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Formula 1 Mercedes’ boss, Norbert Haug, has updated the media with the fact that the Petronas sponsored team’s pace in the Chinese Grand Prix was ‘genuine’. He also mentioned that the team is expecting more improvements in their performance in the Turkish race.
The team speed was much faster than expected at the Shanghai circuit. Mercedes can target a repeat of its strong and positive China run in the upcoming race of this season, the Turkish Grand Prix. This is only possible provided the MGP-W02 car can once again make the most of its pace on the F1 grid.
He added, "Mercedes ‘V8’ is the most powerful engine."
Mercedes’ driver, Nico Rosberg, put his team on fifth spot while fighting for his podium position in the China race. Due to some fuel consumption issues in his new car, he failed to gather his best run against the top runners of the race.
Haug told the media that the team only needs a key to unlock the speed in the race since the speed was perfect in their run in Shanghai.
He did not make a promise to repeat his team’s China race performance in Turkey as he considered the condition of the track would not be the same due to varying temperature of the circuit’s surface.
Mercedes openly admitted that China race results were the feedback of massive work of the team’s engineers on the car, completed before the start of the race. Moreover, the team boss, Ross Brawn, and senior engineers had a meeting before the race in which they analysed how the 2011 season would go towards victory.
Haug shared his feelings about the Mercedes’ start to the 2011 season. He said, “I would have been happier if China would have been the first race, obviously. Saying that, the China track is not a night and day difference from Malaysia. But we now have a better understanding of the car. Ross sat together with the guys and the engineers, and we changed the approach to the weekend”.
The team had a disappointing start in the first two races in Australia and Malaysia. Both drivers, Michael Schumacher and Rosberg, were unable to put their team on the top spot since they experienced rear wing issues during their opening races.
Haug went on to add, "We had problems with the rear wing flap, but mainly we have sorted them out. We have a different system, but it is a clever system if it works - and we made it work in China”.
After finishing his fifth place in the China race, Rosberg is looking forward to his pole position in Turkish Grand Prix that takes place on May 8, 2011.
After three successful events, Pirelli expects positive feedback from the drivers in the remaining races of the season.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Pirelli predict ‘high tyre wearing’ at the Turkish GP
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Pirelli's Motorsports Director, Paul Hembery, is expecting ‘high tyre wearing’ in the Turkish weekend. Therefore, he anticipates the need to change the tyres strategy work during the race.
He added, "It is going to vary race to race, and circuit to circuit, depending on what tyre of surface it is. But we have had a lot of credit from a lot of people about the nature of the races so far - and if we continue like that we will have a great season".
Hembery said that the Turkish race would be similar to the Malaysian race in terms of tyre wear since its circuit has a very abrasive surface. Increased tyre wearing in Istanbul would probably be the worst for Pirelli, implying that they would have to work more on improvising the quality of the tyres.
He went on to say, "What we realised in these last few races is we are missing three or four laps of durability, particularly with the harder compound on abrasive surfaces. What we don't want is the teams to adopt the same strategy".
Pirelli informed that they are planning to work on the hard compound of tyres since they suppose that the hard ones can do more laps than the soft tyres.
An Italian manufacturer is looking forward to use super soft and soft tyres in both, Canada and Monte Carlo races.
On the other hand, Pirelli planned to introduce some more different coloured tyre markings for the Turkish Grand Prix, following complaints that markings on various compounds were barely visible in races.
After the first two races of 2011 in Australia and Malaysia, Pirelli added more stripes on the tyres’ sidewalls. However, they have proven to be difficult for viewers to distinguish during the races.
They added a golden stripe in the sidewalls of the soft compound tyres after getting negative feedback about these markings. Moreover, they worked on the silver marking of the tyres that seemed to be badly blurred with the original theme of rubber in the Australian race.
The Chinese weekend brings immense pleasure for Pirelli as the tyres gave upbeat results and there were no major problems with the tyres. All drivers were happy with the supportive work of these tyres.
Pirelli brand suppliers replaced its driver, Pedro de la Rosa, with GP2 series driver, Lucas Di Grassi, as Rosa accepted an offer from the McLaren team a few days ago.
Pirelli's Motorsports Director, Paul Hembery, is expecting ‘high tyre wearing’ in the Turkish weekend. Therefore, he anticipates the need to change the tyres strategy work during the race.
He added, "It is going to vary race to race, and circuit to circuit, depending on what tyre of surface it is. But we have had a lot of credit from a lot of people about the nature of the races so far - and if we continue like that we will have a great season".
Hembery said that the Turkish race would be similar to the Malaysian race in terms of tyre wear since its circuit has a very abrasive surface. Increased tyre wearing in Istanbul would probably be the worst for Pirelli, implying that they would have to work more on improvising the quality of the tyres.
He went on to say, "What we realised in these last few races is we are missing three or four laps of durability, particularly with the harder compound on abrasive surfaces. What we don't want is the teams to adopt the same strategy".
Pirelli informed that they are planning to work on the hard compound of tyres since they suppose that the hard ones can do more laps than the soft tyres.
An Italian manufacturer is looking forward to use super soft and soft tyres in both, Canada and Monte Carlo races.
On the other hand, Pirelli planned to introduce some more different coloured tyre markings for the Turkish Grand Prix, following complaints that markings on various compounds were barely visible in races.
After the first two races of 2011 in Australia and Malaysia, Pirelli added more stripes on the tyres’ sidewalls. However, they have proven to be difficult for viewers to distinguish during the races.
They added a golden stripe in the sidewalls of the soft compound tyres after getting negative feedback about these markings. Moreover, they worked on the silver marking of the tyres that seemed to be badly blurred with the original theme of rubber in the Australian race.
The Chinese weekend brings immense pleasure for Pirelli as the tyres gave upbeat results and there were no major problems with the tyres. All drivers were happy with the supportive work of these tyres.
Pirelli brand suppliers replaced its driver, Pedro de la Rosa, with GP2 series driver, Lucas Di Grassi, as Rosa accepted an offer from the McLaren team a few days ago.
Ecclestone may sell shareholding in QPR for £100m
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QPR 'Queens Park Rangers Football Club' majority shareholder Bernie Ecclestone would be prepared to sell his stake in the club for £100million.
The west London outfit are poised to seal promotion to the Barclays Premier League, and Formula One racing supremo Ecclestone believes that makes them a valuable asset. However, he also said that Italian businessman Flavio Briatore, a former F1 team principal, would have first option on any sale of his 62% holding.
"If somebody bought that team today it would be a very good punt. It is probably worth £100million," Ecclestone was quoted as saying in the Guardian.
"I don't have any choice staying in or going out. Flavio would probably be the one to sell if anybody ... It is dependent on Flavio."
Ecclestone believes the Rangers board have recruited wisely and have a better squad balance than many other clubs in the npower Championship.
"You see a lot of these clubs today that are nowhere near as high in the league as we are, playing people that have fallen from the top and beating them, so there is no need to spend these fortunes," he said.
QPR was bought by Formula One tycoons and multi-millionaires Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore in a £14 million takeover in August 2007. In spending £690,000 to acquire a 69 per cent majority stake in the club, Ecclestone spent £150,000 on his 15 per cent, while Briatore bought 54 per cent for £540,000 through a British Virgin Islands registered company, Sarita Capital. In addition, Briatore and Ecclestone are believed to have promised £5 million in convertible loan facilities to help buy players and have covered £13 million of debt, in a total commitment to the club of around £20 million. On 20 December 2007, it was announced that the family of billionaire Lakshmi Mittal had purchased a 20 per cent shareholding in the club from Briatore.
QPR 'Queens Park Rangers Football Club' majority shareholder Bernie Ecclestone would be prepared to sell his stake in the club for £100million.
The west London outfit are poised to seal promotion to the Barclays Premier League, and Formula One racing supremo Ecclestone believes that makes them a valuable asset. However, he also said that Italian businessman Flavio Briatore, a former F1 team principal, would have first option on any sale of his 62% holding.
"If somebody bought that team today it would be a very good punt. It is probably worth £100million," Ecclestone was quoted as saying in the Guardian.
"I don't have any choice staying in or going out. Flavio would probably be the one to sell if anybody ... It is dependent on Flavio."
Ecclestone believes the Rangers board have recruited wisely and have a better squad balance than many other clubs in the npower Championship.
"You see a lot of these clubs today that are nowhere near as high in the league as we are, playing people that have fallen from the top and beating them, so there is no need to spend these fortunes," he said.
QPR was bought by Formula One tycoons and multi-millionaires Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore in a £14 million takeover in August 2007. In spending £690,000 to acquire a 69 per cent majority stake in the club, Ecclestone spent £150,000 on his 15 per cent, while Briatore bought 54 per cent for £540,000 through a British Virgin Islands registered company, Sarita Capital. In addition, Briatore and Ecclestone are believed to have promised £5 million in convertible loan facilities to help buy players and have covered £13 million of debt, in a total commitment to the club of around £20 million. On 20 December 2007, it was announced that the family of billionaire Lakshmi Mittal had purchased a 20 per cent shareholding in the club from Briatore.
Metallica is going to rock Indian F1 GP Inaugural
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A year that began with ‘firestarters’ The Prodigy taking stage, will definitely get bigger in the coming months. This time, Metallica is slated to perform at the Inaugural Formula One Indian Grand Prix to be held at Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida in October this year.
Bassist Robert Trujillo, who replaced Jason New sted in the Californian heavy metal outfit, said in an interview with the Inland Empire Weekly magazine,
“We are going to play India in October. That should be interesting, playing in a place we never thought in our wildest dreams we’d (go) to play.”
The heavy metal giants, famous for anthems like Enter Sandman…, Nothing Else Matters… and For Whom The Bell Tolls…, are expected to headline F1 Rocks, scheduled between October 29 and 30. Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India president Vicky Chandok says, “Yes, I heard about Metallica coming over for the race, but we are approaching a lot of bands. This is something only our events management company can confirm.”
DNA Entertainment Networks, that has previously brought international names like Iron Maiden, Megadeth, Scorpions, Roger Waters and Deep Purple to Indian shores, is working hard to put forth a stellar show. “We have approached many top-notch bands, but we can’t reveal the names now,” says Karuna Prithvi, media manager at DNA Entertainment Networks. “We approached Metallica, but there have not been any confirmations as of now,” she added.
A year that began with ‘firestarters’ The Prodigy taking stage, will definitely get bigger in the coming months. This time, Metallica is slated to perform at the Inaugural Formula One Indian Grand Prix to be held at Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida in October this year.
Bassist Robert Trujillo, who replaced Jason New sted in the Californian heavy metal outfit, said in an interview with the Inland Empire Weekly magazine,
“We are going to play India in October. That should be interesting, playing in a place we never thought in our wildest dreams we’d (go) to play.”
The heavy metal giants, famous for anthems like Enter Sandman…, Nothing Else Matters… and For Whom The Bell Tolls…, are expected to headline F1 Rocks, scheduled between October 29 and 30. Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India president Vicky Chandok says, “Yes, I heard about Metallica coming over for the race, but we are approaching a lot of bands. This is something only our events management company can confirm.”
DNA Entertainment Networks, that has previously brought international names like Iron Maiden, Megadeth, Scorpions, Roger Waters and Deep Purple to Indian shores, is working hard to put forth a stellar show. “We have approached many top-notch bands, but we can’t reveal the names now,” says Karuna Prithvi, media manager at DNA Entertainment Networks. “We approached Metallica, but there have not been any confirmations as of now,” she added.
Now Caterham cars belongs to Team Lotus
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As expected, Team Lotus confirmed that it has purchased iconic British sportscar manufacturer Caterham.
But despite growing rumors in recent days, no announcement has been made as to how the deal will effect the future of the Formula One team, who are still battling to retain the use of the Team Lotus moniker.
It had been suggested that they could switch to the Caterham name - backed up by the appearance of the caterhamformula1 website - but Fernandes appears keen to fight for the name made famous by Colin Chapman. However should he fail in his bid a change to Caterham seems his most likely option.
Speaking about his acquisition today, Fernandes said:
"I can confirm that Team Lotus Enterprises have acquired 100% of Caterham. We did that a few weeks ago"
"It's a very exciting time for us as we always wanted to be in car production."
"Caterham has a unique place at the heart of the motoring world. As well as being proudly and staunchly British, it has an enviable and uniquely unblemished reputation within the industry for performance, handling and engineering excellence.
"Caterham Cars has remained wholly faithful to Colin Chapman's philosophy of 'less is more', and the DNA of the original Seven can still be traced to the newest additions to Caterham's product offering."
"They have a fantastic platform to go and market their cars and we are able to promote new models and introduce F1 technology into Caterham cars and elevate them into a much wider global audience"
"It's a tremendous opportunity in terms of the type of cars we are going to be making in Asia. Particularly for those who couldn't afford brands such as Porsche and Ferrari."
"We believe Asia is a huge market and we'll bring in lots of new technology and most importantly, to make it affordable"
To mark today’s announcement, Caterham is building a limited run of Team Lotus Special Edition Sevens.
Just 25 of the Team Lotus upgrade packages, which can be applied to any variant up to the top-of-the-range 263bhp, 150mph Superlight R500, will be built in the UK, with the same number allocated to the company’s export markets.
For an additional £3k over the normal asking price, the car has a unique livery, a special plaque signed by Team Lotus F1 drivers, a Seven history book signed by chief designer, Mike Gascoyne, and owners will have a ‘customised tour’ of the Team Lotus F1 factory in Hingham, Norfolk.
The takeover provided Team Lotus with an opportunity to have a new name for the Formula 1 team, if the legal battle with Group Lotus does not go into their favor. But Fernandes is keen on keeping the bleed green and yellow color for the team.
As expected, Team Lotus confirmed that it has purchased iconic British sportscar manufacturer Caterham.
But despite growing rumors in recent days, no announcement has been made as to how the deal will effect the future of the Formula One team, who are still battling to retain the use of the Team Lotus moniker.
It had been suggested that they could switch to the Caterham name - backed up by the appearance of the caterhamformula1 website - but Fernandes appears keen to fight for the name made famous by Colin Chapman. However should he fail in his bid a change to Caterham seems his most likely option.
Speaking about his acquisition today, Fernandes said:
"I can confirm that Team Lotus Enterprises have acquired 100% of Caterham. We did that a few weeks ago"
"It's a very exciting time for us as we always wanted to be in car production."
"Caterham has a unique place at the heart of the motoring world. As well as being proudly and staunchly British, it has an enviable and uniquely unblemished reputation within the industry for performance, handling and engineering excellence.
"Caterham Cars has remained wholly faithful to Colin Chapman's philosophy of 'less is more', and the DNA of the original Seven can still be traced to the newest additions to Caterham's product offering."
"They have a fantastic platform to go and market their cars and we are able to promote new models and introduce F1 technology into Caterham cars and elevate them into a much wider global audience"
"It's a tremendous opportunity in terms of the type of cars we are going to be making in Asia. Particularly for those who couldn't afford brands such as Porsche and Ferrari."
"We believe Asia is a huge market and we'll bring in lots of new technology and most importantly, to make it affordable"
To mark today’s announcement, Caterham is building a limited run of Team Lotus Special Edition Sevens.
Just 25 of the Team Lotus upgrade packages, which can be applied to any variant up to the top-of-the-range 263bhp, 150mph Superlight R500, will be built in the UK, with the same number allocated to the company’s export markets.
For an additional £3k over the normal asking price, the car has a unique livery, a special plaque signed by Team Lotus F1 drivers, a Seven history book signed by chief designer, Mike Gascoyne, and owners will have a ‘customised tour’ of the Team Lotus F1 factory in Hingham, Norfolk.
