Abu Dhabi GP: Driver Preview Quotes - Manor

Preview Quotes - Manor/Marussia


Will Stevens - "I'm really looking forward to this weekend. It was here 12 months ago that I made my F1 debut, so this track has happy memories for me and it's one I really enjoy racing at. I had a really strong race in Brazil, so I'd really like to replicate that performance on Sunday and I plan to approach the weekend in a similar fashion, focusing much more on the race than my single lap pace. Beating my team-mate is a moving target once again, with Roberto back in the car rather than Alex, but my aim is still to be the lead Manor driver going into the race, and the first to cross the line at the end of it."

Roberto Merhi - "I'm so excited to be back in the car this weekend for the season finale. As any reserve driver will tell you, I really missed the racing; it will be a long time yet before I'm ready to hang up my racing gloves for a full-time career in TV commentary! I've kept a close eye on everything the team has been doing over the past five races, so I don't think it will be too difficult to get back up to speed on Friday and see how I stand versus Will. I've missed the competitive spirit between us. The most important thing is to do the best job possible for the team on Sunday, and ensure we have a result to celebrate. It has been a long, hard season, so I want to say thank you for this opportunity and I hope I can deliver another strong performance to reward the faith the team has shown in me."

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Brazilian GP: Driver Preview Quotes - Manor

Preview Quotes - Manor


Will Stevens - “The race in Mexico was a very exciting one between me and Alex. In the end, it didn’t deliver the position I held for much of the race, but I felt like I was back to where I was, after a few slightly more challenging rounds on my side of the garage. A stronger weekend there has really fired me up to end the season on a high note, so I’m feeling very optimistic about the next two races, in Brazil and Abu Dhabi. Obviously Abu Dhabi I’ve raced at before, but Brazil is another new circuit for me, and one I’ve always been excited about racing at. What’s great is that it’s a new experience for me personally, but an old classic with a lot of heritage and obviously forever tied to the legacy of one of my own inspirations, Ayrton Senna. It’s also a very challenging circuit, which are my favourites, as it’s another opportunity for a driver to show their skill in arriving at a good compromise set-up to cope with the different circuit characteristics. I’m looking forward to it.”

Alexander Rossi - “Brazil is my final race of 2015 for the team and I really hope it will be as positive as the past four have been for me. I’m very satisfied with my performances thus far, so we will need to keep the momentum going to end on a really strong note. This is a track that I’ve raced and won on in the past, so I will be looking forward to hitting the ground running on Friday. The weather looks like it will be a variable again, as is so often the case with this circuit, but I have grown to be quite comfortable with the car in all conditions, especially after the past two race weekends. I can’t wait to get out there on Friday and resume the on-track battle with Will for one final time this year.”

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United States GP: Driver Preview Quotes - Manor

Preview Quotes - Manor


Roberto Merhi - "I can't adequately describe how excited I am about competing in my home Grand Prix for the first time. Thankfully, I've been so busy with a whole bunch of PR commitments that I've been able to keep that side of it in check, but now we're just a few days out, the reality is starting to hit me and it feels great. It's a huge deal for me, not only because it makes me extremely proud to be the first American driver to race on US soil since 2007, but also because it's the realisation of a goal that I, and the people around me, have been working towards for effectively 13 years. This weekend is an opportunity to reward their support and commitment as much as my own determination as a race car driver, and I'll be giving it my all.

I'm pretty happy with how things went in my first two races for the team, in Singapore and Japan. There's a lot to get to grips with at first, before you can really start to build some momentum, but that considered, I was pleased with my relative position at the end of those races. After a race off due to my GP2 schedule, I'm looking forward to picking up where I left off at Suzuka and enjoying a good fight with Will. Circuit of The Americas is an awesome track. I've driven it before and it's a real mix of some of the best circuits in the world. It's pretty fast and the frequent elevation changes make it spectacular for racing and spectating. There's going to be an amazing vibe, from the fans and having my family and friends in the crowd, so I really can't wait til we start turning wheels on Friday."

Will Stevens - "I'm really excited to be racing in Austin for the first time this weekend. It's a fantastic track with so much going on through the lap and I can't wait to experience the elevation change for myself. The city also sounds like a lot of fun. I do love America and I've spent the past few days training in Florida and getting used to the time difference, so I'm feeling fighting fit and prepared for the next races. It's good to welcome Alex back to the team, and clearly this is a big weekend for him. As you'd expect though, my objective, as always, is to beat my team-mate!"

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Russian GP: Driver Preview Quotes - Manor

Preview Quotes - Manor/Marussia

Will Stevens - “I’m really looking forward to the challenge of Sochi. I was here last year in my role as Reserve Driver, so I walked the track and observed the task of getting to grips with it from afar. It’s quite useful having two different drivers as a benchmark this past few races, and of course it is Roberto back in the other seat for this race, rather than Alex. This is a really technical track and I can’t wait to get my first experience of it on Friday.”

