| artkevin | 09-22-2006 05:30 PM |
I like that he has been running the classic McLaren white halo for as far back as I can find pictures.
| StuBeck | 09-22-2006 06:49 PM |
Thats one of my favorite parts of the designs. I like simple designs like Coulthard's and Senna's more than those done by the motorcycle guys where its just out of control.
| meebs | 09-25-2006 08:17 PM |
Shell
�
�
In light of the "comercial" controversy - I thought I'd hit Shell's site and found this little bit.
[url]http://www.shell.com/home/Framework?siteId=us-en&FC2=/us-en/html/iwgen/leftnavs/zzz_lhn3_6_3.html&FC3=/us-en/tailored/shell_for_motorists/vpower/multimedia/vpower_multimedia.html[/url]
:D
[url]http://www.shell.com/home/Framework?siteId=us-en&FC2=/us-en/html/iwgen/leftnavs/zzz_lhn3_6_3.html&FC3=/us-en/tailored/shell_for_motorists/vpower/multimedia/vpower_multimedia.html[/url]
:D
| MattDell | 09-26-2006 01:27 AM |
Shell commercial controversy?
| Ferg | 09-26-2006 09:58 AM |
Here's the story on the Shell add.
[QUOTE]Schumacher-Shell ad misinterpreted
Friday, September 22nd 2006, 14:22 GMT
Filming of a Shell television advertisement starring Michael Schumacher has raised some eyebrows in the Italian press - because the filming featured Schumacher, in a Ferrari outfit, servicing Renault and Nissan cars.
Schumacher was taking part in an advertisement for the oil company, filmed at a petrol station in Switzerland. The seven times world champion, who is retiring from Formula One racing next month, was working with other Ferrari-clad mechanics in what looked like a typical F1 pitstop - but at a regular Shell gas station.
However, a photographer passing by caught Schumacher and the mechanics servicing a Renault Megane and a Nissan car, leading Gazzetta dello Sport to speculate that there may be a commercial tie-in between the Renault company (which also owns Nissan), Shell and Schumacher after the German is no longer contractually tied to rival carmaker Fiat.
However, Renault has no commercial ties with Shell, as the company's official oil partner is Shell's rival Elf, and a spokesman for the company emphasized there was no collaboration from the French car maker in these ads.
Shell too dismissed all speculations of a possible Schumacher-Renault commercial tie-in, saying photos were wrongly interpreted by the newspapers.
"It's just a coincidence that these cars were there (at the ad's filming location); there is no connection to Renault for this ad," Shell's global sponsorship manager Alberto Friedrich told autosport.com.
"It's a pity that this story came out like this - some bystander took photos, it wasn't open to the media - because it's misleading.
"There is nothing behind it, and these are just old cars that were there - they won't be in the final ad anyway."[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]Schumacher-Shell ad misinterpreted
Friday, September 22nd 2006, 14:22 GMT
Filming of a Shell television advertisement starring Michael Schumacher has raised some eyebrows in the Italian press - because the filming featured Schumacher, in a Ferrari outfit, servicing Renault and Nissan cars.
Schumacher was taking part in an advertisement for the oil company, filmed at a petrol station in Switzerland. The seven times world champion, who is retiring from Formula One racing next month, was working with other Ferrari-clad mechanics in what looked like a typical F1 pitstop - but at a regular Shell gas station.
However, a photographer passing by caught Schumacher and the mechanics servicing a Renault Megane and a Nissan car, leading Gazzetta dello Sport to speculate that there may be a commercial tie-in between the Renault company (which also owns Nissan), Shell and Schumacher after the German is no longer contractually tied to rival carmaker Fiat.
However, Renault has no commercial ties with Shell, as the company's official oil partner is Shell's rival Elf, and a spokesman for the company emphasized there was no collaboration from the French car maker in these ads.
Shell too dismissed all speculations of a possible Schumacher-Renault commercial tie-in, saying photos were wrongly interpreted by the newspapers.
"It's just a coincidence that these cars were there (at the ad's filming location); there is no connection to Renault for this ad," Shell's global sponsorship manager Alberto Friedrich told autosport.com.
"It's a pity that this story came out like this - some bystander took photos, it wasn't open to the media - because it's misleading.
"There is nothing behind it, and these are just old cars that were there - they won't be in the final ad anyway."[/QUOTE]
| artkevin | 09-26-2006 10:39 AM |
Seems like they would have used a Fiat to cover their own butts.
| StuBeck | 09-26-2006 02:35 PM |
Yea, that whole situation was just sort of retarded. If a lowly nascar driver can have a caluse in his contract where he can't be seen drinking any beer other than budweiser, I think they could manage to keep a Renault out of the ad for him.
It hurts my brain tha teven after quitting driving Schumacher is still going to make like 15 mil a year from personal sponsorships.
It hurts my brain tha teven after quitting driving Schumacher is still going to make like 15 mil a year from personal sponsorships.
| KAX | 09-30-2006 02:18 AM |
[QUOTE]Spyker sign engine deal with Ferrari
By Jonathan Noble Saturday, September 30th 2006, 05:39 GMT
Spyker-MF1 will use Ferrari engines next year, after a deal has been finalised on Saturday morning in China.
The agreement between the Maranello squad and the Silverstone-based outfit will run for one year only, making Spyker the third team next season to use Ferrari engines, alongside one of the Red Bull teams and Ferrari themselves.
Spyker-MF1 team chief Colin Kolles told autosport.com: "We have to move forward. Obviously, for the whole Spyker group it is a very important move.
"For the moment, the deal is for 2007, and then after that we will see. The deal is just for engines, but it will be a very close collaboration."
The agreement also means that Cosworth are now effectively out of Formula One for the first time in several decades.[/QUOTE]
which is kinda funny, because I just heard Varsha say they were running Renaults? I wonder if he meant Red Bull Racing. . .
i just noticed this, is there no number 13 driver?
By Jonathan Noble Saturday, September 30th 2006, 05:39 GMT
Spyker-MF1 will use Ferrari engines next year, after a deal has been finalised on Saturday morning in China.
The agreement between the Maranello squad and the Silverstone-based outfit will run for one year only, making Spyker the third team next season to use Ferrari engines, alongside one of the Red Bull teams and Ferrari themselves.
Spyker-MF1 team chief Colin Kolles told autosport.com: "We have to move forward. Obviously, for the whole Spyker group it is a very important move.
"For the moment, the deal is for 2007, and then after that we will see. The deal is just for engines, but it will be a very close collaboration."
The agreement also means that Cosworth are now effectively out of Formula One for the first time in several decades.[/QUOTE]
which is kinda funny, because I just heard Varsha say they were running Renaults? I wonder if he meant Red Bull Racing. . .
i just noticed this, is there no number 13 driver?
| StuBeck | 09-30-2006 04:10 AM |
No #13, RBR/Jaguar has had the "not #13 but #14 technically making it #13" since 03.
I wonder how long until Spyker gets sick of running Ferrari engines, at least they were smart and only signed a one year deal.
I wonder how long until Spyker gets sick of running Ferrari engines, at least they were smart and only signed a one year deal.
| KAX | 10-01-2006 02:03 AM |
yeh, Varsha got it right today.
so Midland goes from a McLaren look-alike to Spyker with a Ferrari looking color. I think they need to use green or something, cuz they just confuse the hell out of everyone when they spin.
so Midland goes from a McLaren look-alike to Spyker with a Ferrari looking color. I think they need to use green or something, cuz they just confuse the hell out of everyone when they spin.
| Ferg | 10-01-2006 11:37 AM |
News on the engine freeze front.
[QUOTE]Engine makers and FIA agree on rules
By Jonathan Noble Sunday, October 1st 2006, 04:20 GMT
Formula One's engine manufacturers will be allowed to make modifications to their power units prior to the start of next season in a deal agreed with the FIA, autosport.com has learned.
The FIA has been pushing for a full engine freeze in the sport from the start of 2007, and it was planned for teams to use engines that are lodged with the governing body after either the forthcoming Japanese or Brazilian Grands Prix.
Many manufacturers had objected to that state of affairs, however, and believed there should be some development allowed - especially because of the planned imposition of a 19,000rpm limit.
The freeze will now go ahead, though, after it was agreed the manufacturers could make some modifications to their power units until the eve of the 2007 campaign.
After lodging their engines with the FIA at either of the next two races, manufacturers will have up until December 15 to submit a 'retuning list' - featuring parts that they would like to modify on the engine.
