Showing posts with label racing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label racing. Show all posts

Thursday, June 22, 2017

F1 2018 Calendar Revealed


2018 CALENDAR REVEALED

    The 2018 Formula One calendar has been revealed after being approved by the FIA World Motorsport Council.

    France has returned to the calendar after more than a decade of absence, as has Germany, which did not feature on the 2017 or 2015 calendars.

    “We are proud to confirm that the German and French Grand Prix will take place in 2018,” F1 CEO Chase Carey said. “France was one of the seven races that made up the first ever World Championship in 1950 and it now returns after a decade. It will be held at the Paul Ricard circuit, which last hosted a round of the F1 championship in 1990.”

    Drivers will compete at 21 races next season, including  three back to back races in Europe.

    “The number of races has increased by one compared to the current season,” Carey said. “We received numerous requests from those wishing to host a F1 Grand Prix but we wanted the existing promoters to feel that we are putting all our efforts into ensuring that each race is a special event, so that the fans, our most important stakeholders, can enjoy a unique and experience. If we can do that, then the entire Formula 1 family will reap the benefit.”

    The 2018 season will begin in late March in Australia, followed again by China and Bahrain.
The Azerbaijan GP has been moved forwards to the fourth race on the calendar in late April, and starts the European section of the calendar. Spain and Monaco will follow, before the F1 circus heads to Canada.

    The first French GP in a decade will be held in late June. It will be the first of three back to back headers, with the Austrian and British GPs taking place on the following weekends.
Rounds 11 and 12 in Germany and Hungary in late July are also back to back and will be followed by the summer break.

    After the summer break, the F1 circus heads to Spa in late August. Monza ends the European rounds.

    F1 heads back to Asia for the Singapore and Russian GPs in September before heading to Suzuka for the Japanese GP at the start of October.

    There have been plenty of talks of introducing more races in the US, but there is still only one US GP on the calendar. Austin once again hosts F1 in early October, and will be followed by the Mexico and Brazilian GPs.

    The season ends in late November in Abu Dhabi.

1 – 25th March – Melbourne – Australia
2 – 8th April – Shanghai – China
3 – 15th April – Sakhir – Bahrain
4 – 29th April – Baku – Azerbaijan
5 – 13th May – Barcelona – Spain
6 – 27th May – Monte Carlo – Monaco
7 – 10th June – Montreal – Canada
8 – 24th June – Le Castellet – France
9 – 1st July – Spielberg – Austria
10 – 8th July – Silverstone – Great Britain
11 – 22nd July – Hockenheim – Germany
12 – 29th July – Budapest – Hungary
13 – 26th August – Spa-Francorchamps – Belgium
14 – 2nd September – Monza – Italy
15 – 16th September – Singapore – Singapore
16 – 30th September – Sochi – Russia
17 – 7th October – Suzuka – Japan
18 – 21st October – Austin – USA
19 – 28th October – Mexico City – Mexico
20 – 11th November  - Sao Paulo – Brazil
21 – 25th November – Yas Marina – Abu Dhabi

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Article Written By: Bethonie Waring
No copyright infringement intended
Follow us on Twitter @Bethonie_Boost & @F1Insider78 

