| artkevin | 03-15-2005 11:00 AM |
Lets get the Maylasia GP Thread started!
�
�
I am never any good at these top 8 picks but I'll start us off.
1 Schumi
2 Kimi
3 Fisi
4 Alonso
5 JPM
6 Button
7 Webber
8 Slick Nick
1 Schumi
2 Kimi
3 Fisi
4 Alonso
5 JPM
6 Button
7 Webber
8 Slick Nick
| BriDrive | 03-15-2005 11:24 AM |
FIRST.....we need a weather report/outlook for saturday/sunday qualifying :lol:
I feel starting position is going to be a critical factor for the forseeable future.
1. MS : should be strong on fresh engine
2. JB: for the same reason
3. KR
4. RB: can he hold off the renaults? and JPM?
5. FA
6. JPM
7. JCF
8. MW
I feel starting position is going to be a critical factor for the forseeable future.
1. MS : should be strong on fresh engine
2. JB: for the same reason
3. KR
4. RB: can he hold off the renaults? and JPM?
5. FA
6. JPM
7. JCF
8. MW
| PaulC | 03-15-2005 11:32 AM |
What the heck, I'll take a shot. I've been reading these threads for nearly two seasons. ;)
1. Kimi
2. Alonso
3. Shumacher M.
4. Fisi
5. Rubens
6. JPM
7. Button
8. Coulthard
1. Kimi
2. Alonso
3. Shumacher M.
4. Fisi
5. Rubens
6. JPM
7. Button
8. Coulthard
| Dussander | 03-15-2005 11:53 AM |
Michael is not running a fresh engine. It sounds like they want to get the 05 car as soon as possible.
| artkevin | 03-15-2005 01:03 PM |
Apparently I can't spell "Malaysian". Could the Mod please fix that in the title?
KP
KP
| gargleblaster | 03-15-2005 01:11 PM |
Put up my Pick6(8) today:
M.Schumacher
G.Fisichella
R.Barrichello
F.Alonso
K.Raikkonen
J.Montoya
D.Coulthard
M.Webber
Hard to go with anyone but MS for the win after RB's strong performance @ Melbourne, and given that MS has won 3 of 6 Malaysian GPs.
M.Schumacher
G.Fisichella
R.Barrichello
F.Alonso
K.Raikkonen
J.Montoya
D.Coulthard
M.Webber
Hard to go with anyone but MS for the win after RB's strong performance @ Melbourne, and given that MS has won 3 of 6 Malaysian GPs.
| BriDrive | 03-15-2005 01:28 PM |
[QUOTE=Dussander]Michael is not running a fresh engine. It sounds like they want to get the 05 car as soon as possible.[/QUOTE]
Huh ! Do you know something everyone else doesn't?
Huh ! Do you know something everyone else doesn't?
| pio!pio! | 03-15-2005 02:15 PM |
[QUOTE=BriDrive]Huh ! Do you know something everyone else doesn't?[/QUOTE]
Read somewhere they are not gonna do an engine change for him because that means they would bring a used engine to Bahrain which they don't wanna do since it is hot and sandy and stuff.
Also the old engine doesn't fit in the 2005 car..so if they decide to use the 2005 car in Bahrain, then Michael wouldn't be able to use it..or would have to do an engine change.
Read somewhere they are not gonna do an engine change for him because that means they would bring a used engine to Bahrain which they don't wanna do since it is hot and sandy and stuff.
Also the old engine doesn't fit in the 2005 car..so if they decide to use the 2005 car in Bahrain, then Michael wouldn't be able to use it..or would have to do an engine change.
| BriDrive | 03-15-2005 02:26 PM |
Makes sense....I guess....If the FIA has told them they cannot run the new car with its inherent new engine until he's done a full 2 series cycle no matter what. Its an interesting problem to have.
I'm surprised that this is published (not that I doubt you)...but its generally difficult if not impossible to learn ANY of the Scuderia's strategy until AFTER it was implemented.
BriDrive...
Note, My info came from this AM from an interview Reubens gave earlier today.
I'm surprised that this is published (not that I doubt you)...but its generally difficult if not impossible to learn ANY of the Scuderia's strategy until AFTER it was implemented.
BriDrive...
Note, My info came from this AM from an interview Reubens gave earlier today.
| Bonzo | 03-15-2005 02:33 PM |
I predict the weather in Sepang will be hot. humid with a chance for rain daily.
imho this is one of the toughest tracks to drive on the circuit.
1. Reubens
2. Montoya
3. Alonso
4. MS
5. DC
6. Raikkonen
imho this is one of the toughest tracks to drive on the circuit.
1. Reubens
2. Montoya
3. Alonso
4. MS
5. DC
6. Raikkonen
| gargleblaster | 03-15-2005 02:48 PM |
[QUOTE=Bonzo]I predict the weather in Sepang will be hot. humid with a chance for rain daily.[/QUOTE]Wow - that's going out on a limb... ;)
| BillT | 03-15-2005 02:49 PM |
I just made my picks:
MS
RB
KR
GF
JPM
MW
JB
DC
Now that the initial race with the new rules has passed, I think that we'll see the drivers start to open things up a bit especially towards the end of the race now that they have a bit more confidence in their tires.
MS
RB
KR
GF
JPM
MW
JB
DC
Now that the initial race with the new rules has passed, I think that we'll see the drivers start to open things up a bit especially towards the end of the race now that they have a bit more confidence in their tires.
| Bonzo | 03-15-2005 03:03 PM |
[QUOTE=gargleblaster]Wow - that's going out on a limb... ;)[/QUOTE]
I did stay at a HolidayInn Express last night. ;)
I did stay at a HolidayInn Express last night. ;)
| amp5 | 03-15-2005 04:06 PM |
Hopefully the wider Malaysia will contain more passing than Australia.
Regarding new engines vs. "old" engines: What kind of performance drop off is expected from one race weekend to the next? In my mind, I assumed that performance doesn't deteriorate as much as blow up in a blaze of glory (a la kimi @ beginning of last season). I wouldn't expect a new engine to be faster than an older one, just far more likely to make it to the end of the race. Then again, I'm in finance not 19k RPM engine design. Thoughts?
Also, how does the FIA police the engine rule? Seems like a car out of sight for a week could be "modified."
My (optimistic) predictions:
1. Kimi
2. Alonso
3. Barrichello
4. Fisichella
5. Coulthard
6. JPM
7. Trulli
8. Heidfeld
(MS has another dismal weekend due to poor qualifying, AKA not P1).
Regarding new engines vs. "old" engines: What kind of performance drop off is expected from one race weekend to the next? In my mind, I assumed that performance doesn't deteriorate as much as blow up in a blaze of glory (a la kimi @ beginning of last season). I wouldn't expect a new engine to be faster than an older one, just far more likely to make it to the end of the race. Then again, I'm in finance not 19k RPM engine design. Thoughts?
Also, how does the FIA police the engine rule? Seems like a car out of sight for a week could be "modified."
My (optimistic) predictions:
1. Kimi
2. Alonso
3. Barrichello
4. Fisichella
5. Coulthard
6. JPM
7. Trulli
8. Heidfeld
(MS has another dismal weekend due to poor qualifying, AKA not P1).
| Dussander | 03-15-2005 04:30 PM |
This was on f1-live (3/9/05):
[quote]While both Takuma Sato and Jenson Button are expected to run with fresh V10 Honda engines at the Malaysian Grand Prix a week Sunday while BMW have also opted to put a fresh V10 in Nick Heidfeld�s FW27. However, as it stands, Michael Schumacher is expecting to run the same power-plant used in his Australian Grand Prix weekend.
The team reason that with new rules dictating that the engine must last two races unless the team retires the car, it is better to use the existing V10 in Malaysia and then get a fresh unit for the equally hot Bahrain Grand Prix.
There is also a chance that Ferrari are pushing forward their planned introduction of the F2005 and are now aiming for round three of the championship in Bahrain. The team plan to make the decision following the second race of the year in Malaysia but if they had places a new engine in Schumacher�s F2004 M for the event, they would not be able to run the new car until the fourth round of the championship, an option that may not be desirable for the Italian champions. [/quote]
[quote]While both Takuma Sato and Jenson Button are expected to run with fresh V10 Honda engines at the Malaysian Grand Prix a week Sunday while BMW have also opted to put a fresh V10 in Nick Heidfeld�s FW27. However, as it stands, Michael Schumacher is expecting to run the same power-plant used in his Australian Grand Prix weekend.
The team reason that with new rules dictating that the engine must last two races unless the team retires the car, it is better to use the existing V10 in Malaysia and then get a fresh unit for the equally hot Bahrain Grand Prix.
There is also a chance that Ferrari are pushing forward their planned introduction of the F2005 and are now aiming for round three of the championship in Bahrain. The team plan to make the decision following the second race of the year in Malaysia but if they had places a new engine in Schumacher�s F2004 M for the event, they would not be able to run the new car until the fourth round of the championship, an option that may not be desirable for the Italian champions. [/quote]
| Ferg | 03-16-2005 09:31 AM |
JV in danger of getting teh boot...
[QUOTE]
[font=Times New Roman][size=5][b]Davidson Lined Up for Villeneuve's Drive[/b][/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3] [/size][/font] [font=Times New Roman][size=3][b]Wednesday March 16th, 2005[/b] [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]Sauber have opened talks with Anthony Davidson as a possible replacement for Jacques Villeneuve, [i]Autosport[/i] magazine exclusively revealed today. [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]The BAR third driver was approached by Sauber to ascertain his availability to race for the Swiss team this season, and according to the magazine, should Villeneuve fail to meet performance clauses in his two year contract, the team can dispense with his services. [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]Villeneuve's poor performance in winter testing, sharpened by his public failure at the Australian Grand Prix, is a matter of some concern to Sauber. Disputes over tyre choice caused tension within the team, which was heightened by his disappointing result relative to teammate Felipe Massa. [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]However, speaking exclusively to [i]Autosport[/i], Villeneuve remained defiant, arguing that the team have done little to accommodate him. [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]"There has to be some adjustment on both sides, and that means from the team as well, working on set-ups and whatever," the 1997 World Champion said. [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]"If I had arrived here as a Formula One rookie then I would expect to be told what to do, but when you arrive with eight or nine years' experience and you want to take things to the highest level, you have to push and maybe that's uncomfortable." [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]When asked for a comment by the magazine, Peter Sauber has denied that he is looking to replace Villeneuve at present, although he admitted he was displeased with the Canadian's performance to date. [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]"It goes without saying that neither Jacques nor the team was satisfied with the result in Australia," Sauber said. [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]"It's equally clear that it would be premature to draw any conclusions after a single race, particularly after a highly unusual race weekend such as Melbourne." [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]Furthermore, BAR-Honda, who own Davidson's contract, have also stated they have not been approached by Sauber. BAR team boss Nick Fry told [i]Autosport[/i]: "If they have aspirations to give Anthony a drive then that's news to us."[/QUOTE][/size][/font]
[QUOTE]
[font=Times New Roman][size=5][b]Davidson Lined Up for Villeneuve's Drive[/b][/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3] [/size][/font] [font=Times New Roman][size=3][b]Wednesday March 16th, 2005[/b] [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]Sauber have opened talks with Anthony Davidson as a possible replacement for Jacques Villeneuve, [i]Autosport[/i] magazine exclusively revealed today. [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]The BAR third driver was approached by Sauber to ascertain his availability to race for the Swiss team this season, and according to the magazine, should Villeneuve fail to meet performance clauses in his two year contract, the team can dispense with his services. [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]Villeneuve's poor performance in winter testing, sharpened by his public failure at the Australian Grand Prix, is a matter of some concern to Sauber. Disputes over tyre choice caused tension within the team, which was heightened by his disappointing result relative to teammate Felipe Massa. [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]However, speaking exclusively to [i]Autosport[/i], Villeneuve remained defiant, arguing that the team have done little to accommodate him. [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]"There has to be some adjustment on both sides, and that means from the team as well, working on set-ups and whatever," the 1997 World Champion said. [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]"If I had arrived here as a Formula One rookie then I would expect to be told what to do, but when you arrive with eight or nine years' experience and you want to take things to the highest level, you have to push and maybe that's uncomfortable." [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]When asked for a comment by the magazine, Peter Sauber has denied that he is looking to replace Villeneuve at present, although he admitted he was displeased with the Canadian's performance to date. [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]"It goes without saying that neither Jacques nor the team was satisfied with the result in Australia," Sauber said. [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]"It's equally clear that it would be premature to draw any conclusions after a single race, particularly after a highly unusual race weekend such as Melbourne." [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]Furthermore, BAR-Honda, who own Davidson's contract, have also stated they have not been approached by Sauber. BAR team boss Nick Fry told [i]Autosport[/i]: "If they have aspirations to give Anthony a drive then that's news to us."[/QUOTE][/size][/font]
| amp5 | 03-16-2005 09:49 AM |
Its never JV's fault is it?