Roberto Merhi - “I can’t wait to be back in the car in Sochi this weekend. It’s the first time I have raced here, but last year I took part in the FP1 session, so I have some understanding of the circuit characteristics and this will be helpful for me after a couple of races out of the car. I’ve continued to work very closely with the team during track sessions and engineering meetings, so I have a very good appreciation of the work we have completed and I’m eager to get stuck into the programme and to make the most of my two races, in Sochi and Abu Dhabi.”

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Japanese GP: Driver Preview Quotes - Manor

Preview Quotes - Manor


Will Stevens - “This will be a very emotional weekend for us. We’re already a very close-knit team but occasions such as this only bring us closer and that helps us through the challenges we’ve experienced on and off the race track. In the same circumstances, Jules would have gone about the business of racing in a very focused and professional way and that is exactly what I’ll be doing. I didn’t have the best weekend in Singapore, albeit we secured another good two-car finish for the team. But I need to get on top of some of the issues which hampered my performance there, so we’ll work together as a team to understand and address them so that we can bring home another good result for Jules.”

Alexander Rossi - “My F1 racing debut in Singapore last weekend really couldn’t have worked out any better for me and I learned such a lot in a very short space of time. I head to Suzuka eager to pick up where I left off and focused on taking things to the next level, with the benefit of a little more familiarisation with the car and on a different type of race track. One thing I didn’t need to learn - because I already knew - was what a great group of people I am fortunate enough to be able to call my team. They made things very easy for me in Singapore and with a difficult weekend ahead for all of us, I’m hoping to do the same for them.”

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Manor signs Alexander Rossi for 5 Races

   
    As of the Singapore GP weekend, American GP2 driver, Alexander Rossi, will be replacing Roberto Merhi at Manor Marussia. However, it will only be for 5 of the 7 remaining races. Rossi will drive with the number 53.

    Rossi said earlier, "I'm very thankful to race for the Manor Marussia F1 team and for their continued belief in me. I've been prepared for this opportunity for quite a while now. Many will know from 2014 that the team and I already have a strong relationship and there's a bit of unfinished business for me here."

    Rossi will become the first American racing driver to race in F1 since 2007 when Scott Speed drove for Toro Rosso. Rossi will race in Singapore, Japan, USA, Mexico and Brazil. It is said that Merhi will be racing in both Russia and the finale in Abu Dhabi later this year.

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Italian GP: Driver Preview Quotes - Manor

Preview Quotes - Manor/Marussia


Will Stevens - “I really like the mix of old and new circuits on the existing calendar and Monza is a particular favourite. The track has a fantastic heritage and as a driver it gives you a very special feeling to be racing here. Plus, I’ve won a couple of times here in FR3.5, so it’s a track I know well and enjoy. It’s also the home race of our powertrain partners, Scuderia Ferrari, so we know we can look forward to that extra boost that such a passionate home crowd gives you, albeit in a much smaller way than Ferrari of course. It’s a great track to see out the current phase of European races, before we head to the long hauls.”

Roberto Merhi - “It’s always a really emotional experience to be racing here at Monza and particularly as a small part of the Scuderia Ferrari family. The crowd here are always incredibly passionate and together with the historic significance of the circuit, it’s makes for a very special weekend. The track is really very high-speed and so it is quite a different challenge. Plus, the forecast is for mixed conditions, so it could be quite unpredictable. I hope we can head into the flyaway races with a further boost to our current run of two-car finishes.”

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Belgian GP: Driver Preview Quotes - Manor

Preview Quotes - Manor/Marussia

Will Stevens - “It was nice for me and the rest of the team to have a good long break, but I think we are all ready to get back into the racing now. I had a lot of fun catching up with friends and family, and every now and then you do need a reboot, but at the same time it was important to maintain my physical training regime as this next phase of the season can be quite arduous, particularly the long hauls. I’m feeling really positive about the work that lies ahead, as it will be a combination of maximising our current package for this year and development for 2016. It’s good to get that underway at Spa, one of my favourite racetracks and a really great challenge for car and driver.”

Roberto Merhi - “It’s good to be back after the holidays and to get back to racing here at Spa, which is definitely my favourite circuit. I won my first Formula race here in 2007, in Formula Renault. Not only is it a very demanding circuit, and a real test of skill, but you also have other factors in the mix, like the weather, which can be really tricky as it is very changeable. Prior to the break, I felt that things were really starting to come together for me a little more and I was much more confident with the car. I hope to pick up where I left off and have a really positive second half of the season for me and the team.”