Once this list has been approved, and only specific areas of the engine can be worked on, the manufacturers will then have until March 1st 2007 to submit the modified engine with the FIA for homologation.
That power unit will then become the engine that is raced through the 2007 and 2008 seasons, and the only development that can be carried out during these seasons will be for pure reliability reasons.
The engine rules beyond 2009 will be considered closer to that date because the FIA is planning to introduce energy renewal and recovery systems, which could require different types of engine. The aim at the moment is to keep the engine block identical, however.
After months of arguments between the manufacturers and the FIA, the rules have been welcomed by manufacturers.
BMW motorsport director Mario Theissen told autosport.com: "In my view everything is settled now.
"I think it is OK, because the homologation is restricted to the sealed parts of the engine, so we can do some quite significant work on the intake and exhaust side, plus ancillaries."
Mercedes-Benz motorsport boss Norbert Haug added: "It is positive that we could steer things in this direction."[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]Engine makers and FIA agree on rules
By Jonathan Noble Sunday, October 1st 2006, 04:20 GMT
Formula One's engine manufacturers will be allowed to make modifications to their power units prior to the start of next season in a deal agreed with the FIA, autosport.com has learned.
The FIA has been pushing for a full engine freeze in the sport from the start of 2007, and it was planned for teams to use engines that are lodged with the governing body after either the forthcoming Japanese or Brazilian Grands Prix.
Many manufacturers had objected to that state of affairs, however, and believed there should be some development allowed - especially because of the planned imposition of a 19,000rpm limit.
The freeze will now go ahead, though, after it was agreed the manufacturers could make some modifications to their power units until the eve of the 2007 campaign.
After lodging their engines with the FIA at either of the next two races, manufacturers will have up until December 15 to submit a 'retuning list' - featuring parts that they would like to modify on the engine.
Once this list has been approved, and only specific areas of the engine can be worked on, the manufacturers will then have until March 1st 2007 to submit the modified engine with the FIA for homologation.
That power unit will then become the engine that is raced through the 2007 and 2008 seasons, and the only development that can be carried out during these seasons will be for pure reliability reasons.
The engine rules beyond 2009 will be considered closer to that date because the FIA is planning to introduce energy renewal and recovery systems, which could require different types of engine. The aim at the moment is to keep the engine block identical, however.
After months of arguments between the manufacturers and the FIA, the rules have been welcomed by manufacturers.
BMW motorsport director Mario Theissen told autosport.com: "In my view everything is settled now.
"I think it is OK, because the homologation is restricted to the sealed parts of the engine, so we can do some quite significant work on the intake and exhaust side, plus ancillaries."
Mercedes-Benz motorsport boss Norbert Haug added: "It is positive that we could steer things in this direction."[/QUOTE]
| Ferg | 10-02-2006 02:50 PM |
Davidson looking probable for Super Aguri..
[QUOTE]Davidson close to Super Aguri deal
Monday, October 2nd 2006, 15:28 GMT
Briton Anthony Davidson is on the verge of signing a deal to drive for the Super Aguri team in 2007.
Although the deal has not yet been signed, autosport.com understands the Honda driver is set to leave the Honda Racing squad to join the new Japanese outfit.
Davidson has been with Honda, formerly BAR, since the 2001 season, working as a test and third driver. He would partner Japanese driver Takuma Sato.
A source close to Davidson said: "It would be a great partnership. Taku and Davidson were teammates in F3 in 2001 and both would relish a reunion next year. It would be great for both of them."
Super Aguri, who use Honda engines, made their Formula One debut this year.[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]2007 Starting Grid...
Renault
Kovalainen
Fisichella
Ferrari
Raikonnen
Massa
McLaren-Mercedes
Alonso
Hamilton (I think it's going to happen...)
Honda
Button
Barrichello
BMW-Sauber
Heidfeld
Kubica
Red Bull-Renault
Webber
Coulthard
Toyota
Trulli
Schumacher (we can finally drop the "R"!)
Williams-Toyota
Rosberg
Wurz
Toro Rosso-Ferrari
Speed
Liuzzi
Spyker-Ferrari
Albers
um....
Super Aguri-Honda
Sato
Davidson
[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]Davidson close to Super Aguri deal
Monday, October 2nd 2006, 15:28 GMT
Briton Anthony Davidson is on the verge of signing a deal to drive for the Super Aguri team in 2007.
Although the deal has not yet been signed, autosport.com understands the Honda driver is set to leave the Honda Racing squad to join the new Japanese outfit.
Davidson has been with Honda, formerly BAR, since the 2001 season, working as a test and third driver. He would partner Japanese driver Takuma Sato.
A source close to Davidson said: "It would be a great partnership. Taku and Davidson were teammates in F3 in 2001 and both would relish a reunion next year. It would be great for both of them."
Super Aguri, who use Honda engines, made their Formula One debut this year.[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]2007 Starting Grid...
Renault
Kovalainen
Fisichella
Ferrari
Raikonnen
Massa
McLaren-Mercedes
Alonso
Hamilton (I think it's going to happen...)
Honda
Button
Barrichello
BMW-Sauber
Heidfeld
Kubica
Red Bull-Renault
Webber
Coulthard
Toyota
Trulli
Schumacher (we can finally drop the "R"!)
Williams-Toyota
Rosberg
Wurz
Toro Rosso-Ferrari
Speed
Liuzzi
Spyker-Ferrari
Albers
um....
Super Aguri-Honda
Sato
Davidson
[/QUOTE]
| KAX | 10-02-2006 07:59 PM |
[QUOTE]McLaren set for 2007 image overhaul
By Jonathan Noble Monday, October 2nd 2006, 12:04 GMT
McLaren are set to have a major image overhaul next season when they begin their relationship with new title sponsor Vodafone.
Team boss Ron Dennis has revealed that his company will have an all-new look and philosophy from next year - although he has not expanded on exactly what the team are planning.
"We are going to move our team in a slightly different direction," said Dennis, who has sometimes faced criticisms for his team appearing too corporately 'cold' from the outside. "And that direction, as we share it with you, will hopefully practically demonstrate that we want to be part of people's dreams.
[B]"That is not just dreaming about the past, the present or the future � but more about the aspirational aspects of people to be something. Young people wanting to become Grand Prix drivers or astronauts, or doctors. And we will try to use the competitiveness and objectives of our team to create that inspiration."[/B]
Dennis has made it clear, however, that the change of image for the team will not have any impact on their bid to return to race-winning form.
"It is not in any shape or form going to detract from our clear objective of winning races. That will always be there.
"But we want to try and adopt a different stance on how we address the spirit and character of the team. It is after a lot of deep thought and conversation that we have come to that conclusion."
The image overhaul will also coincide with the arrival of Fernando Alonso, who many within the sport hope remains as accessible and open about his feelings as he has been allowed to be at Renault.[/QUOTE]
looks like they'll be looking more towards future drivers. Kinda gives away they're line-up for next season. . .
By Jonathan Noble Monday, October 2nd 2006, 12:04 GMT
McLaren are set to have a major image overhaul next season when they begin their relationship with new title sponsor Vodafone.
Team boss Ron Dennis has revealed that his company will have an all-new look and philosophy from next year - although he has not expanded on exactly what the team are planning.
"We are going to move our team in a slightly different direction," said Dennis, who has sometimes faced criticisms for his team appearing too corporately 'cold' from the outside. "And that direction, as we share it with you, will hopefully practically demonstrate that we want to be part of people's dreams.
[B]"That is not just dreaming about the past, the present or the future � but more about the aspirational aspects of people to be something. Young people wanting to become Grand Prix drivers or astronauts, or doctors. And we will try to use the competitiveness and objectives of our team to create that inspiration."[/B]
Dennis has made it clear, however, that the change of image for the team will not have any impact on their bid to return to race-winning form.
"It is not in any shape or form going to detract from our clear objective of winning races. That will always be there.
"But we want to try and adopt a different stance on how we address the spirit and character of the team. It is after a lot of deep thought and conversation that we have come to that conclusion."