Sunday, June 4, 2017

Formula 2 - MONACO - Sprint Race - Results


FORMULA 2 - SPRINT RACE - RESULTS - MONACO

1. Nyck de Vries / Rapax / Netherlands / + 15 Points
2. Johnny Cecotto / Rapax / Venezuela / + 12 Points
3. Gustav Malja / Racing Engineering / Sweden / + 10 Points
4. Luca Ghiotto / RUSSIAN TIME / Italy / + 8 Points
5. Artem Markelov / RUSSIAN TIME / Russia / + 6 Points + 2 Points (FL)
6. Alexander Albon / ART Grand Prix / Thailand / + 4 Points
7. Nobuharu Matsushita / ART Grand Prix / Japan / + 2 Points
8. Jordan King / MP Motorsport / Great Britain / + 1 Point
9. Oliver Rowland / DAMS / Great Britain
10. Antonio Fuoco / PREMA Racing / Italy
11. Nabil Jeffri / Trident / Malaysia
12. Sean Gelael / Pertamina Arden / Indonesia
13. Nicholas Latifi / DAMS / Canada
14. Sergio Sette Camara / MP Motorsport / Brazil
15. Robert Visoiu / Campos Racing / Romania
16. Louis Deletraz / Racing Engineering / Switzerland
17. Sergio Canamasas / Trident / Spain

RETIRED - Charles Leclerc / PREMA Racing / Monaco / Collision Damage
RETIRED - Ralph Boschung / Campos Racing / Switzerland / Mechanical Issue
RETIRED - Norman Nato / Pertamina Arden / France / Collision Damage

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Article Written By: Amy Hawk
No copyright infringement intended

Saturday, June 3, 2017

Formula 2 - MONACO - Feature Race - Results


FORMULA 2 - FEATURE RACE - RESULTS - MONACO

1. Oliver Rowland / DAMS / Great Britain / + 25 points + 2 Points (FL)
2. Artem Markelov / RUSSIAN TIME / Russia / + 18 Points
3. Nobuharu Matsushita / ART Grand Prix / Japan / + 15 Points
4. Alexander Albon / ART Grand Prix / Thailand / + 12 Points
5. Luca Ghiotto / RUSSIAN TIME / Italy / + 10 Points
6. Gustav Malja / Racing Engineering / Sweden / + 8 Points
7. Nyck de Vries / Rapax / Netherlands / + 6 Points
8. Johnny Cecotto / Rapax / Venezuela / + 4 Points
9. Jordan King / MP Motorsport / Great Britain / + 2 Points
10. Sergio Canamasas / Trident / Spain / + 1 Point
11. Antonio Fuoco / PREMA Racing / Italy
12. Ralph Boschung / Campos Racing / Switzerland
13. Sean Gelael / Pertamina Arden / Indonesia
14. Nabil Jeffri / Trident / Malaysia
15. Louis Deletraz / Racing Engineering / Switzerland

RETIRED - Sergio Sette Camara / MP Motorsport / Brazil / DNF
RETIRED - Charles Leclerc / PREMA Racing / Monaco / + 4 Points (Pole) / Suspension Damage
RETIRED - Norman Nato / Pertamina Arden / France / Mechanical Issue
RETIRED - Robert Visoiu / Campos Racing / Romania / Collision
RETIRED - Nicholas Latifi / DAMS / Canada / Mechanical Issue

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Article Written By: Amy Hawk
No copyright infringement intended

Tuesday, May 23, 2017

GP3 - SPAIN - Feature Race - Results


GP3 - FEATURE RACE - RESULTS - SPAIN

1. Nirei Fukuzumi / ART Grand Prix / Japan / + 25 Points
2. Leonardo Pulcini / Arden International / Italy / + 18 Points
3. Alessio Lorandi / Jenzer Motorsport / Italy / + 15 Points
4. George Russell / ART Grand Prix / Great Britain / + 12 Points
5. Anthoine Hubert / ART Grand Prix / France / + 10 Points
6. Dorian Boccolacci / Trident / France / + 8 Points
7. Arjun Maini / Jenzer Motorsport / India / + 6 Points
8. Raoul Hyman / Campos Racing / South Africa / + 4 Points
9. Santino Ferrucci / DAMS / USA / + 2 Points
10. Marcos Siebert / Campos Racing / Argentina / + 1 Point
11. Julien Falchero / Campos Racing / France 
12. Ryan Tveter / Trident / USA
13. Kevin Joerg / Trident / Switzerland
14. Tatiana Calderon / DAMS / Columbia
15. Niko Kari / Arden International / Finland
16. Bruno Baptista / DAMS / Brazil
17. Giuliano Alesi / Trident / France
18. Steijn Schothorst / Arden International / Netherlands