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Austrian GP: Driver Preview Quotes - Manor

Preview Quotes - Manor


Will Stevens - “I’ve had a couple of good performances at the Red Bull Ring in Formula Renault. It’s a great track and very different to the Canadian experience two weeks ago, but there are a few similarities between the two circuits, including the long straights and high speed corners. It’s quite a fast, flowing track and really fun to drive, with the last sector being my favourite. With no Germany on the calendar this year, this race is one of the big camping events for the fans. Although Montreal is a pretty fantastic atmosphere, there’s something very special about these races as you see the spectators bedding down for the weekend in the fields next to the circuit and loving every minute of it, rain or shine.”

Roberto Merhi - “It was disappointing to have to retire from my first Canadian Grand Prix, and for the team to experience its first DNF of the season. Hopefully we’ll be back to our usual impressive level of reliability for this race, as the more mileage for the car and the drivers, the better it is for our long-term development. I had a good weekend until then and things are really starting to come my way. I really like this next track and I’ve even won a couple of times here, so I’m hoping I can pick up where I left off in Montreal in terms of my own progress. It’s a fast and fun circuit to drive, with a few tricky spots, such as the last couple of corners of the lap, which can be difficult to get right. I’m looking forward to the challenge."

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Canadian GP: Driver Preview Quotes - Manor

Preview Quotes - Manor


Will Stevens - "After the luxury of a couple of races at tracks I'm quite familiar with, it's a step back outside the comfort zone for Montreal and the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. I'm pleased with the way I acclimatise to new circuits, although this is certainly one to be respected as it's pretty unique; a lot of fun but with more than its fair share of challenges. It has that street circuit feel like Monaco, because the walls are so close, but the similarity ends there and it's a track where we really have to look after the brakes. And of course, the right hand side of the car at ‘The Wall of Champions'! Avoiding that will be my first objective, but bigger picture, I hope to have a stronger race than I experienced in Monaco but another great team result with both cars taking the chequered flag."

Roberto Merhi - "The races are coming thick and fast now and it feels like we are in a good rhythm, which certainly made a difference for me in Monaco. I was very happy with my performance there. I'm looking forward to Canada next, as the track looks pretty challenging but also a lot of fun; a real adrenaline rush. The mix of long straights and really slow sections is interesting and I know the weather can play a big part in mixing things up a bit. I hear great things about Montreal also; plenty of events for the fans and a fantastic city to experience. Monaco gave me a real boost, so I can't wait to be back in the car at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, picking up where I left off there in performance terms and extracting as much as possible from the current package."

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Monaco GP: Driver Preview Quotes - Manor

Preview Quotes: Manor-Marussia

Will Stevens - "I'm so excited to be racing in my first Monaco Grand Prix this weekend. It's such a historic venue and the atmosphere is spectacular. From a racing point of view it's a real drivers' circuit, one which really showcases ability versus car performance. Precision is key as the smallest mistake can end up costing a driver dearly, but that's all part of the unique challenge and I can't wait to get started on Thursday. It will be an emotional weekend for the team as we remember Jules' amazing achievement here last year. I was only watching then, but that was some race! We'll all be pushing to ensure another strong performance and a two-car finish."

Roberto Merhi - "I can't wait to be racing in Monaco. For sure, this is one of the highlights of the season for any driver. The track is a real adventure in any category but I'm thrilled to be racing here in F1 for the first time and on the 65th anniversary of such an historic circuit. The streets of Monaco are really exhilarating to drive, like Casino Square and the Swimming Pool section and it's a really amazing vibe all weekend. This is a special place for the team, so I hope we can have a good performance in the race for everybody."

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Bahrain GP: Driver Preview Quotes - Manor

Preview Quotes - Manor-Marussia


Will Stevens - "Although a back to back race always presents a challenge for the team due to the quick turnaround, as a driver it is always amazing to be able to get back in the car so quickly. That's particularly the case after a good race for us in China. Now we're getting into a good rhythm, I'm really hungry for more so we can keep driving the team forward. Last season's Abu Dhabi Grand Prix was my first taste of night racing and it was a fantastic experience, so I'm really excited about racing under the floodlights here and to the challenging conditions this track poses for the car and driver."

Roberto Merhi - "I'm very excited to be racing in Bahrain this weekend. The track looks amazing, particularly at night, and has a pretty interesting set of challenges for the car, due to the track conditions, the heat and the wind. It's good to be able to get back in the car so soon as we seem to have a good momentum building and it is important that we take advantage of that to keep driving our development programme forward. I can't wait to get started on Friday."

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Malaysian GP: Driver Preview Quotes - Manor

Preview Quotes: Manor/Marussia


Will Stevens - “It’s great to be heading to Malaysia in the knowledge that we are in a different place to our situation in Melbourne. Sepang is a fantastic and very technical track, so it will be a good test of our package. I’m really excited about being able to begin the development programme and to start to understand what we have and where we are in relation to the competition.”

Roberto Merhi - “I’m very excited about the prospect of making my F1 debut in Malaysia. Obviously Sepang is a challenging environment, so I have been doing all I can on my side to prepare for that to be able to manage the heat and humidity. The last race weekend was disappointing for everyone in the team, but I know how much work has gone into getting us fully operational again and it will be great for everyone to finally see wheels turning.”