The image overhaul will also coincide with the arrival of Fernando Alonso, who many within the sport hope remains as accessible and open about his feelings as he has been allowed to be at Renault.[/QUOTE]
looks like they'll be looking more towards future drivers. Kinda gives away they're line-up for next season. . .
| JoD | 10-02-2006 10:56 PM |
[QUOTE=KAX;15466862]looks like they'll be looking more towards future drivers. Kinda gives away they're line-up for next season. . .[/QUOTE]
YAY FOR LEWIS!!!!! :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:
YAY FOR LEWIS!!!!! :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:
| MattDell | 10-02-2006 11:17 PM |
[QUOTE=KAX;15466862]looks like they'll be looking more towards future drivers. Kinda gives away they're line-up for next season. . .[/QUOTE]
How did they do that?
How did they do that?
| KAX | 10-03-2006 12:11 AM |
see the bold part. talking about those who are dreaming to be grand prix drivers astronauts and whatnot, and they say they want to help fulfill their dreams? meaning give Hamilton the seat?
| Ferg | 10-03-2006 10:37 AM |
Teams still working on a testing agreement...
[QUOTE]F1 bosses close to testing agreement
By Jonathan Noble Tuesday, October 3rd 2006, 07:59 GMT
Formula One team bosses are confident that they will reach an agreement on testing by this weekend's Japanese Grand Prix, despite not signing off plans after lengthy talks in China.
The teams are still discussing how they would like to distribute the testing in 2007, with some preferring more running at the start of the season while others would like it shared out later in the year.
Agreement also has to be reached on specifying which drivers will run on the Friday sessions at Grands Prix, with some outfits wanting only race drivers to do the running and others hoping to be able to run testers or even GP2 racers.
Team boss Frank Williams said: "The biggest problem is getting Ferrari's agreement for something that they will sign. It will give them one or two privileges in exchange for a sensible agreement for everybody else. Maybe we will get that done before Japan."
Honda Racing chief Nick Fry was adamant a deal was close.
"Maybe I am on the miscreants because I haven't had time to get to it, but we will make progress over the next week and make sure that everyone knows our views," he explained. "I don't think it is a big deal at the moment.
"If we can get it agreed before we break up in Brazil it will be advantageous, because then everyone will know where they are. But it could come in Japan."
Williams added that he would fight hard against the idea of forcing teams to run a test driver in the Friday session in a bid to ensure that young stars got their chance in F1.
"It is out of the question," he said. "Who is going to force us to do that? We also need some other clarifications, because some people think you can run your third car, your test car, and I think there is nothing to stop you running it." [/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]F1 bosses close to testing agreement
By Jonathan Noble Tuesday, October 3rd 2006, 07:59 GMT
Formula One team bosses are confident that they will reach an agreement on testing by this weekend's Japanese Grand Prix, despite not signing off plans after lengthy talks in China.
The teams are still discussing how they would like to distribute the testing in 2007, with some preferring more running at the start of the season while others would like it shared out later in the year.
Agreement also has to be reached on specifying which drivers will run on the Friday sessions at Grands Prix, with some outfits wanting only race drivers to do the running and others hoping to be able to run testers or even GP2 racers.
Team boss Frank Williams said: "The biggest problem is getting Ferrari's agreement for something that they will sign. It will give them one or two privileges in exchange for a sensible agreement for everybody else. Maybe we will get that done before Japan."
Honda Racing chief Nick Fry was adamant a deal was close.
"Maybe I am on the miscreants because I haven't had time to get to it, but we will make progress over the next week and make sure that everyone knows our views," he explained. "I don't think it is a big deal at the moment.
"If we can get it agreed before we break up in Brazil it will be advantageous, because then everyone will know where they are. But it could come in Japan."
Williams added that he would fight hard against the idea of forcing teams to run a test driver in the Friday session in a bid to ensure that young stars got their chance in F1.
"It is out of the question," he said. "Who is going to force us to do that? We also need some other clarifications, because some people think you can run your third car, your test car, and I think there is nothing to stop you running it." [/QUOTE]
| artkevin | 10-03-2006 11:08 AM |
[QUOTE=Ferg;15462476]Davidson looking probable for Super Aguri..[/QUOTE]
I think we can put Klien in the other Spyker-Ferrari.
I think we can put Klien in the other Spyker-Ferrari.
| Ferg | 10-03-2006 11:14 AM |
Definately a possibility.
We also have Vettel floating around with a big sponsorship package from Red Bull.
We also have Vettel floating around with a big sponsorship package from Red Bull.
| enduroshark | 10-03-2006 12:06 PM |
[QUOTE=StuBeck;15390256]Yea, that whole situation was just sort of retarded. If a lowly nascar driver can have a caluse in his contract where he can't be seen drinking any beer other than budweiser, I think they could manage to keep a Renault out of the ad for him.
It hurts my brain tha teven after quitting driving Schumacher is still going to make like 15 mil a year from personal sponsorships.[/QUOTE]
Heck, Elvis made 50 million last year!
It hurts my brain tha teven after quitting driving Schumacher is still going to make like 15 mil a year from personal sponsorships.[/QUOTE]
Heck, Elvis made 50 million last year!
| StuBeck | 10-03-2006 01:21 PM |
Its wierd, for all the awesome drivers Red Bull has they should be doing better.
| TimStevens | 10-03-2006 01:39 PM |
[QUOTE=StuBeck;15475866]Its wierd, for all the awesome drivers Red Bull has they should be doing better.[/QUOTE]
Well, based on DC's quote re: MS retiring at the last race he surely thinks like next year is going to be the year for Red Bull, so maybe they can finally get their act together.
<<insert DC "next year is my year" joke here>>
Well, based on DC's quote re: MS retiring at the last race he surely thinks like next year is going to be the year for Red Bull, so maybe they can finally get their act together.
<<insert DC "next year is my year" joke here>>
| Ferg | 10-03-2006 01:53 PM |
You're right Stu, they should be doing much better..then again so should Toyota, Honda, Williams, McLaren...
The only team that looks like it's made any sort of movement towards the front this year is BMW-Sauber, everyone else is either going backwards or nowhere at all.
I think Red Bull got the Ferrari customer engine curse (good luck Spyker!) combined with almost no desire to waste time developing the still born RB2.
Next season....Newey penned RB3 with Rennie power and a hungry Webber could definately upset the apple cart.
The only team that looks like it's made any sort of movement towards the front this year is BMW-Sauber, everyone else is either going backwards or nowhere at all.
I think Red Bull got the Ferrari customer engine curse (good luck Spyker!) combined with almost no desire to waste time developing the still born RB2.
Next season....Newey penned RB3 with Rennie power and a hungry Webber could definately upset the apple cart.
| StuBeck | 10-03-2006 02:23 PM |
I hope next year will be better. No one should ever run Ferrari engines, they're never allowed to do well even when given the same engines. I think DC will do a lot better next year since he has the same problem Heidfeld has had lately, crap temamate hasn't pushed him.
Honda has been doing a lot better and McLaren just needs to make a reliable car. Toyota is theonly real one who needs to explain why they suck. Williams doesn't have any money so it makes sense.
Honda has been doing a lot better and McLaren just needs to make a reliable car. Toyota is theonly real one who needs to explain why they suck. Williams doesn't have any money so it makes sense.
| TimStevens | 10-03-2006 03:45 PM |
I haven't seen this posted yet:
[quote]Fernando Alonso has accused his Renault team of not helping him to win the 2006 drivers' championship.
To the Spanish press, the 25-year-old reckoned the French squad - to lose Alonso to McLaren at the end of the season - is focusing instead on the constructors' title, now led by Renault after the 2-3 finish in China.
Evidence of Renault's lack of interest in putting Spaniard Alonso on the top step of the podium might be Sunday's strategy and pit errors.
AS newspaper quoted Alonso as saying: "They wanted us to finish second and third because they do not want me to take the number one to a different team.
"
He said there is 'no doubt' that the constructors' championship is therefore more important to Renault in 2006, and added that only 'some' in blue and yellow uniforms were disappointed to lose the Chinese Grand Prix to Ferrari's Michael Schumacher.
"Some others are happy," Alonso continued, "because we went past Ferrari in the team battle. They are not helping me as much as they could."[/quote]
[url]http://f1.racing-live.com/f1/en/headlines/news/detail/061003093224.shtml[/url]
Ugh, can't stand that guy, and am glad he's going to lose the title.
[quote]Fernando Alonso has accused his Renault team of not helping him to win the 2006 drivers' championship.
To the Spanish press, the 25-year-old reckoned the French squad - to lose Alonso to McLaren at the end of the season - is focusing instead on the constructors' title, now led by Renault after the 2-3 finish in China.
Evidence of Renault's lack of interest in putting Spaniard Alonso on the top step of the podium might be Sunday's strategy and pit errors.