RETIRED - Jack Aitken / ART Grand Prix / Great Britain / Sensor Failure / + 4 Points (Pole)

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Article Written By: Amy Hawk
No copyright infringement intended

Formula 2 - SPAIN - Sprint Race - Results


FORMULA 2 - SPRINT RACE - RESULTS - SPAIN

1. Nobuharu Matsushita / ART Grand Prix / Japan / + 15 Points
2. Oliver Rowland / DAMS / Great Britain / + 12 Points
3. Nicholas Latifi / DAMS / Canada / + 10 Points + 2 Points (FL)
4. Charles Leclerc / PREMA Racing / Monaco / + 8 Points
5. Jordan King / MP Motorsport / Great Britain / + 6 Points
6. Gustav Malja / Racing Engineering / Sweden / + 4 Points
7. Luca Ghiotto / RUSSIAN TIME / Italy / + 2 Points
8. Alexander Albon / ART Grand Prix / Thailand / + 1 Point
9. Artem Markelov / RUSSIAN TIME / Russia
10. Johnny Cecotto / Rapax / Venezuela
11. Sergio Canamasas / Trident / Spain
12. Roberto Merhi / Campos Racing / Spain*
13. Norman Nato / Pertamina Arden / France
14. Louis Deletraz / Racing Engineering / Switzerland
15. Sergio Sette Camara / MP Motorsport / Brazil
16. Sean Gelael / Pertamina Arden / Indonesia
17. Ralph Boschung / Campos Racing / Switzerland
18. Nabil Jeffri / Trident / Malaysia

RETIRED - Nyck de Vries / Rapax / Netherlands / Collision Damage
RETIRED - Antonio Fuoco / PREMA Racing / Italy / Collision Damage

* - Replaced Stefano Coletti during the Spanish GP Weekend. 

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Article Written By: Amy Hawk
No copyright infringement intended

Tuesday, April 25, 2017

Russian GP: Track Schedule


RUSSIAN GP - TRACK SCHEDULE

April 27th / Thursday

15:00 - Drivers Press Conference (Located in the Press Room)
15:15 - 19:15 - Pit-Lane Walk (PUBLIC) 4-Day-Ticket-Holders Only
15:50 - 17:45 - F1 Drivers Autograph Signing

April 28th / Friday

09:45 - 10:45 - Paddock Club Pit-Lane Walk
11:00 - 12:30 - Free Practice #1
13:35 - 14:45 - Paddock Club Pit-Lane Walk
15:00 - 16:30 - Free Practice #2
17:00 - 18:00 - Press Conference (Located in the Press Room)

April 29th / Saturday

08:30 - 09:45 - Paddock Club Pit-Lane Walk
09:00 - 09:45 - Team Pit-Stop Practice
12:00 - 13:00 - Free Practice #3
13:20 - 14:45 - Paddock Club Pit-Lane Walk
15:00 - 16:00 - Qualifying

April 30th / Sunday

10:20 - 11:20 - F1 Drivers Autograph Signing
13:10 - 14:20 - Paddock Club Pit-Lane Walk
13:30 - Drivers Track Parade
13:45 - 14:15 - Starting Grid Presentation
14:46 - National Anthem
15:00 - 17:00 - Race

(Subject to change)

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Written By: Amy Hawk
No copyright infringement intended
Follow us on Twitter @F1Insider78 & @Bethonie_Boost 

Sunday, March 19, 2017

John Surtees - 1934-2017


JOHN SURTEES - 1934 - 2017

    The only racer to win world championships on both two and four wheels, John Surtees, died aged 83 on March 10th 2017.

    Surtees will be remembered for his extraordinary bike racing career, his F1 championship win in 1964, and his work to raise money for research into head injuries.