And with Davidson's performance as the 3rd driver last year, I'm surprised he didn't end up on the starting grid this year.
And with Davidson's performance as the 3rd driver last year, I'm surprised he didn't end up on the starting grid this year.
| BriDrive | 03-16-2005 10:03 AM |
Anthony Davidson IS fast...no doubt...Its probably time for him to get a seat in the real show SOON.........
JV's Achilles Heel, I still firmly believe, is his lack of ability to communicate with his engineers to affect positive changes with the cars he drives.........its obvious.
What BAR has got in the form of contract with Davidson is, apparently, very similar to what Williams had with Button....hopefully that won't stimy his chances.
BriDrive
JV's Achilles Heel, I still firmly believe, is his lack of ability to communicate with his engineers to affect positive changes with the cars he drives.........its obvious.
What BAR has got in the form of contract with Davidson is, apparently, very similar to what Williams had with Button....hopefully that won't stimy his chances.
BriDrive
| BillT | 03-16-2005 10:51 AM |
Go Ant! I would like to see him get a ride for the year.
| amp5 | 03-16-2005 11:51 AM |
From F1live: FIA clamp down on engine loophole
Following the decision taken by BAR Honda to retire two healthy race cars at the Australian Grand Prix in order to gain fresh engines for this weekend�s race in Malaysia, the FIA have today announced that with immediate effect a team must now explain the circumstances of its retirement to the Stewards of the meeting. It now seems that the engine loophole has been closed by the FIA.
What follows is a press release from the governing body.
Link: [url="http://f1.racing-live.com/en/headlines/news/detail/050316104737.shtml"]http://f1.racing-live.com/en/headlines/news/detail/050316104737.shtml[/url]
Following the decision taken by BAR Honda to retire two healthy race cars at the Australian Grand Prix in order to gain fresh engines for this weekend�s race in Malaysia, the FIA have today announced that with immediate effect a team must now explain the circumstances of its retirement to the Stewards of the meeting. It now seems that the engine loophole has been closed by the FIA.
What follows is a press release from the governing body.
Link: [url="http://f1.racing-live.com/en/headlines/news/detail/050316104737.shtml"]http://f1.racing-live.com/en/headlines/news/detail/050316104737.shtml[/url]
| artkevin | 03-16-2005 11:58 AM |
Man, JV really knows how to piss off a team in a heart beat doesn't he? I hope Sauber gives him a little more of a chance to get it right but I think Ant would be a good choice too.
| Nutter | 03-16-2005 01:28 PM |
My wish for Malaysia would be Button but . . .
�
�
I think the result will be:
Schumacher, M
Alonso, F
Button, J
Raikkonen, K
Fisichella, G
Barrichello, R
Coulthard, D
Montoya, JP
John
Schumacher, M
Alonso, F
Button, J
Raikkonen, K
Fisichella, G
Barrichello, R
Coulthard, D
Montoya, JP
John
| skuttledude | 03-16-2005 03:53 PM |
My picks and predictions: (my picks were waaaayy off at Melbourne)
M.Schumacher;-pissed after last event..will win by huge margin
R.Barrichello;-fast but won't beat Schuy in damp event
G.Fisichella;-renault showinbg that it has speed this year
F.Massa;-finally shows talent in a hot and damp race
T.Sato;-asian favorite does well on an almost-home track
K.Raikkonen;-got the speed and is my dark horse winner
J.Montoya;-handling probs, yet shows incredible bravery
J.Villeneuve- one time champ showing little speed, just makes pts.
M.Schumacher;-pissed after last event..will win by huge margin
R.Barrichello;-fast but won't beat Schuy in damp event
G.Fisichella;-renault showinbg that it has speed this year
F.Massa;-finally shows talent in a hot and damp race
T.Sato;-asian favorite does well on an almost-home track
K.Raikkonen;-got the speed and is my dark horse winner
J.Montoya;-handling probs, yet shows incredible bravery
J.Villeneuve- one time champ showing little speed, just makes pts.
| Dussander | 03-16-2005 03:59 PM |
JPM
Kimi
Fisi
FA
MSchum
Button
Barrichello
Webber
Kimi
Fisi
FA
MSchum
Button
Barrichello
Webber
| AndyRoo | 03-16-2005 04:38 PM |
F.Alonso
G.Fisichella
M.Webber
M.Schumacher
K.Raikkonen
N.Heidfeld
D.Coulthard
J.Montoya
didn't really think it through :)
go fisi!
- Andrew
G.Fisichella
M.Webber
M.Schumacher
K.Raikkonen
N.Heidfeld
D.Coulthard
J.Montoya
didn't really think it through :)
go fisi!
- Andrew
| johnfelstead | 03-16-2005 05:19 PM |
Kimi
Fernado
Montoya
Fissi
Rubinho
Jenson
DC
Sato
:D
Fernado
Montoya
Fissi
Rubinho
Jenson
DC
Sato
:D
| Ferg | 03-16-2005 09:16 PM |
My shot in the dark since I have zero clue what to expect from this weekend. :huh:
Button
Alonso
Fisichella
Kimi
Webber
Barrichello
Heidfeld
JV...throw him a bone before he gets teh boot.
[b][font=verdana][size=1][color=white][/color][/size][/font][/b]
Button
Alonso
Fisichella
Kimi
Webber
Barrichello
Heidfeld
JV...throw him a bone before he gets teh boot.
[b][font=verdana][size=1][color=white][/color][/size][/font][/b]
| finnRex | 03-16-2005 09:35 PM |
[QUOTE=johnfelstead]Kimi
Fernado
Montoya
Fissi
Rubinho
Jenson
DC
Sato
:D[/QUOTE]
Good taste;) So do you think Mr. Michael will not take points for 2 races in a row? That's highly unlikely, but I'd love to see that;)
Mika(Go Kimi!)
Fernado
Montoya
Fissi
Rubinho
Jenson
DC
Sato
:D[/QUOTE]
Good taste;) So do you think Mr. Michael will not take points for 2 races in a row? That's highly unlikely, but I'd love to see that;)
Mika(Go Kimi!)
| ArtGecko | 03-16-2005 11:38 PM |
J.Montoya
M.Schumacher
G.Fisichella
F.Alonso
R.Barrichello
K.Raikkonen
M.Webber
D.Coulthard
Steve
M.Schumacher
G.Fisichella
F.Alonso
R.Barrichello
K.Raikkonen
M.Webber
D.Coulthard
Steve
| grandpa rex | 03-17-2005 06:51 AM |
It's about time someone started this thread.
Defending my podium position, here are my predictions:
MS
Alonso
Fisi
Rubinho
Raikkonen
Montoya
Button
Weber
Defending my podium position, here are my predictions:
MS
Alonso
Fisi
Rubinho
Raikkonen
Montoya
Button
Weber
| grandpa rex | 03-17-2005 06:57 AM |
Here's the weather report for Kuala Lumpur.
Surprise! It's going to be hot and humid.
[url]http://www.weather.com/activities/travel/businesstraveler/weather/tenday.html?locid=MYXX0008[/url]
Surprise! It's going to be hot and humid.
[url]http://www.weather.com/activities/travel/businesstraveler/weather/tenday.html?locid=MYXX0008[/url]
| BillT | 03-17-2005 09:02 AM |
I saw one weather report for Kuala Lumpur that was predicting 'thundery storms' for most of Sunday...which could make things very interesting.
| Bonzo | 03-17-2005 09:21 AM |
Live practice tonight.
1:00am eastern!!!
1:00am eastern!!!
| Ferg | 03-17-2005 09:51 AM |
So we can all watch this weekend to see if JV keeps his race seat....I'm betting if he doesn't at least match Massa he's going to be shown the door.
Here's a nice timeline of how the JV/Sauber fiasco (yeah I'm calling it a fiasco after only one race) came about...
[QUOTE][b]HONEYMOON GONE AWRY[/b]
Has it all gone badly wrong already? Six months ago Sauber awaited Jacques Villeneuve's arrival in Hinwil for a seat fitting. The French-Canadian, certainly not known for sartorial elegance, had signed a two-year deal with the team, and there to meet him was Sauber's hierarchy all kitted out in suits.
Shortly thereafter he signed a rather ill-advised three-race deal with Renault, thought to have been schemed up by Flavio Briatore, who, having tired of Jarno Trulli, attempted to get his hands on his 2005 signing, Giancarlo Fisichella, a few races early. He would, the Italian thought, sign Villeneuve to replace Trulli, then offer the former BAR-Honda driver to Sauber in exchange for 'Fisi'. Sauber thought better of the offer, and turned Briatore down.
The 1997 World Champion thus lined up for Renault, and was comprehensively blown off by Fernando Alonso. At the time it was put to Peter Sauber that signing Villeneuve had been a mistake, which he countered by explaining that he had expected his new signing to initially battle in what was accepted as being a 'difficult' car. Signing Villeneuve, he added, was the beginning of a new chapter for the team, for never before had Sauber employed a Formula One ex-champion.
Early season testing went unremarkably, but there were known aerodynamic 'issues', put down to calibration problems with the new wind tunnel, with the C24, so no real fingers were pointed. Generally, though, Felipe Massa was quicker, but, so often, the young guns are quicker in pre-season testing than established masters.
Come Melbourne, the same trend continued, until qualifying 1, when Villeneuve elected to venture out on to a still-wet track on 'dry' rubber. The team permitted it, but only with bated breath and through gritted teeth. JV hooked fourth on the grid; great things were expected from his race�
Villeneuve disappointed, slipping unfathomably down the order to finish 13th. Four places were lost in a first corner incident, but responsibility for the balance was placed firmly at his door, particularly as Massa went from the back of the grid to 10th. "I can't explain the difference (in performance between Villeneuve and Massa), which is a big one. Really it was bigger than it looks," admitted a baffled Sauber afterwards.
Whether or not Sauber, who insisted upon a rolling performance clause in the driver contract, is looking to replace Villeneuve after just one race or not is debatable, but when last was a driver/team honeymoon over so quickly?[/QUOTE]
I expect to see JV back in Champ Cars driving for PKV before years end.
Here's a nice timeline of how the JV/Sauber fiasco (yeah I'm calling it a fiasco after only one race) came about...
[QUOTE][b]HONEYMOON GONE AWRY[/b]
Has it all gone badly wrong already? Six months ago Sauber awaited Jacques Villeneuve's arrival in Hinwil for a seat fitting. The French-Canadian, certainly not known for sartorial elegance, had signed a two-year deal with the team, and there to meet him was Sauber's hierarchy all kitted out in suits.