AS newspaper quoted Alonso as saying: "They wanted us to finish second and third because they do not want me to take the number one to a different team.
"
He said there is 'no doubt' that the constructors' championship is therefore more important to Renault in 2006, and added that only 'some' in blue and yellow uniforms were disappointed to lose the Chinese Grand Prix to Ferrari's Michael Schumacher.
"Some others are happy," Alonso continued, "because we went past Ferrari in the team battle. They are not helping me as much as they could."[/quote]
[url]http://f1.racing-live.com/f1/en/headlines/news/detail/061003093224.shtml[/url]
Ugh, can't stand that guy, and am glad he's going to lose the title.
| artkevin | 10-03-2006 05:24 PM |
Thats the 1st thig Fernando has said that I disagree with 100%. There is no way Renault would do that to him. I mean look at how small the number "1" is on the car now. They do care more about the constructors then the drivers but its not like its not important to them. They've had a lot of mileage out of Fernando being number 1.
[IMG]http://images.f1racing.net/large/62454.jpg[/IMG]
[IMG]http://images.f1racing.net/large/62454.jpg[/IMG]
| StuBeck | 10-03-2006 07:26 PM |
I am not positive he said the statements. I've only seen them on F1 live (which I stopped following once they start charging for everything) and planet-f1, which says whatever the hell they want. If Autosport picks it up I'll tend to believe it.
They need to make a rule to make the driver numbers bigger. I'm surprised tehy aren't forced to put them on the sidepods or rear wing endplates since they're now so huge.
They need to make a rule to make the driver numbers bigger. I'm surprised tehy aren't forced to put them on the sidepods or rear wing endplates since they're now so huge.
| TimStevens | 10-03-2006 07:55 PM |
No advertising $$ for driver numbers...
| StuBeck | 10-03-2006 08:55 PM |
And thats the problem! Red Bull and Toro Rosso are the only cars where I can really see the numbers, well and Ferrari, but those are the three least sponsored teams on the grid as it were.
| KAX | 10-03-2006 09:01 PM |
it would definitely help to recognize the drivers (and even the teams, stupid MF1 and their copy cat colors) to have the numbers bigger. But i dont think it hurts anything to have them small.
| Ferg | 10-10-2006 11:21 AM |
Jerez, Day One.
[QUOTE]Gene fastest as testing resumes at Jerez
Tuesday, October 10th 2006, 15:14 GMT
Ferrari's Marc Gene was fastest amongst the small group testing at Jerez today.
Only Ferrari, Williams and McLaren chose to participate on the opening day of the post-Suzuka test, with the Ferrari test pair dominating the times.
Gene lapped in 1:17.805, just under a second ahead of Luca Badoer.
It was Williams' Alex Wurz who completed the most laps, with 108 tours around the Spanish track.
That was in sharp contrast to his teammate Narain Karthikeyan, who twice caused red flags by stopping on the circuit. The Indian only managed 10 laps all day.
That was the same amount as Lewis Hamilton in the McLaren, although in this case the low mileage was planned.
McLaren have two days of their testing allocation remaining and want to use these on Wednesday and Thursday, so Hamilton's activity was limited to a shakedown today.
BMW-Sauber and Toyota will take to the track tomorrow, with Michael Schumacher joining Ferrari's programme for his final test as an active race driver.
Today's times:
Pos Driver Make Time Laps
1. Gene Ferrari (B) 1:17.805 102
2. Badoer Ferrari (B) 1:18.789 70
3. Wurz Williams (B) 1:19.549 108
4. Karthikeyan Williams (B) 1:22.196 10
5. Hamilton McLaren (M) 1:23.550 10[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]Gene fastest as testing resumes at Jerez
Tuesday, October 10th 2006, 15:14 GMT
Ferrari's Marc Gene was fastest amongst the small group testing at Jerez today.
Only Ferrari, Williams and McLaren chose to participate on the opening day of the post-Suzuka test, with the Ferrari test pair dominating the times.
Gene lapped in 1:17.805, just under a second ahead of Luca Badoer.
It was Williams' Alex Wurz who completed the most laps, with 108 tours around the Spanish track.
That was in sharp contrast to his teammate Narain Karthikeyan, who twice caused red flags by stopping on the circuit. The Indian only managed 10 laps all day.
That was the same amount as Lewis Hamilton in the McLaren, although in this case the low mileage was planned.
McLaren have two days of their testing allocation remaining and want to use these on Wednesday and Thursday, so Hamilton's activity was limited to a shakedown today.
BMW-Sauber and Toyota will take to the track tomorrow, with Michael Schumacher joining Ferrari's programme for his final test as an active race driver.
Today's times:
Pos Driver Make Time Laps
1. Gene Ferrari (B) 1:17.805 102
2. Badoer Ferrari (B) 1:18.789 70
3. Wurz Williams (B) 1:19.549 108
4. Karthikeyan Williams (B) 1:22.196 10
5. Hamilton McLaren (M) 1:23.550 10[/QUOTE]
| Ferg | 10-11-2006 10:05 AM |
Red Bull row brewing...
[QUOTE]Customer cars could lead to legal action
By Jonathan Noble Wednesday, October 11th 2006, 11:52 GMT
A number of Formula One teams are looking into the possibility of legal action against Red Bull if the company goes ahead with plans to have its two teams run with identical chassis from next year, high level sources have told autosport.com.
Tensions have been increasing behind the scenes amid mounting suggestions that Red Bull will have both Red Bull Racing and Scuderia Toro Rosso race with almost identical Adrian Newey-designed cars from 2007. One will be powered by Ferrari engines and the other by Renault.
With Super Aguri having already been forced to abandon their plans to run customer versions of this year's Honda Racing car, and teams like Williams and Spyker MF1 facing the prospect of Toro Rosso moving up the grid dramatically, it is understood that legal advice has been sought.
It is believed that Williams, Spyker MF1 and Super Aguri have all discussed the situation and are keeping a close eye on Red Bull's plans for next year. McLaren have also been consulted but have so far been reluctant to get involved in the situation.
Team boss Frank Williams has made it clear that he is far from happy with the situation - and thinks customer car rules should be strictly limited to year-old cars.
"The same car with a different badge is out of order and not within the regulations," he told autosport.com. "That is not a legally driven statement, but a personal opinion after having read the regulations with regards to customer cars.
"I suppose what really matters is that if it is a rule, then please observe it. If not, then be ready to take the consequences."
When asked whether legal action, or a protest if Red Bull go ahead with the plans, is possible, Williams said: "I can't comment on that. But I think it is quite wrong.
"There are several teams who don't agree to it, some who don't care and some who want it."[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]Customer cars could lead to legal action
By Jonathan Noble Wednesday, October 11th 2006, 11:52 GMT
A number of Formula One teams are looking into the possibility of legal action against Red Bull if the company goes ahead with plans to have its two teams run with identical chassis from next year, high level sources have told autosport.com.
Tensions have been increasing behind the scenes amid mounting suggestions that Red Bull will have both Red Bull Racing and Scuderia Toro Rosso race with almost identical Adrian Newey-designed cars from 2007. One will be powered by Ferrari engines and the other by Renault.
With Super Aguri having already been forced to abandon their plans to run customer versions of this year's Honda Racing car, and teams like Williams and Spyker MF1 facing the prospect of Toro Rosso moving up the grid dramatically, it is understood that legal advice has been sought.
It is believed that Williams, Spyker MF1 and Super Aguri have all discussed the situation and are keeping a close eye on Red Bull's plans for next year. McLaren have also been consulted but have so far been reluctant to get involved in the situation.
Team boss Frank Williams has made it clear that he is far from happy with the situation - and thinks customer car rules should be strictly limited to year-old cars.
"The same car with a different badge is out of order and not within the regulations," he told autosport.com. "That is not a legally driven statement, but a personal opinion after having read the regulations with regards to customer cars.
"I suppose what really matters is that if it is a rule, then please observe it. If not, then be ready to take the consequences."
When asked whether legal action, or a protest if Red Bull go ahead with the plans, is possible, Williams said: "I can't comment on that. But I think it is quite wrong.
"There are several teams who don't agree to it, some who don't care and some who want it."[/QUOTE]
| artkevin | 10-11-2006 10:20 AM |
I love Frank Williams.
| Ferg | 10-11-2006 12:26 PM |
Jezez, Day Two
[QUOTE]Schumacher sets blistering pace at Jerez
Wednesday, October 11th 2006, 15:57 GMT
Michael Schumacher kicked off what it is likely to be his final Formula One test before he retires from the sport, joining Ferrari at Jerez.