    Surtees made his racing debut at the tender age of 14. His father, Jack Surtees, was a big name in car racing at the time, and John Surtees made his debut in his father’s sidecar, only for the duo to be disqualified as John was underage.

    The love for racing never left, though, and, in 1952, Surtees enjoyed a successful season racing Norton factory bikes, winning 68 and of the 76 races he competed in. That caught the attention of MV Augusta, where he won his first world championship in 1956, only 22 years old. It was the first of many.

    It’s Augusta we have to thank for Surtees making his car racing debut. The team didn’t like their star rider racing outside of his commitments with them, and they banned him from racing his own bikes outside of those commitments.

    They didn’t say anything about racing cars, though.

    In 1960, Surtees made his car racing debut in Formula Junior at Goodwood. He was spotted by Lotus’ Colin Chapman, and he made his F1 debut with the team later that year.

    It wasn’t long before Surtees was catching the attention of other teams. The Brit saw plenty of success in his first season, including a second place finish in his second ever race, but he left Lotus after an argument with Chapman and Innes Ireland.

    In 1962, Enzo Ferrari made him an offer to come and race with him, but Surtees turned him down. He wasn’t ready for Ferrari, he thought. A year later, Ferrari made the same offer, and Surtees accepted it.

    1964, he became a Formula One world champion.

    Not one to stay in one place for very long, Surtees raced in other series at the same time, as well as driving for multiple other teams after leaving Ferrari in 1966. The Brit even started his own team, but he didn’t find very much success and the team closed in 1978.

    Outside of racing, Surtees had started a family. He married, and had three children: two daughters and a son, Henry Surtees. Henry followed his father into racing, but tragically died of injuries sustained in a Formula 2 accident. He was only 18 years old.

    The accident prompted Surtees to set up the Henry Surtees Foundation, which raises money for research into head injuries, and supports educational programmes related to motorsport.

    He was also an ambassador for the Racing Steps Foundation organisation, which aids young British drivers as they make their way up through the junior series in both car and bike racing.

    Many people in motorsport believed Surtees should have been knighted for his racing achievements and charitable work, and he was given a CBE in the 2016 New Year Honours list.

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Article Written By: Bethonie Waring
No copyright infringement intended
Follow us on Twitter @Bethonie_Boost & @F1Insider78

Tuesday, June 14, 2016

Bianchi's Parents Take Legal Action



Jules Bianchi’s family have had a traumatic few years. Following the Marussia driver’s accident in 2014, his family did everything possible to support him in his nine month battle for his life. A report from an FIA accident panel brought more pain, blaming Bianchi himself for the accident that later claimed his life.

Now, Bianchi’s family are seeking justice for him, launching legal action against Formula 1’s governing body the FIA, Marussia, and the Formula One Group.

Bianchi’s father, Phillipe, made a statement on behalf of the family: “We seek justice for Jules, and want to establish the truth about the decisions that led to our son’s crash at the Japanese Grand Prix in 2014.

“As a family, we have so many unanswered questions and feel that Jules’ accident and death could have been avoided if a series of mistakes had not been made.”

The 2014 Japanese Grand Prix took place in extreme weather which had the field driving in heavy rain. The race had already been red flagged on lap two before the decision was made to resume the race twenty minutes later.

Adrian Sutil crashed at turn seven, where the semi-dry racing line narrowed. A recovery crane set out to recover the German’s car and, a lap later, Bianchi came off the track at the same place as Sutil. The Frenchman collided with the crane, suffering a diffuse axonal injury, and died nine months later.

An FIA accident panel investigated the crash and, in December, issued a 396 page report on their findings. Their conclusions found a series of problems, including that the Marussia’s unique design was incompatible with the FailSafe settings that could have saved Bianchi’s life.

Shockingly, they also blamed Bianchi.

“Bianchi did not slow sufficiently to avoid losing control at the same point on the track as Sutil.”

Bianchi’s family do not agree with the blame and part of their aim is to clear his name, as well as to improve safety in motorsport.