Shortly thereafter he signed a rather ill-advised three-race deal with Renault, thought to have been schemed up by Flavio Briatore, who, having tired of Jarno Trulli, attempted to get his hands on his 2005 signing, Giancarlo Fisichella, a few races early. He would, the Italian thought, sign Villeneuve to replace Trulli, then offer the former BAR-Honda driver to Sauber in exchange for 'Fisi'. Sauber thought better of the offer, and turned Briatore down.
The 1997 World Champion thus lined up for Renault, and was comprehensively blown off by Fernando Alonso. At the time it was put to Peter Sauber that signing Villeneuve had been a mistake, which he countered by explaining that he had expected his new signing to initially battle in what was accepted as being a 'difficult' car. Signing Villeneuve, he added, was the beginning of a new chapter for the team, for never before had Sauber employed a Formula One ex-champion.
Early season testing went unremarkably, but there were known aerodynamic 'issues', put down to calibration problems with the new wind tunnel, with the C24, so no real fingers were pointed. Generally, though, Felipe Massa was quicker, but, so often, the young guns are quicker in pre-season testing than established masters.
Come Melbourne, the same trend continued, until qualifying 1, when Villeneuve elected to venture out on to a still-wet track on 'dry' rubber. The team permitted it, but only with bated breath and through gritted teeth. JV hooked fourth on the grid; great things were expected from his race�
Villeneuve disappointed, slipping unfathomably down the order to finish 13th. Four places were lost in a first corner incident, but responsibility for the balance was placed firmly at his door, particularly as Massa went from the back of the grid to 10th. "I can't explain the difference (in performance between Villeneuve and Massa), which is a big one. Really it was bigger than it looks," admitted a baffled Sauber afterwards.
Whether or not Sauber, who insisted upon a rolling performance clause in the driver contract, is looking to replace Villeneuve after just one race or not is debatable, but when last was a driver/team honeymoon over so quickly?[/QUOTE]
I expect to see JV back in Champ Cars driving for PKV before years end.
| Ferg | 03-17-2005 09:59 AM |
Here's a decent preview for this weekend to help pass the time.
[QUOTE]With qualifying hit by rain and a messed-up grid, the Australian Grand Prix did not offer a realistic picture of the competitiveness of the teams, so several questions are still to be answered. This weekend's Malaysian Grand Prix will most likely solve that. Tom Keeble previews the race and rates the teams' chances of success ahead of the second round of the 2005 season
The Malaysian Grand Prix is hosted at Sepang � a relatively new, purpose built enclave that has been on the calendar since it was completed in 1999. The weekend is normally punctuated by thunder storms. Traditionally, the circuit is tough on tyres, and this year will be more so under the one set per race rule. The requirement for a near-maximum downforce setup is also exaggerated by this year's aerodynamic restrictions.
Analysis
The season opener at Australia somewhat confused by the weather-impacted qualifying session. That Renault delivered is certain, and Red Bull's quietly predicted step forward was evident, but quite what happened to some of the other teams and drivers in not so certain. Now the circus is going to Sepang with an imperfect picture of how the teams stack up against each other�
[b]Track:[/b] This purpose built circuit is a tough challenge for cars and drivers alike. The lap is quite long, and provides some respite in the name of the four long straights. There are a combination of slow and long, fast corners, variations in camber and some considerable variations in racing line available. Tyre wear is high, and pitstop times are relatively long. The circuit requires almost maximum downforce, emphasising low drag and powerful engines, with temperatures that ensure a tough weekend ensuring engines and drivers alike are kept cool enough to function.
[b]Tyres:[/b] It was at Melbourne last season that Bridgestone established they had eliminated their relative weakness at hot venues, by delivering Ferrari with a strongly competitive tyre for the weekend. Their performance in Australia illustrates that they are not giving up the challenge, so it is important for Michelin that they have not only restored the status quo at cooler circuits.
If the Melbourne pattern is repeated, then Bridgestone and Michelin should be very evenly matched � and both should have similar characteristics over the race distance; however, this is the first time that any of the teams will be able to run on these tyres under these circumstances, so this could turn out to be a tough weekend for one of the manufacturers if their simulations are off.
However, it is widely expected that the most important factor for all the teams will be correctly understanding the tyres; the emphasis on reducing wear is resulting in many teams struggling to work the tyres hard enough to run them at racing temperature: this in turn is very expensive in terms of both pace and the wear characteristics of the tyre, so expect to see more effort going in to setting up the cars for racing, rather than qualifying.
[b]Weather:[/b] Prediction for Sepang is always difficult, particularly as the region is known for sudden tropical storms; however, the general outlook is for a partially cloudy weekend, with reasonable chance of thunderstorms on Saturday or Sunday. There is a strong chance of showers interrupting running on Friday. Temperatures are expected to reach 35 degrees every day.
[b]Strategy:[/b] With overtaking expected to be possible, if not entirely trivial, the focus will shift more to qualifying with the right fuel loads than looking for positions on the grid. The big gains to be had from running at low fuel after another driver has stopped for more should result in some interesting second guessing and brinkmanship: having to stop a lap or two earlier than a close rival is going to cost places. High tyre wear could force some drivers down the three-stop road, but two should be expected for most, particularly as pitstops are quite expensive here. Single stopping is an option, but the penalty of running that extra fuel is only worth it if the driver is struggling to get racing heat in to the tyres on a two-stop load.
[b]Surprises:[/b] This is a circuit that allows drivers to make a difference, and two who have demonstrated that ability here in the past are Jenson Button and Michael Schumacher: either could have a weekend that belies the pace of their car.
[b]Conclusions:[/b] If Ferrari are going to win races before the introduction of the F2005, then this is the most likely place for it to happen, based on Schumacher's affinity for the circuit and the all round strength of the F2004M. However, in order to do so, they are going to have to beat a rampant Renault team, and the uncertain, but capable, McLarens. Considering this is the first proper test of reliability for engines nearing the end of life under the two engine rule, a few retirements can be expected.
Team by Team
[b]Ferrari[/b]
With Renault having such a strong Australian weekend, Rubens Barrichello's excellent drive through the field to finish on the podium seems to have been largely overlooked. With their Bridgestone tyres offering a wild card at every event, even racing the old F2004M, this is a team that cannot be ignored. Even without setting the fastest qualifying or racing laps, with strategist Ross Brawn on board and an excellent car, Ferrari can still win races.
Package: the F2004M is perhaps a little off the absolute pace of Renault and McLaren, but they have some advantages too. Using the old car gives a good idea on the baseline set-up required, which is important for this very technical track: the completeness of the package is expected to make it a strong contender. The engine seems to be working nicely � and whilst the impact of having to complete this race in high heat is yet to be seen, this is a package that has set standards for reliability that the other teams have been struggling to aspire to match.
Drivers: although Barrichello's weekend in Australia was excellent and he should go well enough in Sepang, whilst Michael Schumacher seemed off form, it is widely expected that the World Champion will be back to strength this weekend. The German always seems to go well here, and last season demonstrated this with a brutally quick qualifying and dominant race performance. As at any circuit where the driver can make a difference, it is impossible to rule him out of this one.
Objectives: podium finish
[b]BAR[/b]
The controversy surrounding the withdrawal of both BARs from the Melbourne race (in order to allow them the option of changing engines) has really overlooked the reason for doing so: both cars were outside the points. When it came down to it, the Melbourne performance was simply below par for a team who are looking for race wins this season.
Package: the package seems as though it ought to have more potential than last season's, but an aerodynamic shortfall has put the team off the pace. New components coming through in testing should provide a boost, but whilst the long straights in Sepang ought to demonstrate the strength of the engine, the high speed corners will show up the aero weakness. If, as in Australia, there is trouble maintaining heat in the tyres, there is not going to be much change; however, overall, the team have to be expecting this showing to be an improvement on the Melbourne experience, though making up places against the strength of the other front runners is not going to be a speedy affair.
Drivers: Last season, Takuma Sato spent the weekend overdriving the car and was rewarded accordingly; whilst capable of being very quick, he doesn't seem to be right on top of the Sepang circuit yet, however, the last year alongside Jenson Button seems to have helped reduce this overdriving tendency, so there is every reason to believe he will have a far better weekend this year. That said, this is a circuit that Button always seems to have had an affinity for � though whether it particularly rewards his smooth style or he just gets on particularly well with it is arguable. Although BAR are looking set to round out the top five teams and struggle to score points, if there is going to be a shock result for the weekend, then don't be surprised if it turns out to be Button on the podium.
Objectives: both cars in the points; podium finish at a stretch.
[b]Renault[/b]
A near perfect weekend in Australia has got Renault off to a nice start to the season, and clearly established them as the team in form. Whilst difficult to establish exactly how effectively the likes of McLaren or Ferrari could have challenged for the lead, neither driver put a foot wrong on race day, with Alonso fighting up to the podium from 13th. Although Malaysia has never been kind to the team, they are looking for a strong weekend here this time.
Package: the high speed corners will allow Renault to exercise the aerodynamic strength, but there are some question marks over the outright power developed by this engine, which could impact speed down the long straights: this is likely to compromise outright qualifying pace. However, the team have again produced a car that uses its tyres very well, which should emphasis the relative improvement of their pace compared against the competition as the race progresses.
Drivers: Having now won a race on pure merit, it will be interesting to see what difference it makes to Giancarlo Fisichella's confidence levels. Considering the boost that winning has offered other drivers in the past, there is every reason to believe that this should be another strong weekend for the Italian: this should give him a boost over Fernando Alonso, at least for now. Not that Alonso is expected to be anything other than quick in his own right. However, he'll have to qualify better than last year's 19th in order to stand any chance of winning. This car is capable of winning, provided they can see of the challenges of McLaren, or the Bridgestone-shod (and therefore unpredictable) Ferrari.
Objectives: winning � with both cars on the podium.
[b]Williams[/b]
Following a disappointing outing in Australia, Williams have to be slightly non-plussed about their prospects. From the evidence, the new car is not quite on a par with McLaren and Renault, and could struggle to contain Ferrari or BAR if either is on a charge. Nevertheless, new parts are in the pipeline, and solid points finishes are expected until they arrive.
Package: although the aerodynamic package is not delivering quite as well as the team expected, the car benefits from a powerful engine and solid mechanical grip� the deficit to the leading teams is not large. This car should be well placed to take advantage of any reliability issues for cars in front.
Drivers: considering the pace of the cars though the weekend, Mark Webber's strong qualifying in Australia was a nice boost to the team. That he was not able to hold on through the race, whilst Heidfeld struggled to make up places, was not a surprise; however, the positive news was that both drivers looked capable of taking the fight to Ferrari, even if Renault and McLaren seem to have some advantage. Webber's second place from qualifying (in a Jaguar) last season makes him favourite to perform better of the two drivers at this circuit, possibly even capable of targeting a podium, though Heidfeld is no slouch here either.
Objectives: finish with both cars in the points. Podium is currently possible, but winning is a stretch.
[b]McLaren[/b]
Despite an apparently dismal showing in Australia, there is little doubt that McLaren have actually produced a car that is capable of a decent turn of speed this year; certainly enough for them to be expecting podiums and challenging for wins until Ferrari's new car arrives. The Melbourne performance was frustrated by the weather-affected qualifying, and a stall at the start. Absolute pace was further compromised by deflectors falling off the cars, but, as illustrated by Raikkonen being bottled up by Schumacher, there is no doubt that it was capable of running with the front of the field.
Package: if McLaren's have returned to their old tradition of building fast but unreliable cars, then this race is going to give them the chance to show it. High temperatures will stress the engine to its limit, and whilst losing deflectors in Australia was inconvenient, in Sepang a repeat would have a bigger impact on handling and laptimes. However, this car is definitely quick. The engine appears to be playing in the same arena as the leading competition; the aerodynamic package is clearly in good shape: this circuit should suit the car well.
