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15before start of Race:
Everything is looking fine. Sun is shining bright out in Catalunya. All the drivers are on track. Rubens Barrichello is enjoying his moment before the race start as Vettel looks tensed.
Track Temp: 32 degree Celsius.
Formation Lap:
Nick Heidfeld is on the hard compound tyres. All the front running drivers are on soft compound. Webber will be having the clear part of the track. Cars are in position. Race is about to start.
Lap 1:
As the five red illuminates, Red Bulls seem to have a good start. Fernando Alonso take a move past outside Webber on turn 1 to take the lead. This hassle helped Vettel to climb up Webber for 2nd. Alonso leads the pack. Webber dropped to third. Button lost a lot of ground and dropped to 10th. This helped Michael Schumacher to climb the grid to 6th. Vettel on 2nd, Webber on 3rd. Massa struggling. Rosberg in 7th. Paul Di Resta up on 14th. The top of the order is - Alonso, Vettel, Webber, Hamilton, Petrov, Michael Schumacher, Rosberg.
Replays suggest: Alonso moved past Webber while he was defending his position to Vettel. As Alonso moved ahead, Vettel got a chance to pass Webber, which dropped him to 3rd. Michael Schumacher took outside of Massa to get ahead of him only to be blocked behind Vitaly Petrov but by that time he was up in 6th position. Button had a very slow start. All the cars moved past him.
Lap 2:
Kobayashi in pits. He had blown left rear tyre. Button attacking on Buemi for 9th position.
Lap 3:
Michael Schumacher is advised to look after his tyre. Sebastian Vettel set the fastest lap (Lap 2) 1min 30:633sec. Button trying hard on Buemi.
DRS Enabled.
Lap 5:
Hamilton set the fastest Lap (Lap 4) 1min 30.311sec. Button pass Buemi for 9th position.
Order on track:
Fernando Alonso, Sebastian Vettel, Mark Webber, Lewis Hamilton, Vitaly Petrov, Michael Schumacher, Nico Rosberg, Felipe Massa, Jenson Button, Sebastien Buemi, Sergio Perez, Jaime Alguersuari, Pastor Maldonado, Paul Di Resta, Jarno Trulli, Heikki Kovalainen, Nick Heidfeld, Adrian Sutil, Rubens Barrichello, Vitantonio Liuzzi, Timo Glock, Narain Karthikeyan, Jerome D'Ambrosio, Kamui Kobayashi.
Lap 7:
Button trying to get past Massa for 8th. Alonso set the fastest lap (Lap 7) - 1min 30:007sec.
Lap 8:
Perez is the first to pit and come out on 20th position. As Perez comes out of the pits, it had wheel to wheel moment with Liuzzi for 20th position.
Lap 9:
Maldonado pits, dropped to 18th.
Lap 10:
Vettel is the first front runner to pit. Thats interesting to see the top runners taking pits at early stage of the race as the soft tyres degrades quickly. He dropped to 9th. Just nearly making contact with Button as he comes out. Vettel highly aggressive and pass Button for 8th. Takes Massa also on the same lap for 7th. This shows how quick he is on the fresh tyres.
Lap 11:
Alonso also in pits. Webber dives into pit too. Alonso comes out in P3 and Webber in P6. Michael pitted too and comes out in P13. Button takes a pass on Massa using DRS.
Lap 12:
Webber pass Massa for 7th. Hamilton in pits. Dropped to 3rd. Petrov in pits. Massa also in pits.
Lap 13:
Webber takes a pass on Button. Barrichello car has a problem in the pits as smoke comes out of the front left tyre. There seems to be some issue with gear box but he continue racing.
Alonso sets the fastest lap (Lap 12) - 1min 29:323sec.
Order on Track:
Fernando Alonso, Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton, Mark Webber, Jenson Button, Paul Di Resta, Michael Schumacher, Jarno Trulli, Heikki Kovalainen, Vitaly Petrov, Nico Rosberg, Felipe Massa, Nick Heidfeld, Sebastien Buemi, Pastor Maldonado, Jaime Alguersuari, Adrian Sutil, Sergio Perez, Vitantonio Liuzzi, Timo Glock, Jerome D'Ambrosio, Kamui Kobayashi, Narain Karthikeyan, Rubens Barrichello.
Paul Di Resta upto 6th, as he still has to make a pitstop. Trulli up in 8th and Kovalainen in 9th. Vettel is told to use all the KERS on every lap. Sutil comes in for 2nd stop.
Lap 14:
Button in pits. It seems that Button is on 3stop strategy. Comes out in 7th position. Michael Schumacher is blocked by Di Resta.
Lap 15:
Schumacher is also looking to be on three stop strategy.
Lap 16:
Di Resta in pits from 6th position. Dropped to 12th. Button comes on tail of Schumacher on fresh tyres. Button takes a pass on Schumacher. As for the top position, we have Alonso, Vettel and Hamilton fighting each other.
Lap 17:
Heidfeld is yet to make his first pitstop. There is a strong battle betwwen Hamilton, Vettel and Alonso for top position.
Lap 18:
Vettel in pits for his 2nd stop. An early stop for Vettel. He comes out on soft tyres again. Lets see what will Mclaren and Ferrari do. Surely it will be a four stop strategy for Vettel.
This was a clever move by Vettel to regain the top position as new set of tyres will provide shorter lap times to overtake Ferrari for top position.
Lap 20:
Alonso and Webber both head to pits. Red Bull strategy worked and Vettel takes the track position from Alonso. Vettel is in 2nd position right now, he will be surely taking the lead, when the Hamilton heads to pits.
Lap 21:
Hamilton sets the fastest lap (Lap 20) in response with 1min 28.024sec.
Order on track:
Lewis Hamilton, Sebastian Vettel, Fernando Alonso, Mark Webber, Jenson Button, Michael Schumacher, Nico Rosberg, Vitaly Petrov, Felipe Massa, Sebastien Buemi, Jaime Alguersuari, Paul Di Resta, Pastor Maldonado, Nick Heidfeld, Sergio Perez, Jarno Trulli, Adrian Sutil, Kamui Kobayashi, Heikki Kovalainen, Rubens Barrichello, Vitantonio Liuzzi, Timo Glock, Jerome D'Ambrosio, Narain Karthikeyan.
Lap 22:
Sebastian Vettel sets the fastest lap (Lap 21) 1min 27:394sec. Massa comes in for 2nd pitstop. Dropped to 12th.
Lap 23:
Webber closing in on Alonso for P3. Vettel is gaining 2sec a lap on Hamilton. heidfeld in pits for his first pit stop on Lap 22. Di Resta passes Alguersuari.
Lap 24:
Hamilton in pits. Vettel passes Hamilton in P2. Alonso in P3. Webber in P4. A clever strategy by Red Bull and Mclaren.
Lap 27:
Michael Schumacher and Vitaly Petrov in pits. Comes out in 8th and 10th respectively.
Lap 28:
Order on track:
Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso, Mark Webber, Jenson Button, Nico Rosberg, Felipe Massa, Michael Schumacher, Paul Di Resta, Vitaly Petrov, Sergio Perez, Jarno Trulli, Pastor Maldonado, Sebastien Buemi, Adrian Sutil, Jaime Alguersuari, Nick Heidfeld, Heikki Kovalainen, Rubens Barrichello, Kamui Kobayashi, Timo Glock, Vitantonio Liuzzi, Jerome D'Ambrosio, Narain Karthikeyan.
Rosberg pits in from 6th and dropped to 9th.
Lap 29:
Alguersuari takes on Sutil for P15. Vettel going to lap Heidfeld.
Lap 30:
Alonso and Webber in pits. Alonso and Webbers goes alongside in pits. Alonso nearly get an edge over Webber in pits and comes ahead of Webber for P4. Rosberg overtake Di Resta for 8th.
Lap 31:
Perez and Trulli in pits. Button in pits also. Alonso and Webber are on hard tyres. Button rejoin in 5th place.
Liuzzi stopped and out of race.
Lap 32:
Webber in not able to activate KERS.
Lap 33:
The top 4 drivers Vettel, Hamilton, Alonso, Webber are on 4stop strategy. Di Resta in pits from 10th position. Di Resta rejoins in 14th.
Lap 34:
Webber trying hard to pass Alonso but not able to do so as KERS is not working. Button on softer compound tyres is on move to catch Alonso and Webber.
Lap 35:
Vettel in pits. As Webber pass Alonso for 3rd, but Alonso fights back, takes the position back from Webber. Great racing from the the two drivers. Vettel rejoins in 2nd position.
Lap 36:
Hamilton in pits. Vettel takes the lead from Hamilton. Dropped to 2nd again. Meanwhile Button closes on Webber for 4th position and passes him with ease. Button is now trying on Alonso for 3rd. Soft tyres are way too fast for the spanish driver to hold on. Button passes Alonso.
Barichello and D'Ambrosio in pits.
Order on track:
Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button, Fernando Alonso, Mark Webber, Felipe Massa, Michael Schumacher, Nico Rosberg, Vitaly Petrov, Pastor Maldonado, Sebastien Buemi, Jaime Alguersuari, Nick Heidfeld, Paul Di Resta, Sergio Perez, Kamui Kobayashi, Jarno Trulli, Rubens Barrichello, Adrian Sutil, Heikki Kovalainen,Timo Glock, Jerome D'Ambrosio, Narain Karthikeyan
Lap 37:
Massa in pits dropped to 9th from 6th. Maldonado in pits. Heidfeld and Alguersuari are also in pits. Heidfeld in P17 now. Di Resta up in 11th.
Lap 40:
Alonso in pits. Dropped to 5th. Rosberg just on tail of Michael Schumacher.
Lap 41:
Alonso early pit stop will most probably give Webber the track position when he comes out of pits.
Lap 42:
Schumacher in pits rejoins out in 7th. Petrov in pits comes out in 9th. Massa up in 8th. Rosberg in 6th.
Lap 43:
Hamilton closes in on Vettel for the race lead. Rosberg in pits from 6th and comes out behind his teammate for 7th.
Lap 44:
Vettel lapped all the cars upto 9th position. Hamilton was slowed down by lap down, backmarker Narain Karthikeyan ahead of him.
Lap 45:
Massa is lapped down by Vettel and Hamilton. Vettel storm past Massa. Only 8drivers on the leading lap. Vettel KERS is not working. Webber's KERS is also not working.
Lap 46:
Hamilton is charging on Vettel for the race lead. Alonso had used an extra set of tyres during the qualifying that has compromised his race today. Heidlfeld takes on Petrov for 11th. Heidfeld has started the race on 24th position.
Lap 47:
Vettel is going to lap Rosberg for 7th. Vettel lapped Rosberg. Only 6 cars left on the lead lap. Vettel is going to lap Michael Schumacher.
Lap 48:
But it will be difficult to get pass Michael, as he will not easily give away the lead lap. Webber in pits. Retaining his 4th position. This is the last stop for Webber. Red Bull ready for Vettel for final pitstop.
Lap 49:
Vettel in pits. Watch for track position. 3.2sec stop for Sebastian Vettel. Vettel comes out on 2nd. 6cars on lead lap.
Button in pits. Rejoins the race in 3rd position. Excellent strategy by Mclaren. Hamilton in pits. Watch out for the race lead. Vettel pass through, Hamilton comes out in P2.
Lap 50:
Order on track:
Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button, Mark Webber, Fernando Alonso, Michael Schumacher, Nico Rosberg, Felipe Massa, Paul Di Resta, Nick Heidfeld, Vitaly Petrov, Pastor Maldonado, Sergio Perez, Kamui Kobayashi, Sebastien Buemi, Jaime Alguersuari, Adrian Sutil, Rubens Barrichello, Jarno Trulli, Heikki Kovalainen,Timo Glock, Jerome D'Ambrosio, Narain Karthikeyan.
Lap 51:
Vettel is advised to use KERS. Kovalainen is out of race. He had an accident, run wide on the gravel trap to hit the tyre barrier. It looks similar to Lewis Hamilton accident on track last year. Narain Karthikeyan in pits.
Lap 52:
Heidfeld, Alguersuari in pits. Heidfeld comes out in 14th. This is the last pitstop for Heidfeld.
Lap 53:
D'Ambrosio in pits from 21st position. Maldonado, Kobayashi and Heidfeld fighting for 13th position. Di Resta also in pits.
Lewis Hamilton sets the fastest lap (Lap 52) - 1min 26:727sec.
Lap 54:
Vettel and Hamilton fighting for race win while Button and Webber for final podium place. Only 7drivers on the lead lap.
It is clear at this point, that if all goes well, then the record of Race win by pole setting driver from last ten years will be broken this time.
Lap 55:
Vettel KERS is still not working, Vettel just avoided collision with Jarno Trulli. That is Nico Rosberg being overlapped by Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton.
Vettel KERS is working again. It seems that it works at some point and then stops working for him.
Lap 56:
Hamilton on a move to overtake Vettel. Using KERS and DRS. Vettel speed is 290kmph on the final corner to turn 1 while Hamilton was in 320kmph. Only 5 drivers left on lead lap. Michael Schumacher is also being lapped by Vettel and Hamilton.
Lap 57:
Final corner to Turn 1 speed -
Vettel - 280 to 296kmph.
Hamilton with DRS activated. 300 to 317kmph. Hamilton is advised to use the yellow button.
Lap 58:
Hamilton tried again on Vettel. Only 0.5sec behind Vettel.
Lap 59:
Just could not able to overtake this time also. Hamilton is advised to save all KERS for the start finish line. Webber is just 3sec behind Button. Perez overtakes Massa for 8th position. Heidfeld also overtakes Massa for the 9th position. That Ferrari is struggling for sure.
Massa is out of the race as he moves his car out of track on gravel.
Lap 61:
Heidfeld takes pass over Perez for 8th position.
Order on track:
Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button, Mark Webber, Fernando Alonso, Michael Schumacher, Nico Rosberg, Nick Heidfeld, Sergio Perez, Kamui Kobayashi, Vitaly Petrov, Paul Di Resta, Sebastien Buemi, Adrian Sutil, Pastor Maldonado, Jaime Alguersuari, Rubens Barrichello, Felipe Massa ( Ret ) , Jarno Trulli, Timo Glock, Jerome D'Ambrosio, Narain Karthikeyan.
Lap 63:
Sebastian Vettel is going to lap Alonso. Only 4 driver will be left on the lead lap. Hamilton trying his way pass Vettel. Vettel KERS is not working again.
Lap 64:
Vettel lapped Alonso on 5th. Only 2teams - Red Bull and Mclaren are on the lead lap. All other team's drivers are lapped by Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton.
Lap 66:
Final Lap:
Final Chance for Lewis Hamilton to try on Sebastian Vettel. But he could not able to do it.