The takeover provided Team Lotus with an opportunity to have a new name for the Formula 1 team, if the legal battle with Group Lotus does not go into their favor. But Fernandes is keen on keeping the bleed green and yellow color for the team.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Jaypee Sports unveils Buddh International Circuit Logo
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The Inaugural Indian Grand Prix, recently named as Buddh International Circuit (BIC).
The name has been chosen with reference to the area where the track is situated - Gautam Budh Nagar district, near Greater Noida, around 40 kilometres from New Delhi.
Click here for complete news regarding circuit name
Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI) has unveiled the circuit logo on Monday.
The stylized ‘B’ of the circuit’s logo stands for ‘Buddh’ and for ‘Bharat'.
The orange, green and white colours used in the logo are representative of the Indian flag, while the curves in the stylized ‘B’ in the logo represent the lines of a racetrack.
The Inaugural Indian Grand Prix, recently named as Buddh International Circuit (BIC).
The name has been chosen with reference to the area where the track is situated - Gautam Budh Nagar district, near Greater Noida, around 40 kilometres from New Delhi.
Click here for complete news regarding circuit name
Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI) has unveiled the circuit logo on Monday.
The stylized ‘B’ of the circuit’s logo stands for ‘Buddh’ and for ‘Bharat'.
The orange, green and white colours used in the logo are representative of the Indian flag, while the curves in the stylized ‘B’ in the logo represent the lines of a racetrack.
Sale of Tickets of India GP will start next month with minimum ticket priced at Rs. 2500
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Sameer Gaur, MD and CEO of Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI) confirmed that the Spectators have to pay a minimum of Rs. 2500 for the weekend (3 Days) - 28-30 October.
Gaur commented, "We are in the final stages of deciding the pricing of tickets for the Indian Grand prix. We want to involve as many people as possible, not just from Delhi/NCR but other parts too."
"The tickets will be moderately priced. The sale of tickets is likely to commence in a month's time."
"At this time, I can only say that the lowest denomination of the tickets would be approx Rs 2,500 for the weekend."
"The price of the grandstand ticket will be around Rs 30,000-35,000."
With the stands boasting of a capacity of about 120,000, Gaur said the organizers will consider providing discounted tickets to the students.
The organizers are also considering providing feeder buses from metro stations and different parts of Delhi for easy accessibility at no extra cost.
If this price is retained when tickets officially go on sale, it would make a general admission pass at the Indian GP the cheapest on offer with the exception of the Malaysian GP in Sepang, which costs around Rs 1,400. It has to be noted that the Malaysian GP is a project backed by their government while the Indian GP is privately funded.
The Inaugural Indian Grand Prix, recently named as Buddh International Circuit (BIC) will set for homolagation in July end or early August.
The name has been chosen with reference to the area where the track is situated - Gautam Budh Nagar district, near Greater Noida, around 40 kilometres from New Delhi.
Click here for complete news regarding circuit name
Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI) has also unveiled the circuit logo on Monday.
The stylized ‘B’ of the circuit’s logo stands for ‘Buddh’ and for ‘Bharat'. The orange, green and white colours used in the logo are representative of the Indian flag, while the curves in the stylized ‘B’ in the logo represent the lines of a racetrack.
Sameer Gaur, MD and CEO of Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI) confirmed that the Spectators have to pay a minimum of Rs. 2500 for the weekend (3 Days) - 28-30 October.
Gaur commented, "We are in the final stages of deciding the pricing of tickets for the Indian Grand prix. We want to involve as many people as possible, not just from Delhi/NCR but other parts too."
"The tickets will be moderately priced. The sale of tickets is likely to commence in a month's time."
"At this time, I can only say that the lowest denomination of the tickets would be approx Rs 2,500 for the weekend."
"The price of the grandstand ticket will be around Rs 30,000-35,000."
With the stands boasting of a capacity of about 120,000, Gaur said the organizers will consider providing discounted tickets to the students.
The organizers are also considering providing feeder buses from metro stations and different parts of Delhi for easy accessibility at no extra cost.
If this price is retained when tickets officially go on sale, it would make a general admission pass at the Indian GP the cheapest on offer with the exception of the Malaysian GP in Sepang, which costs around Rs 1,400. It has to be noted that the Malaysian GP is a project backed by their government while the Indian GP is privately funded.
The Inaugural Indian Grand Prix, recently named as Buddh International Circuit (BIC) will set for homolagation in July end or early August.
The name has been chosen with reference to the area where the track is situated - Gautam Budh Nagar district, near Greater Noida, around 40 kilometres from New Delhi.
Click here for complete news regarding circuit name
Jaypee Sports International Limited (JPSI) has also unveiled the circuit logo on Monday.
The stylized ‘B’ of the circuit’s logo stands for ‘Buddh’ and for ‘Bharat'. The orange, green and white colours used in the logo are representative of the Indian flag, while the curves in the stylized ‘B’ in the logo represent the lines of a racetrack.
Red Bull show on Orchard Road
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DAVID Coulthard dazzled about 50,000 spectators with a series of manoeuvres, including short sprints, engine breaks and donuts, along Orchard Road yesterday.
Said the Scot, who has won 13 Formula One Grand Prix races and driven for Red Bull, McLaren and Williams: 'I enjoyed performing on one of the world's most glamorous shopping strips. The street is very smooth and suitable for the speed of the car.'
The hour-long show had more in store but the F1 car's engine overheated and some stunts were cut. Still, the crowd did not seem to mind as they clicked away with their cameras and cheered loudly as the F1 Red Bull roared by.
Added Coulthard: 'The engine was overheating. We had to cut short (the stunts). The display showed the temperature got up to 140 degrees. It (engine) cuts out at 145 degrees. If this was in a cooler country, it would be a lot easier.'
DAVID Coulthard dazzled about 50,000 spectators with a series of manoeuvres, including short sprints, engine breaks and donuts, along Orchard Road yesterday.
Said the Scot, who has won 13 Formula One Grand Prix races and driven for Red Bull, McLaren and Williams: 'I enjoyed performing on one of the world's most glamorous shopping strips. The street is very smooth and suitable for the speed of the car.'
The hour-long show had more in store but the F1 car's engine overheated and some stunts were cut. Still, the crowd did not seem to mind as they clicked away with their cameras and cheered loudly as the F1 Red Bull roared by.
Added Coulthard: 'The engine was overheating. We had to cut short (the stunts). The display showed the temperature got up to 140 degrees. It (engine) cuts out at 145 degrees. If this was in a cooler country, it would be a lot easier.'
Robert Kubica leaves hospital
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Kubica has spent the past 10 weeks at the Santa Corona Hospital in Pietra Ligure after sustaining arm and leg injuries in a crash on the Ronde di Andora rally.
A statement released by the hospital read:
"Robert Kubica is no longer at the Hospital Santa Corona in Pietra Ligure.
"His condition is good and the driver will begin a new phase of rehabilitation outside of the hospital.
"Through scheduled appointments, the driver will continue to be monitored by the doctors who have treated him at Santa Corona."
The Pole was forced to undergo four surgical procedures after sustaining multiple fractures and a partially severed right hand in the crash on Feb 6
After being taken off the critical list, Kubica underwent extensive rehabilitation and is now ready to begin a further programme under the supervision of Dr Riccardo Ceccarelli, who runs the Italian sports clinic 'Formula Medicine'.
"As soon as I leave hospital, I'll head to my home in Monaco for a short period of rest," Kubica said on Thursday.
"Then I'll move to Dr Ceccarelli's facilities where I will start a deep rehabilitation program and a preliminary soft training programme."
The accident has almost certainly ruled Kubica out of the entire 2011 F1 season, which he was due to contest for Renault.
His place at the Enstone-based team has been taken by Nick Heidfeld but Kubica remains hopeful he will be back behind the wheel of an F1 car soon.
Speaking before his release, Kubica said: "I am starting to feel a lot better now.
"My recovery is moving in the right direction. My strength and weight are increasing day on day."
Kubica has spent the past 10 weeks at the Santa Corona Hospital in Pietra Ligure after sustaining arm and leg injuries in a crash on the Ronde di Andora rally.
A statement released by the hospital read:
"Robert Kubica is no longer at the Hospital Santa Corona in Pietra Ligure.
"His condition is good and the driver will begin a new phase of rehabilitation outside of the hospital.
"Through scheduled appointments, the driver will continue to be monitored by the doctors who have treated him at Santa Corona."
The Pole was forced to undergo four surgical procedures after sustaining multiple fractures and a partially severed right hand in the crash on Feb 6
After being taken off the critical list, Kubica underwent extensive rehabilitation and is now ready to begin a further programme under the supervision of Dr Riccardo Ceccarelli, who runs the Italian sports clinic 'Formula Medicine'.
"As soon as I leave hospital, I'll head to my home in Monaco for a short period of rest," Kubica said on Thursday.
"Then I'll move to Dr Ceccarelli's facilities where I will start a deep rehabilitation program and a preliminary soft training programme."
The accident has almost certainly ruled Kubica out of the entire 2011 F1 season, which he was due to contest for Renault.
His place at the Enstone-based team has been taken by Nick Heidfeld but Kubica remains hopeful he will be back behind the wheel of an F1 car soon.
Speaking before his release, Kubica said: "I am starting to feel a lot better now.
"My recovery is moving in the right direction. My strength and weight are increasing day on day."
Ecclestone hints he will not Accelerate F1 if Murdoch snags F1
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Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone is ready to quit if Rupert Murdoch's media group succeeds in a bid to take control of the sport, the Sunday Times reported.
Ecclestone, 80, who has previously dismissed the idea of retirement, said in an interview with the newspaper:
"I'm old enough to get a pension, so I don't have to get a job. I'd have to be sure the people (who end up owning F1) are people I would like to work with and whether they would want to work with me."
A source familiar with the situation told Reuters last Tuesday that News Corporation had held early talks with Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim and at least one of the sport's big car manufacturers about forming a consortium to acquire control.
Separate sources had previously told Reuters that private equity firm CVC, the current owner, was conducting a strategic review and could sell.
A takeover by News Corp has a clear logic but would face many challenges to secure the backing of the sport's high profile players.
Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone is ready to quit if Rupert Murdoch's media group succeeds in a bid to take control of the sport, the Sunday Times reported.
Ecclestone, 80, who has previously dismissed the idea of retirement, said in an interview with the newspaper:
"I'm old enough to get a pension, so I don't have to get a job. I'd have to be sure the people (who end up owning F1) are people I would like to work with and whether they would want to work with me."
A source familiar with the situation told Reuters last Tuesday that News Corporation had held early talks with Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim and at least one of the sport's big car manufacturers about forming a consortium to acquire control.
Separate sources had previously told Reuters that private equity firm CVC, the current owner, was conducting a strategic review and could sell.
A takeover by News Corp has a clear logic but would face many challenges to secure the backing of the sport's high profile players.
After Noida Goa ready to get F1
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India might get its second Formula One destination with plans afoot to set up a circuit in Goa.
The promoters are believed to be scouting for a locale in Goa and set up a circuit on the lines of the Monaco Grand Prix. Tourism director Swapnil Naik confirmed the development to the Times of India newspaper.
"Yes, we have been approached for a F1 circuit in Goa. We have decided to go ahead with it," he said.
However, Naik did not reveal any particular location in Goa and indicated the search was still on for an appropriate place.
"We are looking first at our own properties which were acquired by the state government for tourism purposes. We have quite a few by the coast. So, it could be anyone of them."
The Goa government had formed a high-powered task force to chalk out a roadmap for the tourism sector in the state.
The committee will take a call on various infrastructural projects for Goa such as golf courses, entertainment parks, boxing arenas, and the F1 race circuit among other plans. The announcement was made by tourism minister Nilkanth Halarnkar at the last session of the legislative assembly.
India might get its second Formula One destination with plans afoot to set up a circuit in Goa.
The promoters are believed to be scouting for a locale in Goa and set up a circuit on the lines of the Monaco Grand Prix. Tourism director Swapnil Naik confirmed the development to the Times of India newspaper.
"Yes, we have been approached for a F1 circuit in Goa. We have decided to go ahead with it," he said.
However, Naik did not reveal any particular location in Goa and indicated the search was still on for an appropriate place.
"We are looking first at our own properties which were acquired by the state government for tourism purposes. We have quite a few by the coast. So, it could be anyone of them."
The Goa government had formed a high-powered task force to chalk out a roadmap for the tourism sector in the state.
The committee will take a call on various infrastructural projects for Goa such as golf courses, entertainment parks, boxing arenas, and the F1 race circuit among other plans. The announcement was made by tourism minister Nilkanth Halarnkar at the last session of the legislative assembly.
Financial problem may grip away F1 from Turkey
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Next month’s Istanbul Grand Prix is likely to be the last time the Formula One World Championship is hosted in Turkey, said an unofficial announcement from the Twitter account of the chairman of Istanbul Chamber of Commerce on Thursday.
“We held the annual meeting of the Formula Istanbul Investment Inc.” Murat Yalçnta wrote on the microblogging site on Thursday. “It looks like the Formula One race will not be held in Istanbul next year."
The current contract at Istanbul Park runs until this year, and discussions are ongoing between organizers and Formula One commercial chiefs about an extension. However, Murat said high fees wanted by the Formula One supremo were the reason behind the withdrawal.
“Every year the Ministry of Finance paid $13 million to Formula One Administration Limited,” he said. “Bernie Ecclestone, CEO of Formula One, asked for $24 million this year.”
“Because the figure was found very high, it looks like the payment will not be made,” said Murat. That is why the race will not happen after the next race on May 8, 2011.
On Friday, however, the daily Milliyet quoted Murat as saying organizers would discuss the issue with Ecclestone during next month's Istanbul Grand Prix.
"If Ecclestone displays a rigid attitude, there will be no agreement," he said. "In the end, it is the public's money."
"Nothing is certain yet. Besides, if there is no agreement for next year, this does not mean there will no longer be a Formula One in Istanbul. There could be agreements in the future."
The Istanbul Park Circuit, usually dubbed as one of the most exciting tracks on the calendar with its sharp turns, has been hosting the Formula One since 2005.
There has been no official statement from organizers saying the race will be dropped, but the financial situation of hosting the race for Turkey has never been seen as a profitable event. Especially with the Formula One weekends having troubles luring crowds.
United States Grand Prix is returning to the Formula One schedule next year, hinting it may be added at the expense of the Turkish GP. The track, being built near Austin, Texas, will host the Grand Prix next year, meaning the United States will return to the championship after leaving in 2007.
Speculations about the Istanbul Grand Prix coming to an end have been circulating since 2006, when Turkey faced a $5 million penalty, for allowing Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat to present the winning trophy.
Ecclestone also holds the management rights of the Turkish Grand Prix. He has taken control of the management rights for the Istanbul Park circuit, which he calls the “best race track in the world.”
In 2007, Ecclestone insisted he would not make any money and called it his “worst deal” ever. But said, “Formula One needs to be in this part of the world, I am very proud of what has been built here in Turkey.” The race will be run in Istanbul at least “until 2021.”
He said he “believed” in Istanbul and a race in Turkey “would bring advantages in the long term.”
Next month’s Istanbul Grand Prix is likely to be the last time the Formula One World Championship is hosted in Turkey, said an unofficial announcement from the Twitter account of the chairman of Istanbul Chamber of Commerce on Thursday.
“We held the annual meeting of the Formula Istanbul Investment Inc.” Murat Yalçnta wrote on the microblogging site on Thursday. “It looks like the Formula One race will not be held in Istanbul next year."