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Pre-Season Test #3 - Barcelona Day 2 - Times & Re-Cap

An overall good day for the teams as testing continues. Force India was finally able to debut the VJM08 with Nico Hulkenberg behind the wheel. 

Jenson Button had a good day of running as the McLaren-Honda seemed to be on its best behaviour, allowing Button to complete a total of 101 laps.

The FIA has also approved Marussia/Manor's entry for this season, so it looks like we could be up to 10 teams in Melbourne.

Here are the final times from Day 2:

1.Nico Rosberg - 1:22.792 / Mercedes-Mercedes

2. Valtteri Bottas - 1:23.995 / Williams-Mercedes

3. Felipe Nasr - 1:24.017 / Sauber-Ferrari

4. Sebastian Vettel - 1:25.339 / Ferrari-Ferrari

5. Jenson Button - 1:25.590 / McLaren-Honda

6. Pastor Maldonado - 1:26.705 / Lotus-Mercedes

7. Max Verstappen - 1:26.766 / Toro Rosso-Renault

8. Daniil Kvyat - 1:26.965 / Red Bull-Renault

9. Nico Hulkenberg - 1:28.412 / Force India-Mercedes

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Article Written By: Amy Hawk

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2014 Season Re-Cap & Stats

Whether you watched a few races or watched them all - 2014 brought ultimate racing action. Trophies were held high, cars were wrecked and personalities ran strong throughout the 19-race season of the Formula 1 World Championship. 

It's time to take a short look back at each race and go over the stats and outcome. 

Australia: This season the races kicked off down under in Australia: As per usual, a fantastic race was supplied. The race did its job of giving us a clue as to who would be where in the end standings. Although, obviously, very early in the season to be making any predictions, with Nico Rosberg's win, the standards of Mercedes became quite clear. One of the biggest talked about moments was Daniel Ricciardo's disqualification of his 2nd place finish due to a breech in the rules.

1st: Nico Rosberg
2nd: Kevin Magnussen
3rd: Jenson Button
Last Point: Sergio Perez
Fastest Lap: Nico Rosberg
Pole Position: Lewis Hamilton
Retirements: Daniel Ricciardo (Disqualified), Kamui Kobayashi (Collision), Felipe Massa (Collision), Lewis Hamilton (Engine Failure), Sebastian Vettel (Engine Failure), Marcus Ericsson (Oil Pressure), Pastor Maldonado (Power Unit), Romain Grosjean (Power Unit)

Malaysia: In Malaysia, Lewis Hamilton came back fighting and winning the GP, leading from lights out. It suddenly became clear that neither Mercedes drivers were going to let the other win.

With both the Mercedes flying away at the front, other drivers were finding the new cars and rules hard to adapt to. Both Saubers for example, retired in the race in comparison to their finishes in the previous race. This illustrated all the development left to happen throughout the season.

1st: Lewis Hamilton
2nd: Nico Rosberg
3rd: Sebastian Vettel
Last Point: Daniil Kvyat
Fastest Lap: Lewis Hamilton
Pole Position: Lewis Hamilton
Retirements: Sergio Perez (Did Not Start - Gearbox), Pastor Maldonado (Power Unit), Jules Bianchi (Brakes), Jean-Eric Vergne (Turbo), Adrian Sutil (Power Unit), Esteban Gutierrez (Gearbox), Daniel Ricciardo (Wing Damage)

Bahrain: Lewis Hamilton won this race, making it his second win of the season. Reinforcing the Mercedes power with speed and reliability. The only question hanging above the team was how long these victories would last.

Perhaps the biggest occurrence of this race was the accident between Lotus driver, Pastor Maldonado and Sauber driver, Esteban Gutierrez. Gutierrez was sent head-over-heels after Maldonado drove into the side of him upon exiting the pit-lane. The younger driver was taken to the hospital for precautionary checks and was later released, unharmed.

1st: Lewis Hamilton
2nd: Nico Rosberg
3rd: Sergio Perez
Last Point: Kimi Raikkonen
Fastest Lap: Nico Rosberg
Pole Position: Nico Rosberg
Retirements: Adrian Sutil (Collision), Jean-Eric Vergne (Collision Damage), Marcus Ericsson (Oil Leak), Esteban Gutierrez (Accident), Kevin Magnussen (Clutch), Jenson Button (Clutch)

China: Lewis once again, stole a win and lead from start to finish as he began to truly show his dominance for the season. However, the race was ended on lap 54 as it ran over the 2 hour allowance. The loss of a lap didn't make a particularly massive difference however as the leader was truly ahead of the rest. It seemed the real race was for third place rather than first and second.

