but still hefty at 170kg. [/quote]
| Ferg | 04-20-2006 05:32 PM |
Wow, I had no idea the engine was still being used for something.
So the Koeniggsegg uses Suby power eh?
Nice find!
:D
So the Koeniggsegg uses Suby power eh?
Nice find!
:D
| artkevin | 04-20-2006 05:52 PM |
Fastest production car on the planet with a Subie motor. Daddy likes!
| Student Driver | 04-20-2006 06:46 PM |
Strange, I thought the Kegger used an engine based off of a Ford racing block.
| Ferg | 04-21-2006 10:58 AM |
Didn't they use a Ford block initially but switch to what they claim is an inhouse engine? I admit I haven't read much about the Koeniggsegg since it's just a little out of my price range.
Reminds me of the V6 engine that TWR developed that managed to find it's way from the Metro6R4 rally car into the Jaguar XJ220.
Prodrive keeping quiet while Stoddy get's a thanks but no thanks.
[QUOTE]Prodrive coy on 2008 entry reports
By Alan Baldwin Friday, April 21st 2006, 09:15 GMT
Prodrive boss David Richards refused to confirm his team have been granted the 12th spot on the Formula One grid for the 2008 championship.
As revealed by autosport.com, Formula One's governing body has chosen a 12th team to enter the sport in 2008 with the Prodrive company run by former BAR and Benetton boss Richards tipped as likely winners.
The governing International Automobile Federation (FIA) had no comment but confirmed an announcement would be made next Friday.
Richards, contacted by Reuters on Friday, would not confirm or deny increasing speculation that he had secured the slot.
"We have heard rumours of letters flying around but we have been told that the formal announcement will come next Friday and we await that with bated breath," he said.
Former Minardi boss Paul Stoddart confirmed, however, that he had received a rejection letter from the International Automobile Federation (FIA).
"We got a 'not at this time but stay in touch' sort of letter," the Australian entrepreneur told Reuters by telephone from Britain.
A spokesman for the governing body, who received 22 applications from teams seeking to fill the 12 slots in the 2008 championship, said it would be inappropriate to comment on which teams had been successful.
However, paddock sources said the decision had been made, with the existing eleven teams expected to be joined by Banbury-based Prodrive.
Other hopefuls seeking an entry had included Carlin Motorsport, run by former Jordan sporting director Trevor Carlin, who have won a series of British Formula Three titles.
Stoddart, who had hoped to resurrect the Minardi name after selling his team to Red Bull last year, said he had always considered Prodrive as the favourite from the moment that Richards confirmed the application.
"When I applied there were only six confirmed entries but it was pretty much a foregone conclusion once the entries were submitted by the manufacturers," he said.
The Grand Prix Manufacturers' Association (GPMA), the five carmakers who have been threatening their own rival series from 2008, have entered despite failing to nail down a new commercial agreement after 2007.
Stoddart said he was disappointed, but not surprised, to have been rejected but warned that he was not giving up hope entirely.
"It's not over until the fat lady sings and they (the manufacturers, governing body and Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone) have got to get through a very interesting round of negotiations yet," he said.
The FIA had set March 31 as the deadline for applications for 2008, when the rules are expected to change significantly to cut costs and allow smaller privately-run teams such as Prodrive to compete with the major manufacturers.[/QUOTE]
Reminds me of the V6 engine that TWR developed that managed to find it's way from the Metro6R4 rally car into the Jaguar XJ220.
Prodrive keeping quiet while Stoddy get's a thanks but no thanks.
[QUOTE]Prodrive coy on 2008 entry reports
By Alan Baldwin Friday, April 21st 2006, 09:15 GMT
Prodrive boss David Richards refused to confirm his team have been granted the 12th spot on the Formula One grid for the 2008 championship.
As revealed by autosport.com, Formula One's governing body has chosen a 12th team to enter the sport in 2008 with the Prodrive company run by former BAR and Benetton boss Richards tipped as likely winners.
The governing International Automobile Federation (FIA) had no comment but confirmed an announcement would be made next Friday.
Richards, contacted by Reuters on Friday, would not confirm or deny increasing speculation that he had secured the slot.
"We have heard rumours of letters flying around but we have been told that the formal announcement will come next Friday and we await that with bated breath," he said.
Former Minardi boss Paul Stoddart confirmed, however, that he had received a rejection letter from the International Automobile Federation (FIA).
"We got a 'not at this time but stay in touch' sort of letter," the Australian entrepreneur told Reuters by telephone from Britain.
A spokesman for the governing body, who received 22 applications from teams seeking to fill the 12 slots in the 2008 championship, said it would be inappropriate to comment on which teams had been successful.
However, paddock sources said the decision had been made, with the existing eleven teams expected to be joined by Banbury-based Prodrive.
Other hopefuls seeking an entry had included Carlin Motorsport, run by former Jordan sporting director Trevor Carlin, who have won a series of British Formula Three titles.
Stoddart, who had hoped to resurrect the Minardi name after selling his team to Red Bull last year, said he had always considered Prodrive as the favourite from the moment that Richards confirmed the application.
"When I applied there were only six confirmed entries but it was pretty much a foregone conclusion once the entries were submitted by the manufacturers," he said.
The Grand Prix Manufacturers' Association (GPMA), the five carmakers who have been threatening their own rival series from 2008, have entered despite failing to nail down a new commercial agreement after 2007.
Stoddart said he was disappointed, but not surprised, to have been rejected but warned that he was not giving up hope entirely.
"It's not over until the fat lady sings and they (the manufacturers, governing body and Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone) have got to get through a very interesting round of negotiations yet," he said.