The current contract at Istanbul Park runs until this year, and discussions are ongoing between organizers and Formula One commercial chiefs about an extension. However, Murat said high fees wanted by the Formula One supremo were the reason behind the withdrawal.
“Every year the Ministry of Finance paid $13 million to Formula One Administration Limited,” he said. “Bernie Ecclestone, CEO of Formula One, asked for $24 million this year.”
“Because the figure was found very high, it looks like the payment will not be made,” said Murat. That is why the race will not happen after the next race on May 8, 2011.
On Friday, however, the daily Milliyet quoted Murat as saying organizers would discuss the issue with Ecclestone during next month's Istanbul Grand Prix.
"If Ecclestone displays a rigid attitude, there will be no agreement," he said. "In the end, it is the public's money."
"Nothing is certain yet. Besides, if there is no agreement for next year, this does not mean there will no longer be a Formula One in Istanbul. There could be agreements in the future."
The Istanbul Park Circuit, usually dubbed as one of the most exciting tracks on the calendar with its sharp turns, has been hosting the Formula One since 2005.
There has been no official statement from organizers saying the race will be dropped, but the financial situation of hosting the race for Turkey has never been seen as a profitable event. Especially with the Formula One weekends having troubles luring crowds.
United States Grand Prix is returning to the Formula One schedule next year, hinting it may be added at the expense of the Turkish GP. The track, being built near Austin, Texas, will host the Grand Prix next year, meaning the United States will return to the championship after leaving in 2007.
Speculations about the Istanbul Grand Prix coming to an end have been circulating since 2006, when Turkey faced a $5 million penalty, for allowing Turkish Cypriot leader Mehmet Ali Talat to present the winning trophy.
Ecclestone also holds the management rights of the Turkish Grand Prix. He has taken control of the management rights for the Istanbul Park circuit, which he calls the “best race track in the world.”
In 2007, Ecclestone insisted he would not make any money and called it his “worst deal” ever. But said, “Formula One needs to be in this part of the world, I am very proud of what has been built here in Turkey.” The race will be run in Istanbul at least “until 2021.”
He said he “believed” in Istanbul and a race in Turkey “would bring advantages in the long term.”
Hospitality sales at Formula 1 are in the red again
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Formula 1's corporate hospitality operation Beta Holdings saw pre-tax losses treble to $5.2 million (£3.15 million), according to accounts for 2010.
Despite the addition of new races in Canada and South Korea, revenues stalled as sponsors cut spending on corporate hospitality.
F1 is majority owned by private equity firm CVC and the accounts reveal that it has racked up a combined $200 million loss since it was acquired in 2006.
Beta Holdings' turnover last year nudged up by just $3.2 million to $153.5 million, but this was not enough to compensate for a 3.3 per cent rise in costs.
The increase in the number of races boosted the overheads, which include transporting 40,000 glasses, 30,000 plates, 10,000 cut flowers, 5,500 magnums of champagne and 200 tons of tents to each event.
About 4,000 people are served in F1's hospitality area at every race and last year prices ranged up to $4,520 per person for a three-day ticket. Beta Holdings financial director Duncan Llowarch said: 'The prevailing economic conditions created a difficult environment for hospitality sales.'
In an attempt to drive revenue, ticket prices have been increased by as much as 12 per cent in 2011. CVC used a $285 million loan from Royal Bank of Scotland to buy the business and the debt incurs interest of Libor – the rate at which banks lend to each other – plus between one per cent and 3.5 per cent.
A fall in the interbank rate meant that Beta Holdings' interest payments dropped by $2 million to $5.4 million last year and it paid off $16.2 million of the total loan leaving $182.8 million outstanding. Meanwhile, F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone has warned that last month's earthquake in Japan could affect the Grand Prix due to be held there in October.
The Suzuka track 500 miles south-west of the epicentre has not been damaged, but there are fears that ticket sales could be jeopardised as a result of the disaster.
Last year 100,000 spectators attended the race and ticket sales are crucial since they cover the annual race hosting fee estimated at $48.4 million by Formula 1 trade guide Formula Money.
An estimated $40 million in revenue has already been lost this year due to the cancellation of the Bahrain Grand Prix as a result of the civil uprising in the Gulf state.
Formula 1's corporate hospitality operation Beta Holdings saw pre-tax losses treble to $5.2 million (£3.15 million), according to accounts for 2010.
Despite the addition of new races in Canada and South Korea, revenues stalled as sponsors cut spending on corporate hospitality.
F1 is majority owned by private equity firm CVC and the accounts reveal that it has racked up a combined $200 million loss since it was acquired in 2006.
Beta Holdings' turnover last year nudged up by just $3.2 million to $153.5 million, but this was not enough to compensate for a 3.3 per cent rise in costs.
The increase in the number of races boosted the overheads, which include transporting 40,000 glasses, 30,000 plates, 10,000 cut flowers, 5,500 magnums of champagne and 200 tons of tents to each event.
About 4,000 people are served in F1's hospitality area at every race and last year prices ranged up to $4,520 per person for a three-day ticket. Beta Holdings financial director Duncan Llowarch said: 'The prevailing economic conditions created a difficult environment for hospitality sales.'
In an attempt to drive revenue, ticket prices have been increased by as much as 12 per cent in 2011. CVC used a $285 million loan from Royal Bank of Scotland to buy the business and the debt incurs interest of Libor – the rate at which banks lend to each other – plus between one per cent and 3.5 per cent.
A fall in the interbank rate meant that Beta Holdings' interest payments dropped by $2 million to $5.4 million last year and it paid off $16.2 million of the total loan leaving $182.8 million outstanding. Meanwhile, F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone has warned that last month's earthquake in Japan could affect the Grand Prix due to be held there in October.
The Suzuka track 500 miles south-west of the epicentre has not been damaged, but there are fears that ticket sales could be jeopardised as a result of the disaster.
Last year 100,000 spectators attended the race and ticket sales are crucial since they cover the annual race hosting fee estimated at $48.4 million by Formula 1 trade guide Formula Money.
An estimated $40 million in revenue has already been lost this year due to the cancellation of the Bahrain Grand Prix as a result of the civil uprising in the Gulf state.
Lotus poised to Caterham acquisition
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Tony Fernandes, who owns the Lotus Formula One team, is likely to announce the acquisition of Caterham next week, according to people close to the situation.
The deal will reunite the ownership of Lotus F1 with one of the brand’s famous sports car operations.
Caterham’s heritage stems from the legendary Lotus Seven sports car (now known simply as ‘the 7’), which it acquired from Lotus Cars in 1973.
The takeover of the sports car manufacturer will be seen as a vote of confidence in one of the country’s most iconic automotive names.
But Team Lotus spokesman not commented on reports of a likely tie-up with specialist British sports car marque Caterham.
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The deal will reunite the ownership of Lotus F1 with one of the brand’s famous sports car operations.
Caterham’s heritage stems from the legendary Lotus Seven sports car (now known simply as ‘the 7’), which it acquired from Lotus Cars in 1973.
The takeover of the sports car manufacturer will be seen as a vote of confidence in one of the country’s most iconic automotive names.
But Team Lotus spokesman not commented on reports of a likely tie-up with specialist British sports car marque Caterham.
Kubica wont be returning to F1 for atleast 6 more months
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The doctor treating Robert Kubica claimed that the Formula One star Robert Kubica's ability to return to competition won't be known until the summers.
Renault F1 Driver, Robert Kubica who had suffered from multiple fractures from a Rally Crash Accident on 6th Feb, 2011 is improving quickly and most probably will be out of Hospital before April End.
The doctor further added that after a brief stay at his home in Monaco, he would return to Italy to begin his rehabilitation program at a clinic owned by Dr. Riccardo Ceccarelli, who is also Lotus Renault GP's team doctor.
"We'll understand six months after the accident [if and when Kubica can return to racing]," Ceccarelli told Italy's Gazzetta dello Sport.
"We need to wait for nature to run its course even though, knowing Robert, we are confident in his recovery strength . Gym workout will help him feel like a racing driver again."
Ceccarelli continued: "We'll keep in touch with the people who have followed [Kubica] these months, first of all Dr.[Igor] Rossello, who operated on the right hand, but we'll also look for more specialists.
"We have set up a pool of at least four people able to follow him during his daily six to eight hours of work, and we are getting a special treadmill that allows you to put the load over the right leg only partially.
Due to his hand, leg, shoulder and elbow, Robert combines three patients into one.
"Rebuilding the nerves [in Kubica's hand] is the longest process, so it's difficult to understand in the first four months what the recovery will be like. He has good sensitivity, but not in every spot. The hand is there and will regain good functionality," the doctor said.
"The leg poses little problem. Robert places the load on the left one and has started to load the other one progressively."
Robert is now able to stand and walk although with a bit of assistance as we hope to see him return to Formula 1.
After undergoing successful final surgery, Kubica was currently recovering quickly under the rehabilitation program.
Recently Kubica had announced to attend late pope John Paul second's Beatification.
The doctor treating Robert Kubica claimed that the Formula One star Robert Kubica's ability to return to competition won't be known until the summers.
Renault F1 Driver, Robert Kubica who had suffered from multiple fractures from a Rally Crash Accident on 6th Feb, 2011 is improving quickly and most probably will be out of Hospital before April End.
The doctor further added that after a brief stay at his home in Monaco, he would return to Italy to begin his rehabilitation program at a clinic owned by Dr. Riccardo Ceccarelli, who is also Lotus Renault GP's team doctor.
"We'll understand six months after the accident [if and when Kubica can return to racing]," Ceccarelli told Italy's Gazzetta dello Sport.
"We need to wait for nature to run its course even though, knowing Robert, we are confident in his recovery strength . Gym workout will help him feel like a racing driver again."
Ceccarelli continued: "We'll keep in touch with the people who have followed [Kubica] these months, first of all Dr.[Igor] Rossello, who operated on the right hand, but we'll also look for more specialists.
"We have set up a pool of at least four people able to follow him during his daily six to eight hours of work, and we are getting a special treadmill that allows you to put the load over the right leg only partially.
Due to his hand, leg, shoulder and elbow, Robert combines three patients into one.
"Rebuilding the nerves [in Kubica's hand] is the longest process, so it's difficult to understand in the first four months what the recovery will be like. He has good sensitivity, but not in every spot. The hand is there and will regain good functionality," the doctor said.
"The leg poses little problem. Robert places the load on the left one and has started to load the other one progressively."
Robert is now able to stand and walk although with a bit of assistance as we hope to see him return to Formula 1.
After undergoing successful final surgery, Kubica was currently recovering quickly under the rehabilitation program.
Recently Kubica had announced to attend late pope John Paul second's Beatification.
Williams share sinks with disastrous start to the season
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Williams share prices has plummeted amid the famous British team's worst ever start to a new Formula One season.
Williams became the first publically traded F1 company at the start of the season when it started public IPO at Frankfurt exchange.
The price is now 27 percent lower all driven by disastrous on-track performance which has seen the Oxfordshire-based company make its worst start to a F1 campaign in its 33-year history.
Williams has no points after three races and out of 12 teams it lies 10th in the standings. The best result scored by its two drivers this year has been 13th place in the Chinese Grand Prix on 17 April . Its shares fell 3.4% when they opened for trading the day after the race and over the past month they have lost 13.9% of their value. The shares closed at €17.69 before the Easter break, down from their offer price of €24.21.
The big loser is Dutch investor Cyrte, who bought 5 percent of Williams. It's share is now worth EUR3.3 million less.
Williams itself has not suffered from the declining share price. The team did not issue any new shares in the float and instead the majority of the offering came from its engineering director Patrick Head who will be retiring this year.Williams itself has not suffered from the declining share price. The team did not issue any new shares in the float and instead the majority of the offering came from its engineering director Patrick Head who will be retiring this year.
Williams is the second most successful team in F1 history with nine championships to its name. However, it last won a race in 2004 and since then has lost sponsors such as Royal Bank of Scotland and the Air Asia airline. Over the past five years Williams has made total net losses of £31.5m and in the 10 months to the end of October 2010 its after-tax profit reversed 41% to £3.9m on revenue of £74.2m.
Williams share prices has plummeted amid the famous British team's worst ever start to a new Formula One season.
Williams became the first publically traded F1 company at the start of the season when it started public IPO at Frankfurt exchange.
The price is now 27 percent lower all driven by disastrous on-track performance which has seen the Oxfordshire-based company make its worst start to a F1 campaign in its 33-year history.
Williams has no points after three races and out of 12 teams it lies 10th in the standings. The best result scored by its two drivers this year has been 13th place in the Chinese Grand Prix on 17 April . Its shares fell 3.4% when they opened for trading the day after the race and over the past month they have lost 13.9% of their value. The shares closed at €17.69 before the Easter break, down from their offer price of €24.21.
The big loser is Dutch investor Cyrte, who bought 5 percent of Williams. It's share is now worth EUR3.3 million less.
Williams itself has not suffered from the declining share price. The team did not issue any new shares in the float and instead the majority of the offering came from its engineering director Patrick Head who will be retiring this year.Williams itself has not suffered from the declining share price. The team did not issue any new shares in the float and instead the majority of the offering came from its engineering director Patrick Head who will be retiring this year.
Williams is the second most successful team in F1 history with nine championships to its name. However, it last won a race in 2004 and since then has lost sponsors such as Royal Bank of Scotland and the Air Asia airline. Over the past five years Williams has made total net losses of £31.5m and in the 10 months to the end of October 2010 its after-tax profit reversed 41% to £3.9m on revenue of £74.2m.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Kubica to leave Hospital before April End
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Renault F1 Driver, Robert Kubica who had suffered from multiple fractures from a Rally Crash Accident on 6th Feb, 2011 is improving quickly and most probably will be out of Hospital before April End or even could be out before Easter.
The Renault Formula 1 driver was contesting the Ronde di Andora rally in a Skoda Fabia when he had a heavy accident on the opening stage.
According to the Polish news agency PAP, hospital spokesperson Roberto Carrozzino has now confirmed that the risk of infection to Kubica has passed after successful 4 operations, This could result in him being cleared to return home before the weekend.
Robert is now able to stand and walk although with a bit of assistance as we hope to see him return to Formula 1.
After undergoing successful final surgery, Kubica was currently recovering quickly under the rehabilitation program.
Recently Kubica had announced to attend late pope John Paul second's Beatification.
Renault F1 Driver, Robert Kubica who had suffered from multiple fractures from a Rally Crash Accident on 6th Feb, 2011 is improving quickly and most probably will be out of Hospital before April End or even could be out before Easter.
The Renault Formula 1 driver was contesting the Ronde di Andora rally in a Skoda Fabia when he had a heavy accident on the opening stage.
According to the Polish news agency PAP, hospital spokesperson Roberto Carrozzino has now confirmed that the risk of infection to Kubica has passed after successful 4 operations, This could result in him being cleared to return home before the weekend.
Robert is now able to stand and walk although with a bit of assistance as we hope to see him return to Formula 1.
After undergoing successful final surgery, Kubica was currently recovering quickly under the rehabilitation program.
Recently Kubica had announced to attend late pope John Paul second's Beatification.
Yamuna Expressway to be completed just before India GP
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The Yamuna Expressway that will connect Delhi to Agra, also connecting Buddh International Circuit where Inaugural India GP will be held on 30th October, 2011 will be completed by October 30.
Both the 165-km-long expressway and the race track are being developed by the Jaypee Group.
The October slot for Formula 1 has been fixed subject to the final inspection by experts of the Federation International de l’Automobile (FIA) in June.