1st: Lewis Hamilton
2nd: Nico Rosberg
3rd: Fernando Alonso
Last Point: Daniil Kvyat
Fastest Lap: Nico Rosberg
Pole Position: Lewis Hamilton
Retirements: Adrian Sutil (Engine Failure), Romain Grosjean (Gearbox)

Spain: Lewis Hamilton took home his fourth victory at the Circuit De Barcelona-Catalunya. He was clearly unstoppable. As mentioned before, the new car were in need of a lot of work. Updates began flooding into the pit-lane on the weekend of the race. Teams were eager to make their cars more reliable and to do their best to catch the Silver Arrows.

1st: Lewis Hamilton
2nd: Nico Rosberg
3rd: Daniel Ricciardo
Last Point: Nico Hulkenberg
Fastest Lap: Sebastian Vettel
Pole Position: Lewis Hamilton
Retirements: Jean-Eric Vergne (Exhaust), Kamui Kobayashi (Brakes)

Monaco: As usual, Monaco put a twist in the tale and for a change, Nico Rosberg won the race. This was not a welcome turn for Lewis as this is where their relationship as team-mates turned a bit sour. The podium was perhaps the most awkward of the season.

But of course, what would Monaco be without a few bumps? Whether you've been in Formula 1 for 10 years or 10 weeks, the circuit has the potential to catch you out.

1st: Nico Rosberg
2nd: Lewis Hamilton
3rd: Daniel Ricciardo
Last Point: Kevin Magnussen
Fastest Lap: Kimi Raikkonen
Pole Position: Nico Rosberg
Retirements: Pastor Maldonado (Did Not Start - Fuel Pump), Sergio Perez (Collision Damage), Sebastian Vettel (Turbo), Daniil Kvyat (Exhaust), Adrian Sutil (Accident), Jean-Eric Vergne (Exhaust), Valtteri Bottas (Engine Failure), Esteban Gutierrez (Accident)

Canada: This race ended up a bit differently than the last few, as it wasn't Hamilton or Rosberg on top. It was none other than Australia's Daniel Ricciardo. This was not only an incredible accomplishment for the driver but a great bit of news for Red Bull - As their choice of bringing Ricciardo to the team seemed to be paying off, bringing them their first taste of victory for the season. Would it be their only taste though?

This was not the only surprise of the race as on the last lap there was contact between Felipe Massa and Sergio Perez. Sebastian Vettel managed to narrowly avoid the accident as the two cars touched and were unable to finish. Luckily both drivers escaped without injury.

1st: Daniel Ricciardo
2nd: Nico Rosberg
3rd: Sebastian Vettel
Last Point: Kimi Raikkonen
Fastest Lap: Felipe Massa
Pole Position: Nico Rosberg
Retirements: Jules Bianchi (Collision), Max Chilton (Collision), Marcus Ericsson (Oil Leak), Pastor Maldonado (Power Unit), Kamui Kobayashi (Suspension Failure), Lewis Hamilton (Brakes), Daniil Kvyat (Drive Shaft), Romain Grosjean (Rear Wing Damage), Esteban Gutierrez (Power Unit), Felipe Massa (Collision - Qualified as finished), Sergio Perez (Collision - Qualified as finished)

Austria: This race brought Rosberg's third win of the season. It seemed he was catching Hamilton up on the competition. Congratulations were in order for Williams' Felipe Massa as he achieved his first pole position since 2008. However, it was Massa's younger team-mate, Valtteri Bottas who finished on the podium.

1st: Nico Rosberg
2nd: Lewis Hamilton
3rd: Valtteri Bottas
Last Point: Kimi Raikkonen
Fastest Lap: Sergio Perez
Pole Position: Felipe Massa
Retirements: Daniil Kvyat (Suspension), Sebastian Vettel (Electronics), Jean-Eric Vergne (Brakes)

Great Britain: The crowds were especially happy after this race as Lewis Hamilton brought a win home for the fans from his country. The celebrations were especially significant as he won starting from 6th place, which is his win from his lowest starting position.

However, it wasn't a dream race for everyone, as on lap 1, Kimi Raikkonen spun out and bounced off the barrier before sliding across the circuit and hitting the wall on the other side. Most of the drivers got past unscathed. All but Massa, who just happened to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. Both him and Raikkonen were forced to retire from the race.

1st: Lewis Hamilton
2nd: Valtteri Bottas
3rd: Daniel Ricciardo
Last Point: Jean-Eric Vergne
Fastest Lap: Lewis Hamilton
Pole Position: Nico Rosberg
Retirements: Kimi Raikkonen (Accident), Felipe Massa (Collision), Esteban Gutierrez (Collision Damage), Marcus Ericsson (Suspension Failure), Nico Rosberg (Gearbox), Pastor Maldonado (Exhaust)

Germany: With one Mercedes driver having just accomplished his home win, it was only expcted that the second one would. And he did. Nico Rosberg drove to victory in front of his home crowd in Germany. This win was very beneficial to him as he increased his lead on British team-mate, Lewis Hamilton. Rosberg had a new confidence entering the next race.