The German driver, who canceled plans for a break before the Brazilian Grand Prix in order to work at the Spanish circuit, set a blistering pace on the second day of testing, finishing over a second ahead of teammate Luca Badoer.
Schumacher, who covered 117 laps, focused mainly on tyre testing for the Interlagos race, while Badoer tested new components for the 2007 season. The Italian caused one of two red flags when he went off track at the first corner early in the morning.
The only other red flag of the day was caused by BMW Sauber's Robert Kubica when he stopped on the Michelin corner before noon. The Pole driver was third fastest and also the busiest man on track, with 120 laps completed.
Pedro de la Rosa and Lewis Hamilton began McLaren's first proper day of work after the Briton had carried out a shakedown on Tuesday. De la Rosa concentrated on engine work while Hamilton continued acclimatising to the demands of a Formula One car, finishing less than a tenth behind the Spaniard.
Toyota's Ricardo Zonta had a productive day of work after 111 laps, posting the sixth fastest time ahead of teammate Olivier Panis.
"Today's running was really positive," said Zonta. "We got a lot of laps in and were able to cover a lot of tyre test items. It is hard to say that the track here is comparable to that in Sao Paolo, especially because the circuit there has changed so much and the weather is unpredictable.
"But you can say that the traction is similar. Today I believe the track conditions here changed greatly between the morning and afternoon sessions. If we would have put new tyres on the car in the morning, I feel that we could have had a better lap time.
"Tomorrow we will continue this testing to see how the track and the tyres behave before we make a final decision."
The Williams team continued testing with the Toyota engine powering this year's car. Both Alex Wurz and Narain Karthikeyan enjoyed a positive day despite finishing at the bottom of the times.
Today's times:
Pos Driver Team Time Laps
1. M.Schumacher Ferrari (B) 1:16.238 117
2. Badoer Ferrari (B) 1:17.311 92
3. Kubica BMW-Sauber (M) 1:17.575 120
4. de la Rosa McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:17.788 80
5. Hamilton McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:17.818 62
6. Zonta Toyota (B) 1:17.988 111
7. Wurz Williams-Toyota (B) 1:19.072 90
8. Panis Toyota (B) 1:19.342 95
9. Karthikeyan Williams-Toyota (B) 1:20.474 87
All Timing Unofficial[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]Schumacher sets blistering pace at Jerez
Wednesday, October 11th 2006, 15:57 GMT
Michael Schumacher kicked off what it is likely to be his final Formula One test before he retires from the sport, joining Ferrari at Jerez.
The German driver, who canceled plans for a break before the Brazilian Grand Prix in order to work at the Spanish circuit, set a blistering pace on the second day of testing, finishing over a second ahead of teammate Luca Badoer.
Schumacher, who covered 117 laps, focused mainly on tyre testing for the Interlagos race, while Badoer tested new components for the 2007 season. The Italian caused one of two red flags when he went off track at the first corner early in the morning.
The only other red flag of the day was caused by BMW Sauber's Robert Kubica when he stopped on the Michelin corner before noon. The Pole driver was third fastest and also the busiest man on track, with 120 laps completed.
Pedro de la Rosa and Lewis Hamilton began McLaren's first proper day of work after the Briton had carried out a shakedown on Tuesday. De la Rosa concentrated on engine work while Hamilton continued acclimatising to the demands of a Formula One car, finishing less than a tenth behind the Spaniard.
Toyota's Ricardo Zonta had a productive day of work after 111 laps, posting the sixth fastest time ahead of teammate Olivier Panis.
"Today's running was really positive," said Zonta. "We got a lot of laps in and were able to cover a lot of tyre test items. It is hard to say that the track here is comparable to that in Sao Paolo, especially because the circuit there has changed so much and the weather is unpredictable.
"But you can say that the traction is similar. Today I believe the track conditions here changed greatly between the morning and afternoon sessions. If we would have put new tyres on the car in the morning, I feel that we could have had a better lap time.
"Tomorrow we will continue this testing to see how the track and the tyres behave before we make a final decision."
The Williams team continued testing with the Toyota engine powering this year's car. Both Alex Wurz and Narain Karthikeyan enjoyed a positive day despite finishing at the bottom of the times.
Today's times:
Pos Driver Team Time Laps
1. M.Schumacher Ferrari (B) 1:16.238 117
2. Badoer Ferrari (B) 1:17.311 92
3. Kubica BMW-Sauber (M) 1:17.575 120
4. de la Rosa McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:17.788 80
5. Hamilton McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:17.818 62
6. Zonta Toyota (B) 1:17.988 111
7. Wurz Williams-Toyota (B) 1:19.072 90
8. Panis Toyota (B) 1:19.342 95
9. Karthikeyan Williams-Toyota (B) 1:20.474 87
All Timing Unofficial[/QUOTE]
| NYEJ25 | 10-11-2006 01:41 PM |
Haven't posted in this thread much as of late but I'll throw this out there anyway.........I hate Alonso!!!!!!
| Ferg | 10-11-2006 01:46 PM |
Get in line! :p :lol:
| NYEJ25 | 10-11-2006 02:27 PM |
[QUOTE=Ferg;15572664]Get in line! :p :lol:[/QUOTE]
I don't know what it is. He has talent, no doubt. But between his fist waving, arrogance, sense of entitlement and head that is far to large for his body, I can't stand him.
I hope he struggles at Mecca and ends up at Ferrari..........they deserve each other.
I don't know what it is. He has talent, no doubt. But between his fist waving, arrogance, sense of entitlement and head that is far to large for his body, I can't stand him.
I hope he struggles at Mecca and ends up at Ferrari..........they deserve each other.
| Ferg | 10-11-2006 04:25 PM |
Nigel Roebuck (if you don't already know, look him up!) on who he'd pick for the second Macca seat.
[QUOTE][B]Dear Nigel,
If you were Ron Dennis, of the three drivers available - Pedro de la Rosa, Lewis Hamilton and Gary Paffett - who would you choose to partner Fernando Alonso next year?
Michael Moyle
[/B]
Dear Michael,
Let's consider the case of each. When Gary Paffett drove for Keke Rosberg's F3 team a few years ago, Keke - a man who knows a thing or two about racing drivers - reckoned him very highly indeed on natural ability, but had some reservations about his 'mind management', as Jackie Stewart would call it. Last year, of course, Paffett won the DTM title, and, all right, we're talking about touring cars (albeit super-quick ones), rather than single-seaters: even so, there are some pretty accomplished drivers in the DTM (including a two-time World Champion), and to beat them convincingly, as Gary did, must mean something.
This year, of course, Paffett has been a McLaren test driver, and by all accounts has done a good job for the team - although one or two folk have expressed doubts abut his ultimate speed in an F1 car. I merely pass on what I have been told.
Pedro de la Rosa is very highly rated as a test driver by McLaren, and whenever he has had the opportunity to race for the team (as when Juan Montoya broke his shoulder last year, and walked out of F1 after the US Grand Prix), he has acquitted himself extremely well: in Bahrain last year, for example, he completely outshone Kimi Raikkonen.
Again, though, there are doubts that de la Rosa merits a full-time McLaren drive on pure pace. He can be relied upon to do a good job, to deliver excellent feedback, and so on, but those in the know say he lacks that final ounce of pure speed which is the difference between the good and the great.
Which leaves us with Hamilton. And much as I would like to see what Paffett could do with a good F1 car, much as I think de la Rosa deserves a regular F1 drive, if I were Ron Dennis I would take the chance of putting Lewis in the team with Fernando Alonso in 2007.
In a perfect world, I'm sure Ron would rather do what Flavio Briatore did with Alonso (and also this year with Heikki Kovalainen), and have Lewis as a test driver in 07, learning the circuits, learning McLaren work practices, simply gaining experience, prior to joining the race team for '08.
But the signs are that Hamilton just might have that extra 'something', and although he's still very young, and new to F1, he has an absolute wealth of racing experience behind him, much as did Nico Rosberg (his former team mate in karting days), when he joined Williams a year ago.