Sebastian Vettel won the race. 4th of this season out of 5th. Vettel breaks the 10year record at Barcelona. What a race it was. DRS and Pirelli have changed the way F1 is governed. Hamilton finished the race just 0.6sec behind the race leader.
Only 4drivers completed the race on lead lap all other are lap down. Michael Schumacher beats his teammate with personal best result from him this season.
Vettel screams "YABADABADI" on the radio as he congratulate and thanked his team.
Classification:
Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button, Mark Webber, Fernando Alonso, Michael Schumacher, Nico Rosberg, Nick Heidfeld, Sergio Perez, Kamui Kobayashi, Vitaly Petrov, Paul Di Resta, Adrian Sutil, Sebastien Buemi, Pastor Maldonado, Jaime Alguersuari, Rubens Barrichello, Jarno Trulli, Timo Glock, Jerome D'Ambrosio, Narain Karthikeyan.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Vettel won the hard fought battle from Hamilton to break the record at Barcelona
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Race, Spanish Grand Prix, Circuit De Catalunya, Barcelona
A hard fought battle between the top four runners to win the race. It was Sebastian Vettel who claim the victory in the end. Record of 10 straight wins from the driver in pole position has been broken. The remarkable performance from the top 2 teams. They lapped all the drivers ( teams ).
Only Red Bulls and Mclarens finished the leading lap while all other teams were lapped by the Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton.
The race started with Fernando Alonso taking the lead on the first corner from 4th but soon after the second pitstop, it faded and a new race leader was Lewis Hamilton. After the third pitstop, Sebastian Vettel took command. After the fourth pitstop, it was a clear battle between Sebastian Vettel in lead to Lewis Hamilton in chase. Hamilton tried to get pass Vettel for almost 13laps.
Button drove exceptionally well to be on podium after being dropped to 10th on the opening lap. A better strategy by Mclaren paid them a hard fought 2nd and 3rd position. They could have been the winner but Red Bull pace is exceptional. Mclaren had an extra soft tyres in the kitty that helped them to have tactical advantage over others while Red Bull KERS problem is still haunting them particularly Mark Webber, they still managed to perform. Their KERS failed to work for few laps in between the race.
Mark Webber who started on pole, could not able to hold on to the 10 year record at Barcelona. DRS and Pirelli have changed F1 completely. But in the end, Webber fought for podium position but could not able to convert it properly.
Fernando Alonso was able to cheer the Spanish fan as he took the lead from Webber from 4th to 1st on the starting Turn 1 of the race and hold on to lead the race for 2 pitstops. But Red Bull and Mclaren pace outqualified Ferrari's. The rear wing change and use of extra set of tyres during qualifying cost them the podium.
7 times world champion Michael Schumacher, drove exceptionally well to shut the mouth of his critics, as he would probably have enjoyed the race today. Those who were thinking that Michael will be retiring next year, are now clear about his future in F1. He has outpaced his younger teammate Nico Rosberg and finished just ahead of him for 6th. Mercedes have improved a lot from last race. They were off the pace from the top 3 but they really are catching up them quickly. Michael on the initial lap climbed to 6th position and thereby hold on to that position in the race. Rosberg also holds his 7th position from Felipe Massa during the race. But Massa had some issues with his car and had to retire from the race in the later stage.
Nick Heidfeld proved himself a brilliant driver as he finished 8th on a circuit where overtaking is really difficult after starting from the last position.
Rookie Sergio Perez outpaced his teammate to finish 9th just ahead of him. Sauber took the last championship point. They have improved a lot. Petrov was not able to convert to the points today after starting from 6th position.
Force India specially Paul Di Resta drove exceptionally well, even though their car was struggling all weekend and were able to finish 12th and 13th. Paul Di Resta was able to reach 6th position during the race two times but could not convert it to points after the pitstop.
It was a bad day for Toro Rosso as Buemi and Alguersuari failed to score and finished 14th and 16th respectively separated by Pastor Maldonado.
Rookie Maldonado who qualified in 9th position could not able to convert it into the first points for Williams. As Williams continue to struggle. Barrichello was way down at 17th.
Jarno Trulli was the only Lotus to finish the race after Heikki Kovalainen met with an accident in a similar fashion as Lewis Hamilton did last year. Lotus improvement failed to put them with midfielders as they struggled during the race.
Then came the two Virgin at the back with Indian Driver Narain Karthikeyan was the last driver to finish the race at 21st position.
The Spanish Grand Prix was a mouth watering race for some. It has surely given fans to cheer for overtaking on such a hard circuit. People are looking forward to Monaco next week. As everyone would be waiting to see the magic of KERS, DRS and Pirelli in Monaco Grand Prix.
Race, Spanish Grand Prix, Circuit De Catalunya, Barcelona
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A hard fought battle between the top four runners to win the race. It was Sebastian Vettel who claim the victory in the end. Record of 10 straight wins from the driver in pole position has been broken. The remarkable performance from the top 2 teams. They lapped all the drivers ( teams ).
Only Red Bulls and Mclarens finished the leading lap while all other teams were lapped by the Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton.
The race started with Fernando Alonso taking the lead on the first corner from 4th but soon after the second pitstop, it faded and a new race leader was Lewis Hamilton. After the third pitstop, Sebastian Vettel took command. After the fourth pitstop, it was a clear battle between Sebastian Vettel in lead to Lewis Hamilton in chase. Hamilton tried to get pass Vettel for almost 13laps.
Button drove exceptionally well to be on podium after being dropped to 10th on the opening lap. A better strategy by Mclaren paid them a hard fought 2nd and 3rd position. They could have been the winner but Red Bull pace is exceptional. Mclaren had an extra soft tyres in the kitty that helped them to have tactical advantage over others while Red Bull KERS problem is still haunting them particularly Mark Webber, they still managed to perform. Their KERS failed to work for few laps in between the race.
Mark Webber who started on pole, could not able to hold on to the 10 year record at Barcelona. DRS and Pirelli have changed F1 completely. But in the end, Webber fought for podium position but could not able to convert it properly.
Fernando Alonso was able to cheer the Spanish fan as he took the lead from Webber from 4th to 1st on the starting Turn 1 of the race and hold on to lead the race for 2 pitstops. But Red Bull and Mclaren pace outqualified Ferrari's. The rear wing change and use of extra set of tyres during qualifying cost them the podium.
7 times world champion Michael Schumacher, drove exceptionally well to shut the mouth of his critics, as he would probably have enjoyed the race today. Those who were thinking that Michael will be retiring next year, are now clear about his future in F1. He has outpaced his younger teammate Nico Rosberg and finished just ahead of him for 6th. Mercedes have improved a lot from last race. They were off the pace from the top 3 but they really are catching up them quickly. Michael on the initial lap climbed to 6th position and thereby hold on to that position in the race. Rosberg also holds his 7th position from Felipe Massa during the race. But Massa had some issues with his car and had to retire from the race in the later stage.
Nick Heidfeld proved himself a brilliant driver as he finished 8th on a circuit where overtaking is really difficult after starting from the last position.
Rookie Sergio Perez outpaced his teammate to finish 9th just ahead of him. Sauber took the last championship point. They have improved a lot. Petrov was not able to convert to the points today after starting from 6th position.
Force India specially Paul Di Resta drove exceptionally well, even though their car was struggling all weekend and were able to finish 12th and 13th. Paul Di Resta was able to reach 6th position during the race two times but could not convert it to points after the pitstop.
It was a bad day for Toro Rosso as Buemi and Alguersuari failed to score and finished 14th and 16th respectively separated by Pastor Maldonado.
Rookie Maldonado who qualified in 9th position could not able to convert it into the first points for Williams. As Williams continue to struggle. Barrichello was way down at 17th.
Jarno Trulli was the only Lotus to finish the race after Heikki Kovalainen met with an accident in a similar fashion as Lewis Hamilton did last year. Lotus improvement failed to put them with midfielders as they struggled during the race.
Then came the two Virgin at the back with Indian Driver Narain Karthikeyan was the last driver to finish the race at 21st position.
The Spanish Grand Prix was a mouth watering race for some. It has surely given fans to cheer for overtaking on such a hard circuit. People are looking forward to Monaco next week. As everyone would be waiting to see the magic of KERS, DRS and Pirelli in Monaco Grand Prix.
| Pos | Driver | Team | Laps | Time | Pits | Grid | Points |
| 1 | Sebastian Vettel | Red Bull - Renault | 66 | 1hr 39min 03.301sec | 4 | 2 | 25 |
| 2 | Lewis Hamilton | Mclaren - Mercedes | 66 | +0.6sec | 4 | 3 | 18 |
| 3 | Jenson Button | Mclaren - Mercedes | 66 | +35.0sec | 3 | 5 | 15 |
| 4 | Mark Webber | Red Bull - Renault | 66 | +47.9sec | 4 | 1 | 12 |
| 5 | Fernando Alonso | Ferrari | 65 | + 1 Lap | 4 | 4 | 10 |
| 6 | Michael Schumacher | Mercedes GP | 65 | + 1 Lap | 3 | 10 | 8 |
| 7 | Nico Rosberg | Mercedes GP | 65 | + 1 Lap | 3 | 7 | 6 |
| 8 | Nick Heidfeld | Renault | 65 | + 1 Lap | 3 | 24 | 4 |
| 9 | Sergio Perez | Sauber - Ferrari | 65 | + 1 Lap |
3 | 12 | 2 |
| 10 | Kamui Kobayashi | Sauber - Ferrari | 65 | + 1 Lap | 3 | 24 | 1 |
| 11 | Vitaly Petrov | Renault | 65 | + 1 Lap | 3 | 6 | |
| 12 | Paul Di Resta | Force India - Mercedes | 65 | + 1 Lap | 3 | 16 | |
| 13 | Adrian Sutil | Force India - Mercedes | 65 | + 1 Lap | 3 | 17 | |
| 14 | Sebastien Buemi | STR - Ferrari | 65 | + 1 Lap | 3 | 11 | |
| 15 | Pastor Maldonado | Williams - Cosworth | 65 | + 1 Lap | 4 | 9 | |
| 16 | Jaime Alguersuari | STR - Ferrari | 64 | + 2 Laps | 4 | 13 | |
| 17 |
Rubens Barrichello | Williams - Cosworth | 64 | + 2 Laps | 4 | 19 | |
| 18 | Jarno Trulli | Lotus - Renault | 64 | + 2 Laps | 3 | 18 | |
| 19 | Timo Glock | Virgin - Cosworth | 63 | + 3 Laps | 3 | 20 | |
| 20 | Jerome d'Ambrosio | Virgin - Cosworth | 62 | + 4 Laps | 3 | 23 | |
| 21 | Narain Karthikeyan | HRT - Cosworth | 61 | + 5 Laps | 3 | 22 | |
| Ret | Felipe Massa | Ferrari | 58 | + 8 Laps | 3 | 8 | |
| Ret | Heikki Kovalainen | Lotus - Renault | 48 | + 18 Laps | 3 | 15 | |
| Ret | Vitantonio Liuzzi | HRT - Cosworth | 28 | + 38 Laps | 1 | 21 | |
| Fastest Lap - Lewis Hamilton, Mclaren - 1min 26.727sec on Lap 52 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lap Record - Kimi Raikkonen, Ferrari (2008) - 1min 21.670sec | |||||||
| F1 2011 Season Drivers Standing | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sebastian Vettel | 118 |
| 2 | Lewis Hamilton | 77 |
| 3 | Mark Webber | 67 |
| 4 | Jenson Button | 61 |
| 5 | Fernando Alonso | 51 |
| 6 | Nico Rosberg | 26 |
| 7 | Nick Heidfeld | 25 |
| 8 | Felipe Massa | 24 |
| 9 | Vitaly Petrov | 21 |
| 10 | Michael Schumacher | 14 |
| 11 | Kamui Kobayashi | 9 |
| 12 | Sebastien Buemi | 6 |
| 13 | Adrian Sutil | 2 |
| 14 | Sergio Perez | 2 |
| 15 | Paul Di Resta | 2 |
| Constructors Standing for 2011 Season | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Red Bull | 185 |
| 2 | Mclaren | 138 |
| 3 | Ferrari | 75 |
| 4 | Renault | 46 |
| 5 | Mercedes GP | 40 |
| 6 | Sauber | 11 |
| 7 | Toro Rosso | 6 |
| 8 | Force India | 4 |
Mark Webber finally put an end to pole setting streak of Sebastian Vettel
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Qualifying, Spanish Grand Prix, Circuit De Catalunya, Barcelona
Mark Webber became the second driver to set the pole this season by outqualifying his teammate World Champion Sebastian Vettel with just 2tenth of a second. Vettel was setting the pole continuously from the last 5 races (including one from Abu Dhabi Race, 2010). Vettel sole run in Q3 also without KERS put him well ahead of Lewis Hamilton depicting the pace of Red Bull and precision of Vettel. On the other hand, Webber had the KERS power to boost him on the top of the timesheets. Red Bull share the first grid for the tomorrow race.
The second grid is shared by the former teammates rival Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso. Alonso was just 3thousandth of a second slower to that of Hamilton. The Rear wing upgrades that Ferrari bought were banned by FIA on Friday night and Ferrari were running on their Turkish GP specification. But then also, Alonso made his mark to separates the two Mclarens.
Petrov in the sole Renault of the day qualified 6th ahead of Nico Rosberg in his Mercedes. Nick Heidfeld in the other Renault was not able to take part in the qualifying due to the heavy damage the car sustained after the intensive fire during the Practice Session 3rd in the morning.
Felipe Massa put the second Ferrari on the 4th grid with Nico.
Rookie Pastor Maldonado drove exceptionally well. Without any glitches, he put his car in Q3 and was 9th fastest.
Michael Schumacher qualified 10th with a clever strategy to save tyres and did not bother to post a time in the Q3. Michael posted the fastest lap in the Q1. It seems that, Michael has a set of spare option tyre with him.
Sebastian Buemi failed to enter Q3 and will start at 11th position. Sergio Perez outqualified his teammate Kamui Kobayashi and will be sharing 6th grid with Buemi. Jaime Alguersuari in his second Toro Rosso was 13th fastest while Kamui Kobayashi was only 14th fastest.
Heikki Kovalainen put the Lotus ahead of Force India's car in Q2 with an exceptional 1min 25sec run and will be starting at strong 15th position tomorrow.
Force India fail to improve with their new upgrades and will be starting at 16th and 17th. However they managed to save the tyres by not using their option tyres in Q2. This could act as a life savor for them.
Jarno Trulli will start in 18th while the shock of the day came by Rubens Barrichello who qualified only 19th and failed to make it to Q2 also.
Timo Glock put his Virgin ahead of HRT's to outqualify them again. But this time, both the HRT's were able to qualify ahead of the second Virgin of Ambrosio. Indian Driver Narain Karthikeyan qualified 22nd just 1tenth of a second slower than his teammate.