1st: Nico Rosberg
2nd: Valtteri Bottas
3rd: Lewis Hamilton
Last Point: Sergio Perez
Fastest Lap: Lewis Hamilton
Pole Position: Nico Rosberg
Retirements: Felipe Massa (Collision), Romain Grosjean (Water Leak), Daniil Kvyat (Oil Leak), Adrian Sutil (Spun Off)

Hungary: Daniel Ricciardo found himself on top of the podium in Hungary, for the second time this season it was him who took the victory. The only thing that dampened the mood was the rain that greeted the teams. The track was so wet that every single one of the drivers had to start on Intermediate tyres. The track dried up a bit towards the end of the race, allowing drivers to change strategies and get adventurous, but as you know.. A wet Grand Prix is one spent perched on the edge of your seat.

1st: Daniel Ricciardo
2nd: Fernando Alonso
3rd: Lewis Hamilton
Last Point: Jenson Button
Fastest Lap: Nico Rosberg
Pole Position: Nico Rosberg
Retirements: Marcus Ericsson (Collision), Romain Grosjean (Spun Off), Nico Hulkenberg (Collision), Sergio Perez (Accident), Kamui Kobayashi (Fuel System), Esteban Gutierrez (Electrical)

Belgium: Once again, Ricciardo was on the podium. With three wins, (and two of them back to back), Ricciardo was really beginning to shine. At this point, he'd definitely started to get people excited for his future in the sport.

Despite his win, the biggest surprise of the race was the contact between the two Mercedes drivers. On lap 2, on the entry of Les Combes, the team-mates touched, resulting in a puncture for Hamilton.

1st: Daniel Ricciardo
2nd: Nico Rosberg
3rd: Valtteri Bottas
Last Point: Nico Hulkenberg
Fastest Lap: Nico Rosberg
Pole Position: Nico Rosberg
Retirements: Pastor Maldonado (Exhaust), Andre Lotterer (Electrical), Romain Grosjean (Power Unit), Lewis Hamilton (Collision Damage), Jules Bianchi (Gearbox)

Italy: Being one of the most famous races in the season, Monza had a lot to deliver and it did not disappoint. Except for the Ferrari fans who were saddened by the retirement of Fernando Alonso.

However, Lewis Hamilton won the race after a spectacular battle. He overtook his team-mate as Rosberg missed the chicane. This happened on more than one occasion. The win was deserved as Hamilton has been on top all weekend. He qualified on pole and set the fastest lap.

1st: Lewis Hamilton
2nd: Nico Rosberg
3rd: Felipe Massa
Last Point: Kevin Magnussen
Fastest Lap: Lewis Hamilton
Pole Position: Lewis Hamilton
Retirements: Max Chilton (Accident), Fernando Alonso (Engine Failure)

Singapore: In Singapore a lot of action took place in the formation lap. Rosberg's car stalled on the formation and after his team managed to restart the car, he began the race from the pit-lane. He wasn't the only one with unfortunate luck. Kamui Kobayashi couldn't even start the race due to electrical issues.

1st: Lewis Hamilton
2nd: Sebastian Vettel
3rd: Daniel Ricciardo
Last Point: Kevin Magnussen
Fastest Lap: Lewis Hamilton
Pole Position: Lewis Hamilton
Retirements: Kamui Kobayashi (Did Not Start - Power Unit), Nico Rosberg (Wiring Loom), Esteban Gutierrez (Electrical), Adrian Sutil (Water Leak), Jenson Buton (Power Box)

Japan: This was perhaps the most shocking race of the season, and not in a good way. In Japan, the weather was more than bad as a Typhoon was hitting around the location of the circuit, making the conditions wet and dangerous. Things sometimes end badly during wet races and it was Marussia's Jules Bianchi who suffered an unfortunate accident.

Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with him and his family as he continues to recover.

1st: Lewis Hamilton
2nd: Nico Rosberg
3rd: Sebastian Vettel
Last Point: Sergio Perez
Fastest Lap: Lewis Hamilton
Pole Position: Nico Rosberg
Retirements: Fernando Alonso (Electronics), Adrian Sutil (Accident), Jules Bianchi (Accident)

Russia: This race was the first ever race at the new Sochi track in Russia. However, it seemed the surface was a little too smooth as wear on the tyres was almost non-existent. If the drivers didn't need to use both required compounds, they may have not even pitted.

Before the race, however.. The drivers stood in a linked circle at the front of the grid for a silent moment for their absent friend and driver, Jules Bianchi. It was a touching moment, reminding us all, that even if you're fighting for first or fighting for that last point.. At the end of the day, everyone comes together to stand united.