Originally, the expressway was to be built by March 31, but work got stalled when farmers launched an agitation in Tappal, near Aligarh, last year to demand higher compensation for land acquired for a township project which is part of the expressway. After the government pacified the farmers, a new deadline of July was fixed. However, at a meeting today to review the progress of the project, representatives of the Jaypee Group informed the government that they needed more time for construction of interchanges at Agra for which the forest department clearance was received only recently. In all, seven interchanges have to be built.
The Yamuna Expressway that will connect Delhi to Agra, also connecting Buddh International Circuit where Inaugural India GP will be held on 30th October, 2011 will be completed by October 30.
Both the 165-km-long expressway and the race track are being developed by the Jaypee Group.
The October slot for Formula 1 has been fixed subject to the final inspection by experts of the Federation International de l’Automobile (FIA) in June.
Originally, the expressway was to be built by March 31, but work got stalled when farmers launched an agitation in Tappal, near Aligarh, last year to demand higher compensation for land acquired for a township project which is part of the expressway. After the government pacified the farmers, a new deadline of July was fixed. However, at a meeting today to review the progress of the project, representatives of the Jaypee Group informed the government that they needed more time for construction of interchanges at Agra for which the forest department clearance was received only recently. In all, seven interchanges have to be built.
Mercedes Chief admired Paul Di Resta
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The Scottish Force India driver, Paul Di Resta, who is just turned 25, scored a point in both of the opening two races this season and just missed out on another by finishing 11th in China at the weekend.
Mercedes-Benz Motorsport boss Norbert Haug, whose company supplies Force India's engines, said: "We always knew he was good but his start has been exceptional.
"F1 will be very good for him. His speed is quite impressive and he is doing a fine job."
The Scottish Force India driver, Paul Di Resta, who is just turned 25, scored a point in both of the opening two races this season and just missed out on another by finishing 11th in China at the weekend.
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Mercedes-Benz Motorsport boss Norbert Haug, whose company supplies Force India's engines, said: "We always knew he was good but his start has been exceptional.
"F1 will be very good for him. His speed is quite impressive and he is doing a fine job."
Formula One is not for sale says Bernie Ecclestone
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Bernie Ecclestone insisted Wednesday that Formula One is not for sale, brushing off reports that Rupert Murdoch's News Corp. is interested in taking over the sport.
Sky News reported that News Corp., which owns a 39 percent stake in the broadcaster's parent group, has begun talks with Mexican telecom magnate Carlos Slim about forming a consortium to buy control of F1 from private equity firm CVC Capital.
But the 80-year-old Ecclestone, who runs F1 on behalf of CVC, reiterated his intention to stay in control for some time yet.
"It is all rubbish," Ecclestone told British newspaper The Times on Wednesday. "Formula One is not for sale. And anyway, we would not sell to a media company because it would restrict the ability to negotiate with other broadcasters."
The BBC has an agreement to broadcast the F1 world championship in Britain until 2013.
Satellite broadcaster BSkyB, which runs Sky News and is subject to a full takeover bid by News Corp., could choose to bid for the broadcast rights rather than full control of the sport.
Unlike events such as the Wimbledon tennis tournament and soccer's World Cup, Formula One is not reserved for free-to-air broadcast in Britain by government legislation.
Funds should not be a problem if News Corp. does pursue the sport.
BSkyB paid $2.661 billion for Premier League broadcast rights from 2010-13, while Slim topped this year's Forbes' list wealthiest people with an estimated fortune of $121 billion.
Bernie Ecclestone insisted Wednesday that Formula One is not for sale, brushing off reports that Rupert Murdoch's News Corp. is interested in taking over the sport.
Sky News reported that News Corp., which owns a 39 percent stake in the broadcaster's parent group, has begun talks with Mexican telecom magnate Carlos Slim about forming a consortium to buy control of F1 from private equity firm CVC Capital.
But the 80-year-old Ecclestone, who runs F1 on behalf of CVC, reiterated his intention to stay in control for some time yet.
"It is all rubbish," Ecclestone told British newspaper The Times on Wednesday. "Formula One is not for sale. And anyway, we would not sell to a media company because it would restrict the ability to negotiate with other broadcasters."
The BBC has an agreement to broadcast the F1 world championship in Britain until 2013.
Satellite broadcaster BSkyB, which runs Sky News and is subject to a full takeover bid by News Corp., could choose to bid for the broadcast rights rather than full control of the sport.
Unlike events such as the Wimbledon tennis tournament and soccer's World Cup, Formula One is not reserved for free-to-air broadcast in Britain by government legislation.
Funds should not be a problem if News Corp. does pursue the sport.
BSkyB paid $2.661 billion for Premier League broadcast rights from 2010-13, while Slim topped this year's Forbes' list wealthiest people with an estimated fortune of $121 billion.
Richard Branson to serve the bet he lost to Tony Fernandes on May 1
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The bet between the two airlines holder Richard Branson (owner of the Virgin Group and title sponsor of Virgin Racing) and Tony Fernandes (owner of Air Asia and Team Principal of Team Lotus), new comers of 2010 - Team Lotus and Virgin Racing is finally going to being honoured.
The Loser of the bet have to dress up and serve as a flight attendant in the rival airline.
The bet was - To finish ahead of the other in 2010 constructor standing. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix confirmed Lotus in tenth place in the constructors championship with Virgin 12th behind HRT.
So Richard had agreed to serve the bet last year soon after the Abu Dhabi race.
Billionaire Richard Branson will have his legs shaved in public on the flight. He will dress up as a female flight attendant on a special charity flight from London to Kuala Lumpur on May 1st, 2011. The Virgin group founder will hand the razor to one of the 160 passengers on the flight. The lucky one to have this honour will be the person who will donate the most for the charity.
The winner of the auction may pay upto $650,000.
"As an Air Asia flight attendant, Richard would have to comply to our grooming standards, and that includes shaving his legs," Fernandes said in a statement released by Air Asia.
"Rather than shave him myself, Richard and I thought we could have a bit of fun, engage with our guests and raise more money for charity if we opened up the opportunity to the highest bidder"
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The Loser of the bet have to dress up and serve as a flight attendant in the rival airline.
The bet was - To finish ahead of the other in 2010 constructor standing. The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix confirmed Lotus in tenth place in the constructors championship with Virgin 12th behind HRT.
So Richard had agreed to serve the bet last year soon after the Abu Dhabi race.
Billionaire Richard Branson will have his legs shaved in public on the flight. He will dress up as a female flight attendant on a special charity flight from London to Kuala Lumpur on May 1st, 2011. The Virgin group founder will hand the razor to one of the 160 passengers on the flight. The lucky one to have this honour will be the person who will donate the most for the charity.
The winner of the auction may pay upto $650,000.
"As an Air Asia flight attendant, Richard would have to comply to our grooming standards, and that includes shaving his legs," Fernandes said in a statement released by Air Asia.
"Rather than shave him myself, Richard and I thought we could have a bit of fun, engage with our guests and raise more money for charity if we opened up the opportunity to the highest bidder"
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
LUCA DI MONTEZEMOLO unhappy with Slow 150th Italia
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Luca di Montezemolo, president of Ferrari, said on Monday that the Prancing Horse's Formula One team needs to improve the performance of the 150 Italia in a short period of time.
Fernando Alonso's fourth-place finish in the Australian Grand Prix on March 27 is the team's best finish of the season. Teammate Felipe Massa's highest finish was fifth in the Malaysian Grand Prix.
"This cannot and must not be the team's level," Montezemolo said. "It's a very delicate moment. I expect our engineers to act with determination and know-how, unleashing the maximum of their capacity to improve the performance of the car in a short time. I want Ferrari to be at the level that both we and our fans demand it should be."
Team principal Stefano Domenicali and Ferrari engineers have started analyzing the data from the Grand Prix of China and the development program of the 150th Italia, according to the Ferrari boss.
The next race will be the Turkish Grand Prix at Istanbul Park on May 8.
Luca di Montezemolo, president of Ferrari, said on Monday that the Prancing Horse's Formula One team needs to improve the performance of the 150 Italia in a short period of time.
Fernando Alonso's fourth-place finish in the Australian Grand Prix on March 27 is the team's best finish of the season. Teammate Felipe Massa's highest finish was fifth in the Malaysian Grand Prix.
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Team principal Stefano Domenicali and Ferrari engineers have started analyzing the data from the Grand Prix of China and the development program of the 150th Italia, according to the Ferrari boss.
The next race will be the Turkish Grand Prix at Istanbul Park on May 8.
Webber stressed about REB BULL’s KERS issues
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Red Bull driver, Mark Webber has claimed that it will be very important for the team to resolve the issues with its Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) ahead of the Turkish Grand Prix, which will take place on Sunday, May 8, 2011.
The Australian and his teammate, Sebastian Vettel, have faced numerous technical problems with their power boost system, in the opening three races of the 2011 Formula 1 season.
Webber stated, “Its (KERS) a key component in Formula 1 these days, mate, so it's completely obvious that we want to address it as soon as possible. McLaren have a huge amount of experience with Mercedes from 2009 and they're doing a good job of it, and that's not an excuse, it means that we have to work harder.”
He further added, “We have to work as cleverly as we can and as fast as we can. Fortunately, we now have a bit of a break, so it will be a clear focus for us in terms of durability and consistency and also understanding the system.”
The veteran driver said that he had complete faith in his team and he was optimistic that the issue will be sorted out prior to the next race. However, he admitted that it wouldn’t be the easiest of jobs to get the system working perfectly.
Red Bull’s team principal Christian Horner was also confident that all systems on the car will be functioning properly during the Turkish GP. He claimed that the team has learned a lot after the first three races of the season and things have moved in the positive direction.
The reigning champions will be bringing an upgrade to their KERS system ahead of the next race in order to continue their dominance on track. They were unmatched in the first race of the season in Australia, but Team McLaren have made a lot of progress since then. The British team came closer in the Malaysian GP, but was unable to win the race. However, they continued to improve and won the next race, the Chinese Grand Prix.
Both the McLaren drivers were able to pass Vettel easily in the opening lap of the race, with the help of their superior KERS. Although the youngest ever Formula 1 champion bounced back in the race to lead, Lewis Hamilton overtook him in the final few laps of the race easily.
On the other hand, Webber had to start the race from the 18th place on the grid due to the problem he encountered with his power boost system in qualifying.
The Australian had his car remade on four occasions during the Chinese race weekend. This didn’t help his chances in the race, but the 33-year-old impressed one and all with the sheer pace of his car and his driving skills as he finished third overall.
This clearly indicated that a better qualifying position would have given him a chance to secure a victory.
Red Bull driver, Mark Webber has claimed that it will be very important for the team to resolve the issues with its Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) ahead of the Turkish Grand Prix, which will take place on Sunday, May 8, 2011.
The Australian and his teammate, Sebastian Vettel, have faced numerous technical problems with their power boost system, in the opening three races of the 2011 Formula 1 season.
Webber stated, “Its (KERS) a key component in Formula 1 these days, mate, so it's completely obvious that we want to address it as soon as possible. McLaren have a huge amount of experience with Mercedes from 2009 and they're doing a good job of it, and that's not an excuse, it means that we have to work harder.”
He further added, “We have to work as cleverly as we can and as fast as we can. Fortunately, we now have a bit of a break, so it will be a clear focus for us in terms of durability and consistency and also understanding the system.”
The veteran driver said that he had complete faith in his team and he was optimistic that the issue will be sorted out prior to the next race. However, he admitted that it wouldn’t be the easiest of jobs to get the system working perfectly.
Red Bull’s team principal Christian Horner was also confident that all systems on the car will be functioning properly during the Turkish GP. He claimed that the team has learned a lot after the first three races of the season and things have moved in the positive direction.
The reigning champions will be bringing an upgrade to their KERS system ahead of the next race in order to continue their dominance on track. They were unmatched in the first race of the season in Australia, but Team McLaren have made a lot of progress since then. The British team came closer in the Malaysian GP, but was unable to win the race. However, they continued to improve and won the next race, the Chinese Grand Prix.
Both the McLaren drivers were able to pass Vettel easily in the opening lap of the race, with the help of their superior KERS. Although the youngest ever Formula 1 champion bounced back in the race to lead, Lewis Hamilton overtook him in the final few laps of the race easily.
On the other hand, Webber had to start the race from the 18th place on the grid due to the problem he encountered with his power boost system in qualifying.
The Australian had his car remade on four occasions during the Chinese race weekend. This didn’t help his chances in the race, but the 33-year-old impressed one and all with the sheer pace of his car and his driving skills as he finished third overall.
This clearly indicated that a better qualifying position would have given him a chance to secure a victory.
Williams Cosworth's Sam Michael wants review on team's structure
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The technical director of Formula 1 team, Williams Cosworth, Sam Michael has called for some changes in the team’s structure in order to get the optimum performance from the outfit. He also hinted at a different role for himself with the team.
The start to the 2011 Formula 1 season has been disappointing for the British team, as their drivers Rubens Barrichello and Pastor Maldonado have been unable to score a single point.
Michael stated, “I think the job that we have done this year clearly is not good enough. There are lots of different reasons why. But either way, whatever team you are, I can easily see that where we are at the moment is not good enough and that falls down to me. So, we are currently reviewing that inside Williams.”
The Australian further added, “What I would not be happy with doing would be not changing anything – even myself. Even if everyone said everything is perfect, I know it is not. So, I am not happy with the job that we have done as a group. I would review that anyway – including myself.”
Michael said that he had chosen the entire technical team and if there were some performance issues, he was the most responsible person for that. He claimed that the final decision would be up to the team, but he will make decisions according to the best of his understanding.
Williams will be bringing some major upgrades for the fourth race of the season in Turkey, which will take place on Sunday, May 8. The team was confident on an improved show, but admitted the challenges ahead.
Although Michael was unhappy with the low key start to the season for Williams, he was expecting a serious turn around in the Turkish Grand Prix. He mentioned the performance of McLaren-Mercedes, a team that has made a lot of progress since the pre-season testing, as an example.
The Vodafone sponsored team managed to end the winning streak of the dominant Red Bull team. The reigning champions had won the first two races of the season and looked good in the third race; the Chinese Grand Prix. However, McLaren’s driver, Lewis Hamilton, expressed the true potential of his team, winning the race after a thrilling performance.
The technical director of Formula 1 team, Williams Cosworth, Sam Michael has called for some changes in the team’s structure in order to get the optimum performance from the outfit. He also hinted at a different role for himself with the team.
The start to the 2011 Formula 1 season has been disappointing for the British team, as their drivers Rubens Barrichello and Pastor Maldonado have been unable to score a single point.
Michael stated, “I think the job that we have done this year clearly is not good enough. There are lots of different reasons why. But either way, whatever team you are, I can easily see that where we are at the moment is not good enough and that falls down to me. So, we are currently reviewing that inside Williams.”
The Australian further added, “What I would not be happy with doing would be not changing anything – even myself. Even if everyone said everything is perfect, I know it is not. So, I am not happy with the job that we have done as a group. I would review that anyway – including myself.”
Michael said that he had chosen the entire technical team and if there were some performance issues, he was the most responsible person for that. He claimed that the final decision would be up to the team, but he will make decisions according to the best of his understanding.
Williams will be bringing some major upgrades for the fourth race of the season in Turkey, which will take place on Sunday, May 8. The team was confident on an improved show, but admitted the challenges ahead.
Although Michael was unhappy with the low key start to the season for Williams, he was expecting a serious turn around in the Turkish Grand Prix. He mentioned the performance of McLaren-Mercedes, a team that has made a lot of progress since the pre-season testing, as an example.