All the drivers make it to the 107% qualifying rule. Stewards will most probably allow Nick Heidfeld Renault to take part in the race tomorrow who had not posted time for the Qualifying due to his car being repaired from heavy damage due to intense fire during morning FP3.
From the last ten years, it was pole setter who won the race on Circuit De Catalunya, can Mark Webber able to increase the tally to 11 or it will be someone who will broke this record.
Qualifying, Spanish Grand Prix, Circuit De Catalunya, Barcelona
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The second grid is shared by the former teammates rival Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso. Alonso was just 3thousandth of a second slower to that of Hamilton. The Rear wing upgrades that Ferrari bought were banned by FIA on Friday night and Ferrari were running on their Turkish GP specification. But then also, Alonso made his mark to separates the two Mclarens.
Petrov in the sole Renault of the day qualified 6th ahead of Nico Rosberg in his Mercedes. Nick Heidfeld in the other Renault was not able to take part in the qualifying due to the heavy damage the car sustained after the intensive fire during the Practice Session 3rd in the morning.
Felipe Massa put the second Ferrari on the 4th grid with Nico.
Rookie Pastor Maldonado drove exceptionally well. Without any glitches, he put his car in Q3 and was 9th fastest.
Michael Schumacher qualified 10th with a clever strategy to save tyres and did not bother to post a time in the Q3. Michael posted the fastest lap in the Q1. It seems that, Michael has a set of spare option tyre with him.
Sebastian Buemi failed to enter Q3 and will start at 11th position. Sergio Perez outqualified his teammate Kamui Kobayashi and will be sharing 6th grid with Buemi. Jaime Alguersuari in his second Toro Rosso was 13th fastest while Kamui Kobayashi was only 14th fastest.
Heikki Kovalainen put the Lotus ahead of Force India's car in Q2 with an exceptional 1min 25sec run and will be starting at strong 15th position tomorrow.
Force India fail to improve with their new upgrades and will be starting at 16th and 17th. However they managed to save the tyres by not using their option tyres in Q2. This could act as a life savor for them.
Jarno Trulli will start in 18th while the shock of the day came by Rubens Barrichello who qualified only 19th and failed to make it to Q2 also.
Timo Glock put his Virgin ahead of HRT's to outqualify them again. But this time, both the HRT's were able to qualify ahead of the second Virgin of Ambrosio. Indian Driver Narain Karthikeyan qualified 22nd just 1tenth of a second slower than his teammate.
All the drivers make it to the 107% qualifying rule. Stewards will most probably allow Nick Heidfeld Renault to take part in the race tomorrow who had not posted time for the Qualifying due to his car being repaired from heavy damage due to intense fire during morning FP3.
From the last ten years, it was pole setter who won the race on Circuit De Catalunya, can Mark Webber able to increase the tally to 11 or it will be someone who will broke this record.
| Pos | Driver | Team | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Laps |
| 1 | Mark Webber | Red Bull - Renault | 1min 23.619sec | 1min 21.773sec | 1min 20.981sec | 12 |
| 2 | Sebastian Vettel | Red Bull - Renault | 1min 24.142sec | 1min 21.540sec | 1min 21.181sec | 13 |
| 3 | Lewis Hamilton | Mclaren - Mercedes | 1min 24.370sec | 1min 22.148sec | 1min 21.961sec | 12 |
| 4 | Fernando Alonso | Ferrari | 1min 23.485sec | 1min 22.813sec | 1min 21.964sec | 15 |
| 5 | Jenson Button | Mclaren - Mercedes | 1min 24.428sec | 1min 22.050sec | 1min 21.996sec | 12 |
| 6 | Vitaly Petrov | Renault | 1min 23.069sec | 1min 22.948sec | 1min 22.471sec | 14 |
| 7 | Nico Rosberg | Mercedes GP |
1min 23.507sec | 1min 22.569sec | 1min 22.599sec | 14 |
| 8 | Felipe Massa | Ferrari | 1min 23.506sec | 1min 23.026sec | 1min 22.888sec | 15 |
| 9 | Pastor Maldonado | Williams -Cosworth | 1min 23.406sec | 1min 22.854sec | 1min 22.952sec | 14 |
| 10 | Michael Schumacher | Mercedes GP | 1min 22.960sec | 1min 22.671sec | No Time | 12 |
| 11 | Sebastien Buemi | STR - Ferrari | 1min 23.962sec | 1min 23.231sec | 6 | |
| 12 | Sergio Perez | Sauber-Ferrari | 1min 24.209sec | 1min 23.367sec | 9 | |
| 13 | Jaime Alguersuari | STR - Ferrari | 1min 24.049sec | 1min 23.694sec | 9 | |
| 14 | Kamui Kobayashi | Sauber - Ferrari | 1min 23.656sec | 1min 23.702sec | 8 | |
| 15 | Heikki Kovalainen | Lotus-Renault | 1min 25.874sec | 1min 25.403sec | 6 | |
| 16 | Paul Di Resta | Force India -Mercedes | 1min 24.332sec | 1min 26.126sec | 13 | |
| 17 | Adrian Sutil | Force India -Mercedes | 1min 24.648sec | 1min 26.571sec | 13 | |
| 18 | Jarno Trulli | Lotus-Renault | 1min 26.521sec | 4 | ||
| 19 | Rubens Barrichello | Williams -Cosworth | 1min 26.910sec | 5 | ||
| 20 | Timo Glock | Virgin -Cosworth | 1min 27.315sec | 8 | ||
| 21 | Vitantonio Liuzzi | HRT - Cosworth | 1min 27.809sec | 9 | ||
| 22 | Narain Karthikeyan | HRT - Cosworth | 1min 27.908sec | 9 | ||
| 23 | Jerome d'Ambrosio | Virgin -Cosworth | 1min 28.556sec | 5 | ||
| 24 | Nick Heidfeld | Renault | No Time |
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107percent Qualifying Rule Time: 1min 28:767sec.
Spanish GP - Practice Session 3 - Vettel claims the top position
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Saturday Practice Session - 3, Spanish Grand Prix, Circuit De Catalunya, Barcelona
World Champion waited in the garage for the whole third practice session only to come out in the closing stages to set the flying lap ahead of everyman on track. With only completing 6 laps, he not only set the fastest lap but also specified the pace of Red Bull. He set 1min 21.707sec only 1hundredth of a second faster than Mark Webber.
This shows how strong Red Bull and is the strongest contender to win the race.
Michael Schumacher put his Mercedes in third position ahead of both the Mclaren's. Lewis and Jenson button followed the seven time world champion. The top 6 slots are filled by the three most dominating constuctor contenders to win the Spanish Grand Prix.
Kamui Kobayashi drove exceptionally well to put his Sauber ahead of strong Renault of Vitaly Petrov. Nick Heidfeld in the other Renault caught fire in middle of his slowing lap. Renault noticed that Nick car is running hot while he left the pits, however they considered it to be a faulty sensor. but it was not. His car cooked up in fire as he drove on the circuit and his team was shouting "fire, get out quickly, get out quickly". Nick parked his car on turn 10 but the fire was intense enough to damage the car and would held him from taking part in Qualifying.
Ferrari rear wing upgrades were rejected by the FIA and they have to run the car on Turkish Grand Prix specification. That put Ferrari out of contention again, but the strong performance during the race by Ferrari during Turkish GP is the only hope for the team. Rubens put a strong performance in struggling Williams to put the car on 10th of the time sheet followed by other Ferrari driver Felipe Massa.
Sergio Perez in the second Sauber was only 12th fastest followed by Rookie Pastor Maldonado. It was a trouble free session for the rookie.
Toro Rosso and Force India struggle to improve in comparison to other teams. Lotus continues to improve and put a performance to match midfielders in 1min26. Virgin and HRT take the last position with Liuzzi separating the two Virgin cars for 21st and Indian Driver Narain Karthikeyan was last on the field due to DRS problem in the car. DRS was not working on his car.
Saturday Practice Session - 3, Spanish Grand Prix, Circuit De Catalunya, Barcelona
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World Champion waited in the garage for the whole third practice session only to come out in the closing stages to set the flying lap ahead of everyman on track. With only completing 6 laps, he not only set the fastest lap but also specified the pace of Red Bull. He set 1min 21.707sec only 1hundredth of a second faster than Mark Webber.
This shows how strong Red Bull and is the strongest contender to win the race.
Michael Schumacher put his Mercedes in third position ahead of both the Mclaren's. Lewis and Jenson button followed the seven time world champion. The top 6 slots are filled by the three most dominating constuctor contenders to win the Spanish Grand Prix.
Kamui Kobayashi drove exceptionally well to put his Sauber ahead of strong Renault of Vitaly Petrov. Nick Heidfeld in the other Renault caught fire in middle of his slowing lap. Renault noticed that Nick car is running hot while he left the pits, however they considered it to be a faulty sensor. but it was not. His car cooked up in fire as he drove on the circuit and his team was shouting "fire, get out quickly, get out quickly". Nick parked his car on turn 10 but the fire was intense enough to damage the car and would held him from taking part in Qualifying.
Ferrari rear wing upgrades were rejected by the FIA and they have to run the car on Turkish Grand Prix specification. That put Ferrari out of contention again, but the strong performance during the race by Ferrari during Turkish GP is the only hope for the team. Rubens put a strong performance in struggling Williams to put the car on 10th of the time sheet followed by other Ferrari driver Felipe Massa.
Sergio Perez in the second Sauber was only 12th fastest followed by Rookie Pastor Maldonado. It was a trouble free session for the rookie.
Toro Rosso and Force India struggle to improve in comparison to other teams. Lotus continues to improve and put a performance to match midfielders in 1min26. Virgin and HRT take the last position with Liuzzi separating the two Virgin cars for 21st and Indian Driver Narain Karthikeyan was last on the field due to DRS problem in the car. DRS was not working on his car.
| Pos | Driver | Team | Time | Gap | Laps |
| 1 | Sebastian Vettel | Red Bull - Renault | 1min 21.707sec | 6 | |
| 2 | Mark Webber | Red Bull - Renault | 1min 21.791sec | 0.084 | 17 |
| 3 | Michael Schumacher | Mercedes GP | 1min 23.057sec | 1.350 | 16 |
| 4 | Lewis Hamilton | Mclaren - Mercedes | 1min 23.068sec | 1.361 | 13 |
| 5 | Jenson Button | Mclaren - Mercedes | 1min 23.214sec | 1.507 | 14 |
| 6 | Nico Rosberg | Mercedes GP | 1min 23.397sec | 1.690 | 18 |
| 7 | Kamui Kobayashi | Sauber - Ferrari | 1min 23.669sec | 1.962 | 17 |
| 8 | Vitaly Petrov | Renault | 1min 24.043sec | 2.336 | 18 |
| 9 | Fernando Alonso | Ferrari | 1min 24.270sec | 2.563 | 11 |
| 10 | Rubens Barrichello | Williams - Cosworth | 1min 24.318sec | 2.611 | 18 |
| 11 | Felipe Massa | Ferrari | 1min 24.322sec | 2.615 | 17 |
| 12 | Sergio Perez | Sauber - Ferrari | 1min 24.329sec | 2.622 | 19 |
| 13 | Pastor Maldonado | Williams - Cosworth | 1min 24.399sec | 2.692 | 17 |
| 14 | Sebastien Buemi | STR - Ferrari | 1min 24.535sec | 2.828 | 16 |
| 15 | Adrian Sutil | Force India - Mercedes | 1min 24.695sec | 2.988 | 18 |
| 16 | Jaime Alguersuari | STR - Ferrari | 1min 24.722sec | 3.015 | 14 |
| 17 | Paul Di Resta | Force India - Mercedes | 1min 25.223sec | 3.516 | 19 |
| 18 | Heikki Kovalainen | Lotus - Renault | 1min 26.236sec | 4.529 | 11 |
| 19 | Jarno Trulli | Lotus - Renault | 1min 27.000sec | 5.293 | 20 |
| 20 | Timo Glock | Virgin - Cosworth | 1min 27.706sec | 5.999 | 20 |
| 21 | Vitantonio Liuzzi | HRT - Cosworth | 1min 28.330sec | 6.623 | 17 |
| 22 | Jerome d'Ambrosio | Virgin - Cosworth | 1min 29.057sec | 7.350 | 18 |
| 23 | Nick Heidfeld | Renault | 1min 29.200sec | 7.493 | 6 |
| 24 | Narain Karthikeyan | HRT - Cosworth | 1min 29.562sec | 7.855 | 16 |
Fernando Alonso extended his contract to 2016
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Just before his home grand prix in Spain, Fernando Alonso, the two-time Formula One world champion, extended his contract with Ferrari until the end of the 2016 season, the Italian team said.
Alonso, a 29-year-old Spaniard, joined Ferrari on a three- year contract in September 2009. He won two drivers’ championships with Renault for the year 2005, 2006.
“I immediately felt comfortable within Ferrari and now it feels to me like a second family,” Alonso said in an e-mailed statement.
"I have the utmost faith in the men and women who work in Maranello and in those who lead them."
“It is therefore natural for me to decide to extend my relationship in the long term like this, with a team at which I will no doubt end my Formula One career one day.”
Alonso has a ten year long career in Formula One, debuting with Minardi in 2001, spending next five years with Renault from 2002-2006. Joined Mclaren for 2007 and then returning to Renault for 2008 and 2009. He has been with Ferrari from 2010 and will continue to stay with the team till 2016.
He has 23 Grands Prix starts with Ferrari out of which, he has taken 5 wins, 11 podiums, 2 pole positions and 293 world championship points.
Just before his home grand prix in Spain, Fernando Alonso, the two-time Formula One world champion, extended his contract with Ferrari until the end of the 2016 season, the Italian team said.
Alonso, a 29-year-old Spaniard, joined Ferrari on a three- year contract in September 2009. He won two drivers’ championships with Renault for the year 2005, 2006.
“I immediately felt comfortable within Ferrari and now it feels to me like a second family,” Alonso said in an e-mailed statement.
"I have the utmost faith in the men and women who work in Maranello and in those who lead them."
“It is therefore natural for me to decide to extend my relationship in the long term like this, with a team at which I will no doubt end my Formula One career one day.”
Alonso has a ten year long career in Formula One, debuting with Minardi in 2001, spending next five years with Renault from 2002-2006. Joined Mclaren for 2007 and then returning to Renault for 2008 and 2009. He has been with Ferrari from 2010 and will continue to stay with the team till 2016.
He has 23 Grands Prix starts with Ferrari out of which, he has taken 5 wins, 11 podiums, 2 pole positions and 293 world championship points.