1st: Lewis Hamilton
2nd: Nico Rosberg
3rd: Valtteri Bottas
Last Point: Sergio Perez
Fastest Lap: Valtteri Bottas
Pole Position: Lewis Hamilton
Retirements: Max Chilton (Suspension Failure), Kamui Kobayashi (Brakes)

United States: In America, there were two teams missing due to financial issues, both Marussia and Caterham were given permission to miss the race. Th two teams remained absent in the next race as well. Marussia's return looks less than likely while the future of Caterham is still not confirmed for 2015.

1st: Lewis Hamilton
2nd: Nico Rosberg
3rd: Daniel Ricciardo
Last Point: Jean-Eric Vergne
Fastest Lap: Sebastian Vettel
Pole Position: Nico Rosberg
Retirements: Adrian Sutil (Collision), Sergio Perez (Collision), Nico Hulkenberg (Engine Failure)

Brazil: It was time for the penultimate race of the season and the drivers championship was due to be decided at the end of the last race. In Brazil, all was still to play for. The race ended in another 1-2 finish for Mercedes. On top of the two was Nico Rosberg. It seemed he was entering the final race with the psychological advantage.

1st: Nico Rosberg
2nd: Lewis Hamilton
3rd: Felipe Massa
Last Point: Valtteri Bottas
Fastest Lap: Lewis Hamilton
Pole Position: Nico Rosberg
Retirements: Daniel Ricciardo (Suspension Failure), Romain Grosjean (Power Unit - Qualified As Finished)

Abu Dhabi: This race featured everyone's favourite controversial topic! Double Points! Despite this, there was everything to race for as Rosberg and Hamilton went head-to-head for the last time of the 2014 Season.

Hamilton won in the end but unfortunately Rosberg wasn't able to give much of a fight due to reliability issues. However, Rosberg deserves praise as when he was told he could retire the car, he asked to continue the race and finish. Additionally, after he race, the team-mates managed to put their feud aside as they congratulated each other.

1st: Lewis Hamilton
2nd: Felipe Massa
3rd: Valtteri Bottas
Last Point: Kimi Raikkonen
Fastest Lap: Daniel Ricciardo
Pole Position: Nico Rosberg
Retirements: Daniil Kvyat (Power Unit), Pastor Maldonado (Power Unit), Kamui Kobayashi (Vibrations)

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Article Written By: Frances Fry
Edited By: Amy Hawk
No Copyright Infringement Intended
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Caterham & Marussia could miss Austin and Brazil

With just a week to go before the US GP at COTA in Austin, Texas - It is looking more and more likely that we won't be seeing Caterham or Marussia lining up on the grid for Sunday's race. In fact, the teams may not arrive in Texas at all.

Caterham is currently dealing with legal matters involving the former and current owners. Tony Fernandes who sold the team back in June of this year, claims that  the buyers did not comply with the conditions that were agreed upon when he sold Caterham F1 Team. However, the buyers insist they've paid. 

Tony went to Twitter and very bluntly tweeted the following: "If you buy something you should pay for it. Quite simple"

The tweet caused even more of a stir for the already struggling team. With all the chaos going on, the Caterham factory locked its doors, not allowing any work to go on inside. Now, they're facing the harsh possibility of missing not only the US GP, but the Brazilian GP as well.

The running of the team now lies in the hands of administrators, a firm called 'Smith & Williamson' located in London.

As for Marussia, they've already been going through enough drama lately with the aftermath of Jules Bianchi's crash at Suzuka.

Now they're struggling with financial issues. There has even been multiple claims that Andrej Cheglakov, the current owner, wants to sell the team.

If both teams are unable to attend next weekend's GP, we'll be seeing just 18 cars on the grid, making it the first time since only 18 lined up for the 2005 Grand Prix of Monaco.

More to come in the following days.

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Find more news and updates by following us on Twitter @F1Insider78

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Article Written By: Amy Hawk.

No copyright infringement intended

#ForzaJules

Jules Bianchi: Driver & Fighter

When the current Formula 1 season started earlier this year in March, I never thought I'd be sitting here, writing an article like this. Of course, we're all aware of the dangers that any Motorsport can hold. We all know the statistics and the possibilities.. So why is it so hard to accept it when someone actually gets hurt? Well, maybe it's because we've become so used to drivers walking away from wrecks and fires without a scratch.

    It's been a little over a week since the Japanese Grand Prix. The race that changed things, the race that made me and so many others look at racing with a different point of view. As the rain pelted down on to the circuit of Suzuka, I knew the risks, I knew of accidents from other "Wet Races" - But I never expected a young, innocent man to have to fight such a battle.

    Jules Bianchi, the 25-year-old driver for Marussia F1 team is currently in critical condition in Yokkaichi Hospital, located in Japan. He had crashed heavily into a recovery tractor during the Japanese GP, before being rushed to the hospital VIA ambulance. He underwent emergency surgery and it was later announced he had suffered a Diffuse Axonal Injury (DAI) - One of the most severe injuries to the brain.