The Vodafone sponsored team managed to end the winning streak of the dominant Red Bull team. The reigning champions had won the first two races of the season and looked good in the third race; the Chinese Grand Prix. However, McLaren’s driver, Lewis Hamilton, expressed the true potential of his team, winning the race after a thrilling performance.
Rosberg regret to miss podium finish
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Nico Rosberg said he was disappointed not to finish on the podium after a strong performance for the improving Mercedes team in Sunday's Chinese Grand Prix.
The 25-year-old German, son of world champion Keke Rosberg, led the race for several laps but was unable to stay in contention as he nursed his car home in fifth place with a low fuel load.
"Naturally I'm disappointed with the race as we know that we didn't make the most of our opportunity out there," he said.
Rosberg said Mercedes had made big strides with the car but fuel consumption problems made it hard for him to fight for position.
"We could have had a podium finish or maybe more today, but we will learn from this together as a team and make sure that we get the results next time."
The team completed its first double points finish of the season as seven-time world champion German Michael Schumacher, 42, was eighth.
"We have made a big step forward with our car and it worked very well. We are heading towards the first race in Europe now and will bring some upgrades to Istanbul which should help us to improve even more," the veteran said.
"It is good to leave Asia with a positive feeling."
Nico Rosberg said he was disappointed not to finish on the podium after a strong performance for the improving Mercedes team in Sunday's Chinese Grand Prix.
The 25-year-old German, son of world champion Keke Rosberg, led the race for several laps but was unable to stay in contention as he nursed his car home in fifth place with a low fuel load.
"Naturally I'm disappointed with the race as we know that we didn't make the most of our opportunity out there," he said.
Rosberg said Mercedes had made big strides with the car but fuel consumption problems made it hard for him to fight for position.
"We could have had a podium finish or maybe more today, but we will learn from this together as a team and make sure that we get the results next time."
The team completed its first double points finish of the season as seven-time world champion German Michael Schumacher, 42, was eighth.
"We have made a big step forward with our car and it worked very well. We are heading towards the first race in Europe now and will bring some upgrades to Istanbul which should help us to improve even more," the veteran said.
"It is good to leave Asia with a positive feeling."
"Thankyou Pirelli," said BBC commentator David Coulthard
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After all the criticism, Pirelli is finally receiving some high praise for its new role in formula one.
Drivers, teams and commentators were earlier critical of the sport's new official supplier for producing tyres that degrade too quickly and flick rubber 'bullets' into the faces of chasing competitors.
But after a mediocre season opener in Melbourne, the back-to-back outings in Malaysia and China in the last two weeks were widely hailed as "thrilling", apparently vindicating Pirelli's pre-season claim that quickly-degrading tyres will add to the F1 spectacle.
David said "What they've given us is great, strategic racing."
McLaren and FOTA boss Martin Whitmarsh agreed: "I think today (Sunday) showed that formula one can deliver spectacular, fast, close, nail-biting racing."
Added Pirelli chief Paul Hembery: "It's hard to imagine how we can top this at the next grand prix in Turkey, but we're certainly going to try to have something just as good."
The Italian marque will supply the same hard and soft compounds at the forthcoming Turkish and Spanish grands prix, following speculation an experimental 'extra-hard' compound might need to be used at Istanbul.
And the 'super-soft' will make its 2011 debut in Monaco."It's quite a different tyre to the rest of the range and should be very effective around the streets of Monte Carlo," added Hembery.
After all the criticism, Pirelli is finally receiving some high praise for its new role in formula one.
Drivers, teams and commentators were earlier critical of the sport's new official supplier for producing tyres that degrade too quickly and flick rubber 'bullets' into the faces of chasing competitors.
But after a mediocre season opener in Melbourne, the back-to-back outings in Malaysia and China in the last two weeks were widely hailed as "thrilling", apparently vindicating Pirelli's pre-season claim that quickly-degrading tyres will add to the F1 spectacle.
David said "What they've given us is great, strategic racing."
McLaren and FOTA boss Martin Whitmarsh agreed: "I think today (Sunday) showed that formula one can deliver spectacular, fast, close, nail-biting racing."
Added Pirelli chief Paul Hembery: "It's hard to imagine how we can top this at the next grand prix in Turkey, but we're certainly going to try to have something just as good."
The Italian marque will supply the same hard and soft compounds at the forthcoming Turkish and Spanish grands prix, following speculation an experimental 'extra-hard' compound might need to be used at Istanbul.
And the 'super-soft' will make its 2011 debut in Monaco."It's quite a different tyre to the rest of the range and should be very effective around the streets of Monte Carlo," added Hembery.
Ecclestone questioned by German state prosecutor
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Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone has been questioned by state prosecutors in Munich, Germany, as part of an investigation into irregular payments made during the sale of the sport's commercial rights.
Ecclestone, 80, was quizzed on April 6 as part of the investigation into payments worth 38 million euros ($50m) made to a German banker during F1's commercial rights sale five years ago, reports the Sueddeutsche Zeitung in Saturday's edition.
Ecclestone's questioning came after the arrest in January of Gerhard Gribkowsky, the boss of Bavarian bank BayernLB, which had a stake in F1 up until to 2006.
British billionaire Ecclestone, the CEO and president of F1's governing body, has said that he will continue to cooperate fully with the German prosecutors.
Formula One boss Bernie Ecclestone has been questioned by state prosecutors in Munich, Germany, as part of an investigation into irregular payments made during the sale of the sport's commercial rights.
Ecclestone, 80, was quizzed on April 6 as part of the investigation into payments worth 38 million euros ($50m) made to a German banker during F1's commercial rights sale five years ago, reports the Sueddeutsche Zeitung in Saturday's edition.
Ecclestone's questioning came after the arrest in January of Gerhard Gribkowsky, the boss of Bavarian bank BayernLB, which had a stake in F1 up until to 2006.
British billionaire Ecclestone, the CEO and president of F1's governing body, has said that he will continue to cooperate fully with the German prosecutors.
Chinese GP - Post Race Analysis
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As the UBS Chinese Grand Prix, 2011 ended with Lewis ending the winning streak for Sebastian, lets recap into the race analysis.
About the Circuit:
The circuit suited the drivers with ample opportunities for overtaking. The temperature in China was also very pleasant. With chills in the morning, bright sun shinning in the afternoon on the race day. The circuit remain dry for the entire week. The cooler circuit unlike that of Malaysia also supported Pirelli tyres.
The race saw lot of drivers leading the race. It made almost impossible till the very end who will win the race. It was just like a film script that ended on a happy note for China Hero Lewis Hamilton while the Hero Vettel lost the race like a villain even after dominating all the practice sessions and grabbing the pole.
Practice Sessions - Chinese GP
It was continuation of Red Bull dominance or you can say Sebastian Vettel dominance with topping all the three practice sessions. First session looks like that Red Bull will be a no match for anyone on the circuit even for Mclaren. But the second and third practice ensured that there will be a tough competition ahead and Red Bull have to work very hard to win the race.
Ferrari was looking out of pace in practice with tense faces in Ferrari crew.
Mercedes and Force India with their upgrades proved to be competitive and were looking to provide a tough competition for the teams.
HRT progressed a lot as far as their speed is concerned. Their speed matches that of Virgin.
Chinese GP - Practice Session 1
Chinese GP - Practice Session 2
Chinese GP - Practice Session 3
Qualifying - Chinese GP
Mark Webber out in Q1 was one of the biggest shock for Red Bull. Webber used hard tyres during the qualifying which saw him not able to match the pace of soft tyres of others. Petrov stopping just 2mins before the Q2 ends caused some to not able to qualify for Q3. Petrov stoppage means that he had to start on 10th as was not able to take part in Q3.
Michael was again not able to make it to Q3 due to the rear wing problem. A bad for sauber as both of their cars were out qualified in Q2.
But for Force India and Toro Rosso was a wonderful moment as Paul Di Resta saw his maiden Q3 and started the race at 8th position. He also separated the two Toro Rosso's on the grid.
Mercedes Nico Rosberg run shows their competitiveness as he outpaced both the Ferrari's for 4th.
But most importantly, it was Sebastian Vettel who made it a hat-trick of pole in 2011. It was 4th in a row for him. Mclaren's followed him.
Chinese GP - Qualifying
Race - Chinese GP
One of the most exciting race in recent times. It showed the competitiveness that will going to prevail throughout 2011. The rules changes in 2011 facilitated overtaking.
DRS and KERS played their part as they made your nerves go wild when the cars overtake. Almost every lap saw a car being overtaken using KERS and DRS. Pirelli Tyre wear was not that of a problem in Chinese GP. It was upto the teams to opt for 2stop or 3stop strategy. Cold temperatures suited Pirelli style.
The drivers with 3stop strategy benefited the most. As the last few laps saw Ferrari being overtaken. Sebastian Vettel being overtaken by Lewis Hamilton.
It all worked according to film script. Lewis Hamilton had some initial fuel leak problem before the race even started, got past Jenson Button and Sebastian Vettel in succession at the end of the race and eventually won the Chinese Grand Prix.
Mark Webber showed that he is an excellent driver. With starting from back of the grid at 18th position and having pitted earlier in the race still finished the race in 3rd. He overtaken almost every driver on race track, with last victim was Jenson Button in penultimate lap of the race.
Ferrari and Renault were not able to convert the race in big points. Mercedes who were strong in the early stages were not able to finish the race on top.
Pirelli tyres were praised by all after the race.
Chinese GP - Race
Team Analysis:
Mclaren - Mclaren stripped the invincible tag of Red Bull. With competitive performance throughout the weekend winning the race in the end. There was a minor mistake from Button in the pits that caused him podium finish. Beside that Mclaren did it well to beat Red Bull. Car was reliable and performed quite well.
9.5/10 points
Red Bull - The leading team in 2011, was struck with problems throughout weekend for Mark Webber's car. KERS was again a major issue for Red Bull. 2stop strategy for Vettel caused him the race win. But still the team was quick and able to grab 2nd and 3rd in the race. Webber excellent driving from 18th to 3rd was amazing.
9.0/10 points
Mercedes - Mercedes was a improved team after their poor performance in the season opening. But still need to work on reliability as lost the momentum in the later part of the race. Also in qualifying Michael was not able to qualify for Q3 due to problems with the car. But more upgrades can bring them back in competition.
8.0/10 points
Ferrari - After a poor performance in practice, they make a mark in Qualifying with 2 stop strategy during the race paid them 5th and 6th position. But still the biggest name in F1 lack the pace and was no match for Red Bull and Mclaren.
8.0/10 points
Renault - It was a poor show by Renault. They need to work on their reliability. They are good with the speed. But qualifying problems hovers them in the race. They lost a lot of ground in the starting. Though tried to cover in the later stage. Heidfeld poor performance was seen during the race. The accident with Perez was purely Heidfeld mistake.
6.0/10 points
Force India - It was a good show by Force India with updated aero package. Looked competitive during the practice and qualifying. Able to clear Q3 for first time in 2011. But later stages of race saw them losing what they gained during the weekend and the initial laps during race.
5.5/10 points
Sauber -The team were not able to put a strong performance during Qualifying but Kamui Kobayashi strong driving gave them the points in race. Sergio Perez accident with the Force India Sutil was purely his mistake.
5.0/10 points
Toro Rosso - An exception performace during the qualifying and practice, but the race devastated their weekend. Alguersuari tyre flying in the air, showed the negligence by the pit crew. Also Buemi was not able to perform well.
4.0/10 points
Williams - One of the oldest team in the sport is no match for the midfielder also. Not able to complete the race in the first two races and now clearly off the pace both during the qualifying as well as race. But able to finish at last.
3.0/10 points
Team Lotus - Lotus were able to save its pants during the race after poor qualifying and practice sessions. Heikki was able to put that Lotus ahead of Sauber and Williams. May be only through luck. But that did not mean that they perform well. They really need to work hard if they want to compete with Midfielders.
2.5/10 points.
Virgin - Virgin was a poor performer during practice. But their overnight tweaks paid off with outpacing HRT again. But they were no match for struggling Team Lotus also.
2.0/10 points.
HRT - HRT's hard work paid them with double finish in the end. Their major goal of reliability is complete. Now they can work on speed. They are getting closer to Virgin and were able to beat them in practice. Narain Karthikeyan one stop strategy was appreciable.
2.0/10 points.
As the UBS Chinese Grand Prix, 2011 ended with Lewis ending the winning streak for Sebastian, lets recap into the race analysis.
About the Circuit:
The circuit suited the drivers with ample opportunities for overtaking. The temperature in China was also very pleasant. With chills in the morning, bright sun shinning in the afternoon on the race day. The circuit remain dry for the entire week. The cooler circuit unlike that of Malaysia also supported Pirelli tyres.
The race saw lot of drivers leading the race. It made almost impossible till the very end who will win the race. It was just like a film script that ended on a happy note for China Hero Lewis Hamilton while the Hero Vettel lost the race like a villain even after dominating all the practice sessions and grabbing the pole.
Practice Sessions - Chinese GP
It was continuation of Red Bull dominance or you can say Sebastian Vettel dominance with topping all the three practice sessions. First session looks like that Red Bull will be a no match for anyone on the circuit even for Mclaren. But the second and third practice ensured that there will be a tough competition ahead and Red Bull have to work very hard to win the race.
Ferrari was looking out of pace in practice with tense faces in Ferrari crew.
Mercedes and Force India with their upgrades proved to be competitive and were looking to provide a tough competition for the teams.
HRT progressed a lot as far as their speed is concerned. Their speed matches that of Virgin.
Chinese GP - Practice Session 1
Chinese GP - Practice Session 2
Chinese GP - Practice Session 3
Qualifying - Chinese GP
Mark Webber out in Q1 was one of the biggest shock for Red Bull. Webber used hard tyres during the qualifying which saw him not able to match the pace of soft tyres of others. Petrov stopping just 2mins before the Q2 ends caused some to not able to qualify for Q3. Petrov stoppage means that he had to start on 10th as was not able to take part in Q3.
Michael was again not able to make it to Q3 due to the rear wing problem. A bad for sauber as both of their cars were out qualified in Q2.
But for Force India and Toro Rosso was a wonderful moment as Paul Di Resta saw his maiden Q3 and started the race at 8th position. He also separated the two Toro Rosso's on the grid.
Mercedes Nico Rosberg run shows their competitiveness as he outpaced both the Ferrari's for 4th.
But most importantly, it was Sebastian Vettel who made it a hat-trick of pole in 2011. It was 4th in a row for him. Mclaren's followed him.
Chinese GP - Qualifying
Race - Chinese GP
One of the most exciting race in recent times. It showed the competitiveness that will going to prevail throughout 2011. The rules changes in 2011 facilitated overtaking.
DRS and KERS played their part as they made your nerves go wild when the cars overtake. Almost every lap saw a car being overtaken using KERS and DRS. Pirelli Tyre wear was not that of a problem in Chinese GP. It was upto the teams to opt for 2stop or 3stop strategy. Cold temperatures suited Pirelli style.
The drivers with 3stop strategy benefited the most. As the last few laps saw Ferrari being overtaken. Sebastian Vettel being overtaken by Lewis Hamilton.
It all worked according to film script. Lewis Hamilton had some initial fuel leak problem before the race even started, got past Jenson Button and Sebastian Vettel in succession at the end of the race and eventually won the Chinese Grand Prix.
Mark Webber showed that he is an excellent driver. With starting from back of the grid at 18th position and having pitted earlier in the race still finished the race in 3rd. He overtaken almost every driver on race track, with last victim was Jenson Button in penultimate lap of the race.
Ferrari and Renault were not able to convert the race in big points. Mercedes who were strong in the early stages were not able to finish the race on top.
Pirelli tyres were praised by all after the race.