Drivers: both Raikkonen and Montoya have demonstrated excellent pace on previous visits to Malaysia, and there is little reason to believe that either will be off the pace this year; they should be fairly evenly matched, so choosing between them is not trivial. Both are in the peak of physical condition, so they should be capable of racing for the full duration, though any lapse in concentration that causes damage to the tyres will be punished�
Objectives: winning � with both cars on the podium.[/QUOTE]
[QUOTE]With qualifying hit by rain and a messed-up grid, the Australian Grand Prix did not offer a realistic picture of the competitiveness of the teams, so several questions are still to be answered. This weekend's Malaysian Grand Prix will most likely solve that. Tom Keeble previews the race and rates the teams' chances of success ahead of the second round of the 2005 season
The Malaysian Grand Prix is hosted at Sepang � a relatively new, purpose built enclave that has been on the calendar since it was completed in 1999. The weekend is normally punctuated by thunder storms. Traditionally, the circuit is tough on tyres, and this year will be more so under the one set per race rule. The requirement for a near-maximum downforce setup is also exaggerated by this year's aerodynamic restrictions.
Analysis
The season opener at Australia somewhat confused by the weather-impacted qualifying session. That Renault delivered is certain, and Red Bull's quietly predicted step forward was evident, but quite what happened to some of the other teams and drivers in not so certain. Now the circus is going to Sepang with an imperfect picture of how the teams stack up against each other�
[b]Track:[/b] This purpose built circuit is a tough challenge for cars and drivers alike. The lap is quite long, and provides some respite in the name of the four long straights. There are a combination of slow and long, fast corners, variations in camber and some considerable variations in racing line available. Tyre wear is high, and pitstop times are relatively long. The circuit requires almost maximum downforce, emphasising low drag and powerful engines, with temperatures that ensure a tough weekend ensuring engines and drivers alike are kept cool enough to function.
[b]Tyres:[/b] It was at Melbourne last season that Bridgestone established they had eliminated their relative weakness at hot venues, by delivering Ferrari with a strongly competitive tyre for the weekend. Their performance in Australia illustrates that they are not giving up the challenge, so it is important for Michelin that they have not only restored the status quo at cooler circuits.
If the Melbourne pattern is repeated, then Bridgestone and Michelin should be very evenly matched � and both should have similar characteristics over the race distance; however, this is the first time that any of the teams will be able to run on these tyres under these circumstances, so this could turn out to be a tough weekend for one of the manufacturers if their simulations are off.
However, it is widely expected that the most important factor for all the teams will be correctly understanding the tyres; the emphasis on reducing wear is resulting in many teams struggling to work the tyres hard enough to run them at racing temperature: this in turn is very expensive in terms of both pace and the wear characteristics of the tyre, so expect to see more effort going in to setting up the cars for racing, rather than qualifying.
[b]Weather:[/b] Prediction for Sepang is always difficult, particularly as the region is known for sudden tropical storms; however, the general outlook is for a partially cloudy weekend, with reasonable chance of thunderstorms on Saturday or Sunday. There is a strong chance of showers interrupting running on Friday. Temperatures are expected to reach 35 degrees every day.
[b]Strategy:[/b] With overtaking expected to be possible, if not entirely trivial, the focus will shift more to qualifying with the right fuel loads than looking for positions on the grid. The big gains to be had from running at low fuel after another driver has stopped for more should result in some interesting second guessing and brinkmanship: having to stop a lap or two earlier than a close rival is going to cost places. High tyre wear could force some drivers down the three-stop road, but two should be expected for most, particularly as pitstops are quite expensive here. Single stopping is an option, but the penalty of running that extra fuel is only worth it if the driver is struggling to get racing heat in to the tyres on a two-stop load.
[b]Surprises:[/b] This is a circuit that allows drivers to make a difference, and two who have demonstrated that ability here in the past are Jenson Button and Michael Schumacher: either could have a weekend that belies the pace of their car.
[b]Conclusions:[/b] If Ferrari are going to win races before the introduction of the F2005, then this is the most likely place for it to happen, based on Schumacher's affinity for the circuit and the all round strength of the F2004M. However, in order to do so, they are going to have to beat a rampant Renault team, and the uncertain, but capable, McLarens. Considering this is the first proper test of reliability for engines nearing the end of life under the two engine rule, a few retirements can be expected.
Team by Team
[b]Ferrari[/b]
With Renault having such a strong Australian weekend, Rubens Barrichello's excellent drive through the field to finish on the podium seems to have been largely overlooked. With their Bridgestone tyres offering a wild card at every event, even racing the old F2004M, this is a team that cannot be ignored. Even without setting the fastest qualifying or racing laps, with strategist Ross Brawn on board and an excellent car, Ferrari can still win races.
Package: the F2004M is perhaps a little off the absolute pace of Renault and McLaren, but they have some advantages too. Using the old car gives a good idea on the baseline set-up required, which is important for this very technical track: the completeness of the package is expected to make it a strong contender. The engine seems to be working nicely � and whilst the impact of having to complete this race in high heat is yet to be seen, this is a package that has set standards for reliability that the other teams have been struggling to aspire to match.
Drivers: although Barrichello's weekend in Australia was excellent and he should go well enough in Sepang, whilst Michael Schumacher seemed off form, it is widely expected that the World Champion will be back to strength this weekend. The German always seems to go well here, and last season demonstrated this with a brutally quick qualifying and dominant race performance. As at any circuit where the driver can make a difference, it is impossible to rule him out of this one.
Objectives: podium finish
[b]BAR[/b]
The controversy surrounding the withdrawal of both BARs from the Melbourne race (in order to allow them the option of changing engines) has really overlooked the reason for doing so: both cars were outside the points. When it came down to it, the Melbourne performance was simply below par for a team who are looking for race wins this season.
Package: the package seems as though it ought to have more potential than last season's, but an aerodynamic shortfall has put the team off the pace. New components coming through in testing should provide a boost, but whilst the long straights in Sepang ought to demonstrate the strength of the engine, the high speed corners will show up the aero weakness. If, as in Australia, there is trouble maintaining heat in the tyres, there is not going to be much change; however, overall, the team have to be expecting this showing to be an improvement on the Melbourne experience, though making up places against the strength of the other front runners is not going to be a speedy affair.
Drivers: Last season, Takuma Sato spent the weekend overdriving the car and was rewarded accordingly; whilst capable of being very quick, he doesn't seem to be right on top of the Sepang circuit yet, however, the last year alongside Jenson Button seems to have helped reduce this overdriving tendency, so there is every reason to believe he will have a far better weekend this year. That said, this is a circuit that Button always seems to have had an affinity for � though whether it particularly rewards his smooth style or he just gets on particularly well with it is arguable. Although BAR are looking set to round out the top five teams and struggle to score points, if there is going to be a shock result for the weekend, then don't be surprised if it turns out to be Button on the podium.
Objectives: both cars in the points; podium finish at a stretch.
[b]Renault[/b]
A near perfect weekend in Australia has got Renault off to a nice start to the season, and clearly established them as the team in form. Whilst difficult to establish exactly how effectively the likes of McLaren or Ferrari could have challenged for the lead, neither driver put a foot wrong on race day, with Alonso fighting up to the podium from 13th. Although Malaysia has never been kind to the team, they are looking for a strong weekend here this time.
Package: the high speed corners will allow Renault to exercise the aerodynamic strength, but there are some question marks over the outright power developed by this engine, which could impact speed down the long straights: this is likely to compromise outright qualifying pace. However, the team have again produced a car that uses its tyres very well, which should emphasis the relative improvement of their pace compared against the competition as the race progresses.
Drivers: Having now won a race on pure merit, it will be interesting to see what difference it makes to Giancarlo Fisichella's confidence levels. Considering the boost that winning has offered other drivers in the past, there is every reason to believe that this should be another strong weekend for the Italian: this should give him a boost over Fernando Alonso, at least for now. Not that Alonso is expected to be anything other than quick in his own right. However, he'll have to qualify better than last year's 19th in order to stand any chance of winning. This car is capable of winning, provided they can see of the challenges of McLaren, or the Bridgestone-shod (and therefore unpredictable) Ferrari.
Objectives: winning � with both cars on the podium.
[b]Williams[/b]
Following a disappointing outing in Australia, Williams have to be slightly non-plussed about their prospects. From the evidence, the new car is not quite on a par with McLaren and Renault, and could struggle to contain Ferrari or BAR if either is on a charge. Nevertheless, new parts are in the pipeline, and solid points finishes are expected until they arrive.
Package: although the aerodynamic package is not delivering quite as well as the team expected, the car benefits from a powerful engine and solid mechanical grip� the deficit to the leading teams is not large. This car should be well placed to take advantage of any reliability issues for cars in front.
Drivers: considering the pace of the cars though the weekend, Mark Webber's strong qualifying in Australia was a nice boost to the team. That he was not able to hold on through the race, whilst Heidfeld struggled to make up places, was not a surprise; however, the positive news was that both drivers looked capable of taking the fight to Ferrari, even if Renault and McLaren seem to have some advantage. Webber's second place from qualifying (in a Jaguar) last season makes him favourite to perform better of the two drivers at this circuit, possibly even capable of targeting a podium, though Heidfeld is no slouch here either.
Objectives: finish with both cars in the points. Podium is currently possible, but winning is a stretch.
[b]McLaren[/b]
Despite an apparently dismal showing in Australia, there is little doubt that McLaren have actually produced a car that is capable of a decent turn of speed this year; certainly enough for them to be expecting podiums and challenging for wins until Ferrari's new car arrives. The Melbourne performance was frustrated by the weather-affected qualifying, and a stall at the start. Absolute pace was further compromised by deflectors falling off the cars, but, as illustrated by Raikkonen being bottled up by Schumacher, there is no doubt that it was capable of running with the front of the field.
Package: if McLaren's have returned to their old tradition of building fast but unreliable cars, then this race is going to give them the chance to show it. High temperatures will stress the engine to its limit, and whilst losing deflectors in Australia was inconvenient, in Sepang a repeat would have a bigger impact on handling and laptimes. However, this car is definitely quick. The engine appears to be playing in the same arena as the leading competition; the aerodynamic package is clearly in good shape: this circuit should suit the car well.
Drivers: both Raikkonen and Montoya have demonstrated excellent pace on previous visits to Malaysia, and there is little reason to believe that either will be off the pace this year; they should be fairly evenly matched, so choosing between them is not trivial. Both are in the peak of physical condition, so they should be capable of racing for the full duration, though any lapse in concentration that causes damage to the tyres will be punished�
Objectives: winning � with both cars on the podium.[/QUOTE]
| Ferg | 03-17-2005 10:00 AM |
and the rest of it...
[QUOTE]
[b]Sauber[/b]
In Australia, Sauber's race was surprisingly dismal after Villeneuve's solid qualifying effort. The Canadian's fourth place was squandered off the line as a poor start and trouble getting heat into the tyres saw places falling off. In the event, Massa's pace on heavier fuel was considerably more impressive than shown by the ex-World Champion; whilst this could be a simple case of failing to work effectively with the Michelin tyres (this is the team's first season on them), it has raised an ugly spectre from the past � rumours are spreading that Villeneuve is past his sell by date.
Package: considering the exceptional reputation for reliability that Ferrari's engines enjoy, there is a strong expectation that Sauber should have a strong weekend in Sepang, as long as they can provide sufficient cooling for the power units. The car has solid aerodynamics, so the fast corners and long straights should work well for them. Although this will be a sterner test of the team's understanding of Michelin tyres, with a warm race under their belt, the improved experience will be important.