    We, like so many others, have been sending our prayers and support to Jules and his family. I've seen support from all the other Formula 1 drivers and even drivers from other Championships, ranging from Le Mans to MotoGP. Fans have made signs, pictures, and videos, urging Jules to fight and get better.

    On the Thursday before the Japanese GP, I watched the Drivers Press Conference, watched as Jules talked about his season and how he felt about his performance with Marussia so far this year. I never would have thought that only a few days later, he would be on his way to the hospital.

    As the teams headed to Russia for the recent Russian GP, nothing felt the same. Everything felt strange. Strange and heavy. As the drivers grouped in a circle before the race, having a moment of silence in respect of Jules, I myself closed my eyes, sharing the silence. It is an indescribable feeling when a driver is missing from the grid, when you don't see them around the paddock or prepping in the garage for a Session run.

    If there's one thing I know about Jules, it's that he's a fighter. I often think back to Monaco, earlier this year, when he scored Marussia their first ever points. I remember thinking to myself that without a doubt, he's not a rookie anymore, he's a future champion. He fought hard for those points and right now, he is fighting for the most important thing, more important than any trophy or medal. He's fighting for his life.
    
      I don't know when his condition will improve.. I know things take time and everything is just so fragile right now. The only thing we can do is just continue to keep the positivity going around with thoughts and prayers. We send our love to the Bianchi family and to the other drivers during this tough time.
 
Keep fighting Jules, everyone's cheering you on.

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Article Written By: Amy Hawk

Jules Bianchi in Hospital after crash at Suzuka

Jules Bianchi, 25, is currently in the ICU at a local Japanese hospital after a horrifying crash at Suzuka. 

The French driver had crashed into a recovery crane that was currently preparing to take away the stricken Sauber of Adrian Sutil. Sutil was there when the accident happened. He said it was very similar to his own crash, but "With a different outcome" 

Jules arrived at the nearest hospital VIA ambulance and underwent emergency surgery for severe brain injuries. He was confirmed as breathing on his own, but unconscious. We have been told there is a possibility of an update later today. 

This is the only confirmed news we can give you and we refuse to make any speculations. We will update when given confirmed information. We also refuse to post or share any of the accident photos.

This is a really hard time for everyone, including Bianchi's family. Please keep him in your thoughts & prayers.

Forza Jules, we're thinking of you.

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Article Written By: Amy Hawk

No copyright infringement intended.

Japanese GP: Driver Preview Quotes - Marussia

Preview Quotes - Marussia: 

Max Chilton - "It's great to come back to Japan. I love everything about the country, although with the back to back with Sochi I won't get to see as much of it this year. Suzuka is a fantastic track, one of the highlights of the calendar. It's such a technical circuit and it has an enormous amount of history attached to it. I've watched some great battles here over the years. I had a good weekend in Singapore, so I feel really fired up for this race and hopefully another good fight with Caterham. With only five races remaining, it's important that we make each one count to ensure we maintain our current hold on 9th in the Constructors' Championship. In the meantime, I'm really looking forward to seeing the Japanese fans again; they're an awesome crowd."

Jules Bianchi - "I really enjoyed my first experience of Suzuka last year, but it was a less than straightforward weekend, so I'm hoping for better things this time around. The race itself was short-lived, as I was hit from behind on the opening lap, so I'm really looking forward to the race here. Suzuka is a great track; a big test of car and driver and some of the corners here are fantastic. I think we all remember seeing some really incredible racing here, especially in the Prost-Senna era, so it is a very special place, made all the more so by the fans, who are always very excited and passionate about the sport."

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Article Written By: Amy Hawk.

No copyright infringement intended

Quotes belong to Drivers.

Singapore GP: Driver Preview Quotes - Marussia

Preview Quotes - Marussia


Max Chilton - “It’s great to be heading back to Singapore. It’s a fantastic city and the atmosphere of the night race is totally electric. I have great memories of winning there in GP2 in 2012, so it’s always nice to come back and race here. The track is not dissimilar to Monaco, another street circuit, and we know our car is well-suited to those track characteristics. I had quite a good race here last year and with only six races remaining, it’s important that we have a good showing at every round.”

Jules Bianchi - “I really enjoyed my first night race experience here last year; it’s such an unusual and exciting event with a really great atmosphere. It’s fun, doing things differently. Having to push yourself to adopt a new regime is an interesting challenge that requires real discipline. The track characteristics are quite a lot like Monaco, which is a race that is special for a couple of reasons, not least because I finished in the points there. With so many similarities, this is a circuit that also gives me a good feeling. Last year the race did not pan out so well for me, but we learned a great deal and I hope we can bring that experience together to achieve a good result this year. Our car should work well here with all the corners, and as it is often an eventful race, we will be fighting to take advantage of every opportunity.”

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Article Posted By: Amy Hawk.
No copyright infringement intended
Quotes made by Drivers.