Chinese GP - Race
Team Analysis:
Mclaren - Mclaren stripped the invincible tag of Red Bull. With competitive performance throughout the weekend winning the race in the end. There was a minor mistake from Button in the pits that caused him podium finish. Beside that Mclaren did it well to beat Red Bull. Car was reliable and performed quite well.
9.5/10 points
Red Bull - The leading team in 2011, was struck with problems throughout weekend for Mark Webber's car. KERS was again a major issue for Red Bull. 2stop strategy for Vettel caused him the race win. But still the team was quick and able to grab 2nd and 3rd in the race. Webber excellent driving from 18th to 3rd was amazing.
9.0/10 points
Mercedes - Mercedes was a improved team after their poor performance in the season opening. But still need to work on reliability as lost the momentum in the later part of the race. Also in qualifying Michael was not able to qualify for Q3 due to problems with the car. But more upgrades can bring them back in competition.
8.0/10 points
Ferrari - After a poor performance in practice, they make a mark in Qualifying with 2 stop strategy during the race paid them 5th and 6th position. But still the biggest name in F1 lack the pace and was no match for Red Bull and Mclaren.
8.0/10 points
Renault - It was a poor show by Renault. They need to work on their reliability. They are good with the speed. But qualifying problems hovers them in the race. They lost a lot of ground in the starting. Though tried to cover in the later stage. Heidfeld poor performance was seen during the race. The accident with Perez was purely Heidfeld mistake.
6.0/10 points
Force India - It was a good show by Force India with updated aero package. Looked competitive during the practice and qualifying. Able to clear Q3 for first time in 2011. But later stages of race saw them losing what they gained during the weekend and the initial laps during race.
5.5/10 points
Sauber -The team were not able to put a strong performance during Qualifying but Kamui Kobayashi strong driving gave them the points in race. Sergio Perez accident with the Force India Sutil was purely his mistake.
5.0/10 points
Toro Rosso - An exception performace during the qualifying and practice, but the race devastated their weekend. Alguersuari tyre flying in the air, showed the negligence by the pit crew. Also Buemi was not able to perform well.
4.0/10 points
Williams - One of the oldest team in the sport is no match for the midfielder also. Not able to complete the race in the first two races and now clearly off the pace both during the qualifying as well as race. But able to finish at last.
3.0/10 points
Team Lotus - Lotus were able to save its pants during the race after poor qualifying and practice sessions. Heikki was able to put that Lotus ahead of Sauber and Williams. May be only through luck. But that did not mean that they perform well. They really need to work hard if they want to compete with Midfielders.
2.5/10 points.
Virgin - Virgin was a poor performer during practice. But their overnight tweaks paid off with outpacing HRT again. But they were no match for struggling Team Lotus also.
2.0/10 points.
HRT - HRT's hard work paid them with double finish in the end. Their major goal of reliability is complete. Now they can work on speed. They are getting closer to Virgin and were able to beat them in practice. Narain Karthikeyan one stop strategy was appreciable.
2.0/10 points.
Ferrari President threatened to withdraw
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Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo has threatened to withdraw Formula One's biggest team from the circuit unless the sport changes direction.
Di Montezemolo says in an interview with German magazine AutoBild that the sport had become "too artificial," saying "a steering wheel is now a computer covered in buttons and the fans no longer understand."
FIA is intent on using four-cylinder engines from 2013, something alien to Ferrari's race team and road cars.
Di Montezemolo says Ferrari will stay in Formula One "so long as the sport gives us back something for the development of technology of our production cars. Otherwise not."
Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo has threatened to withdraw Formula One's biggest team from the circuit unless the sport changes direction.
Di Montezemolo says in an interview with German magazine AutoBild that the sport had become "too artificial," saying "a steering wheel is now a computer covered in buttons and the fans no longer understand."
FIA is intent on using four-cylinder engines from 2013, something alien to Ferrari's race team and road cars.
Di Montezemolo says Ferrari will stay in Formula One "so long as the sport gives us back something for the development of technology of our production cars. Otherwise not."
Kubica to attend late pope John Paul second's Beatification
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The Lotus Renault Formula One driver, recovering from horrific rally crash injuries in an Italian hospital.
Robert Kubica is recovering so well he is reportedly planning to attend the beatification of his late Polish countryman and former Pope John Paul II on May 1.
300,000 pilgrims are expected to descend on Rome on May 1 for the beatification ceremony, the first step to sainthood for John Paul II.
The news agency SID said 26 year old Kubica's recovery is going so well it has "surprised doctors", as he is already putting weight on his badly injured foot, clenching the fist on his injured right hand, and pushing to leave the hospital soon.
The Lotus Renault Formula One driver, recovering from horrific rally crash injuries in an Italian hospital.
Robert Kubica is recovering so well he is reportedly planning to attend the beatification of his late Polish countryman and former Pope John Paul II on May 1.
300,000 pilgrims are expected to descend on Rome on May 1 for the beatification ceremony, the first step to sainthood for John Paul II.
The news agency SID said 26 year old Kubica's recovery is going so well it has "surprised doctors", as he is already putting weight on his badly injured foot, clenching the fist on his injured right hand, and pushing to leave the hospital soon.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Chinese GP Race Highlights - Lap by Lap
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15 mins Before the race start:
Sky is looking bright with Sun shining.
Lewis Hamilton car is still in the garage just 15min left for the race start. Pit crew rushed to finish the car due to fuel leak in the car. They stopped the car and started it again.
Hamilton Car is perfectly ready to start the race. Have they not reached the grid within the last 30sec, they would have to start from the pitlane.
Malaysia have seen Pirelli Marbles / rubber coming out of the car, it may be the problem again in Chinese GP.
FIA reduced the drs area for Chinese GP in the morning that can be activated in turn 12.
Formation Lap:
All the front running car are using option tyre(soft tyre) while Mark Webber is on the prime tyres (harder compound tyres) In the mid field also all are on option tyres. Mark Webber car does not have KERS.
5 Red Lights Illuminate
Lap 1:
Good start for Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton. As Button moves in on 1st and Hamilton on 2nd on the Turn 1. Rosberg on 3rd. Vettel dropped to 4th again gain a place on Rosberg to 3rd. Good start for Force India also Paul Di Resta in 7th place and Adrian Sutil up in 8th position. Michael Schumacher up in 9th position at the end of the lap overtaking Jaime Alguersuari. Sebastien Buemi and Petrov losing the ground on the opening lap. Petrov lost 2 more places.
Lap 2:
Liuzzi up in 22nd position while Webber moves to 17th.
Lap 3:
DRS Enabled. Hamilton set the fastest lap (Lap 2): 1min 44:461sec. Kobayashi in 10th using DRS kicking Jaime Alguersuari on 10th. As there is lot of dirt on track.
Lap 5:
Webber in 15th. Ferrari closing in on Nico Rosberg in 4th while Michael Schumacher closing in on Force India for 8th.
Lap 6:
Paul Di Resta complains for rear tyres as they are quickly wearing off.
Lap 7:
Kobayashi in 10th. Petrov in 11th.
Lap 8:
Heidfeld trying to pass Toro Rosso’s as Webber closes behind Heidfeld. Heidfeld using DRS on the front of the car of Buemi where Buemi also uses DRS on the car in front of Jaime Alguersuari.
Lap 9:
Sergio Perez overtakes Webber for 15th position.
Lap 10:
Heidfeld overtakes Buemi. Alguersuari in pits. First one to come in pits. Dropped to 22nd position. Liuzzi also comes in pits.
Jaime Alguersuari right rear wheel come off as he struggle on coming out of the pits.
Lap 11:
Micahel Schumacher comes in for pits and dropped to 16th position. Webber also comes in pits. Webber changed the tyres to option tyres. Dropped to 20th position. This means he is going for 3 pit stop strategy.
Jaime Alguersuari park his car. He is out of race.
Lap 12:
Paul Di Resta in pits. Come out on 14th. Michael Schumacher up on 14th as Di Resta slides to 16th.
Lap 13:
Nico Rosberg in pits. Comes out on 10th. Makes a move up to 9th.
Lap 14:
Mark Webber set the fastest lap (Lap 13) 1min 43:313sec. Michael in 13th and Resta in 14th. Sebastian Vettel up in 2nd place. Jenson Button and Sebastian Vettel both dives into the pits. Button makes a mistake, moves into Red Bull pitcrew. The mistake cost him a place to Vettel. Vettel comes ahead of Button in 7th.
Lap 15:
Massa ahead of Hamilton as both come in pits. Massa comes out ahead of Hamilton, as Hamilton charges him in the pits. But they were separated by Sergio Perez on track as Massa comes out in 7th with Hamilton on 9th.
Lap 16:
Order on track: Alonso, Rosberg, Petrov, Vettel, Button, Heidfeld, Massa, Hamilton, Perez, Schumacher, Barrichello, Di Resta, Sutil, Kovalainen, Kobayashi, Webber.
Lap 17:
Massa and Hamilton overtakes Heidfeld as they enable DRS. Alonso in pits. Lost lot of places as some mistake in pits. Comes out in 9th position. Michael up in 8th. Rosberg leading the race.
Lap 18:
Vettel overtakes Petrov. Michael overtakes Heidfeld. Both the Renault cars have lost places as tyres are warmed up. Fresh Tyres required. Alonso also passes Heidfeld up in 8th. Petrov in pits. comes out in 14th.
Rosberg leading the pack.
As the pit lane scenario started, the one with fresh tyres taking positions on others. As the tyres warm up, they are way to slow to compete. As seen with Renault.
Lap 19:
Heidfeld in pits comes out in 16th.
Lap 20:
Debris coming out of Alonso car. Di Resta on 8th. Michael on 6th. Alonso fighting for position with Michael.
Lap 21:
Order on track:
Rosberg, Vettel, Button, Massa, Hamilton, Schumacher, Alonso, Di Resta, Sutil, Kobayashi, Webber, Petrov, Perez, Heidfeld, Barrichello, Maldonado, Trulli, Kovalainen, Buemi.
Lap 22:
Webber moved to 11th position. Sutil, Kobayashi, Webber fighting for 9th position.
Lap 23:
Schumi and Alonso fighting for 6th position. Alonso used DRS. Speed of Schumi on turn - 300km/h and Alonso 313km/h due to DRS. Both used KERS.
Lap 25:
Button in pits. Dropped to 8th from 3rd. Button first to go in for new set of tyres. Alonso tight on brakes as he inches more closer to Michael Schumacher. Schumacher eager to fight and winning is been seen in the race.
Lap 26:
Rosberg pitted from 1st position comes out at 4th.
Lap 27:
Button passes Di Resta on 7th position. Michael in pits. Dropped to 13th. Vettel on 1st.
Lap 28:
Hamilton moves in 6th overtaking Di Resta now in 7th. Rosberg closing in on Alonso. As with fresh tyres, Rosberg moves up in 3rd pushing Alonso to 4th.
Lap 29:
Sebastian Vettel radio not working as some disturbance in the Vettel's Mic. Webber overtakes Barrichello. Button passes Alonso for 4th easily.
Lap 30:
Michael up in 12th as he overtakes Heidfeld. Hamilton passes Alonso.
Lap 31:
Lewis Hamilton set the fastest lap (Lap 30): 1min 40:736sec. A heavy competition for last point as Petrov, Michael, Perez fights for it.
Lap 32:
Vettel in pits. Dropped to 6th. Looking for a 2pit stop strategy for Vettel. Massa leading the race. Sutil in 13th place.
Lap 33:
Alonso in pits. Comes out in 10th. Michael behind Petrov, find a way pass through him for 6th position. Webber in 8th. Steadily climbing the mountain as he started the race in 18th. Di Resta in 6th.
Lap 34:
Massa also in pits. Comes out in 5th. Behind Vettel. Massa puts his left tyres on the white line as he comes out of the pits, this could mean a penalty if stewards decides.
Webber pass Petrov easily for 7th. Alonso passes Perez for 9th.
Lap 35:
Hamilton fighting Button for 2nd position. Hamilton used DRS. Button doing everything to defeat Hamilton. Great driving from the teammates. This could knock them both out. Hamilton up in 2nd position.
Lap 37:
Order on track:
Rosberg, Hamilton, Button, Vettel, Massa, Schumacher, Webber, Petrov, Alonso, Perez, Di Resta, Kobayashi, Sutil, Heidfeld, Kovalainen, Barichello, Maldanado, Trulli, Buemi, Glock, D Ambrosio, Karthikeyan, Liuzzi.
Lap 38:
Vettel could be aiming for 2stop strategy. Button comes in pits. Dropped to 5th. Webber overtakes Schumacher, but Schumi fights to take back the position but could not able to do it.
Lap 39:
Hamilton also pits. Dropped to 4th. This is the final pit stop for Mclaren. Rosberg leads the race. 11second ahead of Vettel. Rosberg in pits. Dropped to 3rd but Hamilton fights for the position.
Lap 40:
Rosberg defends the position as hammer Hamilton out on dirt. Michael dropped to 8th. Di Resta on 9th.
Vettel, Alonso and Massa on 2stop strategy.
Lap 41:
Hamilton nearly tucked at back of Rosberg. Rosberg is advised to conserve fuel. He has to reduce his pace. Rosberg comes in close to Massa for 2nd position.
Lap 43: Hamilton up in 3rd. Mark Webber set the fastest lap of the race (Lap 42) : 1min 38.993sec
Petrov and Heidfeld dances for the position as Heidfeld hit Perez. Perez losses his front wing during collision.
Lap 45:
Hamilton tries on Massa. He got pass Massa for 2nd. Alonso and Webber fighting for 6th position. Rosberg trying to pass Massa on 3rd, locked tyres lost 2 places. Button pass Rosberg for 4th position.
Lap 46:
Massa, Button and Rosberg fighting for 3rd position.
Lap 47:
Schumacher quickly closing in of Alonso up ahead of him in 6th place.
Lap 48:
Sergio Perez caused an accident with Adrian Sutil, Sutil lost his front wing, damage dropped him to 16th position. Perez is given a drive through penalty for the act.
Hamilton is advised to save tyres.
Lap 49:
Perez serve his drive through.
Lap 50:
Vettel cannot be heard on radio. Button pass Massa for 3rd position. Rosberg closes him on Massa.
Sutil and Perez accident to be further evaluated by Race Stewards after the race.
Hamilton tries on Vettel for 1st position. Vettel saved his position.
Rosberg passes Massa, as Massa gets on grass.
Lap 51:
Order at top:
Vettel, Hamilton, Button, Rosberg, Massa
DRS enabled for Hamilton as he closes in on Vettel. Hamilton still cant able to overtake him. But Hamilton has tyre advantage.
Lap 52:
Hamilton become the race leader. Pass Vettel. This could go all the way to chequered flag.
Order on track:
Hamilton, Vettel, Button, Rosberg, Webber, Massa, Alonso, Schumi, Di Resta, Petrov, Kobayashi, Heidfeld, Barrichello, Buemi.
Lap 53:
Rosberg and Webber fights for 4th position. Michael closes in on Alonso. Webber up in 5th position after starting from back of the grid at 18th. The race by Webber is without KERS on his car.
Lap 54:
Webber trying harder to overtake Rosberg. Webber overtakes Rosberg for 4th.
Adrian Sutil unlap himself from Sebastian Vettel.
Lap 55: Second Last Lap:
Webber attacking on Button now as on fresh tyres for podium position. Hamilton is going to win the race. With Michael closing in on Alonso. Webber overtakes Button. Webber speed is 317km/hr at the moment even without KERS. Button has only 296km/hr. Button closes in on Webber, not give up easy for the position but could not manage to hold.