Drivers: Felipe Massa's Australian result did not reflect his pace, which could have been sufficient for a points finish if he had not been compelled to start from the back. After a solid weekend, the team are looking forward to seeing what he is capable of doing in Malaysia. Villeneuve's claim that his fitness is now back up to scratch will be tested by the tough race ahead; however, with his commitment to the sport being publicly questioned, a lot rides on his being able to get a solid race under his belt to dispel the rumours of his passing, before it undermines his season.
Objectives: qualify in the top ten; score points. Beat BAR.
[b]Red Bull[/b]
Considering Red Bull's performance in Melbourne, where Coulthard spent much of the race in second place before losing out on a podium through the final pit stops, it will be interesting to see how the team meet the challenge of Malaysia � the circuit that saw them put Mark Webber on the front row in qualifying last year. Despite failing to match the pace of the front runners over the full distance, there is little doubt that this car is closer to the pace than expected.
Package: all told, the package has demonstrated itself a considerable step forward on last year's effort. Although benefiting from the wet qualifying, the race pace of the team was very solid, illustrating a pace that genuinely had the team earning two points paying finishes. However, the solid step forward from the engine means running it close to the limit of tolerance, so facing the extreme temperatures Sepang in the second half of the lifetime of the units could bring the team's first retirements, too.
Drivers: despite Christian Klien's solid performance in Australia, the light remains firmly on team leader David Coulthard, who had an excellent race, from blistering start through to his final stop. Whilst question marks remain over Coulthard's ability to do himself justice in single shot qualifying, the drivers have buoyant confidence and will be looking for another strong weekend.
Objectives: qualify in the top ten, score points. Beat Toyota!
[b]Toyota[/b]
Following great fortunes with the rain and a strong performance in Australian qualifying, Jarno Trulli's race was far from spectacular as he paid the price for pushing too hard in the opening stint. However, whilst Trulli's tyres went off, Ralf Schumacher was putting together a fairly respectable set of laps from the back: without an extra stop to tighten his seatbelts, perhaps a points finish would have been possible. The upshot is, Toyota's performance in Australia raised some eyebrows, though they are not yet a threat outside the midfield.
Package: The long straights should help Toyota show off what strength the engine has, but the high speed corners will expose weaknesses in the aero package, whilst others will show up any issues with mechanical grip or balance. Cooling could be an issue, as the engines will face real stress from the heat during the second half of their lives. Anticipating an incremental improvement to the aerodynamics, the package could show well in Malaysia, but realistically, that probably means fighting Sauber for the final point.
Drivers: Although both Trulli and Schumacher have plenty of experience, Trulli could be expected to have an edge, as he tends to have a better weekend here. However, considering the punishment that the tyres should take from the race, and the way Trulli blistered his tyres in Melbourne, the story from the race could be different: certainly, Trulli is going to have to do a better job of looking after them if he doesn't want a repeat of the Australian race experience.
Objectives: head the midfield; score points.
[b]Jordan[/b]
In Melbourne, the surprising conditions allowed Jordan to outperform in qualifying � especially showing the potential of Karthikeyan on a drying track. However, there is not getting away from the fact that the race performance was really not on a par with the midfield, and there has not been enough work on the car and drivers to change that for Malaysia.
Package: clearly, this year's car is more stable in wet weather than its predecessor. However, as more than one onlooker has observed, the handling doesn't improve noticeably as the track dries. Another weekend gives the team more time to test and understand the weaknesses of the revised car; if they can find resolution for any of them, then they stand to make up a lot of the gap to the midfield, but they are not really expected to challenge anyone.
Drivers: although Karthikeyan had a solid qualifying session in Australia, his race was not quite so solid: the car was not easy to drive, which did not help, and both drivers spent time off the circuit. Monteiro's lack of a finish has cost him some experience, but both should have a better idea of how to set up the car for a full race distance now. The biggest step forward the team are going to see from the package this season is going to come when the drivers can get the car balanced properly to last the race, without compromising qualifying.
Objectives: make a showing, beat Minardi, continue putting miles on the car and drivers.
[b]Minardi[/b]
After the farce in Australia, Minardi may have cost themselves a portion of their traditional fan base, but clearly they are intent on being one of the more interesting teams off the track thus season, if they can't set the world alight on it. In Malaysia, there is no excuse for turning out with anything other than the 2005 specification car, though the limited running the team hacw had will clearly not improve their chances any. Considering the lack of performance objectives, there are few excuses for poor reliability from the car� though the drivers could have an interesting time at this technical circuit, particularly if it rains.
Objectives: complete race distance.[/QUOTE]
Here's hoping for a great race with some unusual results.
:D
[QUOTE]
[b]Sauber[/b]
In Australia, Sauber's race was surprisingly dismal after Villeneuve's solid qualifying effort. The Canadian's fourth place was squandered off the line as a poor start and trouble getting heat into the tyres saw places falling off. In the event, Massa's pace on heavier fuel was considerably more impressive than shown by the ex-World Champion; whilst this could be a simple case of failing to work effectively with the Michelin tyres (this is the team's first season on them), it has raised an ugly spectre from the past � rumours are spreading that Villeneuve is past his sell by date.
Package: considering the exceptional reputation for reliability that Ferrari's engines enjoy, there is a strong expectation that Sauber should have a strong weekend in Sepang, as long as they can provide sufficient cooling for the power units. The car has solid aerodynamics, so the fast corners and long straights should work well for them. Although this will be a sterner test of the team's understanding of Michelin tyres, with a warm race under their belt, the improved experience will be important.
Drivers: Felipe Massa's Australian result did not reflect his pace, which could have been sufficient for a points finish if he had not been compelled to start from the back. After a solid weekend, the team are looking forward to seeing what he is capable of doing in Malaysia. Villeneuve's claim that his fitness is now back up to scratch will be tested by the tough race ahead; however, with his commitment to the sport being publicly questioned, a lot rides on his being able to get a solid race under his belt to dispel the rumours of his passing, before it undermines his season.
Objectives: qualify in the top ten; score points. Beat BAR.
[b]Red Bull[/b]
Considering Red Bull's performance in Melbourne, where Coulthard spent much of the race in second place before losing out on a podium through the final pit stops, it will be interesting to see how the team meet the challenge of Malaysia � the circuit that saw them put Mark Webber on the front row in qualifying last year. Despite failing to match the pace of the front runners over the full distance, there is little doubt that this car is closer to the pace than expected.
Package: all told, the package has demonstrated itself a considerable step forward on last year's effort. Although benefiting from the wet qualifying, the race pace of the team was very solid, illustrating a pace that genuinely had the team earning two points paying finishes. However, the solid step forward from the engine means running it close to the limit of tolerance, so facing the extreme temperatures Sepang in the second half of the lifetime of the units could bring the team's first retirements, too.
Drivers: despite Christian Klien's solid performance in Australia, the light remains firmly on team leader David Coulthard, who had an excellent race, from blistering start through to his final stop. Whilst question marks remain over Coulthard's ability to do himself justice in single shot qualifying, the drivers have buoyant confidence and will be looking for another strong weekend.
Objectives: qualify in the top ten, score points. Beat Toyota!
[b]Toyota[/b]
Following great fortunes with the rain and a strong performance in Australian qualifying, Jarno Trulli's race was far from spectacular as he paid the price for pushing too hard in the opening stint. However, whilst Trulli's tyres went off, Ralf Schumacher was putting together a fairly respectable set of laps from the back: without an extra stop to tighten his seatbelts, perhaps a points finish would have been possible. The upshot is, Toyota's performance in Australia raised some eyebrows, though they are not yet a threat outside the midfield.
Package: The long straights should help Toyota show off what strength the engine has, but the high speed corners will expose weaknesses in the aero package, whilst others will show up any issues with mechanical grip or balance. Cooling could be an issue, as the engines will face real stress from the heat during the second half of their lives. Anticipating an incremental improvement to the aerodynamics, the package could show well in Malaysia, but realistically, that probably means fighting Sauber for the final point.
Drivers: Although both Trulli and Schumacher have plenty of experience, Trulli could be expected to have an edge, as he tends to have a better weekend here. However, considering the punishment that the tyres should take from the race, and the way Trulli blistered his tyres in Melbourne, the story from the race could be different: certainly, Trulli is going to have to do a better job of looking after them if he doesn't want a repeat of the Australian race experience.
Objectives: head the midfield; score points.
[b]Jordan[/b]
In Melbourne, the surprising conditions allowed Jordan to outperform in qualifying � especially showing the potential of Karthikeyan on a drying track. However, there is not getting away from the fact that the race performance was really not on a par with the midfield, and there has not been enough work on the car and drivers to change that for Malaysia.
Package: clearly, this year's car is more stable in wet weather than its predecessor. However, as more than one onlooker has observed, the handling doesn't improve noticeably as the track dries. Another weekend gives the team more time to test and understand the weaknesses of the revised car; if they can find resolution for any of them, then they stand to make up a lot of the gap to the midfield, but they are not really expected to challenge anyone.
Drivers: although Karthikeyan had a solid qualifying session in Australia, his race was not quite so solid: the car was not easy to drive, which did not help, and both drivers spent time off the circuit. Monteiro's lack of a finish has cost him some experience, but both should have a better idea of how to set up the car for a full race distance now. The biggest step forward the team are going to see from the package this season is going to come when the drivers can get the car balanced properly to last the race, without compromising qualifying.
Objectives: make a showing, beat Minardi, continue putting miles on the car and drivers.
[b]Minardi[/b]
After the farce in Australia, Minardi may have cost themselves a portion of their traditional fan base, but clearly they are intent on being one of the more interesting teams off the track thus season, if they can't set the world alight on it. In Malaysia, there is no excuse for turning out with anything other than the 2005 specification car, though the limited running the team hacw had will clearly not improve their chances any. Considering the lack of performance objectives, there are few excuses for poor reliability from the car� though the drivers could have an interesting time at this technical circuit, particularly if it rains.
Objectives: complete race distance.[/QUOTE]
Here's hoping for a great race with some unusual results.
:D
| artkevin | 03-17-2005 11:13 AM |
Good God Ferg. Where do you find those?
I think you are a bigger F1 nut then I am, which is saying a lot.
I think you are a bigger F1 nut then I am, which is saying a lot.
| johnfelstead | 03-17-2005 11:13 AM |
[QUOTE=amp5]From F1live: FIA clamp down on engine loophole
Following the decision taken by BAR Honda to retire two healthy race cars at the Australian Grand Prix in order to gain fresh engines for this weekend�s race in Malaysia, the FIA have today announced that with immediate effect a team must now explain the circumstances of its retirement to the Stewards of the meeting. It now seems that the engine loophole has been closed by the FIA.
What follows is a press release from the governing body.
Link: [url="http://f1.racing-live.com/en/headlines/news/detail/050316104737.shtml"]http://f1.racing-live.com/en/headlines/news/detail/050316104737.shtml[/url][/QUOTE]
[img]http://www.btinternet.com/~john.felstead/funny/F1steeringwheel.jpg[/img]
Following the decision taken by BAR Honda to retire two healthy race cars at the Australian Grand Prix in order to gain fresh engines for this weekend�s race in Malaysia, the FIA have today announced that with immediate effect a team must now explain the circumstances of its retirement to the Stewards of the meeting. It now seems that the engine loophole has been closed by the FIA.
What follows is a press release from the governing body.
Link: [url="http://f1.racing-live.com/en/headlines/news/detail/050316104737.shtml"]http://f1.racing-live.com/en/headlines/news/detail/050316104737.shtml[/url][/QUOTE]
[img]http://www.btinternet.com/~john.felstead/funny/F1steeringwheel.jpg[/img]
| Arioch | 03-17-2005 11:18 AM |
[QUOTE=johnfelstead]Kimi
Fernado
Montoya
Fissi
Rubinho
Jenson
DC
Sato
:D[/QUOTE]
Nice picks! I'm gonna have to go along the same lines and pick...
kimi
fissi
woobins
jenson
monty
alfonso
sato
shovel face
Same people, different order.