Stewarts Law partner Julian Chamberlayne is representing the Bianchi family, and said: “Jules Bianchi’s death was avoidable.

The FIA Panel Inquiry Report into this accident made numerous recommendations to improve safety in Formula 1 but failed to identify where errors had been made which led to Jules’ death.

It was surprising and distressing to the Bianchi family that the FIA panel in its conclusions, whilst noting a number of contributing factors, blamed Jules.

The Bianchi family are determined that this legal process should require those involved to provide answers and to take responsibility for any failings.

This is important if current and future drivers are to have confidence that safety in the sport will be put first.

“If this had been the case in Suzuka, Jules Bianchi would most likely still be alive and competing in the sport he loved today.”

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Article Written By: Bethonie Waring
No copyright infringement intended



Tuesday, May 31, 2016

Halo Confirmed For 2017


HALO CONFIRMED FOR 2017

Formula One bosses have confirmed a modified version of the halo head protection device will be run from 2017. The device, which has divided opinions in the paddock, is thought to be the more developed of the two options available at the moment.

    The modified design is expected to be a more elegant design than the one tested by Ferrari already, made of titanium with a smaller central hub. The new design will be tested in June ahead of the planned final agreement in July. Few problems are expected.

    The halo concept was chosen over Red Bull’s aero screen, but work will continue on the second concept with the possibility of introducing it in 2018. The aero screen was unexpectedly poor in the most recent tests, and is yet to go through the free head space test that the halo has already passed.

    Force India deputy team principal Bob Fernley believes 2017 is too early to bring in the design, though, saying the halo needs to be fully evaluated before rushing into the decision.

“In my view it’s much better that you do the full evaluation and then come in with a solution that you’re completely satisfied with,” Fernley told Autosport.

“There are gaps. Gaps that springs go through, or manhole covers. So why are you sure that that is the right solution?

“We could bring it in for ’18, having done a full evaluation of the process and that would still meet all the needs of the safety requirement.”

Others, including Mercedes’ Nico Rosberg, have backed the FIA’s decision.

“We had another event on Thursday with the drain, and the halo can help in such instances I would expect, so we have another example where it could be very beneficial,” Rosberg told Autosport.

    There’s still an official legislative procedure the halo has to go through before it’s formally adopted, but the FIA can push it through on legal grounds.

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Article Written By: Bethonie Waring
No copyright infringement intended









Tuesday, May 12, 2015

Feature: Spanish GP - Our Post-Race Quotes



Amy Hawk (Lead Writer & Editor) - "Another great race. I hate how fast the season seems to go by. We're already on to Monaco, which a lot of people know is my favorite race on the Calendar and has been ever since I started watching Formula 1. But, yes, Spain was so good. Great race, great weather. It was really nice to see a clean first lap.. Everyone really had a chance to get out there and fight for points for the most part. Huge congratulations to Nico Rosberg on his first win of the season and also to Hamilton and Sebastian for their podium finishes. Well deserved.

It was really unfortunate that McLaren had to retire Alonso's car as it is his home race and I was really rooting for him and the team to bring home some points this time around. There's no doubt they're improving.. But it will take some time before they're near the top 10.

There was a great turn out from the fans. The stands were absolutely packed and I noticed a huge amount of Swedish flags for Ericsson, which is great. It's always cool to see all the flags. With Monaco being next.. It's quite a huge difference for the teams as far as adjustment goes. I mean, you're going from a track that's open and quite wide with smooth turns to a closed-in street circuit with very narrow corners. It's going to be very interesting to see how everyone does. I can't wait. Cheers!"


Frances Fry (Assistant Writer) - "Barcelona always has, and always will be a legendary racetrack. It's not secret how difficult it is to overtake on this risky series of bends. I think that's why the race this weekend was so incredible. Overtakes seemed to be happening here, there and everywhere. In fact, until the cars crossed the line I wasn't willing to say who I thought would win.