Lap 56: Final Lap:
Hamilton won the race. Vettel comes 2nd. What a race for Webber as he finished 3rd after starting from 18th.
Button 4th, Rosberg 5th, Massa 6th, Alonso 7th, Michael just not able to beat Alonso at the finish settled for 8th position, Petrov in 9th, Kobayashi 10th.
As the race is far from over yet, Di Resta hits Heidfeld as he finished 11th, Heidfeld 12th. Barrichello is also involved in accident on last lap with Buemi to finish in 13th. Buemi 14th. Sutil 15th. Rest are Kovalainen, Perez, Maldonado, Trulli, D Ambrosio, Glock, Liuzzi, Karthikeyan.
Narain Karthikeyan finishes the race with one stop strategy.
Only one driver not able to complete the race, Jaime Alguersuari.
15 mins Before the race start:
Sky is looking bright with Sun shining.
Lewis Hamilton car is still in the garage just 15min left for the race start. Pit crew rushed to finish the car due to fuel leak in the car. They stopped the car and started it again.
Hamilton Car is perfectly ready to start the race. Have they not reached the grid within the last 30sec, they would have to start from the pitlane.
Malaysia have seen Pirelli Marbles / rubber coming out of the car, it may be the problem again in Chinese GP.
FIA reduced the drs area for Chinese GP in the morning that can be activated in turn 12.
Formation Lap:
All the front running car are using option tyre(soft tyre) while Mark Webber is on the prime tyres (harder compound tyres) In the mid field also all are on option tyres. Mark Webber car does not have KERS.
5 Red Lights Illuminate
Lap 1:
Good start for Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton. As Button moves in on 1st and Hamilton on 2nd on the Turn 1. Rosberg on 3rd. Vettel dropped to 4th again gain a place on Rosberg to 3rd. Good start for Force India also Paul Di Resta in 7th place and Adrian Sutil up in 8th position. Michael Schumacher up in 9th position at the end of the lap overtaking Jaime Alguersuari. Sebastien Buemi and Petrov losing the ground on the opening lap. Petrov lost 2 more places.
Lap 2:
Liuzzi up in 22nd position while Webber moves to 17th.
Lap 3:
DRS Enabled. Hamilton set the fastest lap (Lap 2): 1min 44:461sec. Kobayashi in 10th using DRS kicking Jaime Alguersuari on 10th. As there is lot of dirt on track.
Lap 5:
Webber in 15th. Ferrari closing in on Nico Rosberg in 4th while Michael Schumacher closing in on Force India for 8th.
Lap 6:
Paul Di Resta complains for rear tyres as they are quickly wearing off.
Lap 7:
Kobayashi in 10th. Petrov in 11th.
Lap 8:
Heidfeld trying to pass Toro Rosso’s as Webber closes behind Heidfeld. Heidfeld using DRS on the front of the car of Buemi where Buemi also uses DRS on the car in front of Jaime Alguersuari.
Lap 9:
Sergio Perez overtakes Webber for 15th position.
Lap 10:
Heidfeld overtakes Buemi. Alguersuari in pits. First one to come in pits. Dropped to 22nd position. Liuzzi also comes in pits.
Jaime Alguersuari right rear wheel come off as he struggle on coming out of the pits.
Lap 11:
Micahel Schumacher comes in for pits and dropped to 16th position. Webber also comes in pits. Webber changed the tyres to option tyres. Dropped to 20th position. This means he is going for 3 pit stop strategy.
Jaime Alguersuari park his car. He is out of race.
Lap 12:
Paul Di Resta in pits. Come out on 14th. Michael Schumacher up on 14th as Di Resta slides to 16th.
Lap 13:
Nico Rosberg in pits. Comes out on 10th. Makes a move up to 9th.
Lap 14:
Mark Webber set the fastest lap (Lap 13) 1min 43:313sec. Michael in 13th and Resta in 14th. Sebastian Vettel up in 2nd place. Jenson Button and Sebastian Vettel both dives into the pits. Button makes a mistake, moves into Red Bull pitcrew. The mistake cost him a place to Vettel. Vettel comes ahead of Button in 7th.
Lap 15:
Massa ahead of Hamilton as both come in pits. Massa comes out ahead of Hamilton, as Hamilton charges him in the pits. But they were separated by Sergio Perez on track as Massa comes out in 7th with Hamilton on 9th.
Lap 16:
Order on track: Alonso, Rosberg, Petrov, Vettel, Button, Heidfeld, Massa, Hamilton, Perez, Schumacher, Barrichello, Di Resta, Sutil, Kovalainen, Kobayashi, Webber.
Lap 17:
Massa and Hamilton overtakes Heidfeld as they enable DRS. Alonso in pits. Lost lot of places as some mistake in pits. Comes out in 9th position. Michael up in 8th. Rosberg leading the race.
Lap 18:
Vettel overtakes Petrov. Michael overtakes Heidfeld. Both the Renault cars have lost places as tyres are warmed up. Fresh Tyres required. Alonso also passes Heidfeld up in 8th. Petrov in pits. comes out in 14th.
Rosberg leading the pack.
As the pit lane scenario started, the one with fresh tyres taking positions on others. As the tyres warm up, they are way to slow to compete. As seen with Renault.
Lap 19:
Heidfeld in pits comes out in 16th.
Lap 20:
Debris coming out of Alonso car. Di Resta on 8th. Michael on 6th. Alonso fighting for position with Michael.
Lap 21:
Order on track:
Rosberg, Vettel, Button, Massa, Hamilton, Schumacher, Alonso, Di Resta, Sutil, Kobayashi, Webber, Petrov, Perez, Heidfeld, Barrichello, Maldonado, Trulli, Kovalainen, Buemi.
Lap 22:
Webber moved to 11th position. Sutil, Kobayashi, Webber fighting for 9th position.
Lap 23:
Schumi and Alonso fighting for 6th position. Alonso used DRS. Speed of Schumi on turn - 300km/h and Alonso 313km/h due to DRS. Both used KERS.
Lap 25:
Button in pits. Dropped to 8th from 3rd. Button first to go in for new set of tyres. Alonso tight on brakes as he inches more closer to Michael Schumacher. Schumacher eager to fight and winning is been seen in the race.
Lap 26:
Rosberg pitted from 1st position comes out at 4th.
Lap 27:
Button passes Di Resta on 7th position. Michael in pits. Dropped to 13th. Vettel on 1st.
Lap 28:
Hamilton moves in 6th overtaking Di Resta now in 7th. Rosberg closing in on Alonso. As with fresh tyres, Rosberg moves up in 3rd pushing Alonso to 4th.
Lap 29:
Sebastian Vettel radio not working as some disturbance in the Vettel's Mic. Webber overtakes Barrichello. Button passes Alonso for 4th easily.
Lap 30:
Michael up in 12th as he overtakes Heidfeld. Hamilton passes Alonso.
Lap 31:
Lewis Hamilton set the fastest lap (Lap 30): 1min 40:736sec. A heavy competition for last point as Petrov, Michael, Perez fights for it.
Lap 32:
Vettel in pits. Dropped to 6th. Looking for a 2pit stop strategy for Vettel. Massa leading the race. Sutil in 13th place.
Lap 33:
Alonso in pits. Comes out in 10th. Michael behind Petrov, find a way pass through him for 6th position. Webber in 8th. Steadily climbing the mountain as he started the race in 18th. Di Resta in 6th.
Lap 34:
Massa also in pits. Comes out in 5th. Behind Vettel. Massa puts his left tyres on the white line as he comes out of the pits, this could mean a penalty if stewards decides.
Webber pass Petrov easily for 7th. Alonso passes Perez for 9th.
Lap 35:
Hamilton fighting Button for 2nd position. Hamilton used DRS. Button doing everything to defeat Hamilton. Great driving from the teammates. This could knock them both out. Hamilton up in 2nd position.
Lap 37:
Order on track:
Rosberg, Hamilton, Button, Vettel, Massa, Schumacher, Webber, Petrov, Alonso, Perez, Di Resta, Kobayashi, Sutil, Heidfeld, Kovalainen, Barichello, Maldanado, Trulli, Buemi, Glock, D Ambrosio, Karthikeyan, Liuzzi.
Lap 38:
Vettel could be aiming for 2stop strategy. Button comes in pits. Dropped to 5th. Webber overtakes Schumacher, but Schumi fights to take back the position but could not able to do it.
Lap 39:
Hamilton also pits. Dropped to 4th. This is the final pit stop for Mclaren. Rosberg leads the race. 11second ahead of Vettel. Rosberg in pits. Dropped to 3rd but Hamilton fights for the position.
Lap 40:
Rosberg defends the position as hammer Hamilton out on dirt. Michael dropped to 8th. Di Resta on 9th.
Vettel, Alonso and Massa on 2stop strategy.
Lap 41:
Hamilton nearly tucked at back of Rosberg. Rosberg is advised to conserve fuel. He has to reduce his pace. Rosberg comes in close to Massa for 2nd position.
Lap 43: Hamilton up in 3rd. Mark Webber set the fastest lap of the race (Lap 42) : 1min 38.993sec
Petrov and Heidfeld dances for the position as Heidfeld hit Perez. Perez losses his front wing during collision.
Lap 45:
Hamilton tries on Massa. He got pass Massa for 2nd. Alonso and Webber fighting for 6th position. Rosberg trying to pass Massa on 3rd, locked tyres lost 2 places. Button pass Rosberg for 4th position.
Lap 46:
Massa, Button and Rosberg fighting for 3rd position.
Lap 47:
Schumacher quickly closing in of Alonso up ahead of him in 6th place.
Lap 48:
Sergio Perez caused an accident with Adrian Sutil, Sutil lost his front wing, damage dropped him to 16th position. Perez is given a drive through penalty for the act.
Hamilton is advised to save tyres.
Lap 49:
Perez serve his drive through.
Lap 50:
Vettel cannot be heard on radio. Button pass Massa for 3rd position. Rosberg closes him on Massa.
Sutil and Perez accident to be further evaluated by Race Stewards after the race.
Hamilton tries on Vettel for 1st position. Vettel saved his position.
Rosberg passes Massa, as Massa gets on grass.
Lap 51:
Order at top:
Vettel, Hamilton, Button, Rosberg, Massa
DRS enabled for Hamilton as he closes in on Vettel. Hamilton still cant able to overtake him. But Hamilton has tyre advantage.
Lap 52:
Hamilton become the race leader. Pass Vettel. This could go all the way to chequered flag.
Order on track:
Hamilton, Vettel, Button, Rosberg, Webber, Massa, Alonso, Schumi, Di Resta, Petrov, Kobayashi, Heidfeld, Barrichello, Buemi.
Lap 53:
Rosberg and Webber fights for 4th position. Michael closes in on Alonso. Webber up in 5th position after starting from back of the grid at 18th. The race by Webber is without KERS on his car.
Lap 54:
Webber trying harder to overtake Rosberg. Webber overtakes Rosberg for 4th.
Adrian Sutil unlap himself from Sebastian Vettel.
Lap 55: Second Last Lap:
Webber attacking on Button now as on fresh tyres for podium position. Hamilton is going to win the race. With Michael closing in on Alonso. Webber overtakes Button. Webber speed is 317km/hr at the moment even without KERS. Button has only 296km/hr. Button closes in on Webber, not give up easy for the position but could not manage to hold.
Lap 56: Final Lap:
Hamilton won the race. Vettel comes 2nd. What a race for Webber as he finished 3rd after starting from 18th.
Button 4th, Rosberg 5th, Massa 6th, Alonso 7th, Michael just not able to beat Alonso at the finish settled for 8th position, Petrov in 9th, Kobayashi 10th.
As the race is far from over yet, Di Resta hits Heidfeld as he finished 11th, Heidfeld 12th. Barrichello is also involved in accident on last lap with Buemi to finish in 13th. Buemi 14th. Sutil 15th. Rest are Kovalainen, Perez, Maldonado, Trulli, D Ambrosio, Glock, Liuzzi, Karthikeyan.
Narain Karthikeyan finishes the race with one stop strategy.
Only one driver not able to complete the race, Jaime Alguersuari.
Lewis Hamilton won the Chinese GP, breaks Red Bull Triumph
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Race, UBS Chinese Grand Prix, Shanghai International Circuit, Shanghai
One of the most wonderful races of recent times won by Lewis Hamilton in style. A lot of overtaking, a lot of competition was seen. It look like Formula One has clicked the viewers interest again. DRS and KERS are playing their part as they make your nerves go wild when the cars overtake. Almost every lap saw a car being overtaken using KERS and DRS. Pirelli Tyre wear was not that of a problem in Chinese GP. It was upto the teams to opt for 2stop or 3stop strategy. It seems cold temperatures suits Pirelli style.
It was a hard fought battle for 1st position between Lewis Hamilton, Sebastian Vettel, Jenson Button and Nico Rosberg.
Lewis Hamilton who had some initial fuel leak problem before the race even started, just control his nerves and steadily up on order with changing his fortune at the end of the race where he got past Jenson Button and Sebastian Vettel in succession to won the Chinese Grand Prix.
Sebastian Vettel who started on pole dropped to third place at the start of the race. Only with the two pit stop strategy, Vettel's Red Bull looked in a condition to won the race, but Vettel's warm tyres were no match for Lewis pace who overtook him in the 52nd lap of the race.
Mark Webber showed that he is an excellent driver. With starting from back of the grid at 18th position and having pitted earlier in the race still finished the race in 3rd. He overtaken almost every driver on race track, with last victim was Jenson Button in penultimate lap of the race.
Jenson Button was in control of his race from the starting but only at the later stages of the race he was dropped to 4th from 2nd.
Nico Rosberg showed that Mercedes is not yet over, with updates on the car bring them back in speed with that of Ferrari. Nico was one time leading the pack from the front and was looking to bring that Mercedes home on podium. Only at the last stages car with probably tyre wear problem dropped him to 5th.
Ferrai two stop strategy could not paid off what they wanted to. But surely covered their slower cars as they finished the race in 6th and 7th position.
Michael Schumacher, for the first time after his comeback looked eager to get on the podiums as the car supported him. He was almost there to overtake Alonso in the last but could not do it. Mercedes have improved a lot. But a long way to go for them.
It was a bad day for Renault as they have always been in midst of being overtaken by others. Petrov and Heidfeld losing a lot of ground in the starting only to be at the back of the field as they finished in 9th and 12th position.
Kamui Kobayashi in his Sauber was again a strong midfielder finished in 10th position. His partner Rookie Sergio Perez showed what he is capable off as he was really competitive and overtaken many drivers in the field. Only at the later stages have an accident with Adrian Sutil which caused him to serve a drive through penalty and ended his chances to score points and he finished the race in 17th position.
It was disappointing for Force India for haven't scoring points in the race as both of their drivers Paul Di Resta and Adrian Sutil remained in point contention for the most part of the race. At the end, accident with Perez ended Sutil hunt for points while the warm tyres of Paul caused him points as team opted for 2stop strategy for Paul.
Rubens Barrichello and Pastor Maldonado finished the race for the first time this year for the Williams. The very old Williams look in shabby shape as they were no match for midfielders Sauber and Force India.
It was a bad day for the Toro Rosso team. After a good qualifying yesterday, they were unable to convert the race for points. Sebastein Buemi finished only 14th while Jaime Alguersuari was the only driver who retired from the race as a right rear wheel came of his car on Lap 10.
Team Lotus had a good with Heikki finishing ahead of Perez and Maldonado. At the back of the grid, there was a tough competition between Virgin and HRT.At one moment HRT were ahead of Virgin.