Of course it would be a risky move in some ways - it's pretty daunting, let's face it, for a rookie to partner Alonso - but Lewis is a smart boy, and knows how much he could learn from a driver like Fernando. The trick, of course, would be not to expect too much - either by his team or himself - at the beginning. If I were RD, though, and needing to make a decision soon, that's what I would. The signs are that Hamilton is potentially world-class. [/QUOTE]
[QUOTE][B]Dear Nigel,
If you were Ron Dennis, of the three drivers available - Pedro de la Rosa, Lewis Hamilton and Gary Paffett - who would you choose to partner Fernando Alonso next year?
Michael Moyle
[/B]
Dear Michael,
Let's consider the case of each. When Gary Paffett drove for Keke Rosberg's F3 team a few years ago, Keke - a man who knows a thing or two about racing drivers - reckoned him very highly indeed on natural ability, but had some reservations about his 'mind management', as Jackie Stewart would call it. Last year, of course, Paffett won the DTM title, and, all right, we're talking about touring cars (albeit super-quick ones), rather than single-seaters: even so, there are some pretty accomplished drivers in the DTM (including a two-time World Champion), and to beat them convincingly, as Gary did, must mean something.
This year, of course, Paffett has been a McLaren test driver, and by all accounts has done a good job for the team - although one or two folk have expressed doubts abut his ultimate speed in an F1 car. I merely pass on what I have been told.
Pedro de la Rosa is very highly rated as a test driver by McLaren, and whenever he has had the opportunity to race for the team (as when Juan Montoya broke his shoulder last year, and walked out of F1 after the US Grand Prix), he has acquitted himself extremely well: in Bahrain last year, for example, he completely outshone Kimi Raikkonen.
Again, though, there are doubts that de la Rosa merits a full-time McLaren drive on pure pace. He can be relied upon to do a good job, to deliver excellent feedback, and so on, but those in the know say he lacks that final ounce of pure speed which is the difference between the good and the great.
Which leaves us with Hamilton. And much as I would like to see what Paffett could do with a good F1 car, much as I think de la Rosa deserves a regular F1 drive, if I were Ron Dennis I would take the chance of putting Lewis in the team with Fernando Alonso in 2007.
In a perfect world, I'm sure Ron would rather do what Flavio Briatore did with Alonso (and also this year with Heikki Kovalainen), and have Lewis as a test driver in 07, learning the circuits, learning McLaren work practices, simply gaining experience, prior to joining the race team for '08.
But the signs are that Hamilton just might have that extra 'something', and although he's still very young, and new to F1, he has an absolute wealth of racing experience behind him, much as did Nico Rosberg (his former team mate in karting days), when he joined Williams a year ago.
Of course it would be a risky move in some ways - it's pretty daunting, let's face it, for a rookie to partner Alonso - but Lewis is a smart boy, and knows how much he could learn from a driver like Fernando. The trick, of course, would be not to expect too much - either by his team or himself - at the beginning. If I were RD, though, and needing to make a decision soon, that's what I would. The signs are that Hamilton is potentially world-class. [/QUOTE]
| KAX | 10-11-2006 05:56 PM |
that pretty much exactly how I feel. His points on Paffet and De La Rosa are even my exact thoughts.
| Ferg | 10-12-2006 09:58 AM |
w00t!
[QUOTE]Spa gets green light for 2007
Thursday, October 12th 2006, 09:41 GMT
Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone has given his final approval for the Belgian Grand Prix to return to the calendar next season after signing a deal with the event's new organisers.
The Spa-Francorchamps race was dropped from this year's calendar because track improvement work could not be completed in time. Further complications were caused by the bankruptcy of the Grand Prix's former promoters DDF1.
But with the �25 million upgrade having now been approved, Ecclestone inked a deal with new promoters 'Spa-Grand Prix' for next year's event in London on Wednesday.
The situation beyond 2007 has not been finalised yet, with three scenarios being talked about.
They are that Spa-Grand Prix could stay on as organisers, the regional government cancel the race and pay Ecclestone �12 million in compensation, or Ecclestone himself takes full control of the event until 2010 as well as receiving compensation. [/QUOTE]
:D
[QUOTE]Spa gets green light for 2007
Thursday, October 12th 2006, 09:41 GMT
Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone has given his final approval for the Belgian Grand Prix to return to the calendar next season after signing a deal with the event's new organisers.
The Spa-Francorchamps race was dropped from this year's calendar because track improvement work could not be completed in time. Further complications were caused by the bankruptcy of the Grand Prix's former promoters DDF1.
But with the �25 million upgrade having now been approved, Ecclestone inked a deal with new promoters 'Spa-Grand Prix' for next year's event in London on Wednesday.
The situation beyond 2007 has not been finalised yet, with three scenarios being talked about.
They are that Spa-Grand Prix could stay on as organisers, the regional government cancel the race and pay Ecclestone �12 million in compensation, or Ecclestone himself takes full control of the event until 2010 as well as receiving compensation. [/QUOTE]
:D
| finnRex | 10-12-2006 10:05 AM |
I agree with Nigel as well. Ron should put Hamilton as the #2. He's already got a great #1, why not take a chance with Hamilton? I don't see Hamilton being a high risk, but a greater risk than Pedro or Gary.
Mika
Mika
| TimStevens | 10-12-2006 11:41 AM |
Sweet...now if we can just get a Pacific GP scheduled again we'll be golden.
| Ferg | 10-12-2006 12:27 PM |
Jerez, Day Three
[QUOTE]Schumacher goes even faster at Jerez
Thursday, October 12th 2006, 15:30 GMT
Retirement-bound Michael Schumacher continued to set the pace in testing at the Jerez circuit, where the German Ferrari driver nearly broke the unofficial track record.
After setting a blistering pace on Wednesday, the seven-time champion went even faster today, posting a quickest lap of 1:15.688, just 0.033 seconds off the track record, set by himself in 2004 with a V10-powered car.
Schumacher, in what is likely to be his final test before he retires from the sport at the end of the season, was also the busiest man with 104 laps, as he focused on tyre testing for the Brazilian Grand Prix.
The Ferrari driver was over a whole second faster than Lewis Hamilton, who shone in his McLaren, outpacing Pedro de la Rosa by nearly half a second after 73 laps. The Briton, concentrating on a development programme for 2007, had a productive session, covering 73 laps.
De la Rosa, meanwhile, worked on a tyre programme for the Interlagos race, completing 70 laps on his way to the fifth quickest time of the day.
"I did some tyre work and found a couple of interesting ones so we will see. But this track is a bit hard to judge," said de la Rosa, who is yet to be confirmed for the Brazilian Grand Prix.
"I hope I will (race) but nothing is confirmed yet," he added.
The McLaren duo were split by BMW Sauber's Robert Kubica, who continued working with two different chassis as the only driver for the German squad.
The Pole caused the first red flag of the day when he stopped on track at the same time as Williams' Narain Karthikeyan as the test got underway.
Karthikeyan stopped again later on the day as his team worked again with the Toyota engines they will use next season. Teammate Alex Wurz also caused a red flag when he stopped on track around noon.
Toyota's Ricardo Zonta and Olivier Panis forced the session to be stopped one time each after suffering apparent engine problems.
Today's times:
Pos Driver Team Time Laps
1. M.Schumacher Ferrari (B) 1:15.688 104
2. Hamilton McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:16.811 73
3. Kubica BMW-Sauber (M) 1:17.015 98
4. Badoer Ferrari (B) 1:17.243 76
5. de la Rosa McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:17.300 70
6. Zonta Toyota (B) 1:17.488 73
7. Panis Toyota (B) 1:17.801 92
8. Wurz Williams-Toyota (B) 1:18.267 79
9. Karthikeyan Williams-Toyota (B) 1:20.450 61
All Timing Unofficial[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]Schumacher goes even faster at Jerez
Thursday, October 12th 2006, 15:30 GMT
Retirement-bound Michael Schumacher continued to set the pace in testing at the Jerez circuit, where the German Ferrari driver nearly broke the unofficial track record.
After setting a blistering pace on Wednesday, the seven-time champion went even faster today, posting a quickest lap of 1:15.688, just 0.033 seconds off the track record, set by himself in 2004 with a V10-powered car.
Schumacher, in what is likely to be his final test before he retires from the sport at the end of the season, was also the busiest man with 104 laps, as he focused on tyre testing for the Brazilian Grand Prix.
The Ferrari driver was over a whole second faster than Lewis Hamilton, who shone in his McLaren, outpacing Pedro de la Rosa by nearly half a second after 73 laps. The Briton, concentrating on a development programme for 2007, had a productive session, covering 73 laps.