Fernado
Montoya
Fissi
Rubinho
Jenson
DC
Sato
:D[/QUOTE]
Nice picks! I'm gonna have to go along the same lines and pick...
kimi
fissi
woobins
jenson
monty
alfonso
sato
shovel face
Same people, different order.
| Dr. WOT | 03-17-2005 12:01 PM |
[QUOTE=johnfelstead][img]http://www.btinternet.com/~john.felstead/funny/F1steeringwheel.jpg[/img][/QUOTE]
That should read "Hydraulics failure" which is the favorite excuse for undisclosed breakdowns (besides an engine detonating is the one thing that the loophole DID cover).
That should read "Hydraulics failure" which is the favorite excuse for undisclosed breakdowns (besides an engine detonating is the one thing that the loophole DID cover).
| artkevin | 03-17-2005 12:29 PM |
BAR is saying that they cleared it with the FIA prior to the Austrialian GP and will most likey go out with new engines w/o penatly. I don't know what the FIA thinks about that.
From Planetf1.com
[COLOR=Navy]Jenson Button and his team-mate Takuma Sato will both be racing with new engines at this weekend�s Malaysian GP, despite the FIA�s decision on Wednesday to close the loophole in the engine rule.
New rules for 2005 demanded that engines last for two whole race weekends, or a grid penalty would be imposed. But in order to avoid punishing unlucky drivers twice, the FIA agreed to allow competitors to change their engine without penalty if they had retired from the previous race.
BAR pushed that rule to the limit two weeks ago in Australia when they ordered Button and Sato to pull into the pits on the last lap, declaring that both cars had failed to finish the race.
The team openly admitted they planned to exploit the engine rules by changing both engines before the Malaysian GP and although the FIA hit back on Wednesday by closing the loophole and threatening to take action, Button says he�ll still be using a new Honda engine this weekend.
"The rules are the rules, they are what they are and they say you can change your engine if you stop before the chequered flag," he told Reuters.
"I can't really see what the issue is.�
"The team made sure with the FIA beforehand that this was the case...and that's it."
And having a new engine at Sepang would be a huge advantage because the soaring temperatures and high humidity not only tax the drivers but also their equipment.
"I think people will suffer," said Button. "Either they are going to have to change their engine after Friday practice or they will really have to turn it down for the race.�
�I think some teams will struggle so it should help us. So I think it was the right thing to do for the team."[/COLOR]
From Planetf1.com
[COLOR=Navy]Jenson Button and his team-mate Takuma Sato will both be racing with new engines at this weekend�s Malaysian GP, despite the FIA�s decision on Wednesday to close the loophole in the engine rule.
New rules for 2005 demanded that engines last for two whole race weekends, or a grid penalty would be imposed. But in order to avoid punishing unlucky drivers twice, the FIA agreed to allow competitors to change their engine without penalty if they had retired from the previous race.
BAR pushed that rule to the limit two weeks ago in Australia when they ordered Button and Sato to pull into the pits on the last lap, declaring that both cars had failed to finish the race.
The team openly admitted they planned to exploit the engine rules by changing both engines before the Malaysian GP and although the FIA hit back on Wednesday by closing the loophole and threatening to take action, Button says he�ll still be using a new Honda engine this weekend.
"The rules are the rules, they are what they are and they say you can change your engine if you stop before the chequered flag," he told Reuters.
"I can't really see what the issue is.�
"The team made sure with the FIA beforehand that this was the case...and that's it."
And having a new engine at Sepang would be a huge advantage because the soaring temperatures and high humidity not only tax the drivers but also their equipment.
"I think people will suffer," said Button. "Either they are going to have to change their engine after Friday practice or they will really have to turn it down for the race.�
�I think some teams will struggle so it should help us. So I think it was the right thing to do for the team."[/COLOR]
| johnfelstead | 03-17-2005 12:51 PM |
[QUOTE=Dr. WOT]besides an engine detonating is the one thing that the loophole DID cover.[/QUOTE]
If the engine dets itself to pieces you cant race it again, so i dont know what you mean?
Its a piece of cake to make an engine blow up, just wind in too much ignition timing, alter the valve timing so they hit the pistons, lean it out, switch off the rev limiter...... take your pick, all of these are unenforcable regarding the FIA and its stupid two race engine rules. If you want a blown engine on the last lap, its easy peasy lemon squeezy to achieve.
If the engine dets itself to pieces you cant race it again, so i dont know what you mean?
Its a piece of cake to make an engine blow up, just wind in too much ignition timing, alter the valve timing so they hit the pistons, lean it out, switch off the rev limiter...... take your pick, all of these are unenforcable regarding the FIA and its stupid two race engine rules. If you want a blown engine on the last lap, its easy peasy lemon squeezy to achieve.
| PaulC | 03-17-2005 01:01 PM |
I don't see how the FIA can penalize BAR since they closed this loophole AFTER the Australian GP. Are they supposed to go back in time and finish the race? Seems the FIA was pretty clear that they knew the possiblility of teams abusing this rule and were just in denial that teams would actually do it.
| johnfelstead | 03-17-2005 01:21 PM |
you forget you are dealing with the FIA, they dont follow logic Paul.
F1 has really lost its soul with these new rules, it's suposed to be the ultimate performance race series, not an endurance race series. Even in endurance racing you dont get penalised if you use new engines.
I despise these new rules, we now have drivers scared of flat spotting tyres in an ambitious overtake move, so they wont bother trying. You have cars that have even lower mechnical grip than before, so they rely even more on aero grip which has reduced, which means they cant get close to overtake, hence why shuey was stuck at the back in a much faster car. We have farcical ends of races where the guessing game will be who is brave enough to take the FIA on and find a way to kill their cars in a way that wont get penalised.
What is the purpose of these rules?
save funds? how has doubling your test mileage and having to make new engines for one season before going to V8's saved money?
improve the show? how does making the cars run on rock hard tyres and having a lottery for qualifying that most of the world dont get to see 50% of do that?
Improve safety? How does forcing drivers to run on suspect tyres that are potentailly going to fail as the season progresses and they push the envelope going to do that?
This isnt F1 as it should be, they have lost the plot and it needs a fresh pair of hands taking control before its too late.
F1 has really lost its soul with these new rules, it's suposed to be the ultimate performance race series, not an endurance race series. Even in endurance racing you dont get penalised if you use new engines.
I despise these new rules, we now have drivers scared of flat spotting tyres in an ambitious overtake move, so they wont bother trying. You have cars that have even lower mechnical grip than before, so they rely even more on aero grip which has reduced, which means they cant get close to overtake, hence why shuey was stuck at the back in a much faster car. We have farcical ends of races where the guessing game will be who is brave enough to take the FIA on and find a way to kill their cars in a way that wont get penalised.
What is the purpose of these rules?
save funds? how has doubling your test mileage and having to make new engines for one season before going to V8's saved money?
improve the show? how does making the cars run on rock hard tyres and having a lottery for qualifying that most of the world dont get to see 50% of do that?
Improve safety? How does forcing drivers to run on suspect tyres that are potentailly going to fail as the season progresses and they push the envelope going to do that?
This isnt F1 as it should be, they have lost the plot and it needs a fresh pair of hands taking control before its too late.
| REX8 | 03-17-2005 01:21 PM |
Come on....doesn't anyone take JPM over Kimi?
| johnfelstead | 03-17-2005 01:23 PM |
no ;)
| artkevin | 03-17-2005 02:20 PM |
[QUOTE=REX8]Come on....doesn't anyone take JPM over Kimi?[/QUOTE]
I don't think JPM has ever done well in Malaysia but I am pulling for him for sure. Seems more like a Kmi track.
I don't think JPM has ever done well in Malaysia but I am pulling for him for sure. Seems more like a Kmi track.
| Dr. WOT | 03-17-2005 02:32 PM |
[QUOTE=johnfelstead]If the engine dets itself to pieces you cant race it again, so i dont know what you mean?
[/QUOTE]
If you blow a motor you get a 10 grid position penalty at the next race, not a very clever way to gain an advantage. It was non-engine related failures that were the focus of the loophole.
[/QUOTE]
If you blow a motor you get a 10 grid position penalty at the next race, not a very clever way to gain an advantage. It was non-engine related failures that were the focus of the loophole.
| johnfelstead | 03-17-2005 02:53 PM |
wrong, that loophole has not been closed. If you Blow your engine during the race you do not get an automatic 10 place penalty for the next race.
the rule says "Any driver who failed to finish the race at the first of the two Events may start the second with a different engine without incurring a penalty"
It does not stipulate how that failure to finish occured, so you can blow the engine in the race and have a fresh engine for the next one. What you cant do is change the engine during the race meeting (practice and qualifying) without penalty in that race meeting and if you finish you have to start the next race meeting with the same engine.
the rule says "Any driver who failed to finish the race at the first of the two Events may start the second with a different engine without incurring a penalty"
It does not stipulate how that failure to finish occured, so you can blow the engine in the race and have a fresh engine for the next one. What you cant do is change the engine during the race meeting (practice and qualifying) without penalty in that race meeting and if you finish you have to start the next race meeting with the same engine.
| Dr. WOT | 03-17-2005 03:11 PM |
I'll admit I'm a bit confused, but I think you are as well. Engine failures were the whole point of the rule last year as well as this year.
"However, should an engine change be carried out after the first qualifying practice session but before the race [i]at either of the two Events,[/i] any drivers concerned will be required to start the relevant race (in this case the next race) from the back of the starting grid in accordance with Article 126."
Trying to understand this makes my head hurt. :rolleyes: :D
Here is the official clarification:
[quote]2005 FIA FORMULA ONE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
CLARIFICATION: TWO-RACE ENGINES
16.03.2005
�Each driver may use no more than one engine for two consecutive Events. Should it become necessary for a driver to use another engine he will drop ten places on the starting grid at that Event and may not use another engine until the end of the next Event. Any driver who failed to finish the race at the first of the two Events may start the second with a different engine without incurring a penalty.�
The purpose of including the final sentence in the first paragraph of Article 85 of the 2005 Formula One Sporting Regulations was to ensure that if a driver failed to finish the first of two races he would not be penalised in the second if the engine was changed, the principle being that failing to finish a race was sufficient penalty.
As a result of what happened on the last lap of the race in Melbourne a distinction will now be made between failing to finish and choosing not to finish, the former is normally accidental or beyond the control of the driver while the latter is not.
In order to ensure the purpose of the regulation is fully respected, and unless the reason is completely clear, in future we will require the team of any driver who fails to finish the first of two races to explain the circumstances surrounding the retirement to the Stewards of the meeting.
[/quote]
Typical FIA, leave it up to the stewards, that's always been their old standby. It seems implied to me at least that the idea here is for the motor to last 2 races, and if it doesn't, isn't that the whole point?
"However, should an engine change be carried out after the first qualifying practice session but before the race [i]at either of the two Events,[/i] any drivers concerned will be required to start the relevant race (in this case the next race) from the back of the starting grid in accordance with Article 126."
Trying to understand this makes my head hurt. :rolleyes: :D
Here is the official clarification:
[quote]2005 FIA FORMULA ONE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
CLARIFICATION: TWO-RACE ENGINES
16.03.2005
�Each driver may use no more than one engine for two consecutive Events. Should it become necessary for a driver to use another engine he will drop ten places on the starting grid at that Event and may not use another engine until the end of the next Event. Any driver who failed to finish the race at the first of the two Events may start the second with a different engine without incurring a penalty.�
The purpose of including the final sentence in the first paragraph of Article 85 of the 2005 Formula One Sporting Regulations was to ensure that if a driver failed to finish the first of two races he would not be penalised in the second if the engine was changed, the principle being that failing to finish a race was sufficient penalty.