Narain Karthikeyan completed the race with only 1 stop.
There are many incidents in the race when drivers drove to the limits and banged wheels to knock each other off to get the position. Exciting race comes to an end with last lap accidents between Paul and Nick, Barrichello and Buemi.
Race, UBS Chinese Grand Prix, Shanghai International Circuit, Shanghai
It was a hard fought battle for 1st position between Lewis Hamilton, Sebastian Vettel, Jenson Button and Nico Rosberg.
Lewis Hamilton who had some initial fuel leak problem before the race even started, just control his nerves and steadily up on order with changing his fortune at the end of the race where he got past Jenson Button and Sebastian Vettel in succession to won the Chinese Grand Prix.
Sebastian Vettel who started on pole dropped to third place at the start of the race. Only with the two pit stop strategy, Vettel's Red Bull looked in a condition to won the race, but Vettel's warm tyres were no match for Lewis pace who overtook him in the 52nd lap of the race.
Mark Webber showed that he is an excellent driver. With starting from back of the grid at 18th position and having pitted earlier in the race still finished the race in 3rd. He overtaken almost every driver on race track, with last victim was Jenson Button in penultimate lap of the race.
Jenson Button was in control of his race from the starting but only at the later stages of the race he was dropped to 4th from 2nd.
Nico Rosberg showed that Mercedes is not yet over, with updates on the car bring them back in speed with that of Ferrari. Nico was one time leading the pack from the front and was looking to bring that Mercedes home on podium. Only at the last stages car with probably tyre wear problem dropped him to 5th.
Ferrai two stop strategy could not paid off what they wanted to. But surely covered their slower cars as they finished the race in 6th and 7th position.
Michael Schumacher, for the first time after his comeback looked eager to get on the podiums as the car supported him. He was almost there to overtake Alonso in the last but could not do it. Mercedes have improved a lot. But a long way to go for them.
It was a bad day for Renault as they have always been in midst of being overtaken by others. Petrov and Heidfeld losing a lot of ground in the starting only to be at the back of the field as they finished in 9th and 12th position.
Kamui Kobayashi in his Sauber was again a strong midfielder finished in 10th position. His partner Rookie Sergio Perez showed what he is capable off as he was really competitive and overtaken many drivers in the field. Only at the later stages have an accident with Adrian Sutil which caused him to serve a drive through penalty and ended his chances to score points and he finished the race in 17th position.
It was disappointing for Force India for haven't scoring points in the race as both of their drivers Paul Di Resta and Adrian Sutil remained in point contention for the most part of the race. At the end, accident with Perez ended Sutil hunt for points while the warm tyres of Paul caused him points as team opted for 2stop strategy for Paul.
Rubens Barrichello and Pastor Maldonado finished the race for the first time this year for the Williams. The very old Williams look in shabby shape as they were no match for midfielders Sauber and Force India.
It was a bad day for the Toro Rosso team. After a good qualifying yesterday, they were unable to convert the race for points. Sebastein Buemi finished only 14th while Jaime Alguersuari was the only driver who retired from the race as a right rear wheel came of his car on Lap 10.
Team Lotus had a good with Heikki finishing ahead of Perez and Maldonado. At the back of the grid, there was a tough competition between Virgin and HRT.At one moment HRT were ahead of Virgin.
Narain Karthikeyan completed the race with only 1 stop.
There are many incidents in the race when drivers drove to the limits and banged wheels to knock each other off to get the position. Exciting race comes to an end with last lap accidents between Paul and Nick, Barrichello and Buemi.
| Pos | Driver | Team | Laps | Pits | Time | Grid | Points |
| 1 | Lewis Hamilton | Mclaren - Mercedes | 56 | 3 | 3 | 25 | |
| 2 | Sebastian Vettel | Red Bull - Renault | 56 | 2 | +5.1sec |
1 | 18 |
| 3 | Mark Webber | Red Bull - Renault | 56 | 3 | +7.5sec |
18 | 15 |
| 4 | Jenson Button | Mclaren - Mercedes | 56 | 3 | +10.0sec | 2 | 12 |
| 5 |
Nico Rosberg | Mercedes GP | 56 | 3 | +13.4sec | 4 | 10 |
| 6 | Felipe Massa | Ferrari | 56 | 2 |
+15.8sec | 6 | 8 |
| 7 | Fernando Alonso | Ferrari | 56 | 2 |
+30.6sec | 5 | 6 |
| 8 | Michael Schumacher | Mercedes GP | 56 | 3 |
+31.0sec | 14 | 4 |
| 9 | Vitaly Petrov | Renault | 56 | 2 |
+57.4 |
10 | 2 |
| 10 | Kamui Kobayashi | Sauber - Ferrari | 56 | 2 |
+1min 3.2sec | 13 | 1 |
| 11 | Paul Di Resta | Force India - Mercedes | 56 | 2 |
+1min 8.7sec | 8 | |
| 12 | Nick Heidfeld | Renault | 56 | 2 |
+1min 12.7sec | 16 | |
| 13 | Rubens Barrichello | Williams - Cosworth | 56 | 2 |
+1min 30.1sec | 15 | |
| 14 | Sebastien Buemi | STR - Ferrari | 56 | 3 |
+1min 30.6sec | 9 | |
| 15 | Adrian Sutil | Force India - Mercedes | 55 | 3 |
+ 1 Lap | 11 | |
| 16 | Heikki Kovalainen | Lotus - Renault | 55 | 2 |
+ 1 Lap | 19 | |
| 17 | Sergio Perez | Sauber - Ferrari | 55 | 4 |
+ 1 Lap | 12 | |
| 18 | Pastor Maldonado | Williams - Cosworth | 55 | 3 |
+ 1 Lap | 17 | |
| 19 | Jarno Trulli | Lotus - Renault | 55 | 2 |
+ 1 Lap | 20 | |
| 20 |
Jerome d'Ambrosio | Virgin - Cosworth | 54 | 2 |
+ 2 Laps | 21 | |
| 21 | Timo Glock | Virgin - Cosworth | 54 | 3 |
+ 2 Laps | 22 | |
| 22 |
Vitantonio Liuzzi | HRT - Cosworth | 54 | 3 |
+ 2 Laps |
23 |
|
| 23 |
Narain Karthikeyan | HRT - Cosworth | 54 | 1 |
+ 2 Laps |
24 |
|
| Ret | Jaime Alguersuari | STR - Ferrari | 9 | 1 |
+ 47 Laps | 7 | |
| Fastest Lap - Mark Webber, Red Bull - 1min 38.993sec | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lap Record - Michael Schumacher, Ferrari (2004)- 1min 32.238sec | |||||||
| Drivers Standing | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sebastian Vettel | 68 |
| 2 | Lewis Hamilton | 47 |
| 3 | Jenson Button | 38 |
| 4 | Mark Webber | 37 |
| 5 | Fernando Alonso | 26 |
| 6 | Felipe Massa | 24 |
| 7 | Vitaly Petrov | 17 |
| 8 | Nick Heidfeld | 15 |
| 9 | Nico Rosberg | 10 |
| 10 | Kamui Kobayashi | 7 |
| 11 | Michael Schumacher | 6 |
| 12 | Sebastien Buemi | 4 |
| 13 | Adrian Sutil | 2 |
| 14 | Paul Di Resta | 2 |
| Constructors Standing | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Red Bull | 105 |
| 2 | Mclaren | 85 |
| 3 | Ferrari | 50 |
| 4 | Renault | 32 |
| 5 | Mercedes GP | 16 |
| 6 | Sauber | 7 |
| 7 | Toro Rosso | 4 |
| 8 | Force India | 4 |
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Chinese GP - Qualifying Result - Vettel unbeatable with hat-trick
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Qualifying, UBS Chinese Grand Prix, Shanghai International Circuit, Shanghai
18th pole of the career, hat-trick this year and 4 in row from the last year. Is there is any stopping for the world champion. Is he unbeatable....
With Mark Webber failing to qualify even the Q1, it was a bad day for the other Red bull. The strategy opting for hard tyres not to use soft tyres failed Mark.
He will be starting in 18th position on the grid. May be problems with the Red bull are far from over.
It was Mclaren duo who again aimed for pole but at last settling for 2nd and 3rd. Vettel was clearly a second ahead of second man Jenson Button.
But it was surely a Vettel day out with no stopping of him.
Nico Rosberg came home 4th in Mercedes as Mercedes looks competitive. Also Rosberg topped the Q1 with Hamilton topping the Q2.
The Renault of Vitaly Petrov changed the course of Q2 as his car stopped on track in 2nd corner just 2second left in the session. This resulted in not a faster lap times for all as they all headed for the pits. This caused a misfortune for Michael Schumacher and Sauber team while it was a fortunate run for Toro Rosso.
Ferrari were off the pace of that of Red Bull but still their reliability and updates paid off with 5th and 6th on the grid.
It was a lucky day for Toro Rosso as both of their drivers qualify for Q3 with their car separated by Birthday boy Paul Di Resta who finished in 8th position for the Force India.
It was for the first for Rookie Paul Di Resta to taste Q3 as he finished in 8th position. He ran exceptionally well in Q1 and Q2 also.
Vitaly Petrov was unlucky as his car stopped in Q2 when he was running 4th fastest. So the run ended for Vitaly Petrov in Q2 itself which caused him to start from 10th position in the Chinese GP.
Adrian Sutil in other Force India just misses the Q3 in the final seconds of Q2 and he will share the grid 6 with Rookie Sergio Perez who finishes ahead of his teammate Kamui Kobayashi.
The 7 time world champion had again disappointed his fans across the world as he was a bit unlucky due to Petrov stopping in Q2.
Rubens Barrichello in the lead williams will start in 14th with both the Williams car reaching Q2 and Maldonado will start in 17th.
It was a bad day for Renault as Nick Heidfeld car also had some problem with him not able to pose the time in Q2 until 3mins left with some problem with his car. He will start in 16th position.
Team Lotus, Virgin and HRT followed their trend with forming the line up at the back of the grid. As all team qualified the 107percent rule, we will be seeing 24cars taking their luck on track to win the Chinese GP tomorrow.
107percent Qualifying Rule Time: 1min 41:941sec.
Qualifying, UBS Chinese Grand Prix, Shanghai International Circuit, Shanghai
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18th pole of the career, hat-trick this year and 4 in row from the last year. Is there is any stopping for the world champion. Is he unbeatable....
With Mark Webber failing to qualify even the Q1, it was a bad day for the other Red bull. The strategy opting for hard tyres not to use soft tyres failed Mark.
He will be starting in 18th position on the grid. May be problems with the Red bull are far from over.
It was Mclaren duo who again aimed for pole but at last settling for 2nd and 3rd. Vettel was clearly a second ahead of second man Jenson Button.
But it was surely a Vettel day out with no stopping of him.
Nico Rosberg came home 4th in Mercedes as Mercedes looks competitive. Also Rosberg topped the Q1 with Hamilton topping the Q2.
The Renault of Vitaly Petrov changed the course of Q2 as his car stopped on track in 2nd corner just 2second left in the session. This resulted in not a faster lap times for all as they all headed for the pits. This caused a misfortune for Michael Schumacher and Sauber team while it was a fortunate run for Toro Rosso.
Ferrari were off the pace of that of Red Bull but still their reliability and updates paid off with 5th and 6th on the grid.
It was a lucky day for Toro Rosso as both of their drivers qualify for Q3 with their car separated by Birthday boy Paul Di Resta who finished in 8th position for the Force India.
It was for the first for Rookie Paul Di Resta to taste Q3 as he finished in 8th position. He ran exceptionally well in Q1 and Q2 also.
Vitaly Petrov was unlucky as his car stopped in Q2 when he was running 4th fastest. So the run ended for Vitaly Petrov in Q2 itself which caused him to start from 10th position in the Chinese GP.
Adrian Sutil in other Force India just misses the Q3 in the final seconds of Q2 and he will share the grid 6 with Rookie Sergio Perez who finishes ahead of his teammate Kamui Kobayashi.
The 7 time world champion had again disappointed his fans across the world as he was a bit unlucky due to Petrov stopping in Q2.
Rubens Barrichello in the lead williams will start in 14th with both the Williams car reaching Q2 and Maldonado will start in 17th.
It was a bad day for Renault as Nick Heidfeld car also had some problem with him not able to pose the time in Q2 until 3mins left with some problem with his car. He will start in 16th position.
Team Lotus, Virgin and HRT followed their trend with forming the line up at the back of the grid. As all team qualified the 107percent rule, we will be seeing 24cars taking their luck on track to win the Chinese GP tomorrow.
| Pos | Driver | Team | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Laps |
| 1 | Sebastian Vettel | Red Bull - Renault | 1min 35.674sec | 1min 34.776sec | 1min 33.706sec | 14 |
| 2 | Jenson Button | Mclaren - Mercedes | 1min 35.924sec | 1min 34.662sec | 1min 34.421sec | 13 |
| 3 | Lewis Hamilton | Mclaren - Mercedes | 1min 36.091sec | 1min 34.486sec | 1min 34.463sec | 11 |
| 4 | Nico Rosberg | Mercedes GP |
1min 35.272sec | 1min 35.850sec | 1min 34.670sec | 19 |
| 5 | Fernando Alonso | Ferrari | 1min 35.389sec | 1min 35.165sec | 1min 35.119sec | 18 |
| 6 | Felipe Massa | Ferrari | 1min 35.478sec | 1min 35.437sec | 1min 35.145sec | 18 |
| 7 | Jaime Alaguersuari | STR - Ferrari | 1min 36.133sec | 1min 35.563sec | 1min 36.158sec | 16 |
| 8 | Paul Di Resta | Force India -Mercedes | 1min 35.702sec | 1min 35.858sec | 1min 36.190sec | 17 |
| 9 | Sebastien Buemi | STR - Ferrari | 1min 36.110sec | 1min 35.500sec | 1min 36.203sec | 16 |
| 10 | Vitaly Petrov | Renault | 1min 35.370sec | 1min 35.149sec | No Time | 11 |
| 11 | Adrian Sutil | Force India -Mercedes | 1min 36.092sec | 1min 35.874sec | 14 | |
| 12 | Sergio Perez | Sauber-Ferrari | 1min 36.046sec | 1min 36.053sec | 16 | |
| 13 | Kamui Kobayashi | Sauber - Ferrari | 1min 36.147sec | 1min 36.236sec | 11 | |
| 14 | Michael Schumacher | Mercedes GP | 1min 35.508sec | 1min 36.457sec | 16 | |
| 15 | Rubens Barrichello | Williams -Cosworth | 1min 35.911sec | 1min 36.465sec | 15 | |
| 16 | Nick Heidfeld | Renault | 1min 35.910sec | 1min 36.611sec | 11 | |
| 17 | Pastor Maldonado | Williams -Cosworth | 1min 36.121sec | 1min 36.956sec | 17 | |
| 18 | Mark Webber | Red Bull - Renault | 1min 36.468sec | 8 | ||
| 19 | Heikki Kovalainen | Lotus-Renault | 1min 37.894sec | 7 | ||
| 20 | Jarno Trulli | Lotus-Renault | 1min 38.318sec | 10 | ||
| 22 | Jerome d'Ambrosio | Virgin -Cosworth | 1min 39.119sec | 8 | ||
| 21 | Timo Glock | Virgin -Cosworth | 1min 39.708sec | 8 | ||
| 23 | Vitantonio Liuzzi | HRT - Cosworth | 1min 40.212sec | 9 | ||
| 24 | Narain Karthikeyan | HRT - Cosworth | 1min 40.445sec | 9 |
107percent Qualifying Rule Time: 1min 41:941sec.
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