De la Rosa, meanwhile, worked on a tyre programme for the Interlagos race, completing 70 laps on his way to the fifth quickest time of the day.
"I did some tyre work and found a couple of interesting ones so we will see. But this track is a bit hard to judge," said de la Rosa, who is yet to be confirmed for the Brazilian Grand Prix.
"I hope I will (race) but nothing is confirmed yet," he added.
The McLaren duo were split by BMW Sauber's Robert Kubica, who continued working with two different chassis as the only driver for the German squad.
The Pole caused the first red flag of the day when he stopped on track at the same time as Williams' Narain Karthikeyan as the test got underway.
Karthikeyan stopped again later on the day as his team worked again with the Toyota engines they will use next season. Teammate Alex Wurz also caused a red flag when he stopped on track around noon.
Toyota's Ricardo Zonta and Olivier Panis forced the session to be stopped one time each after suffering apparent engine problems.
Today's times:
Pos Driver Team Time Laps
1. M.Schumacher Ferrari (B) 1:15.688 104
2. Hamilton McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:16.811 73
3. Kubica BMW-Sauber (M) 1:17.015 98
4. Badoer Ferrari (B) 1:17.243 76
5. de la Rosa McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:17.300 70
6. Zonta Toyota (B) 1:17.488 73
7. Panis Toyota (B) 1:17.801 92
8. Wurz Williams-Toyota (B) 1:18.267 79
9. Karthikeyan Williams-Toyota (B) 1:20.450 61
All Timing Unofficial[/QUOTE]
| StuBeck | 10-12-2006 12:50 PM |
The only problem I see with the deal with Spa is its basically a 1 year deal with an option for more. I think Bernie organizing it will be better than whoever has been though.
| Ferg | 10-13-2006 09:53 AM |
Pedro in for Brazil.
[QUOTE]McLaren confirm de la Rosa for Brazil
Friday, October 13th 2006, 08:59 GMT
McLaren confirmed on Friday that Spaniard Pedro de la Rosa will race for them in next week's Brazilian Grand Prix, ending any hope of Briton Lewis Hamilton making his Formula One debut this season.
The Mercedes-powered team had delayed confirming their line-up for the final race of the year at Interlagos until after Hamilton and de la Rosa had tested at Jerez this week.
Although 21-year-old Hamilton set the second fastest time on Thursday, with only Ferrari's Michael Schumacher quicker than him, McLaren confirmed that they would be sticking with the experienced de la Rosa.
"After the disappointing race we had in Suzuka, I am looking forward to getting back on track and working with the team to finish the year on a high," de la Rosa said in a team preview.
"The test in Jerez this week has been positive, with a lot of the focus on tyres with Michelin and as a result we feel confident we will be able to get more out of them at Interlagos," he added.
Hamilton, 21, remains a leading candidate to race for McLaren next year alongside Spanish world champion Fernando Alonso who arrives from Renault.
Brazil will be Kimi Raikkonen's farewell to the team before joining Ferrari as Schumacher's replacement next year while de la Rosa has been a stand-in since Colombian Juan Pablo Montoya left for NASCAR in July.
McLaren will be looking to Raikkonen as their best and last hope of winning a race this year to ensure they do not finish a season without a victory for the first time in a decade.
"I am of course sad to be leaving the team," McLaren quoted the Finn as saying. "We have had some great times together and it would be fantastic to go out with a win."[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]McLaren confirm de la Rosa for Brazil
Friday, October 13th 2006, 08:59 GMT
McLaren confirmed on Friday that Spaniard Pedro de la Rosa will race for them in next week's Brazilian Grand Prix, ending any hope of Briton Lewis Hamilton making his Formula One debut this season.
The Mercedes-powered team had delayed confirming their line-up for the final race of the year at Interlagos until after Hamilton and de la Rosa had tested at Jerez this week.
Although 21-year-old Hamilton set the second fastest time on Thursday, with only Ferrari's Michael Schumacher quicker than him, McLaren confirmed that they would be sticking with the experienced de la Rosa.
"After the disappointing race we had in Suzuka, I am looking forward to getting back on track and working with the team to finish the year on a high," de la Rosa said in a team preview.
"The test in Jerez this week has been positive, with a lot of the focus on tyres with Michelin and as a result we feel confident we will be able to get more out of them at Interlagos," he added.
Hamilton, 21, remains a leading candidate to race for McLaren next year alongside Spanish world champion Fernando Alonso who arrives from Renault.
Brazil will be Kimi Raikkonen's farewell to the team before joining Ferrari as Schumacher's replacement next year while de la Rosa has been a stand-in since Colombian Juan Pablo Montoya left for NASCAR in July.
McLaren will be looking to Raikkonen as their best and last hope of winning a race this year to ensure they do not finish a season without a victory for the first time in a decade.
"I am of course sad to be leaving the team," McLaren quoted the Finn as saying. "We have had some great times together and it would be fantastic to go out with a win."[/QUOTE]
| artkevin | 10-13-2006 10:32 AM |
Dammit Ron.
| Draken | 10-13-2006 11:39 AM |
I know this isn't exactly F1 news, but I thought it was interesting. A deal I had not heard any rumors about...
[url]http://www.speedtv.com/articles/moto/supercrossmotocross/33299/[/url]
Cliff Notes: Ricky Carmichael signs 3-year deal for NASCAR MB2 team.
Looks like Nascar is slowly becoming the new IROC :)
[url]http://www.speedtv.com/articles/moto/supercrossmotocross/33299/[/url]
Cliff Notes: Ricky Carmichael signs 3-year deal for NASCAR MB2 team.
Looks like Nascar is slowly becoming the new IROC :)
| meebs | 10-13-2006 12:54 PM |
[quote=News]McLaren will be looking to Raikkonen as their best and last hope of winning a race this year to ensure they do not finish a season without a victory for the first time in a decade.
[/quote]
omg, even though I have fallen out of love wih Macca this season, I would hate to see that happen. GO KIMI!!
[/quote]
omg, even though I have fallen out of love wih Macca this season, I would hate to see that happen. GO KIMI!!
| Student Driver | 10-16-2006 10:19 AM |
I would love to see them pop both engines. That way, they will have a long winter to figure out how they've blown this season so badly.
| Ferg | 10-16-2006 12:38 PM |
Paffett no longer in the running for Macca seat.
[QUOTE]Paffett free to find drive elsewhere
By Jonathan Noble Monday, October 16th 2006, 16:18 GMT
McLaren have promised test driver Gary Paffett that they will not hold him back from joining another team next year if his current discussions with rival outfits are successful, autosport.com has learned.
Paffett is in talks with several teams about both race and test deals for 2007, as he contemplates how best to move his career forwards.
And although McLaren would be unhappy to lose the Briton after promoting him to a full-time test role this year, the team have said they will not stand in his way if he pulls off a deal to go elsewhere.
Speaking to autosport.com, Paffett said he was happy that McLaren were willing to accommodate his demands - and has not ruled out remaining on board for another season.
His comments come after reports suggesting his McLaren deal had been terminated.
"I am definitely still involved with McLaren," said Paffett. "I am still working with them and we've had a great relationship over the past year. Obviously if it does end and I go elsewhere, then it will be sad for the both of us.
"But they are being good to me and have given me quite a lot of freedom to go and look for a race drive. They know my passion is to want to race in F1.
"Although the McLaren race seat is still up for grabs next year and is not completely out of the question, it is looking more and more unlikely that I will get that seat. So, they have given us a certain amount of freedom to look elsewhere."
Paffett has been most strongly linked with the chance of a race drive at Spyker MF1 next year, but it appears that that job will go to Tiago Monteiro. He has also been linked with testing roles at Honda Racing, BMW-Sauber and either of the Red Bull teams.
"The talks are going okay," added Paffett. "There is a lot of interest and we've had a really good year with McLaren. I first tested with them in 2000, so to get a full-time drive with them this year was great.
"But we are looking at our options now, and what is viable. Spyker are seriously interested, but obviously the case there could be that they need a lot of money.
"My managers Mark (Blundell) and Martin (Brundle) are doing their best to see what is available. We are looking for possibilities for future progress. We are not looking for just a one-year thing."
Brundle told Autosport last week that there were plenty of options available for them for 2007.
"Gary's very keen to race and there are a number of drives still available," he said. "People would be surprised who we are talking to." [/QUOTE]
It's going to be Hamilton...it [i]has[/i] to be Hamilton at this point.