As a result of what happened on the last lap of the race in Melbourne a distinction will now be made between failing to finish and choosing not to finish, the former is normally accidental or beyond the control of the driver while the latter is not.
In order to ensure the purpose of the regulation is fully respected, and unless the reason is completely clear, in future we will require the team of any driver who fails to finish the first of two races to explain the circumstances surrounding the retirement to the Stewards of the meeting.
[/quote]
Typical FIA, leave it up to the stewards, that's always been their old standby. It seems implied to me at least that the idea here is for the motor to last 2 races, and if it doesn't, isn't that the whole point?
| johnfelstead | 03-17-2005 04:32 PM |
My head hurts too, this is rediculous if we are struggling!
"However, should an engine change be carried out after the first qualifying practice session but before the race at either of the two Events, any drivers concerned will be required to start the [b]relevant race[/b] from the back of the starting grid in accordance with Article 126."
I read that as only relevent on a per race meeting basis, with the clock starting afresh at first free practice of each of the race meetings. Otherwise if you had an engine failure at race one you would be sent to the back of the grid for race 2, and that is an unfair penalty which is what the FIA are trying to mitigate in the not finish the race, you get a new engine policy.
The way i read all this is if you finish race1 you start race 2 meeting with that engine, period.
If you dont finish race1 you get the option of using a new engine for the next race meeting, period, and the clock on engines is reset.
If you change your engine (be that #1 or #2 engine) after the free untimed practice starts but before timed qualifying, you go back 10 places on the grid from your qualy spot for that race.
If you change your engine (be that #1 or #2 engine) after timed qualifying but before the race you go to the back of the grid.
"However, should an engine change be carried out after the first qualifying practice session but before the race at either of the two Events, any drivers concerned will be required to start the [b]relevant race[/b] from the back of the starting grid in accordance with Article 126."
I read that as only relevent on a per race meeting basis, with the clock starting afresh at first free practice of each of the race meetings. Otherwise if you had an engine failure at race one you would be sent to the back of the grid for race 2, and that is an unfair penalty which is what the FIA are trying to mitigate in the not finish the race, you get a new engine policy.
The way i read all this is if you finish race1 you start race 2 meeting with that engine, period.
If you dont finish race1 you get the option of using a new engine for the next race meeting, period, and the clock on engines is reset.
If you change your engine (be that #1 or #2 engine) after the free untimed practice starts but before timed qualifying, you go back 10 places on the grid from your qualy spot for that race.
If you change your engine (be that #1 or #2 engine) after timed qualifying but before the race you go to the back of the grid.
| Ferg | 03-17-2005 08:56 PM |
[QUOTE=artkevin]Good God Ferg. Where do you find those?
I think you are a bigger F1 nut then I am, which is saying a lot.[/QUOTE]
I used to get all of my information from two sites, Autosport.com and AtlasF1, both of which are subscription only services. There are plenty of other good sites out there, most of which are free...but I've been reading the printed verison of Autosport every week for the past ten years or so, and their website before it was pay only...same with Atlas's website. As far as in depth coverage from people in the industry (some go way back) there's nothing that can touch Autosport. They also have a weekly Nigel Roebuck column, which would be a bargain at any price. He's simply the best Formula One journalist alive, period.
Apparently someone in charge must have noticed I was bouncing back and forth between those two sites because they've now merged into Autosport-Atlas.com...which is fine by me.
As far as me being a bigger F1 freak than you...I don't know...Do you buy a copy of Autocourse at the end of every season?
[img]http://www.pbase.com/image/40925354/large.jpg[/img]
At least I've stopped adding crap to the Schuey Shrine...:o
I think you are a bigger F1 nut then I am, which is saying a lot.[/QUOTE]
I used to get all of my information from two sites, Autosport.com and AtlasF1, both of which are subscription only services. There are plenty of other good sites out there, most of which are free...but I've been reading the printed verison of Autosport every week for the past ten years or so, and their website before it was pay only...same with Atlas's website. As far as in depth coverage from people in the industry (some go way back) there's nothing that can touch Autosport. They also have a weekly Nigel Roebuck column, which would be a bargain at any price. He's simply the best Formula One journalist alive, period.
Apparently someone in charge must have noticed I was bouncing back and forth between those two sites because they've now merged into Autosport-Atlas.com...which is fine by me.
As far as me being a bigger F1 freak than you...I don't know...Do you buy a copy of Autocourse at the end of every season?
[img]http://www.pbase.com/image/40925354/large.jpg[/img]
At least I've stopped adding crap to the Schuey Shrine...:o
| sbomm | 03-17-2005 09:28 PM |
One of my favorite race review sites is [URL=http://f1rejects.com/][color=red]Formula One Rejects[/color][/URL]
| artkevin | 03-18-2005 09:29 AM |
Ferg, I would if I had the cash. I spend all my money on making paintings/drawings of the cars and drivers so I can go to the races and meet/see them in person. I try to buy Autosport every week with GP coverage. But that too, hits the ole pocket book pretty hard. Effing $7.95 for a magazine!
| Bonzo | 03-18-2005 09:32 AM |
Haha, after first round of pratice it looks more like Sepang rally-x.
I have a feeling this race is going to make Australia look tame.
I have a feeling this race is going to make Australia look tame.
| Ferg | 03-18-2005 09:36 AM |
It's getting pretty silly around here, last week Autosport was up to $9.95! If it gets over ten I'm just going to have to stop.
I had no idea you painted motosports subjects. That's pretty much the coolest thing ever. I'd love to see some of your work.
:D
Oh, and here are the complete results from the two Friday practice sessions.
[QUOTE]Zonta Fastest in Practice 1 - Malaysia
By Will Gray Friday, 18 March 2005 04:05
Toyota test driver Ricardo Zonta finished fastest in Friday's opening practice session for Sunday's Malaysian Grand Prix, as the temperatures rocketed to 33 degrees Celsius in Kuala Lumpur.
Zonta, who only drives on Friday as Toyota's third driver, ran 17 laps of the Sepang circuit as several of the lead contenders limited their running to preserve their engines for the tough race conditions.
The Brazilian driver finished with a time of 1:34.092 to lead second-placed McLaren test driver Pedro de la Rosa by 1.052 seconds, with Vitantonio Liuzzi third for Red Bull Racing.
World Champion Michael Schumacher completed 13 laps - more than most of the lead race drivers - and finished 1.919 seconds off the pace in fourth, just ahead of fifth-placed Jenson Button, of BAR-Honda.
Giancarlo Fisichella, the winner of the first race of the season in Australia, did not set a time, nor did his Renault teammate Fernando Alonso or session-leader Zonta's teammate Jarno Trulli.
The session began under blue skies littered with small clouds as the threatened rain stayed away but the grandstands were relatively empty as few bared the 33-degree temperatures and 55 percent humidity.
With 12 minutes gone Ricardo Zonta was on top of the times for Toyota but he dropped down when the big-guns came out as de la Rosa put his McLaren top of the times half a second ahead of Schumacher's second-placed Ferrari.
With 15 minutes to go Liuzzi, whose Red Bull team made an impressive points-scoring debut at the last race in Australia, had moved to within 0.009 seconds of de la Rosa's lap time to slot into second ahead of Schumacher.
But by that time only half of the 24 cars had set a competitive lap time as most teams chose to limit their running and preserve their engines for what will be a tough race on both machinery and drivers on Sunday.
The first incident in the session came with nine minutes to go when Indian Narain Karthikeyan spun his Jordan at turn nine then soon after Takuma Sato harmlessly spun his BAR-Honda at turn one.
Zonta resumed his position at the top as the time clocked down after he put in an extremely fast lap that proved unbeatable and ensured his Toyota team would end the session on top.
Pos Driver Team Time Laps
1. Zonta Toyota (M) 1:34.092 17
2. de la Rosa McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:35.144 + 1.052 15
3. Liuzzi Red Bull-Cosworth (M) 1:35.691 + 1.599 18
4. M.Schumacher Ferrari (B) 1:36.011 + 1.919 13
5. Button BAR-Honda (M) 1:36.513 + 2.421 9
6. Heidfeld Williams-BMW (M) 1:36.551 + 2.459 7
7. Raikkonen McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:36.563 + 2.471 6
8. Montoya McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:36.610 + 2.518 5
9. Massa Sauber-Petronas (M) 1:36.963 + 2.871 4
10. Webber Williams-BMW (M) 1:36.989 + 2.897 8
11. R.Schumacher Toyota (M) 1:37.168 + 3.076 5
12. Coulthard Red Bull-Cosworth (M) 1:37.338 + 3.246 8
13. Sato BAR-Honda (M) 1:37.366 + 3.274 9
14. Klien Red Bull-Cosworth (M) 1:37.642 + 3.550 9
15. Barrichello Ferrari (B) 1:37.843 + 3.751 4
16. Villeneuve Sauber-Petronas (M) 1:38.416 + 4.324 8
17. Monteiro Jordan-Toyota (B) 1:39.571 + 5.479 18
18. Doornbos Jordan-Toyota (B) 1:40.289 + 6.197 20
19. Karthikeyan Jordan-Toyota (B) 1:40.375 + 6.283 14
20. Friesacher Minardi-Cosworth (B) 1:43.574 + 9.482 18
21. Albers Minardi-Cosworth (B) 1:43.691 + 9.599 12
22. Fisichella Renault (M) No Time 2
23. Alonso Renault (M) No Time 2
24. Trulli Toyota (M) No Time 2[/QUOTE]
I had no idea you painted motosports subjects. That's pretty much the coolest thing ever. I'd love to see some of your work.
:D
Oh, and here are the complete results from the two Friday practice sessions.
[QUOTE]Zonta Fastest in Practice 1 - Malaysia
By Will Gray Friday, 18 March 2005 04:05
Toyota test driver Ricardo Zonta finished fastest in Friday's opening practice session for Sunday's Malaysian Grand Prix, as the temperatures rocketed to 33 degrees Celsius in Kuala Lumpur.
Zonta, who only drives on Friday as Toyota's third driver, ran 17 laps of the Sepang circuit as several of the lead contenders limited their running to preserve their engines for the tough race conditions.
The Brazilian driver finished with a time of 1:34.092 to lead second-placed McLaren test driver Pedro de la Rosa by 1.052 seconds, with Vitantonio Liuzzi third for Red Bull Racing.
World Champion Michael Schumacher completed 13 laps - more than most of the lead race drivers - and finished 1.919 seconds off the pace in fourth, just ahead of fifth-placed Jenson Button, of BAR-Honda.
Giancarlo Fisichella, the winner of the first race of the season in Australia, did not set a time, nor did his Renault teammate Fernando Alonso or session-leader Zonta's teammate Jarno Trulli.
The session began under blue skies littered with small clouds as the threatened rain stayed away but the grandstands were relatively empty as few bared the 33-degree temperatures and 55 percent humidity.
With 12 minutes gone Ricardo Zonta was on top of the times for Toyota but he dropped down when the big-guns came out as de la Rosa put his McLaren top of the times half a second ahead of Schumacher's second-placed Ferrari.
With 15 minutes to go Liuzzi, whose Red Bull team made an impressive points-scoring debut at the last race in Australia, had moved to within 0.009 seconds of de la Rosa's lap time to slot into second ahead of Schumacher.
But by that time only half of the 24 cars had set a competitive lap time as most teams chose to limit their running and preserve their engines for what will be a tough race on both machinery and drivers on Sunday.
The first incident in the session came with nine minutes to go when Indian Narain Karthikeyan spun his Jordan at turn nine then soon after Takuma Sato harmlessly spun his BAR-Honda at turn one.
Zonta resumed his position at the top as the time clocked down after he put in an extremely fast lap that proved unbeatable and ensured his Toyota team would end the session on top.