FIA thinking to reschedule Indian GP
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Formula 1 chiefs are considering a move to make the Indian Grand Prix the season finale on December 4, AUTOSPORT has learned, as a way of slotting the Bahrain GP back on the calendar.
As discussions continue between Bernie Ecclestone, the FIA and Bahrain officials about the race returning to the schedule, high level sources have revealed that Indian officials have been asked to look at a race date change to help accommodate the Sakhir event.
If the current plan being favoured, Bahrain would be given the green light to return to the schedule, is for the Middle Eastern race to take India's current October 30 slot.
Is Indian GP on Bahrain way ??
With recent farmer agitations in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh over land acquisition, the fate of India's debut in F1 racing threatens to fall head on even before the it takes off.
Though the situation has not yet reached alarming levels, the farmers who are demanding for a better price for their lands in areas in close proximity to this Greater Noida track may shift base to engulf the 5.14 kilometer circuit as well, in the near future.
F1 bosses are keeping their fingers crossed as there still remains a couple of months for the October event but with organisers already announcing ticket sales and their plans for the event, the agitation has come as a rude shock that gives the calm in and around this area, an uneasy air.
The one major issue that has the potential to escalate into a major crisis is a temple barely 150 meters away from the area that local villagers fear, will be demolished in the run-up to the event.
With the local press already quoting villagers here as saying they will take the legal options to voice their concerns, all may not be too well for the future of India's debut in F1 racing. Add to it another issue, that of shifting of a cremation ground, and the ingredients for a potential tumultuous situation is clearly at hand.
Formula 1 chiefs are considering a move to make the Indian Grand Prix the season finale on December 4, AUTOSPORT has learned, as a way of slotting the Bahrain GP back on the calendar.
As discussions continue between Bernie Ecclestone, the FIA and Bahrain officials about the race returning to the schedule, high level sources have revealed that Indian officials have been asked to look at a race date change to help accommodate the Sakhir event.
If the current plan being favoured, Bahrain would be given the green light to return to the schedule, is for the Middle Eastern race to take India's current October 30 slot.
Is Indian GP on Bahrain way ??
With recent farmer agitations in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh over land acquisition, the fate of India's debut in F1 racing threatens to fall head on even before the it takes off.
Though the situation has not yet reached alarming levels, the farmers who are demanding for a better price for their lands in areas in close proximity to this Greater Noida track may shift base to engulf the 5.14 kilometer circuit as well, in the near future.
F1 bosses are keeping their fingers crossed as there still remains a couple of months for the October event but with organisers already announcing ticket sales and their plans for the event, the agitation has come as a rude shock that gives the calm in and around this area, an uneasy air.
The one major issue that has the potential to escalate into a major crisis is a temple barely 150 meters away from the area that local villagers fear, will be demolished in the run-up to the event.
With the local press already quoting villagers here as saying they will take the legal options to voice their concerns, all may not be too well for the future of India's debut in F1 racing. Add to it another issue, that of shifting of a cremation ground, and the ingredients for a potential tumultuous situation is clearly at hand.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Spanish GP - Practice Session 2 - Webber in hunt to make it two times at Barcelona
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Friday Practice Session - 2, Spanish Grand Prix, Circuit De Catalunya, Barcelona
Mark Webber continues to put pressure on fellow drivers as he put forward the consecutive fastest time on the Barcelona Circuit. But this time around, it was not Red Bull 1-2. It was Lewis Hamilton who edges closer to take away the top position from Webber. He was only 3 hundredth of a second slower to that of Mark Webber.
In the second practice session, almost all the teams opted for prime tyres (new harder compound tyres) during the initial run and option (softer compound tyres) tyres for second run. Option tyres adds almost 3-4 sec to a lap.
Sebastian Vettel was only able to put the third fastest time in his Red Bull. Jenson Button closing in on 4th ensures that Mclaren is back in hunt to Red Bulls just like the start of the season. Fernando Alonso Ferrari was 5th but it was a second slower to that of Mark Webber.
Nico Rosberg once again outpaced his teammate Michael Schumacher for 6th as Schumi grabs the tail of Nico for 7th.
Felipe Massa had a better run this time but still a long way to go for the Ferrari driver. Kamui Kobayashi also improved on his first practice session to finished 9th on the charts. The 10th position was held by Nick Heidfeld in his Renault again beating his teammate who was positioned 12th on the timesheet. Sergio Perez covers the other Sauber for 11th.
Sebastien Buemi running for his first run of the day saw him finished 13th fastest ahead of Williams leading man Rubens Barrichello followed by Jaime Alguersuari in another Toro Rosso. Maldonado drove on track this time and came home 16th.
It was a bad day for Force India as they fail to improve on their Session 1 time. Also were not able to finish not more than 17th. To make the condition worse, Heikki Kovalainen in the much improved Lotus separates the two Force India VJM04 for 18th. Paul was 3.6sec slower than the front running Mark Webber. On the other hand, Adrian Sutil was further 1sec slower than Paul Di Resta. In their late run, they tried there option tyres which saw them climb to 17th otherwise they would have finished the 2nd session in the last position.
Lotus has improved a lot on their times.
Virgin and HRT take their respective positions at the back.
If today's time is considered as the time for Qualifying, HRT will not be able to qualify for Spanish Grand Prix according to 107% Qualifying Rule.
Friday Practice Session - 2, Spanish Grand Prix, Circuit De Catalunya, Barcelona
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Mark Webber continues to put pressure on fellow drivers as he put forward the consecutive fastest time on the Barcelona Circuit. But this time around, it was not Red Bull 1-2. It was Lewis Hamilton who edges closer to take away the top position from Webber. He was only 3 hundredth of a second slower to that of Mark Webber.
In the second practice session, almost all the teams opted for prime tyres (new harder compound tyres) during the initial run and option (softer compound tyres) tyres for second run. Option tyres adds almost 3-4 sec to a lap.
Sebastian Vettel was only able to put the third fastest time in his Red Bull. Jenson Button closing in on 4th ensures that Mclaren is back in hunt to Red Bulls just like the start of the season. Fernando Alonso Ferrari was 5th but it was a second slower to that of Mark Webber.
Nico Rosberg once again outpaced his teammate Michael Schumacher for 6th as Schumi grabs the tail of Nico for 7th.
Felipe Massa had a better run this time but still a long way to go for the Ferrari driver. Kamui Kobayashi also improved on his first practice session to finished 9th on the charts. The 10th position was held by Nick Heidfeld in his Renault again beating his teammate who was positioned 12th on the timesheet. Sergio Perez covers the other Sauber for 11th.
Sebastien Buemi running for his first run of the day saw him finished 13th fastest ahead of Williams leading man Rubens Barrichello followed by Jaime Alguersuari in another Toro Rosso. Maldonado drove on track this time and came home 16th.
It was a bad day for Force India as they fail to improve on their Session 1 time. Also were not able to finish not more than 17th. To make the condition worse, Heikki Kovalainen in the much improved Lotus separates the two Force India VJM04 for 18th. Paul was 3.6sec slower than the front running Mark Webber. On the other hand, Adrian Sutil was further 1sec slower than Paul Di Resta. In their late run, they tried there option tyres which saw them climb to 17th otherwise they would have finished the 2nd session in the last position.
Lotus has improved a lot on their times.
Virgin and HRT take their respective positions at the back.
If today's time is considered as the time for Qualifying, HRT will not be able to qualify for Spanish Grand Prix according to 107% Qualifying Rule.
| Pos | Driver | Team | Time | Gap | Laps |
| 1 | Mark Webber | Red Bull - Renault | 1min 22.470sec | 35 | |
| 2 | Lewis Hamilton | Mclaren - Mercedes | 1min 22.509sec | 0.039 | 27 |
| 3 | Sebastian Vettel | Red Bull - Renault | 1min 22.826sec | 0.356 | 37 |
| 4 | Jenson Button | Mclaren - Mercedes | 1min 23.188sec | 0.718 | 32 |
| 5 | Fernando Alonso | Ferrari | 1min 23.568sec | 1.098 | 34 |
| 6 | Nico Rosberg | Mercedes GP | 1min 23.586sec | 1.116 | 35 |
| 7 | Michael Schumacher | Mercedes GP | 1min 23.981sec | 1.511 | 30 |
| 8 | Felipe Massa | Ferrari | 1min 24.278sec | 1.808 | 30 |
| 9 | Kamui Kobayashi | Sauber - Ferrari | 1min 24.290sec | 1.820 | 33 |
| 10 | Nick Heidfeld | Renault | 1min 24.366sec | 1.896 | 31 |
| 11 | Sergio Perez | Sauber - Ferrari | 1min 24.483sec | 2.013 | 38 |
| 12 | Vitaly Petrov | Renault | 1min 24.786sec | 2.316 | 43 |
| 13 | Sebastien Buemi | STR - Ferrari | 1min 25.296sec | 2.826 | 33 |
| 14 | Rubens Barrichello | Williams - Cosworth | 1min 25.303sec | 2.833 | 38 |
| 15 | Jaime Alguersuari | STR - Ferrari | 1min 25.457sec | 2.987 | 34 |
| 16 | Pastor Maldonado | Williams - Cosworth | 1min 25.603sec | 3.133 | 43 |
| 17 | Paul Di Resta | Force India - Mercedes | 1min 26.073sec | 3.603 | 32 |
| 18 | Heikki Kovalainen | Lotus - Renault | 1min 26.417sec | 3.947 | 37 |
| 19 | Adrian Sutil | Force India - Mercedes | 1min 27.123sec | 4.653 | 20 |
| 20 | Jarno Trulli | Lotus - Renault | 1min 27.189sec | 4.719 | 34 |
| 21 | Jerome d'Ambrosio | Virgin - Cosworth | 1min 28.036sec | 5.566 | 36 |
| 22 | Timo Glock | Virgin - Cosworth | 1min 28.062sec | 5.592 | 28 |
| 23 | Narain Karthikeyan | HRT - Cosworth | 1min 29.469sec | 6.999 | 28 |
| 24 | Vitantonio Liuzzi | HRT - Cosworth | 1min 29.476sec | 7.006 | 31 |
Spanish GP - Practice Session 1 - Red Bull continue to dominate
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Friday Practice Session - 1, Spanish Grand Prix, Circuit De Catalunya, Barcelona
The first practice session in Barcelona went troublefree. The sunny and bright day displayed the power of Red Bull again.
Mark Webber put the best lap out there which was better than over 1sec to his teammate Sebastian Vettel.
Nico Rosberg continues to work on Mercedes pace to place them 3rd in the table with renewed Ferrari on 4th. Ferrari's faith in Alonso capabilities can be seen on track as well as offtrack. Ferrari have signed Alonso until 2016.
Rookie Perez drove exceptionally in first session and reaching 5th on the timesheets. He is followed by Lewis Hamilton in Mclaren.
Michael Schumacher steadly climbed the timesheet during the 1hr 30min long practice session and finished 7th in the second Mercedes. Michael had won Barcelona Grand Prix 6 times, most by any F1 driver on this circuit.
Nick Heidfeld put his upgraded Renault in 8th position followed by Jenson Button in second Mclaren.
Williams continues to improve their performance after worst start to their season and aim to finish in points this time with Rubens Barrichello put his FW33 in 10th position. While Pastor Maldonado was 13th on the timesheet but the Rookie driver again made mistake as he always does and went off the track on turn 12 into the dirt.
Petrov was 11th while future F1 Driver Daniel Ricciardo continues to impress all and put his Toro Rosso in 12th position.
Third and Reserve Driver of Force India, Nico Hulkenberg, was 14th ahead of his teammate Adrian Sutil. Both the drivers tested the new Aero upgrades for the team.
Felipe Massa was only 16th in his Ferrari ahead of Sauber Japanese Star Kamui Kobayashi.
Jaime Alguersuari put only 18th fastest time.
It was Team Lotus whose much needed upgrades have put them in competition with midfielders. Kovalainen was able to match the pace of Toro Rosso, Force India and Sauber. But his teammate Jarno Trulli had a rough day and finished 23rd for the first session.
Behind Kovalainen came the two Virgin's and then HRT's. HRT seem to match Virgin but this time, it looks Virgin have put a step forward to continue to leap ahead of their closest rivals.
Friday Practice Session - 1, Spanish Grand Prix, Circuit De Catalunya, Barcelona
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The first practice session in Barcelona went troublefree. The sunny and bright day displayed the power of Red Bull again.
Mark Webber put the best lap out there which was better than over 1sec to his teammate Sebastian Vettel.
Nico Rosberg continues to work on Mercedes pace to place them 3rd in the table with renewed Ferrari on 4th. Ferrari's faith in Alonso capabilities can be seen on track as well as offtrack. Ferrari have signed Alonso until 2016.
Rookie Perez drove exceptionally in first session and reaching 5th on the timesheets. He is followed by Lewis Hamilton in Mclaren.
Michael Schumacher steadly climbed the timesheet during the 1hr 30min long practice session and finished 7th in the second Mercedes. Michael had won Barcelona Grand Prix 6 times, most by any F1 driver on this circuit.
Nick Heidfeld put his upgraded Renault in 8th position followed by Jenson Button in second Mclaren.
Williams continues to improve their performance after worst start to their season and aim to finish in points this time with Rubens Barrichello put his FW33 in 10th position. While Pastor Maldonado was 13th on the timesheet but the Rookie driver again made mistake as he always does and went off the track on turn 12 into the dirt.
Petrov was 11th while future F1 Driver Daniel Ricciardo continues to impress all and put his Toro Rosso in 12th position.
Third and Reserve Driver of Force India, Nico Hulkenberg, was 14th ahead of his teammate Adrian Sutil. Both the drivers tested the new Aero upgrades for the team.
Felipe Massa was only 16th in his Ferrari ahead of Sauber Japanese Star Kamui Kobayashi.
Jaime Alguersuari put only 18th fastest time.
It was Team Lotus whose much needed upgrades have put them in competition with midfielders. Kovalainen was able to match the pace of Toro Rosso, Force India and Sauber. But his teammate Jarno Trulli had a rough day and finished 23rd for the first session.