[QUOTE]Paffett free to find drive elsewhere
By Jonathan Noble Monday, October 16th 2006, 16:18 GMT
McLaren have promised test driver Gary Paffett that they will not hold him back from joining another team next year if his current discussions with rival outfits are successful, autosport.com has learned.
Paffett is in talks with several teams about both race and test deals for 2007, as he contemplates how best to move his career forwards.
And although McLaren would be unhappy to lose the Briton after promoting him to a full-time test role this year, the team have said they will not stand in his way if he pulls off a deal to go elsewhere.
Speaking to autosport.com, Paffett said he was happy that McLaren were willing to accommodate his demands - and has not ruled out remaining on board for another season.
His comments come after reports suggesting his McLaren deal had been terminated.
"I am definitely still involved with McLaren," said Paffett. "I am still working with them and we've had a great relationship over the past year. Obviously if it does end and I go elsewhere, then it will be sad for the both of us.
"But they are being good to me and have given me quite a lot of freedom to go and look for a race drive. They know my passion is to want to race in F1.
"Although the McLaren race seat is still up for grabs next year and is not completely out of the question, it is looking more and more unlikely that I will get that seat. So, they have given us a certain amount of freedom to look elsewhere."
Paffett has been most strongly linked with the chance of a race drive at Spyker MF1 next year, but it appears that that job will go to Tiago Monteiro. He has also been linked with testing roles at Honda Racing, BMW-Sauber and either of the Red Bull teams.
"The talks are going okay," added Paffett. "There is a lot of interest and we've had a really good year with McLaren. I first tested with them in 2000, so to get a full-time drive with them this year was great.
"But we are looking at our options now, and what is viable. Spyker are seriously interested, but obviously the case there could be that they need a lot of money.
"My managers Mark (Blundell) and Martin (Brundle) are doing their best to see what is available. We are looking for possibilities for future progress. We are not looking for just a one-year thing."
Brundle told Autosport last week that there were plenty of options available for them for 2007.
"Gary's very keen to race and there are a number of drives still available," he said. "People would be surprised who we are talking to." [/QUOTE]
It's going to be Hamilton...it [i]has[/i] to be Hamilton at this point.
| StuBeck | 10-16-2006 12:45 PM |
Basically, I don't see de la Rosa getting the seat.
| MattNJ2.8 | 10-16-2006 09:40 PM |
I would like to get a Kimi @ Macca watch.
Anybody got any favorites?
Can't have a Kimi @ Ferrari piece. Nevar!!!
Anybody got any favorites?
Can't have a Kimi @ Ferrari piece. Nevar!!!
| KAX | 10-17-2006 12:22 AM |
well its your last chance. unless you go ebay and search for an old one. You could always get the Kimi signature Tag Heuer, but its like $2000 or something insane.
| bitterWRX | 10-17-2006 05:43 AM |
I would like to see Hamilton in action. But I also want to see Dela Rosa getting a full season as well.
| KAX | 11-05-2006 09:35 PM |
wheres the 2007 thread?
RBR gets Renault engines while the Ferraris go to Torro Rosso:
[Quote]Today Red Bull Racing finally cleared up its engine situation for the upcoming season. Renault engines will power Red Bull Racing, while the Scuderia Toro Rosso team will use Ferrari engines in the back of their F1 cars.
In 2006 Red Bull Racing was racing with Ferrari engines, but they were flirting with Formula One champions Renault to try and get its customer engines. The Scuderia Toro Rosso drivers were using Cosworth V10 engines. Next year Toro Rosso will be powered by Ferrari engines, and thus it means goodbye to Cosworth in F1.
In 2007 we will see Ferrari supply their own Formula 1 team, Spyker F1 and Scuderia Toro Rosso.
[/Quote]
look for a very good RBR next season.
RBR gets Renault engines while the Ferraris go to Torro Rosso:
[Quote]Today Red Bull Racing finally cleared up its engine situation for the upcoming season. Renault engines will power Red Bull Racing, while the Scuderia Toro Rosso team will use Ferrari engines in the back of their F1 cars.
In 2006 Red Bull Racing was racing with Ferrari engines, but they were flirting with Formula One champions Renault to try and get its customer engines. The Scuderia Toro Rosso drivers were using Cosworth V10 engines. Next year Toro Rosso will be powered by Ferrari engines, and thus it means goodbye to Cosworth in F1.
In 2007 we will see Ferrari supply their own Formula 1 team, Spyker F1 and Scuderia Toro Rosso.
[/Quote]
look for a very good RBR next season.
| schaklos | 11-22-2006 09:43 AM |
Since there is no '07 thread...
�
�
I wonder if this would make Shuey think about coming back?
From Speed TV.com...
"McLaren CEO Martin Whitmarsh has denied it officially, but the rumors of Mika Hakkinen�s return to Formula 1 racing at the age of 38 persist.
After starting with Hakkinen�s visit to the Brazilian Grand Prix paddock last month, the speculation gained momentum when the Finn sampled the squad�s sophisticated simulator � arguably the next-best thing to actually driving an F1 car � at the Woking factory, a visit confirmed by the team.
Then, two other happenings added fuel to the fire on Wednesday: first, Hakkinen inked a new personal sponsorship deal to become a responsible drinking spokesman for Johnnie Walker, the Diageo-owned whisky brand that�s currently one of McLaren�s main backers.
"Our ongoing commitment to the advancement of our responsible drinking program is demonstrated through the creation of this ambassadorial role,� said Ben Anderson, global brand director for Johnnie Walker. �Mika's close association with McLaren and Mercedes, and his status as a role model for professionalism, precision and control to race fans around the world make him perfect for this job."
But even more intriguing was a news report from Spain�s Marca newspaper, which claimed that Hakkinen has undergone a thorough physical exam this week. Nothing extraordinary, if it hadn�t been done, according to the report, at the request of McLaren boss Ron Dennis�
McLaren has already signed reigning double world champion Fernando Alonso to one of its cockpits next year. The second seat is believed to be in contention between GP2 champion Lewis Hamilton and veteran tester Pedro de la Rosa � and, increasingly, Hakkinen."
From Speed TV.com...
"McLaren CEO Martin Whitmarsh has denied it officially, but the rumors of Mika Hakkinen�s return to Formula 1 racing at the age of 38 persist.
After starting with Hakkinen�s visit to the Brazilian Grand Prix paddock last month, the speculation gained momentum when the Finn sampled the squad�s sophisticated simulator � arguably the next-best thing to actually driving an F1 car � at the Woking factory, a visit confirmed by the team.
Then, two other happenings added fuel to the fire on Wednesday: first, Hakkinen inked a new personal sponsorship deal to become a responsible drinking spokesman for Johnnie Walker, the Diageo-owned whisky brand that�s currently one of McLaren�s main backers.
"Our ongoing commitment to the advancement of our responsible drinking program is demonstrated through the creation of this ambassadorial role,� said Ben Anderson, global brand director for Johnnie Walker. �Mika's close association with McLaren and Mercedes, and his status as a role model for professionalism, precision and control to race fans around the world make him perfect for this job."
But even more intriguing was a news report from Spain�s Marca newspaper, which claimed that Hakkinen has undergone a thorough physical exam this week. Nothing extraordinary, if it hadn�t been done, according to the report, at the request of McLaren boss Ron Dennis�
McLaren has already signed reigning double world champion Fernando Alonso to one of its cockpits next year. The second seat is believed to be in contention between GP2 champion Lewis Hamilton and veteran tester Pedro de la Rosa � and, increasingly, Hakkinen."
| StuBeck | 11-22-2006 10:45 AM |
I think Hakkinen would be brought in as a test driver, but I don't know if he'd come back. I think they let his contract lapse a year or two ago anyways.
| johnei | 11-22-2006 03:41 PM |
Don't know if it is a repost - but interesting article on MS s retirement. Good description of how things began to work against him staying in the sport.
[url]http://www.luke-hamilton.com/temp/MSCretirementBF1.pdf[/url]
[url]http://www.luke-hamilton.com/temp/MSCretirementBF1.pdf[/url]
| parker/slc/gc8fan | 11-22-2006 03:44 PM |
CMON, It's time for 2007!!!
| Ferg | 11-22-2006 03:49 PM |
After the Holiday weekend I promise.
Honestly, except for the Mika rumor, there's just not much going on right now.
Honestly, except for the Mika rumor, there's just not much going on right now.
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