I don't know what has changed this year in Formula 1 but there seems to be an extra shot of adrenaline. Maybe it's all the new talent or the mix up with Ferrari's improvement. All I know is there's a significant amount of uncertainty to every race. The race is not only between the driver and his fellow pilots, but also with himself. When the driver takes his seat he readies himself to be bigger and better than last time. So far, I think it's pretty fair to say that there's been a rocket of excitement.

I've always heard fantastic stories from people who have attended the Spanish GP and after this weekend, there stories have been proven. It's officially on my "to attend" list and I cannot wait to cross it off! Being the race prior to Monaco, there's quite an impression for this race to make. Once again, Spain didn't fail."

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Monday, March 9, 2015

Australian GP: Schedule


The first race of the season is getting closer and closer and the teams & drivers are packing up and heading for Melbourne, Australia. Here's the track schedule for race week!

SCHEDULE: (All times standard for Melbourne)

March 12th / Thursday

09:00 - 10:20 - Paddock Club Pit-Lane Walk
14:00 - 14:30 - Paddock Club Pit-Lane Walk
15:00 - Drivers Press Conference (Located in the Press Room)

March 13th / Friday

12:30 - 14:00 - Free Practice #1
11:30 - 12:10 - Paddock Club Pit-Lane Walk
16:30 - 18:00 - Free Practice #2
18:30 - 19:30 - Principals Press Conference (Located in the Press Room)

March 14th / Saturday

14:00 - 15:00 - Free Practice #3
11:05 - 12:00 - Team Pit-Stop Practice
11:30 - 12:00 - Paddock Club Pit-Lane Walk
17:00 - 18:00 - Qualifying 
16:05 - 16:40 - Paddock Club Pit-Lane Walk

March 15th / Sunday

11:10 - 11:40 - Paddock Club Pit-Lane Walk
13:30 - 14:15 - Paddock Club Pit-Lane Walk
14:25 - Drivers Photograph (On Starting Grid)
14:30 - 14:40 - Drivers Track Parade
14:45 - 15:15 - Starting Grid Presentation
15:50 - 15:52 - National Anthem
16:00 - Race

(Times are subject to change)
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Article Written By: Amy Hawk
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Wednesday, November 5, 2014

Brazilian GP: Schedule


With just 2 races left, it's time for the teams to head to São Paulo, Brazil!

Here's the schedule for race weekend. Times are Local for São Paulo and surrounding cities. Let us know if you'd like the times converted to your local region.

SCHEDULE:

November 6th / Thursday

11:00 - Drivers Press Conference (Located in the Press Room)

November 7th / Friday

10:00 - 11:30 - Free Practice #1
14:00 - 15:30 - Free Practice #2
16:00 - 17:00 - Press Conference (Located in the Press Room)

November 8th / Saturday

09:45 - 10:15 - Team Pit-Stop Practice
11:00 - 12:00 - Free Practice #3
14:00 - Qualifying

November 9th / Sunday

12:30 - Drivers Track Parade
12:45 - 13:15 - Starting Grid Presentation
13:45 - National Anthem
14:00 - Race Start

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Article Written By: Amy Hawk
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Friday, September 26, 2014

Feature: Star Drivers Of The Singapore GP


Amy Hawk - "My driver of the weekend is Jenson Button. Despite him being unable to finish the race, I think he put up quite a good fight during the race. McLaren still need to make improvements, but they're for sure having a better year than last year. But yeah, he did a good job, and he keeps getting close to a podium finish. I think most people know it's possible and so does he."

Frances Fry - "This time, I had quite the task when deciding who my driver of the weekend was going to be. After much contemplation, I finally decided that my driver of this previous race is without a doubt, last year's world champion, Sebastien Vettel. The German driver has had a tough start to the season, with many fans wondering if he'd had his day. These questions arose when younger teammate, Daniel Ricciardo, seemed to be out performing him at every race. Although this is still an occurrence, I cannot tell you how refreshing it was for me, to see Sebastien on the podium for the first time this season. 