The FIA had set March 31 as the deadline for applications for 2008, when the rules are expected to change significantly to cut costs and allow smaller privately-run teams such as Prodrive to compete with the major manufacturers.[/QUOTE]
| meebs | 04-21-2006 11:45 AM |
I like the guy... but I just don't understand why you would sell... and then be like, "no wait, I want back in..." Aren't the employees of Rosso formerly of Minardi. Why would he want to bring the name back with a whole new crew?
| Ferg | 04-21-2006 11:58 AM |
I don't know, but I said awhile ago that I didn't like the idea of him carrying on the Minardi name, he may have owned it but it was never really his...at least that's how I feel.
The Minardi name [i]is[/i] living on in the Euro F3000 series this year as Team Minardi, running Lola-Zyteks with Tuka Rocha and Juan C�ceres. After two races they sit 4th and 5th in the standings.
Va il Minardi!
:D
The Minardi name [i]is[/i] living on in the Euro F3000 series this year as Team Minardi, running Lola-Zyteks with Tuka Rocha and Juan C�ceres. After two races they sit 4th and 5th in the standings.
Va il Minardi!
:D
| Ferg | 04-21-2006 01:09 PM |
GPMA ready to concede?
[QUOTE]GPMA on the verge of signing up for F1
By Jonathan Noble Friday, April 21st 2006, 16:56 GMT
Formula One's manufacturers are on the verge of signing the Concorde Agreement to commit themselves to Grand Prix racing until the end of 2012 after the latest round of talks at Imola aimed at securing the sport's future, autosport.com can reveal.
Although the five members of the Grand Prix Manufacturers' Association (GPMA) have so far been unable to reach commercial terms with supremo Bernie Ecclestone, sources have revealed that meetings have taken place at this weekend's San Marino Grand Prix that could result in an imminent agreement.
Renault boss Flavio Briatore has been acting on behalf of the manufacturers in talks with Ecclestone and the sport's commercial owners CVC Capital Partners, which has been represented by Donald MacKenzie.
This has resulted in the latest offer being put on the table for the manufacturers to consider. This was due to be considered in a GPMA meeting that was taking place at Imola on Friday evening.
The five manufacturers have agreed to act in unison with regards to the sport's future, which means that they will either all sign the deal that has been offered to them or they will all reject it.
However, Renault boss Flavio Briatore told autosport.com that he was happy with what was now being offered to the teams and was ready to sign the deal.
"We are going to sign with Bernie, yes," he said. "But I haven't signed yet...I don't have a pen. We want to sign it as soon as possible."
Briatore would be unable to sign the deal if the other members of the GPMA - BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Honda and Toyota - decided that the terms were not acceptable.
Ecclestone himself said he was not getting overtly optimistic about a deal that would bring a final end to the threat of a breakaway championship.
When asked by autosport.com about whether he was confident a deal would happen imminently, he said: "I am confident when something happens. When people say they have paid a bill, I only believe it when the money is in the bank. Up until then it is conversation, so we will see.
"They are having a meeting again, but they have meetings all the time. I have said to them, 'look at all the money you have spent on mineral water in these meetings, that is more than you want anyway.'"
Ecclestone's original offer to the teams was for a share of 60 percent of the sport's commercial revenue.
"What we've offered they can take it or leave it. That is not being rude. What has been offered is all that is being offered. I think they are happy to be honest."
Speaking about whether he believed a deal could be done this week, he said: "I've no idea. I don't know. With these people it should have been two years ago."
[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]GPMA on the verge of signing up for F1
By Jonathan Noble Friday, April 21st 2006, 16:56 GMT
Formula One's manufacturers are on the verge of signing the Concorde Agreement to commit themselves to Grand Prix racing until the end of 2012 after the latest round of talks at Imola aimed at securing the sport's future, autosport.com can reveal.
Although the five members of the Grand Prix Manufacturers' Association (GPMA) have so far been unable to reach commercial terms with supremo Bernie Ecclestone, sources have revealed that meetings have taken place at this weekend's San Marino Grand Prix that could result in an imminent agreement.
Renault boss Flavio Briatore has been acting on behalf of the manufacturers in talks with Ecclestone and the sport's commercial owners CVC Capital Partners, which has been represented by Donald MacKenzie.
This has resulted in the latest offer being put on the table for the manufacturers to consider. This was due to be considered in a GPMA meeting that was taking place at Imola on Friday evening.
The five manufacturers have agreed to act in unison with regards to the sport's future, which means that they will either all sign the deal that has been offered to them or they will all reject it.
However, Renault boss Flavio Briatore told autosport.com that he was happy with what was now being offered to the teams and was ready to sign the deal.
"We are going to sign with Bernie, yes," he said. "But I haven't signed yet...I don't have a pen. We want to sign it as soon as possible."
Briatore would be unable to sign the deal if the other members of the GPMA - BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Honda and Toyota - decided that the terms were not acceptable.
Ecclestone himself said he was not getting overtly optimistic about a deal that would bring a final end to the threat of a breakaway championship.
When asked by autosport.com about whether he was confident a deal would happen imminently, he said: "I am confident when something happens. When people say they have paid a bill, I only believe it when the money is in the bank. Up until then it is conversation, so we will see.
"They are having a meeting again, but they have meetings all the time. I have said to them, 'look at all the money you have spent on mineral water in these meetings, that is more than you want anyway.'"
Ecclestone's original offer to the teams was for a share of 60 percent of the sport's commercial revenue.
"What we've offered they can take it or leave it. That is not being rude. What has been offered is all that is being offered. I think they are happy to be honest."
Speaking about whether he believed a deal could be done this week, he said: "I've no idea. I don't know. With these people it should have been two years ago."
[/QUOTE]
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