Behind Kovalainen came the two Virgin's and then HRT's. HRT seem to match Virgin but this time, it looks Virgin have put a step forward to continue to leap ahead of their closest rivals.
| Pos | Driver | Team | Time | Gap | Laps |
| 1 | Mark Webber | Red Bull - Renault | 1min 25.142sec | 27 | |
| 2 | Sebastian Vettel | Red Bull - Renault | 1min 26.149sec | 1.007 | 20 |
| 3 | Nico Rosberg | Mercedes GP | 1min 26.379sec | 1.237 | 29 |
| 4 | Fernando Alonso | Ferrari | 1min 26.480sec | 1.338 | 27 |
| 5 | Sergio Perez | Sauber - Ferrari | 1min 26.738sec | 1.596 | 26 |
| 6 | Lewis Hamilton | Mclaren - Mercedes | 1min 26.988sec | 1.846 | 19 |
| 7 | Michael Schumacher | Mercedes GP | 1min 27.016sec | 1.874 | 32 |
| 8 | Nick Heidfeld | Renault | 1min 27.132sec | 1.990 | 21 |
| 9 | Jenson Button | Mclaren - Mercedes | 1min 27.138sec | 1.996 | 22 |
| 10 | Rubens Barrichello | Williams - Cosworth | 1min 27.212sec | 2.070 | 20 |
| 11 | Vitaly Petrov | Renault | 1min 27.241sec | 2.099 | 22 |
| 12 | Daniel Ricciardo | STR - Ferrari | 1min 27.471sec | 2.329 | 23 |
| 13 | Pastor Maldonado | Williams - Cosworth | 1min 28.005sec | 2.863 | 11 |
| 14 | Nico Hulkenberg | Force India - Mercedes | 1min 28.027sec | 2.885 | 26 |
| 15 | Adrian Sutil | Force India - Mercedes | 1min 28.163sec | 3.021 | 22 |
| 16 | Felipe Massa | Ferrari | 1min 28.654sec | 3.512 | 28 |
| 17 | Kamui Kobayashi | Sauber - Ferrari | 1min 28.819sec | 3.677 | 23 |
| 18 | Jaime Alguersuari | STR - Ferrari | 1min 28.995sec | 3.853 | 9 |
| 19 | Heikki Kovalainen | Lotus - Renault | 1min 29.231sec | 4.089 | 21 |
| 20 | Jerome d'Ambrosio | Virgin - Cosworth | 1min 30.896sec | 5.754 | 18 |
| 21 | Timo Glock | Virgin - Cosworth | 1min 31.235sec | 6.093 | 24 |
| 22 | Vitantonio Liuzzi | HRT - Cosworth | 1min 31.268sec | 6.126 | 23 |
| 23 | Jarno Trulli | Lotus - Renault | 1min 31.418sec | 6.276 | 12 |
| 24 | Narain Karthikeyan | HRT - Cosworth | 1min 32.106sec | 6.964 | 25 |
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Silverstone have unveiled a new £27m pit and paddock complex
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Silverstone have unveiled a new £27m pit and paddock complex to guarantee their place as one of the best circuits in the world.
The race track began its transformation last year, in the wake of earning a contract to host the British Grand Prix in December 2009.
And now the venue - which Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone previously described as 'a world event masquerading as a country fair' - can claim to be world-class.
Its 'Wing' facility not only includes new pits and paddock but media and conference suites, three large halls and an auditorium, which was showcased to a host of motor sport greats and His Royal Highness the Duke of Kent.
British Racing Drivers' Club president and 22-times grand prix winner Damon Hill said: "It's very important for everyone we've managed to do this.
"We've had people putting up palaces around the world, so it's fantastic we've got this facility now, and it's kept Britain at the forefront of motor sport around the world."
HRH the Duke of Kent officially unveiled the plaque to declare the wing open and said: "This is a tremendous day for Silverstone.
"I am very confident the Silverstone Wing will not just become the recognisable face of Silverstone, but the centre and pivotal point of world motor sport."
Silverstone have unveiled a new £27m pit and paddock complex to guarantee their place as one of the best circuits in the world.
The race track began its transformation last year, in the wake of earning a contract to host the British Grand Prix in December 2009.
And now the venue - which Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone previously described as 'a world event masquerading as a country fair' - can claim to be world-class.
Its 'Wing' facility not only includes new pits and paddock but media and conference suites, three large halls and an auditorium, which was showcased to a host of motor sport greats and His Royal Highness the Duke of Kent.
British Racing Drivers' Club president and 22-times grand prix winner Damon Hill said: "It's very important for everyone we've managed to do this.
"We've had people putting up palaces around the world, so it's fantastic we've got this facility now, and it's kept Britain at the forefront of motor sport around the world."
HRH the Duke of Kent officially unveiled the plaque to declare the wing open and said: "This is a tremendous day for Silverstone.
"I am very confident the Silverstone Wing will not just become the recognisable face of Silverstone, but the centre and pivotal point of world motor sport."
Pirelli to introduce new hard compound for spanish GP
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Pirelli will be debuting its latest Formula One tyres at the Spanish Grand Prix this weekend the latest evolution of the PZero Silver (hard compound) tyre.
The tyres were tested by the teams during the Friday free practice in Turkey. Paul Hembery, motorsport director for the Italian tyres manufacturer, said: “We said from the start of the year that we would introduce evolutions of the tyres if we believed that they would benefit the sport and Barcelona marks the first occasion that we have done this.
The new tyre offers a little more durability over a race distance and provides a wider gap between the soft and the hard compound, which gives the teams an opportunity to run more aggressive strategies.
The teams will also be provided with the PZero Yellow (soft) tyre, which has been used at every race so far this year alongside the PZero Silver (hard) tyre.
Pirelli will be debuting its latest Formula One tyres at the Spanish Grand Prix this weekend the latest evolution of the PZero Silver (hard compound) tyre.
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The tyres were tested by the teams during the Friday free practice in Turkey. Paul Hembery, motorsport director for the Italian tyres manufacturer, said: “We said from the start of the year that we would introduce evolutions of the tyres if we believed that they would benefit the sport and Barcelona marks the first occasion that we have done this.
The new tyre offers a little more durability over a race distance and provides a wider gap between the soft and the hard compound, which gives the teams an opportunity to run more aggressive strategies.
The teams will also be provided with the PZero Yellow (soft) tyre, which has been used at every race so far this year alongside the PZero Silver (hard) tyre.
Red Bull technical director Adrian Newey has revealed the mystery behind Ayrton senna's Death
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Red Bull Technical Director Adrian Newey reveals mystery behind Ayrton Senna death.
Newey said that the cause of the fatal crash of Senna in the Williams car might have been a front tyre puncture after which Senna might have lost the control of the car.
Newey explained, “The honest truth is that no one will ever know exactly what happened. The right rear tyre probably picked up a puncture from debris on the track. If I was pushed into picking out a single most likely cause that would be it.”
He added that Senna’s car had a bad steering wheel assembly and might had some cracks in it. However, the question remains whether it failed during the accident or the accident was caused due to it.
However, there was no clear evidence that the steering wheel forced the car off the track.
The legendary Brazilian and three-time Formula 1 champion was always seen as a hard working and competitive driver.
The 1994 San Marino Grand Prix can be regarded as the worst race of centuries. In the Free Practice session of the Grand Prix, Senna’s fellow Brazilian, Rubens Barrichello had an almost fatal crash but survived to live another day.
In the San Marino Qualifiers, Austrian driver Roland Ratzenberger died when his front wing broke and he lost control of the car. On the race day, the three-time world champion, Senna died after hitting a concrete wall.
Newey, Patrick Head and Williams’ team boss, Frank Williams were charged with manslaughter. Newey stated that he thought that he would leave the sport forever after the crash.
“Both Patrick Head [Williams’ technical director] and myself separately asked ourselves whether we wanted to continue in racing,” stated Newey.
Many rules were changed after Senna’s crash as the concrete walls were replaced by tyre walls to avoid fatal crashes. Also, some modifications were made for the drivers’ safety in the car.
17 years have passed since Senna’s sad demise from the world of Formula 1, but with Newey’s recent statements, a new chapter has been opened for many days to come.
Read full story about Ayrton Senna Death
Red Bull Technical Director Adrian Newey reveals mystery behind Ayrton Senna death.
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Newey said that the cause of the fatal crash of Senna in the Williams car might have been a front tyre puncture after which Senna might have lost the control of the car.
Newey explained, “The honest truth is that no one will ever know exactly what happened. The right rear tyre probably picked up a puncture from debris on the track. If I was pushed into picking out a single most likely cause that would be it.”
He added that Senna’s car had a bad steering wheel assembly and might had some cracks in it. However, the question remains whether it failed during the accident or the accident was caused due to it.
However, there was no clear evidence that the steering wheel forced the car off the track.
The legendary Brazilian and three-time Formula 1 champion was always seen as a hard working and competitive driver.
The 1994 San Marino Grand Prix can be regarded as the worst race of centuries. In the Free Practice session of the Grand Prix, Senna’s fellow Brazilian, Rubens Barrichello had an almost fatal crash but survived to live another day.
In the San Marino Qualifiers, Austrian driver Roland Ratzenberger died when his front wing broke and he lost control of the car. On the race day, the three-time world champion, Senna died after hitting a concrete wall.
Newey, Patrick Head and Williams’ team boss, Frank Williams were charged with manslaughter. Newey stated that he thought that he would leave the sport forever after the crash.
“Both Patrick Head [Williams’ technical director] and myself separately asked ourselves whether we wanted to continue in racing,” stated Newey.
Many rules were changed after Senna’s crash as the concrete walls were replaced by tyre walls to avoid fatal crashes. Also, some modifications were made for the drivers’ safety in the car.
17 years have passed since Senna’s sad demise from the world of Formula 1, but with Newey’s recent statements, a new chapter has been opened for many days to come.
Read full story about Ayrton Senna Death
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Vijay Mallya not sure about VM04 upgrades for spain
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Force India team’s Principal, Vijay Mallya, has said that his team is still evaluating whether the upgrades will appear on ‘VJM04’ car in up-coming race weekend, or the team has to wait until the Monaco race later this month.
Force India started the 2011 season on a promising note with four points from races in Australia and Malaysia. But the team failed to capitalise on the impressive qualifying pace set by drivers Adrian Sutil and Paul di Resta in the China and Turkey and finished without points.
The team tried out a new front-wing concept in recent Turkish race weekend, but that was unable to make good progress in the race, as it was wet due to the rain. However, after the grand prix, Force India has been pushed to bring a series of upgrades in the pipeline of the car, for their upbeat results in the remaining season. But, the team still remains unsure on when car’s latest updates package will be appeared to race on the grid.
On the other hand, the team's driver, Paul Di Resta mentioned that Force India needs to make improvements in its running, if they really want to fight for their supportive points.
Due to its worst performance in Turkish race, the team is again looking forward to getting the new front-wing on the car as soon as possible, because due to have rain, it was unable to give its supportive role at the qualifying round and race day also.
Di Resta further added that all teams are planning to bring updates over the further few races, as they want to face their challenging races of the season. So, Force India team also needs to deliver some changes to their car for the upbeat results.
He went on to say, “We evaluated a new front wing in Istanbul and we hope to have more steps coming through in the near future. The team has been working hard on this new concept and everybody is quite upbeat about its race introduction, so that's something to look forward to."
The Scotsman had an impressive start in ongoing season. However, he is still interested to finish his good stint on the race track. The Barcelona race will take place on May 22, at the Circuit de Catalunya, in Spain.
Force India team’s Principal, Vijay Mallya, has said that his team is still evaluating whether the upgrades will appear on ‘VJM04’ car in up-coming race weekend, or the team has to wait until the Monaco race later this month.
Force India started the 2011 season on a promising note with four points from races in Australia and Malaysia. But the team failed to capitalise on the impressive qualifying pace set by drivers Adrian Sutil and Paul di Resta in the China and Turkey and finished without points.
The team tried out a new front-wing concept in recent Turkish race weekend, but that was unable to make good progress in the race, as it was wet due to the rain. However, after the grand prix, Force India has been pushed to bring a series of upgrades in the pipeline of the car, for their upbeat results in the remaining season. But, the team still remains unsure on when car’s latest updates package will be appeared to race on the grid.
On the other hand, the team's driver, Paul Di Resta mentioned that Force India needs to make improvements in its running, if they really want to fight for their supportive points.
Due to its worst performance in Turkish race, the team is again looking forward to getting the new front-wing on the car as soon as possible, because due to have rain, it was unable to give its supportive role at the qualifying round and race day also.
Di Resta further added that all teams are planning to bring updates over the further few races, as they want to face their challenging races of the season. So, Force India team also needs to deliver some changes to their car for the upbeat results.
He went on to say, “We evaluated a new front wing in Istanbul and we hope to have more steps coming through in the near future. The team has been working hard on this new concept and everybody is quite upbeat about its race introduction, so that's something to look forward to."
The Scotsman had an impressive start in ongoing season. However, he is still interested to finish his good stint on the race track. The Barcelona race will take place on May 22, at the Circuit de Catalunya, in Spain.
Sutil may face legal charges for his action
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RENAULT Formula One owner Eric Lux says "he plans to sue Force India driver Adrian Sutil for physical assault following an incident in Shanghai".
A lawyer for Lux said in a statement that 'Lux would sue the German driver for "for physical assault and grievous bodily harm" over a reported nightclub incident following the Chinese GP last month'.
The legal action against Sutil could involve a damages claim of $14-million.
“As soon as the complaint is registered, the FIA and Force India will be notified,” the statement added.
One report said Lux suffered cuts to his neck when Sutil attacked him with a champagne glass.
German newspaper Bild said Sutil’s friend Lewis Hamilton was in the same VIP room at the M1NT nightclub at the time of the incident, and the statement said Lux “does not exclude commencing an action against any other persons involved in this matter”.
Without going into detail, Sutil, 28, issued an apology in a statement to German media and said his actions were accidental.
Force India and a Renault team spokeswoman confirmed at the time that the other person involved was Lux but said it was a private matter and gave no further information.
Statement released by Eric Lux legal representatives:
Geneva, 16 May 2011
In the view of the recent events which occurred in Shanghai on 17 April, Mr Eric Lux has decided to file a criminal complaint against Mister Adrian Sutil for physical assault and grievous bodily harm.
As soon as the complaint is registered, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and the team Force India will be notified.
Furthermore, please note that Mr Eric Lux does not exclude commencing an action against any other persons involved in this matter.
RENAULT Formula One owner Eric Lux says "he plans to sue Force India driver Adrian Sutil for physical assault following an incident in Shanghai".
A lawyer for Lux said in a statement that 'Lux would sue the German driver for "for physical assault and grievous bodily harm" over a reported nightclub incident following the Chinese GP last month'.
The legal action against Sutil could involve a damages claim of $14-million.
“As soon as the complaint is registered, the FIA and Force India will be notified,” the statement added.
One report said Lux suffered cuts to his neck when Sutil attacked him with a champagne glass.
German newspaper Bild said Sutil’s friend Lewis Hamilton was in the same VIP room at the M1NT nightclub at the time of the incident, and the statement said Lux “does not exclude commencing an action against any other persons involved in this matter”.
Without going into detail, Sutil, 28, issued an apology in a statement to German media and said his actions were accidental.
| "I regret this incident and I have already apologised," the German added. |  |
Force India and a Renault team spokeswoman confirmed at the time that the other person involved was Lux but said it was a private matter and gave no further information.