Pos Driver Team Time Laps
1. Zonta Toyota (M) 1:34.092 17
2. de la Rosa McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:35.144 + 1.052 15
3. Liuzzi Red Bull-Cosworth (M) 1:35.691 + 1.599 18
4. M.Schumacher Ferrari (B) 1:36.011 + 1.919 13
5. Button BAR-Honda (M) 1:36.513 + 2.421 9
6. Heidfeld Williams-BMW (M) 1:36.551 + 2.459 7
7. Raikkonen McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:36.563 + 2.471 6
8. Montoya McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:36.610 + 2.518 5
9. Massa Sauber-Petronas (M) 1:36.963 + 2.871 4
10. Webber Williams-BMW (M) 1:36.989 + 2.897 8
11. R.Schumacher Toyota (M) 1:37.168 + 3.076 5
12. Coulthard Red Bull-Cosworth (M) 1:37.338 + 3.246 8
13. Sato BAR-Honda (M) 1:37.366 + 3.274 9
14. Klien Red Bull-Cosworth (M) 1:37.642 + 3.550 9
15. Barrichello Ferrari (B) 1:37.843 + 3.751 4
16. Villeneuve Sauber-Petronas (M) 1:38.416 + 4.324 8
17. Monteiro Jordan-Toyota (B) 1:39.571 + 5.479 18
18. Doornbos Jordan-Toyota (B) 1:40.289 + 6.197 20
19. Karthikeyan Jordan-Toyota (B) 1:40.375 + 6.283 14
20. Friesacher Minardi-Cosworth (B) 1:43.574 + 9.482 18
21. Albers Minardi-Cosworth (B) 1:43.691 + 9.599 12
22. Fisichella Renault (M) No Time 2
23. Alonso Renault (M) No Time 2
24. Trulli Toyota (M) No Time 2[/QUOTE]
| Ferg | 03-18-2005 09:38 AM |
And from session two.
[QUOTE] Massa Fastest in Practice 2 - Malaysia [img]http://www.autosport-atlas.com/Images/nav/spacer.gif[/img]
By Will GrayFriday, 18 March 2005 06:55
Brazilian Felipe Massa finished fastest in the second practice session for the Malaysian Grand Prix as temperatures rose here Friday in the build up to the second race of the season.
Massa failed to match the time set by Ricardo Zonta in the morning session as temperatures rose towards 40 degrees Celsius but his lap of 1:35.608 was good enough to put him on top of the times for Sauber.
He finished 0.012 seconds clear of McLaren driver Juan Pablo Montoya, whose teammate Kimi Raikkonen recovered from a spin to finish fourth just behind Brazilian Toyota driver Zonta.
Ralf Schumacher finished fifth in the second Toyota while Australian Grand Prix winner Giancarlo Fisichella finished sixth fastest after opting not to go out in the first session to conserve his engine life.
Brazilian Rubens Barrichello, like Raikkonen, recovered from an early spin and was able to finish seventh fastest with Briton Jenson Button eighth in his BAR-Honda.
Fernando Alonso, who like his Renault teammate Fisichella failed to set a time in the morning running, finished ninth and David Coulthard completed the top ten for Red Bull Racing.
Massa made the early running in his Sauber and led Zonta and Klien after seven minutes while Tiago Monteiro spun his Jordan at turn 14 but was able to recover and return to the pits.
Not long later McLaren driver Kimi Raikkonen spun at turn seven and Brazilian Rubens Barrichello then spun his Ferrari at turn 11 after 15 minutes but both were able to get back out later in the session after their cars were recovered.
With 20 minutes gone Button led the times with a lap of 1:35.992, almost two seconds slower than the best time set in the morning session by Zonta but good enough to put him 0.708 seconds ahead of second-placed Massa.
After setting an impressive third fastest time in the morning session Vitantonio Liuzzi spun his Red Bull Racing machine on 29 minutes in a repeat of his feat in the season-opening race in Australia and he was forced to abandon his car.
Massa returned to the top of the times and sat 0.384 seconds ahead of Button as the session headed into its final quarter with times still more than one-and-a-half seconds slower than those set in the morning session.
Mark Webber spent the session in the Williams garage and failed to complete a time.
[b]Pos Driver Team Time Laps[/b]
1. Massa Sauber-Petronas (M) 1:35.608 19
2. Montoya McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:35.620 + 0.012 13
3. Zonta Toyota (M) 1:35.677 + 0.069 30
4. Raikkonen McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:35.719 + 0.111 6
5. R.Schumacher Toyota (M) 1:35.838 + 0.230 16
6. Fisichella Renault (M) 1:35.841 + 0.233 16
7. Barrichello Ferrari (B) 1:35.949 + 0.341 7
8. Button BAR-Honda (M) 1:35.992 + 0.384 19
9. Alonso Renault (M) 1:36.103 + 0.495 15
10. Coulthard Red Bull-Cosworth (M) 1:36.575 + 0.967 20
11. Trulli Toyota (M) 1:36.841 + 1.233 18
12. Klien Red Bull-Cosworth (M) 1:36.968 + 1.360 19
13. de la Rosa McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:37.033 + 1.425 31
14. Sato BAR-Honda (M) 1:37.044 + 1.436 18
15. Heidfeld Williams-BMW (M) 1:37.067 + 1.459 17
16. M.Schumacher Ferrari (B) 1:37.270 + 1.662 22
17. Doornbos Jordan-Toyota (B) 1:37.878 + 2.270 23
18. Villeneuve Sauber-Petronas (M) 1:38.121 + 2.513 19 Not so good for JV with Massa sitting in P1 :(
19. Karthikeyan Jordan-Toyota (B) 1:38.855 + 3.247 21
20. Liuzzi Red Bull-Cosworth (M) 1:39.349 + 3.741 11
21. Monteiro Jordan-Toyota (B) 1:39.755 + 4.147 21
22. Friesacher Minardi-Cosworth (B) 1:40.940 + 5.332 19
23. Albers Minardi-Cosworth (B) 1:41.156 + 5.548 16
24. Webber Williams-BMW (M) No Time 2
[i]All timing unofficial[/QUOTE][/i]
[QUOTE] Massa Fastest in Practice 2 - Malaysia [img]http://www.autosport-atlas.com/Images/nav/spacer.gif[/img]
By Will GrayFriday, 18 March 2005 06:55
Brazilian Felipe Massa finished fastest in the second practice session for the Malaysian Grand Prix as temperatures rose here Friday in the build up to the second race of the season.
Massa failed to match the time set by Ricardo Zonta in the morning session as temperatures rose towards 40 degrees Celsius but his lap of 1:35.608 was good enough to put him on top of the times for Sauber.
He finished 0.012 seconds clear of McLaren driver Juan Pablo Montoya, whose teammate Kimi Raikkonen recovered from a spin to finish fourth just behind Brazilian Toyota driver Zonta.
Ralf Schumacher finished fifth in the second Toyota while Australian Grand Prix winner Giancarlo Fisichella finished sixth fastest after opting not to go out in the first session to conserve his engine life.
Brazilian Rubens Barrichello, like Raikkonen, recovered from an early spin and was able to finish seventh fastest with Briton Jenson Button eighth in his BAR-Honda.
Fernando Alonso, who like his Renault teammate Fisichella failed to set a time in the morning running, finished ninth and David Coulthard completed the top ten for Red Bull Racing.
Massa made the early running in his Sauber and led Zonta and Klien after seven minutes while Tiago Monteiro spun his Jordan at turn 14 but was able to recover and return to the pits.
Not long later McLaren driver Kimi Raikkonen spun at turn seven and Brazilian Rubens Barrichello then spun his Ferrari at turn 11 after 15 minutes but both were able to get back out later in the session after their cars were recovered.
With 20 minutes gone Button led the times with a lap of 1:35.992, almost two seconds slower than the best time set in the morning session by Zonta but good enough to put him 0.708 seconds ahead of second-placed Massa.
After setting an impressive third fastest time in the morning session Vitantonio Liuzzi spun his Red Bull Racing machine on 29 minutes in a repeat of his feat in the season-opening race in Australia and he was forced to abandon his car.
Massa returned to the top of the times and sat 0.384 seconds ahead of Button as the session headed into its final quarter with times still more than one-and-a-half seconds slower than those set in the morning session.
Mark Webber spent the session in the Williams garage and failed to complete a time.
[b]Pos Driver Team Time Laps[/b]
1. Massa Sauber-Petronas (M) 1:35.608 19
2. Montoya McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:35.620 + 0.012 13
3. Zonta Toyota (M) 1:35.677 + 0.069 30
4. Raikkonen McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:35.719 + 0.111 6
5. R.Schumacher Toyota (M) 1:35.838 + 0.230 16
6. Fisichella Renault (M) 1:35.841 + 0.233 16
7. Barrichello Ferrari (B) 1:35.949 + 0.341 7
8. Button BAR-Honda (M) 1:35.992 + 0.384 19
9. Alonso Renault (M) 1:36.103 + 0.495 15
10. Coulthard Red Bull-Cosworth (M) 1:36.575 + 0.967 20
11. Trulli Toyota (M) 1:36.841 + 1.233 18
12. Klien Red Bull-Cosworth (M) 1:36.968 + 1.360 19
13. de la Rosa McLaren-Mercedes (M) 1:37.033 + 1.425 31
14. Sato BAR-Honda (M) 1:37.044 + 1.436 18
15. Heidfeld Williams-BMW (M) 1:37.067 + 1.459 17
16. M.Schumacher Ferrari (B) 1:37.270 + 1.662 22
17. Doornbos Jordan-Toyota (B) 1:37.878 + 2.270 23
18. Villeneuve Sauber-Petronas (M) 1:38.121 + 2.513 19 Not so good for JV with Massa sitting in P1 :(
19. Karthikeyan Jordan-Toyota (B) 1:38.855 + 3.247 21
20. Liuzzi Red Bull-Cosworth (M) 1:39.349 + 3.741 11
21. Monteiro Jordan-Toyota (B) 1:39.755 + 4.147 21
22. Friesacher Minardi-Cosworth (B) 1:40.940 + 5.332 19
23. Albers Minardi-Cosworth (B) 1:41.156 + 5.548 16
24. Webber Williams-BMW (M) No Time 2
[i]All timing unofficial[/QUOTE][/i]
| artkevin | 03-18-2005 10:33 AM |
Ferg,
The website is [url]www.KevinPaigeArt.com[/url]. I should be adding about 10 new paintings in a couple of weeks and about another 10 by the time of the USGP.
KP
The website is [url]www.KevinPaigeArt.com[/url]. I should be adding about 10 new paintings in a couple of weeks and about another 10 by the time of the USGP.
KP
| Dussander | 03-18-2005 12:36 PM |
[quote]Come on....doesn't anyone take JPM over Kimi?[/quote]
I did.
Also, JPM got second last year in this race and set the fastest lap.
I did.
Also, JPM got second last year in this race and set the fastest lap.
| TimStevens | 03-18-2005 12:56 PM |
[QUOTE=artkevin]Ferg,
The website is [url]www.KevinPaigeArt.com[/url]. I should be adding about 10 new paintings in a couple of weeks and about another 10 by the time of the USGP.
KP[/QUOTE]
Good stuff, man! I really dig the somewhat... I dunno... abstract look to it. Not a big fan of motorsport art that tries to look like a photo.
-tim
(knows what he likes)
The website is [url]www.KevinPaigeArt.com[/url]. I should be adding about 10 new paintings in a couple of weeks and about another 10 by the time of the USGP.
KP[/QUOTE]
Good stuff, man! I really dig the somewhat... I dunno... abstract look to it. Not a big fan of motorsport art that tries to look like a photo.
-tim
(knows what he likes)
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