Statement released by Eric Lux legal representatives:
Geneva, 16 May 2011
In the view of the recent events which occurred in Shanghai on 17 April, Mr Eric Lux has decided to file a criminal complaint against Mister Adrian Sutil for physical assault and grievous bodily harm.
As soon as the complaint is registered, the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and the team Force India will be notified.
Furthermore, please note that Mr Eric Lux does not exclude commencing an action against any other persons involved in this matter.
Mark Smith Join the Lotus factory
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Experienced Formula 1 technical advisor, Mark Smith has joined team Lotus nearly a year after he was appointed to the job.
The Malaysian-owned Formula One team said in a statement that Smith's arrival from rivals Force India completed the technical department led by Mike Gascoyne at their Hingham factory.
"This is the first time I have been in the factory and I am very impressed with what I have seen across all the departments," said Smith, who has also worked for Jordan, Renault and Red Bull Racing, Force India.
"I have never been involved in a Championship win with any of those teams and I see that as one of my key goals with Team Lotus," added the Briton, who has worked with Gascoyne at previous teams.
Team Lotus, the best of three newcomers last season, have yet to score a point in Formula One but Smith, who was appointed in June last year but held to a Force India contract until April, hoped to change that.
"I was genuinely impressed at how this team reached the 2010 grid with a good functional car and a professional looking operation in such a short time," he said.
"That was a huge achievement and they have built upon that in 2011, so the foundations are there for long-term success."
Experienced Formula 1 technical advisor, Mark Smith has joined team Lotus nearly a year after he was appointed to the job.
The Malaysian-owned Formula One team said in a statement that Smith's arrival from rivals Force India completed the technical department led by Mike Gascoyne at their Hingham factory.
"This is the first time I have been in the factory and I am very impressed with what I have seen across all the departments," said Smith, who has also worked for Jordan, Renault and Red Bull Racing, Force India.
"I have never been involved in a Championship win with any of those teams and I see that as one of my key goals with Team Lotus," added the Briton, who has worked with Gascoyne at previous teams.
Team Lotus, the best of three newcomers last season, have yet to score a point in Formula One but Smith, who was appointed in June last year but held to a Force India contract until April, hoped to change that.
"I was genuinely impressed at how this team reached the 2010 grid with a good functional car and a professional looking operation in such a short time," he said.
"That was a huge achievement and they have built upon that in 2011, so the foundations are there for long-term success."
Spanish Grand Prix 2011 - Circuit De Catalunya, Barcelona - Pre Race Analysis
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Spanish Grand Prix 2011 - Circuit De Catalunya, Barcelona
Spanish Grand Prix is the fifth race of the season, virtually the first European Grand Prix. After Turkish Grand Prix, that marked the start of European Season, teams have tested their new upgrades. Some of the teams are lining up for new upgrades in Spanish GP also.
Last race saw, Red Bull dominance continues with Vettel was invincible and won the race comfortably. But we have seen, Ferrari gearing up for the first podium of the season. Mercedes pace in Qualifying and Practice was also remarkable. This could prove a tough competition in the season ahead.
Spanish Grand Prix, Barcelona has a long history in F1. Circuit De Catalunya is part of F1 continuously since 1991. Michael Schumacher being the most successful F1 Driver with 6 wins on this circuit. The circuit is also famous for extensive F1 testing on track. This year, due to the cancellation of Bahrain GP, Drivers and Teams opted to have another pre-testing regime at Barcelona only, that makes Barcelona to conduct testing for almost 8days this year.
Pirelli have introduced their new hard compound for Barcelona to cope up the high tyre wear on the circuit.
With high competition gearing up this season, this will be the most sought race with few possibilities of rain out there. Home ground to double world champion Fernando Alonso makes Ferrari the favorite for the audience.
Circuit Analysis
Barcelona is a mix of high and low-speed corners. The circuit is highly abrasive and rather have bumpy track surface. The circuit does not provide ample amount of overtaking opportunity as their are tight corners with only possibility of overtaking is at the long straight from last turn to the finish line and the first corner.
Qualifying will play an essential part unlike it is a trend in 2011.
Circuit is also hard on tyres with high tyre wear. Pirelli introduction of new hard compound can ease the situation a little bit.
Weather Report
High temperature with partly cloudy on Friday. Hard on tyres and few chance of rain.
Ticket Prices
Ticket Prices are starting form $210 for General Admission. For Grandstand Weekend prices vary from $600 to $700 for main grandstands. For Paddock Club it is $5000 for the weekend.
Timing
Prediction
As the teams are gearing up after their first European leg in Turkish Grand Prix, Ferrari, Mercedes and Renault are expected to change their fortunes. All the three teams have struggled this season in their consistency with Red Bull and Mclaren. But they can this time change the grounds with the top teams.
But Red Bull is expected to dominate with Sebastian Vettel in full form.
Watch out for home boy Fernando Alonso. Lewis Hamilton, Michael Schumacher and Vitaly Petrov equally playing their part.
As the midfielders are concerned Force India can aim for points this time.
As the Spanish GP is a tight circuit, Qualifying will play a major role with KERS and DRS equally important during the race. Hard tyre strategy of the teams can see a change in fortune.
Spanish Grand Prix 2011 - Circuit De Catalunya, Barcelona
| Number of Laps: | 66 |
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| Circuit Length: | 4.655 km | |
| Race Distance: | 307.104 km | |
| Lap Record: | 1min 21.670sec - Kimi Raikkonen (2008) | |
| 2010 Result: | 1. Mark Webber |
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| First Race: | Year 1913 | |
| Total Races: | 52 |
Spanish Grand Prix is the fifth race of the season, virtually the first European Grand Prix. After Turkish Grand Prix, that marked the start of European Season, teams have tested their new upgrades. Some of the teams are lining up for new upgrades in Spanish GP also.
Last race saw, Red Bull dominance continues with Vettel was invincible and won the race comfortably. But we have seen, Ferrari gearing up for the first podium of the season. Mercedes pace in Qualifying and Practice was also remarkable. This could prove a tough competition in the season ahead.
Spanish Grand Prix, Barcelona has a long history in F1. Circuit De Catalunya is part of F1 continuously since 1991. Michael Schumacher being the most successful F1 Driver with 6 wins on this circuit. The circuit is also famous for extensive F1 testing on track. This year, due to the cancellation of Bahrain GP, Drivers and Teams opted to have another pre-testing regime at Barcelona only, that makes Barcelona to conduct testing for almost 8days this year.
Pirelli have introduced their new hard compound for Barcelona to cope up the high tyre wear on the circuit.
With high competition gearing up this season, this will be the most sought race with few possibilities of rain out there. Home ground to double world champion Fernando Alonso makes Ferrari the favorite for the audience.
Circuit Analysis
Barcelona is a mix of high and low-speed corners. The circuit is highly abrasive and rather have bumpy track surface. The circuit does not provide ample amount of overtaking opportunity as their are tight corners with only possibility of overtaking is at the long straight from last turn to the finish line and the first corner.
Qualifying will play an essential part unlike it is a trend in 2011.
Circuit is also hard on tyres with high tyre wear. Pirelli introduction of new hard compound can ease the situation a little bit.
Weather Report
High temperature with partly cloudy on Friday. Hard on tyres and few chance of rain.
| Friday: | Partly Cloudy (Few chances of Rain) |
23 °C | 45% |
| Saturday: | Partly Cloudy (Few chances of Rain) |
23 °C | 42% |
| Sunday: | Clear Sky |
24 °C | 51% |
Ticket Prices
Ticket Prices are starting form $210 for General Admission. For Grandstand Weekend prices vary from $600 to $700 for main grandstands. For Paddock Club it is $5000 for the weekend.
Timing
| Practice 1 | Fri 10:00 (CET) / 13:30 (IST) |
| Practice 2 | Fri 14:00 (CET) / 17:30 (IST) |
| Practice 3 | Sat 11:00 (CET) / 14:30 (IST) |
| Qualifying | Sat 14:00 (CET) / 17:30 (IST) |
| Race | Sun 14:00 (CET) / 17:30 (IST) |
Prediction
As the teams are gearing up after their first European leg in Turkish Grand Prix, Ferrari, Mercedes and Renault are expected to change their fortunes. All the three teams have struggled this season in their consistency with Red Bull and Mclaren. But they can this time change the grounds with the top teams.
But Red Bull is expected to dominate with Sebastian Vettel in full form.
Watch out for home boy Fernando Alonso. Lewis Hamilton, Michael Schumacher and Vitaly Petrov equally playing their part.
As the midfielders are concerned Force India can aim for points this time.
As the Spanish GP is a tight circuit, Qualifying will play a major role with KERS and DRS equally important during the race. Hard tyre strategy of the teams can see a change in fortune.
Austrain Grand Prix 'A1 Ring' now known as 'Red Bull Ring' could be back in F1
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Newly renovated A1 Ring circuit in Austria can become a part of the Formula 1 calendar in the near future. After the track’s renovation, it is now going to be known as the 'Red Bull Ring'.
The track’s facility was demolished after its last Formula 1 race, which took place back in 2003 when it was known as 'A1 Ring'. Red Bull’s, Dietrich Mateschitz, reportedly, rebuilt it at the cost of a nine-figure Euro sum.
Red Bull Racing’s Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber were among those present at the special opening event, showcasing their F1 machinery, along with Toro Rosso stable mates Sebastien Buemi and Jaime Alguersuari on Sunday, 15 May, 2011.
Since drivers such as the 7 time world champion, Michael Schumacher, and, the reigning world champion, Sebastian Vettel, have recently stated that they would love to see the Red Bull Ring as a part of the Formula 1 calendar soon, the track has obtained F1 homologation status.
“If you look at the new F1 circuits, the ones that came recently and the ones that are coming, one has to say the probability of Formula One returning to Spielberg [the site of the Red Bull Ring] is more than minor”, said Mateschitz.
The sport's commercial boss replied "why not?" when asked if the Austrian venue could once again play host to an F1 Grand Prix, now that it has been extensively refurbished by the energy drinks giant.
"This (refurbishment) should have been done 10 years ago," added Ecclestone. "Without the rain I might have never realised it's the same area."
The original circuit, then known as the Osterreichring, opened in 1969 and staged its first Grand Prix the following year, with local hero Jochen Rindt drawing massive crowds. Austria’s other world champion, Niki Lauda, won his home event there in 1984 and he returned on Sunday to win again in a special ‘legends’ race from compatriot and fellow F1 veteran Dieter Quester.
The track was dropped from the F1 calendar in 1987 on safety grounds, before returning in 1997 as the A1-Ring. It staged the infamous 2002 Austrian Grand Prix, where Rubens Barrichello controversially moved aside to hand victory to Ferrari team mate Michael Schumacher, the man who also win the final Formula One race there in 2003. In 2003, Michael Schumacher was followed by Kimi Raikkonen, who finished just 3 seconds behind him in 2nd place. Rubens Barrichello followed in 3rd place to give Ferrari a double podium finish.
The Red Bull Ring’s first major event will be a round of Germany’s DTM touring car series at the start of next month.
Newly renovated A1 Ring circuit in Austria can become a part of the Formula 1 calendar in the near future. After the track’s renovation, it is now going to be known as the 'Red Bull Ring'.
The track’s facility was demolished after its last Formula 1 race, which took place back in 2003 when it was known as 'A1 Ring'. Red Bull’s, Dietrich Mateschitz, reportedly, rebuilt it at the cost of a nine-figure Euro sum.
Red Bull Racing’s Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber were among those present at the special opening event, showcasing their F1 machinery, along with Toro Rosso stable mates Sebastien Buemi and Jaime Alguersuari on Sunday, 15 May, 2011.
Since drivers such as the 7 time world champion, Michael Schumacher, and, the reigning world champion, Sebastian Vettel, have recently stated that they would love to see the Red Bull Ring as a part of the Formula 1 calendar soon, the track has obtained F1 homologation status.
“If you look at the new F1 circuits, the ones that came recently and the ones that are coming, one has to say the probability of Formula One returning to Spielberg [the site of the Red Bull Ring] is more than minor”, said Mateschitz.
The sport's commercial boss replied "why not?" when asked if the Austrian venue could once again play host to an F1 Grand Prix, now that it has been extensively refurbished by the energy drinks giant.
"This (refurbishment) should have been done 10 years ago," added Ecclestone. "Without the rain I might have never realised it's the same area."
The original circuit, then known as the Osterreichring, opened in 1969 and staged its first Grand Prix the following year, with local hero Jochen Rindt drawing massive crowds. Austria’s other world champion, Niki Lauda, won his home event there in 1984 and he returned on Sunday to win again in a special ‘legends’ race from compatriot and fellow F1 veteran Dieter Quester.
The track was dropped from the F1 calendar in 1987 on safety grounds, before returning in 1997 as the A1-Ring. It staged the infamous 2002 Austrian Grand Prix, where Rubens Barrichello controversially moved aside to hand victory to Ferrari team mate Michael Schumacher, the man who also win the final Formula One race there in 2003. In 2003, Michael Schumacher was followed by Kimi Raikkonen, who finished just 3 seconds behind him in 2nd place. Rubens Barrichello followed in 3rd place to give Ferrari a double podium finish.
The Red Bull Ring’s first major event will be a round of Germany’s DTM touring car series at the start of next month.
Airtel to become title sponsor for India GP
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It is been speculated that Airtel has signed up as the 'title sponsor' of the Indian Grand Prix.
The news was unconfirmed by the organizers of the GP as well as the Indian telecom major, Airtel.
Airtel's sponsorship for the Indian Grand Prix title rights have been rumoured to be in the region of $13-14 million per year for 5 years. The title rights would mean that the Indian Grand Prix will now be called as the 'Airtel Indian Grand Prix' across all media and communication. Additionally, they will have a larger percentage of on-track advertising and access to hospitality areas and passes for their key guests.
Sponsorship of the Indian Grand Prix is not Airtel's first entry into international sponsorship. They are partners with the famous Manchester United club and own mobile rights that they broadcast to their million plus subscribers in India and abroad.
Airtel had previously sponsored the Airtel One India Challenge, which was an all-India TSD rally. The rally was held almost a decade ago and was one of Airtel's biggest sponsorship in sport in India. The rally saw active participation from motoring enthusiasts, but organizational issues meant that the rally didn't repeat the next year. Due to reasons not publicly known, Airtel decided to step away from motor-sport sponsorship in the country.
Airtel is not new to F1 sponsorship. Airtel is an investor in Singtel, the title sponsor of the Singapore GP. The association with the Indian GP will enhance Airtel's global brand presence and put the Indian telecom major on the world map. Airtel's direct competitor in India, Vodafone, is the title-sponsor of the Mclaren Mercedes team. It will be interesting to see how the two companies fight in their space to occupy the mindsets of the Indian F1 fan.
Indian presence in Formula 1 has increased manifold that lured Indian Large Brands to Sponsor as well.
The Force India F1 team has attracted sponsorship from various UB Group brands that include Royal Challenge, Kingfisher Airlines, Vladivar, etc. Reebok and Wrigley too are partners with the Indian F1 team.
Narain Karthikeyan brings Indian auto major, TATA to the table and Karun Chandhok's ambassadorship with the Jaypee Group has the infrastructure group present in Formula1.
The Jaypee Group are also the host organizers of the Indian Grand Prix and are building the Buddh International Circuit.
It is been speculated that Airtel has signed up as the 'title sponsor' of the Indian Grand Prix.
The news was unconfirmed by the organizers of the GP as well as the Indian telecom major, Airtel.
Airtel's sponsorship for the Indian Grand Prix title rights have been rumoured to be in the region of $13-14 million per year for 5 years. The title rights would mean that the Indian Grand Prix will now be called as the 'Airtel Indian Grand Prix' across all media and communication. Additionally, they will have a larger percentage of on-track advertising and access to hospitality areas and passes for their key guests.
Sponsorship of the Indian Grand Prix is not Airtel's first entry into international sponsorship. They are partners with the famous Manchester United club and own mobile rights that they broadcast to their million plus subscribers in India and abroad.
Airtel had previously sponsored the Airtel One India Challenge, which was an all-India TSD rally. The rally was held almost a decade ago and was one of Airtel's biggest sponsorship in sport in India. The rally saw active participation from motoring enthusiasts, but organizational issues meant that the rally didn't repeat the next year. Due to reasons not publicly known, Airtel decided to step away from motor-sport sponsorship in the country.
Airtel is not new to F1 sponsorship. Airtel is an investor in Singtel, the title sponsor of the Singapore GP. The association with the Indian GP will enhance Airtel's global brand presence and put the Indian telecom major on the world map. Airtel's direct competitor in India, Vodafone, is the title-sponsor of the Mclaren Mercedes team. It will be interesting to see how the two companies fight in their space to occupy the mindsets of the Indian F1 fan.
Indian presence in Formula 1 has increased manifold that lured Indian Large Brands to Sponsor as well.
The Force India F1 team has attracted sponsorship from various UB Group brands that include Royal Challenge, Kingfisher Airlines, Vladivar, etc. Reebok and Wrigley too are partners with the Indian F1 team.
Narain Karthikeyan brings Indian auto major, TATA to the table and Karun Chandhok's ambassadorship with the Jaypee Group has the infrastructure group present in Formula1.
The Jaypee Group are also the host organizers of the Indian Grand Prix and are building the Buddh International Circuit.
Tag Heuer sponsoring Indian Grand Prix
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TAG Heuer has launched its limited edition watch for Indian Grand Prix. Shah Rukh Khan unveiled the brand’s special edition watches (TAG Heuer Carrera Tachymeter Chronograph watch) with Buddh International Circuit’s heart-shaped logo in green and saffron.
Tag Heuer is the official timekeeper of Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile, FIA.
Tag Heuer has collaborated with JPSI, a Jaypee Group company, which constructed the 5.14-km-long world-class motor racing circuit — the Buddh International Circuit — near Greater Noida, to have access to the branding, logo and image rights of the race track.
Globally, Tag Heuer’s association with motor racing has been longstanding. ‘Mastering speed for 150 years’ is the theme of its global celebrations in 2011 to mark its racing heritage.
The 200 pieces will be available for sale in the month of September and a booking procedure will be initiated soon claimed an official during the launch event.
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TAG Heuer has launched its limited edition watch for Indian Grand Prix. Shah Rukh Khan unveiled the brand’s special edition watches (TAG Heuer Carrera Tachymeter Chronograph watch) with Buddh International Circuit’s heart-shaped logo in green and saffron.
Tag Heuer is the official timekeeper of Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile, FIA.
Tag Heuer has collaborated with JPSI, a Jaypee Group company, which constructed the 5.14-km-long world-class motor racing circuit — the Buddh International Circuit — near Greater Noida, to have access to the branding, logo and image rights of the race track.
Globally, Tag Heuer’s association with motor racing has been longstanding. ‘Mastering speed for 150 years’ is the theme of its global celebrations in 2011 to mark its racing heritage.
The 200 pieces will be available for sale in the month of September and a booking procedure will be initiated soon claimed an official during the launch event.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame for Sir Jackie Stewart
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1966 Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year, Sir Jackie Stewart, also a three times Formula One World Champion (1969, 1971, 1973) will be inducted into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame officials announced May 12.
The induction ceremony will take place Thursday, May 26 at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown. An esteemed panel of nearly 150 electors, comprised of Hall of Fame members, leading auto racing participants, motorsports journalists and officials, votes annually for Hall of Fame inductees.
Stewart is also renowned as a leading advocate of improved safety standards, campaigning relentlessly throughout his career for better medical and emergency facilities at race circuits.
Stewart, from Scotland, only made two Indianapolis 500 starts, in 1966 and 1967, but came within a few laps of finishing first and second.
He dropped out while leading with just nine laps remaining in 1966 and was running just behind Parnelli Jones and eventual winner A.J. Foyt when his engine failed at 168 laps in 1967.
Also elected is Jim McGee, a chief mechanic and race strategist who has contributed to more than 90 major open-wheel victories in the United States, including four Indianapolis 500s.
1966 Indianapolis 500 Rookie of the Year, Sir Jackie Stewart, also a three times Formula One World Champion (1969, 1971, 1973) will be inducted into the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Hall of Fame officials announced May 12.
The induction ceremony will take place Thursday, May 26 at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown. An esteemed panel of nearly 150 electors, comprised of Hall of Fame members, leading auto racing participants, motorsports journalists and officials, votes annually for Hall of Fame inductees.
Stewart is also renowned as a leading advocate of improved safety standards, campaigning relentlessly throughout his career for better medical and emergency facilities at race circuits.
Stewart, from Scotland, only made two Indianapolis 500 starts, in 1966 and 1967, but came within a few laps of finishing first and second.
He dropped out while leading with just nine laps remaining in 1966 and was running just behind Parnelli Jones and eventual winner A.J. Foyt when his engine failed at 168 laps in 1967.
Also elected is Jim McGee, a chief mechanic and race strategist who has contributed to more than 90 major open-wheel victories in the United States, including four Indianapolis 500s.
Ambrosio may forced to make way for Canadian Driver
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22 year old, Canadian Driver Robert Wickens may be inline for debut in F1 against driver seat of Jerome D'Ambrosio with Virgin Racing team.
D’Ambrosio’s spot with the F1 team is in danger because his sponsors have failed to make payments to Virgin Racing. Some reports say the team is owed as much as $5 million.
Wickens is linked to Virgin through his Formula Renault 3.5 sponsor Marussia, which is reportedly eager to see the Canadian drive in F1 and acquired a substantial stake in Virgin earlier this year.
Wickens has had an excellent start to his Formula 3.5 season and leads the drivers’ standings with 71 points, 14 ahead of France’s Jean Eric Vergne after two races.
Wickens won the first race for his Carlin team, and finished second behind Vergne, a Carlin teammate, in the second race.
If D'Ambrosio could not make the payment then he will be replaced.
22 year old, Canadian Driver Robert Wickens may be inline for debut in F1 against driver seat of Jerome D'Ambrosio with Virgin Racing team.
D’Ambrosio’s spot with the F1 team is in danger because his sponsors have failed to make payments to Virgin Racing. Some reports say the team is owed as much as $5 million.
Wickens is linked to Virgin through his Formula Renault 3.5 sponsor Marussia, which is reportedly eager to see the Canadian drive in F1 and acquired a substantial stake in Virgin earlier this year.
Wickens has had an excellent start to his Formula 3.5 season and leads the drivers’ standings with 71 points, 14 ahead of France’s Jean Eric Vergne after two races.
Wickens won the first race for his Carlin team, and finished second behind Vergne, a Carlin teammate, in the second race.
If D'Ambrosio could not make the payment then he will be replaced.
Nico Hulkenberg and his Manager Willi Weber parted their ways
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Force India reserve and third driver Nico Hulkenberg splits from his Manager Willi Weber who had earlier managed numerous German drivers famously Michael Schumacher. Also his brother Ralf Schumacher and Timo Scheider.
Willi was with Nico since the start of his career or one can say that Willi managed to provide a debut to Nico with Williams. He had contacted Renault in 2008 for Nico, then Williams test driver in 2009 and provided him his F1 debut with Williams in 2010. In 2011, he lost his Williams seat to cash backed Pastor Maldonado and was forced to be test and reserve for Force India. He is allowed to take part in Friday's First Practice Sessions for all the races this season and could make a move to grab the seat in 2012.
Nico Hulkenberg was even given the nickname " The Hulk " by Willi Weber after the fictional superhero.
A statement on Hulkenberg's website said: "Nico Hulkenberg and manager Willi Weber part their ways.
He will "from now on take management matters in his own hands", supported by his former PR advisor Timo Gans.
"Both sides are currently working on a smooth changeover and on a satisfying solution for everyone,".
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Force India reserve and third driver Nico Hulkenberg splits from his Manager Willi Weber who had earlier managed numerous German drivers famously Michael Schumacher. Also his brother Ralf Schumacher and Timo Scheider.
Willi was with Nico since the start of his career or one can say that Willi managed to provide a debut to Nico with Williams. He had contacted Renault in 2008 for Nico, then Williams test driver in 2009 and provided him his F1 debut with Williams in 2010. In 2011, he lost his Williams seat to cash backed Pastor Maldonado and was forced to be test and reserve for Force India. He is allowed to take part in Friday's First Practice Sessions for all the races this season and could make a move to grab the seat in 2012.
Nico Hulkenberg was even given the nickname " The Hulk " by Willi Weber after the fictional superhero.
A statement on Hulkenberg's website said: "Nico Hulkenberg and manager Willi Weber part their ways.
He will "from now on take management matters in his own hands", supported by his former PR advisor Timo Gans.
"Both sides are currently working on a smooth changeover and on a satisfying solution for everyone,".
Turkish GP - Post Race Analysis
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The race purely dominated by Reigning World Champion Sebastian Vettel. He again proved he is unbeatable.
About the circuit
The track is famous for its multi-apex left hander at turn 8 and its one of the three anti-clockwise circuit this year. There were not ample grounds for overtaking on the circuit, but DRS and KERS allowed overtaking almost on every lap.Track was hard on tyre as four stops were necessitated to win.
Practice Sessions - Turkish GP
The first practice session allowed for the first time testing of wet weather Pirelli tyres. Rain hit Session saw Vettel crashing out of the race that caused him to stay in garage for the second session also. Rain saw Ferrari leaping their way to top. But they soon get faded away in dry. But it was Mercedes who showed real talent of reaching podium in the practice sessions. For the first time this season, Mercedes were looking in control, even managed to beat Mclaren and were in position to compete with Red Bull. Practice sessions showed that backmarker HRT can this time beat their closest rivals Virgin out of the race.
After three weeks of break, all the teams tested for their upgrades. Some got benefited but others were steadily progressing.
Turkish GP - Practice Session 1
Turkish GP - Practice Session 2
Turkish GP - Practice Session 3
Qualifying Session - Turkish GP
Qualifying saw the triumph of Red Bull continuing as Sebastian Vettel went on to record the 19th pole of his career without even taking a second run in the final qualifying session thus saving tyres.
As the rain did not play its part, it was all top 5 running teams that captured the top 10 slots. Kamui Kobayashi was out in Q1 as his car stopped with Felipe Massa unable to note time in final session due to some mechanical problems. But it was Mercedes day out as Nico Rosberg qualified third and had beaten Mclaren and Ferrari fair and square.
It was HRT at the back who had taken control over Virgin as Liuzzi outqualified Timo Glock.
Michael again upsetting his fans as he only qualified 8th for the race.
Williams after a worst start of their season were looking to score their first point of the season as they were able to qualify ahead of other midfielders.
Turkish GP - Qualifying
Race - Turkish GP
This season is giving us memorable races. It was again one of the fantastic race of all time. Lot of overtaking but one thing was definite.... Sebastian Vettel winning the race. He was like a solid mountain remained on top for most part of the race. For the places behind, there were uncertainty to whom we will support but for first place, it was only Sebastian Vettel.
It was the race every one will remember for all its Overtaking manoeuvers and bravehearts kissing each other's car to get the position.
Almost everyman on track was overtaken atleast once except that for "Sebastian Vettel". The man was unbeatable. From Pole to podium, it seemed a walk in a park for him. As no one ever closes him to get the position. With the start form the lap as he cruised his way past to lap down 11drives on track in the end.
The race saw some of the drivers hammering down others, as the pit stop strategy became essential for win, even some of the top teams had major problem during pits also. Problem with Massa, Hamilton, Button pit stop caused them some of the points.
There was a hard fought battle for second place in the end between Mark Webber and Fernando Alonso. Webber took the second position from Alonso on Lap 51 but had there been one or two laps into the race, it might Alonso on the 2nd position.
Finally, Fernando Alonso eager to win was seen in his Ferrari. This was the first podium finish for Ferrari this season. As the overnight change in speed of car was unimaginable. The car was not even a competition in Qualifying to Mclaren and Mercedes also, and now even managed to challenge Red Bull.
Mclaren lost due to their pit strategy but it was Mercedes who lost the most. Their competitive skills looked vanishing into the air. Williams also were not able to turn their fortune.
Team Lotus continued their good progress at the back.
Turkish GP - Race
Team Analysis:
Red Bull -There are no words to define Red Bull triumph. As the team leading the world championship, defending their title, showed all why they are 'what they are known for'. Almost losing in the first practice session, team dominance continues as the weekend progressed with Sebastian Vettel unstoppable for others. Mark Webber also never let the team down. Although some KERS problem still haunt the team but they will work everything out in Spain.
10/10 points.
Mclaren - After a continuing strong performance from the start of the season, Mclaren tried to prove it once more, but this time, they were stopped by Mercedes in Practice, Qualifying and in Race due to their own pit mistakes, they were left behind. But nevertheless, this team can turn the fortunes of Red Bull and are giving competition to everyone out there.
8.5/10 points
Ferrari - After a poor performance in practice and qualifying, they made everyone scratching their heads, when they tried to take on Red Bull at top. Fernando drove superbly but Massa was not able to convert it to points after a disastrous pit stop. Team is trying to prove its name once again and will surely the one to watch out in the next race.
8.0/10 points
Mercedes - Mercedes was an improved team once again after getting the speed from chinese grand prix. They have surely ended their poor performance at the start of the season and can bring back the competition that they promised in Practice and Qualifying Session during Turkish Grand Prix. Although they were not able to convert the result as they qualified but still more to come in next races. The team had a poor performance during the race. Car showed reliability problem. Rosberg was outpaced while Schumi had collision that caused him the race.
7.5/10 points
Renault - Renault continue to perform just ahead of midfielders. But their performance has surely been compromised by the improving Ferrari and Mercedes. They need to gear up as they did not looked as competitive as they can be in Turkish Grand Prix. Even after bringing out the upgrades they were outqualified but still there reliability proved which put them in top 8 in the race.
7.0/10 points
Toro Rosso - After an average performance during the practice session and qualifying, they come quite competitive during the race as far as midfielders are concerned. Buemi three stop strategy watched him finishing on 9th while Alguersuari could have finished higher on table if his mistake would not have caused him a driver through penalty. But overall they managed to clearly taken a lead over the other midfielders.
5.5/10 points
Sauber - The team were not able to put a strong performance during Qualifying as well as in practice also but Kamui Kobayashi strong driving again able to gave them the points in race. Sergio Perez is learning F1 as his debut year progress.
5.0/10 points
Force India - Force India were not able to produce what they have promised before the race. Their upgrades fail to compete the midfielders also. Their reliability was also hampered as Paul Di Resta had to retire from the race. They were unable to clear the midfielders after a good qualifying and practice.
4.5/10 points
Williams - After a weak performance from the start, Williams were able to bring the car back into fighting spirit until Race Day. During race they failed yet again to achieve their first point of the season. Although team is improving but they need to work a lot harder to convert their 15th place finish on the board. They had a good practice and Qualifying session as it showed their progress.
3.5/10 points
Team Lotus - Lotus were again ahead of the other two new comers. They are now able to come even more closer to the midfielders. They can with few upgrades can able to put some drivers behind them. Their lap times improved. But as far as comparison with the top team, they are still no match. So they have to work hard to beat the others. May be caterham purchase can put some fortune into their pockets.
3.0/10 points.
Virgin - Virgin was a poor performer during practice, qualifying as well as in race. They were now beatable by HRT. Their improved car was not a match with the improved HRT pace also. Timo Glock did not start the race due to gear box problem. Although Ambrosio was able to finish ahead of HRT during race but it is only due to reliability issue in HRT.
2.0/10 points.
HRT - HRT's hard work paid them with double finish in the end again. Their major goal of reliability to finish is complete but still reliability is needed to keep them on track as they were 3 and 5 laps down at the end of the race. They have improved on speed, were able to outqualify one of the Virgin. They are improving and can beat Virgin and then can move ahead with their next goal.
2.0/10 points.
The race purely dominated by Reigning World Champion Sebastian Vettel. He again proved he is unbeatable.
About the circuit
The track is famous for its multi-apex left hander at turn 8 and its one of the three anti-clockwise circuit this year. There were not ample grounds for overtaking on the circuit, but DRS and KERS allowed overtaking almost on every lap.Track was hard on tyre as four stops were necessitated to win.
Practice Sessions - Turkish GP
The first practice session allowed for the first time testing of wet weather Pirelli tyres. Rain hit Session saw Vettel crashing out of the race that caused him to stay in garage for the second session also. Rain saw Ferrari leaping their way to top. But they soon get faded away in dry. But it was Mercedes who showed real talent of reaching podium in the practice sessions. For the first time this season, Mercedes were looking in control, even managed to beat Mclaren and were in position to compete with Red Bull. Practice sessions showed that backmarker HRT can this time beat their closest rivals Virgin out of the race.
After three weeks of break, all the teams tested for their upgrades. Some got benefited but others were steadily progressing.
Turkish GP - Practice Session 1
Turkish GP - Practice Session 2
Turkish GP - Practice Session 3
Qualifying Session - Turkish GP
Qualifying saw the triumph of Red Bull continuing as Sebastian Vettel went on to record the 19th pole of his career without even taking a second run in the final qualifying session thus saving tyres.
As the rain did not play its part, it was all top 5 running teams that captured the top 10 slots. Kamui Kobayashi was out in Q1 as his car stopped with Felipe Massa unable to note time in final session due to some mechanical problems. But it was Mercedes day out as Nico Rosberg qualified third and had beaten Mclaren and Ferrari fair and square.
It was HRT at the back who had taken control over Virgin as Liuzzi outqualified Timo Glock.
Michael again upsetting his fans as he only qualified 8th for the race.
Williams after a worst start of their season were looking to score their first point of the season as they were able to qualify ahead of other midfielders.
Turkish GP - Qualifying
Race - Turkish GP
This season is giving us memorable races. It was again one of the fantastic race of all time. Lot of overtaking but one thing was definite.... Sebastian Vettel winning the race. He was like a solid mountain remained on top for most part of the race. For the places behind, there were uncertainty to whom we will support but for first place, it was only Sebastian Vettel.
It was the race every one will remember for all its Overtaking manoeuvers and bravehearts kissing each other's car to get the position.
Almost everyman on track was overtaken atleast once except that for "Sebastian Vettel". The man was unbeatable. From Pole to podium, it seemed a walk in a park for him. As no one ever closes him to get the position. With the start form the lap as he cruised his way past to lap down 11drives on track in the end.
The race saw some of the drivers hammering down others, as the pit stop strategy became essential for win, even some of the top teams had major problem during pits also. Problem with Massa, Hamilton, Button pit stop caused them some of the points.
There was a hard fought battle for second place in the end between Mark Webber and Fernando Alonso. Webber took the second position from Alonso on Lap 51 but had there been one or two laps into the race, it might Alonso on the 2nd position.
Finally, Fernando Alonso eager to win was seen in his Ferrari. This was the first podium finish for Ferrari this season. As the overnight change in speed of car was unimaginable. The car was not even a competition in Qualifying to Mclaren and Mercedes also, and now even managed to challenge Red Bull.
Mclaren lost due to their pit strategy but it was Mercedes who lost the most. Their competitive skills looked vanishing into the air. Williams also were not able to turn their fortune.
Team Lotus continued their good progress at the back.
Turkish GP - Race
Team Analysis:
Red Bull -There are no words to define Red Bull triumph. As the team leading the world championship, defending their title, showed all why they are 'what they are known for'. Almost losing in the first practice session, team dominance continues as the weekend progressed with Sebastian Vettel unstoppable for others. Mark Webber also never let the team down. Although some KERS problem still haunt the team but they will work everything out in Spain.
10/10 points.
Mclaren - After a continuing strong performance from the start of the season, Mclaren tried to prove it once more, but this time, they were stopped by Mercedes in Practice, Qualifying and in Race due to their own pit mistakes, they were left behind. But nevertheless, this team can turn the fortunes of Red Bull and are giving competition to everyone out there.
8.5/10 points
Ferrari - After a poor performance in practice and qualifying, they made everyone scratching their heads, when they tried to take on Red Bull at top. Fernando drove superbly but Massa was not able to convert it to points after a disastrous pit stop. Team is trying to prove its name once again and will surely the one to watch out in the next race.
8.0/10 points
Mercedes - Mercedes was an improved team once again after getting the speed from chinese grand prix. They have surely ended their poor performance at the start of the season and can bring back the competition that they promised in Practice and Qualifying Session during Turkish Grand Prix. Although they were not able to convert the result as they qualified but still more to come in next races. The team had a poor performance during the race. Car showed reliability problem. Rosberg was outpaced while Schumi had collision that caused him the race.
7.5/10 points
Renault - Renault continue to perform just ahead of midfielders. But their performance has surely been compromised by the improving Ferrari and Mercedes. They need to gear up as they did not looked as competitive as they can be in Turkish Grand Prix. Even after bringing out the upgrades they were outqualified but still there reliability proved which put them in top 8 in the race.
7.0/10 points
Toro Rosso - After an average performance during the practice session and qualifying, they come quite competitive during the race as far as midfielders are concerned. Buemi three stop strategy watched him finishing on 9th while Alguersuari could have finished higher on table if his mistake would not have caused him a driver through penalty. But overall they managed to clearly taken a lead over the other midfielders.
5.5/10 points
Sauber - The team were not able to put a strong performance during Qualifying as well as in practice also but Kamui Kobayashi strong driving again able to gave them the points in race. Sergio Perez is learning F1 as his debut year progress.
5.0/10 points
Force India - Force India were not able to produce what they have promised before the race. Their upgrades fail to compete the midfielders also. Their reliability was also hampered as Paul Di Resta had to retire from the race. They were unable to clear the midfielders after a good qualifying and practice.
4.5/10 points
Williams - After a weak performance from the start, Williams were able to bring the car back into fighting spirit until Race Day. During race they failed yet again to achieve their first point of the season. Although team is improving but they need to work a lot harder to convert their 15th place finish on the board. They had a good practice and Qualifying session as it showed their progress.
3.5/10 points
Team Lotus - Lotus were again ahead of the other two new comers. They are now able to come even more closer to the midfielders. They can with few upgrades can able to put some drivers behind them. Their lap times improved. But as far as comparison with the top team, they are still no match. So they have to work hard to beat the others. May be caterham purchase can put some fortune into their pockets.
3.0/10 points.
Virgin - Virgin was a poor performer during practice, qualifying as well as in race. They were now beatable by HRT. Their improved car was not a match with the improved HRT pace also. Timo Glock did not start the race due to gear box problem. Although Ambrosio was able to finish ahead of HRT during race but it is only due to reliability issue in HRT.
2.0/10 points.
HRT - HRT's hard work paid them with double finish in the end again. Their major goal of reliability to finish is complete but still reliability is needed to keep them on track as they were 3 and 5 laps down at the end of the race. They have improved on speed, were able to outqualify one of the Virgin. They are improving and can beat Virgin and then can move ahead with their next goal.
2.0/10 points.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Trouble for Buddh International Circuit due to Greater Noida Land Acquistion issue
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Farmers in Greater Noida are agitating on the issue of Land acquisition by Government.
The villages of these farmers are near to Yamuna Expressway and Buddh International Circuit, Greater Noida.
The anger had led to the violence in the area. Government get benefited from their land is their slogan and they want more compensation for the same.
The bloodbath in Greater Noida can extent to the F1 circuit warns farmer.
This is the major cause of concern for the Jaypee Group, as their project is already on the verge of crossing the deadline would get delayed if the agitation reached the circuit. This could hamper the Indian image across the entire motorsport world. The final deadline by FIA for the circuit inspection is at the end of July thus if worked halted then it would be almost impossible for the Indian GP officials to complete the work.
Already the F1 is concerned related to circuits in Bahrain and Japan. Indian GP Circuit if canceled could lead to $100million loss (including Bahrain and Japan) to F1 in the fees itself.
Executive Chairman of Jaiprakash Associates Manoj Gaur clarified that "all the land required for development of the Yamuna Expressway and Formula One Motor Racing track at Dankaur near Greater Noida has been acquired and mutually agreed compensation paid to farmers. There is no land acquisition going on for any project of Jaypee Group in this area." Farmers have been agitating over better compensation against land acquired by the state government.
Their contention is that the government acquired land from them at prices as low as Rs 450-850 for a sqm but sold those later to private developers at Rs 4,500-5 ,500 per sqm. These developers are now selling the same land at Rs 15,000 - 17,000 per sq yard. An official in the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority said, "If even one of the farmer goes to court and manages to obtain a stay, some of the projects will be stalled." In August, 2010, farmers had agitated in Tappal in Aligarh, Mathura and Agra against land acquisition for the Yamuna Expressway and some townships being built by JP Infratech. This time again, the agitation has spread from Bhatta and Parsaul villages in Greater Noida to Tappal in Aligarh and beyond to Agra as well.
The track falls in Dhankaur area of Greater Noida, which is about 9 km from the Bhatta-Parsaul village. Thus, while the work on Yamuna Expressway has slowed down after the agitation, authorities have shifted their focus on the construction of the track and are working day and night with a large labour force to ensure there are no hindrances in its completion.
The state government has increased the security for the under-construction race track after Saturday’s agitation at Bhatta-Parsaul and in the wake of warning by Manvir Singh Teotia that farmers would march towards the under-construction track to mark their protest against low compensation rate provided to them at various locations under Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority.
Apart from the police, even private security guards have been hired by the group. Sources in the company say around 6,000 workers and over 250 engineers are working round-the-clock to ensure early completion of the Rs 1700-crore project.
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Farmers in Greater Noida are agitating on the issue of Land acquisition by Government.
The villages of these farmers are near to Yamuna Expressway and Buddh International Circuit, Greater Noida.
The anger had led to the violence in the area. Government get benefited from their land is their slogan and they want more compensation for the same.
The bloodbath in Greater Noida can extent to the F1 circuit warns farmer.
This is the major cause of concern for the Jaypee Group, as their project is already on the verge of crossing the deadline would get delayed if the agitation reached the circuit. This could hamper the Indian image across the entire motorsport world. The final deadline by FIA for the circuit inspection is at the end of July thus if worked halted then it would be almost impossible for the Indian GP officials to complete the work.
Already the F1 is concerned related to circuits in Bahrain and Japan. Indian GP Circuit if canceled could lead to $100million loss (including Bahrain and Japan) to F1 in the fees itself.
Executive Chairman of Jaiprakash Associates Manoj Gaur clarified that "all the land required for development of the Yamuna Expressway and Formula One Motor Racing track at Dankaur near Greater Noida has been acquired and mutually agreed compensation paid to farmers. There is no land acquisition going on for any project of Jaypee Group in this area." Farmers have been agitating over better compensation against land acquired by the state government.
Their contention is that the government acquired land from them at prices as low as Rs 450-850 for a sqm but sold those later to private developers at Rs 4,500-5 ,500 per sqm. These developers are now selling the same land at Rs 15,000 - 17,000 per sq yard. An official in the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority said, "If even one of the farmer goes to court and manages to obtain a stay, some of the projects will be stalled." In August, 2010, farmers had agitated in Tappal in Aligarh, Mathura and Agra against land acquisition for the Yamuna Expressway and some townships being built by JP Infratech. This time again, the agitation has spread from Bhatta and Parsaul villages in Greater Noida to Tappal in Aligarh and beyond to Agra as well.
The track falls in Dhankaur area of Greater Noida, which is about 9 km from the Bhatta-Parsaul village. Thus, while the work on Yamuna Expressway has slowed down after the agitation, authorities have shifted their focus on the construction of the track and are working day and night with a large labour force to ensure there are no hindrances in its completion.
The state government has increased the security for the under-construction race track after Saturday’s agitation at Bhatta-Parsaul and in the wake of warning by Manvir Singh Teotia that farmers would march towards the under-construction track to mark their protest against low compensation rate provided to them at various locations under Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority.
Apart from the police, even private security guards have been hired by the group. Sources in the company say around 6,000 workers and over 250 engineers are working round-the-clock to ensure early completion of the Rs 1700-crore project.
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