The four time world champion has had several reliability issues and has been struggling overall on straight line speed. This double podium for the team can only have worked wonders. The smile on the driver's face was incredible as he got a little reminder of the glory that was not in short supply for him last year.  There must have been smirks all round the garage as the drivers supplied the fans with some incredible night racing and brought back a great result for the team."

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Feature: Singapore GP - Our Post-Race Quotes

Frances Fry - "What an eventful race weekend! Not just on the track either. The race in the night wasn't without its excitement and tests of skill for the drivers, but one of the most talked about occurrences happened off the track. This was the retirement of Mexican driver, Esteban Gutierrez. Gutierrez has had a very difficult season with his team, Sauber, struggling with reliability issues. On several occasions the 23-year-old has said how difficult he has been finding the season. However, this race, it really showed. Gutierrez faced some electrical faults in the first half of the Grand Prix and was forced to retire. After pulling into the pit lane and parking his car up in the Sauber garage, Gutierrez took his gloves off and threw them onto a work surface with quite a force, before walking himself to the corner of the garage to compose himself. 

It was a sad sight to see. If anything, it shows how passionate these drivers are about their sport. At the end of the day, they love this sport as much as me and you, and I think that's great to know! 

Additionally, these two Mercedes drivers seem to have switched luck with Hamilton taking the win, and Rosberg having to start from the pit lane after being left on the grid on the formation lap. The bad luck seemed to continue as Rosberg had to retire after not being able to select gears, even after a reboot of the car. So, Hamilton seemed to be off to a good start and things were only going to get better. Now the Brit leads the championship by 3 points and I simply cannot wait to see how long he can keep the lead. I guess we'll have to wait and see!"

Amy Hawk - "What a race. It was everything fans wanted. Lots of wheel-to-wheel racing and what better than under the stars? Singapore is always pleasing. I quite enjoy street circuits which is why Marina Bay and Monte Carlo are my favourites. Force India really had a great run. I was certainly nervous during the last few laps when Checo (Perez) was overtaking all those cars. Sauber, unfortunately had another double retirement, but.. Things happen and looking forward is important. So next up is Japan at Suzuka. I can't wait. Our congrats to Lewis Hamilton, Sebastian Vettel, and Daniel Ricciardo!"

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Friday, September 12, 2014

FIA Confirmed F1 2015 Calendar

Just yesterday we posted the 'Provisional' F1 2015 Calendar - Today, the FIA has confirmed the 20-Race calendar, with minor changes to the arrangement and dates of the Grands Prix. The full list is below. Please note: While this is the 'Confirmed' version, changes could still be made during the 2015 season if a problem occurs.

F1 2015 Season Calendar:

1. Australia - Albert Park, Melbourne - March 15th
2. Malaysia - Sepang International Circuit, Sepang - March 29th
3. Bahrain - Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir - April 5th
4. China - Shanghai International Circuit, Shanghai - April 19th
5. Spain  - Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Barcelona - May 10th
6. Monaco - Circuit de Monaco, Monte Carlo - May 24th
7. Canada - Circuit de Gilles Villeneuve, Montreal - June 7th
8. Austria - Red Bull Ring, Spielburg - June 21st
9. Great Britain - Silverstone Circuit, Silverstone - July 5th
10. Germany - Nurburgring, Nurburg - July 19th
11. Hungary - Hungaroring, Mogyorod - July 26th
12. Belgium - Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, Spa - August 23rd
13. Italy - Autodromo di Nazionale di Monza, Monza - September 9th
14 - Singapore - Marina Bay Street Circuit, Marina Bay - September 20th
15. Japan - Suzuka International Racing Course, Suzuka -September 27th
16. Russia - Sochi Autodrom, Sochi - October 11th
17. United States Of America - Circuit Of The Americas, Austin, Texas - October 25th
18. Mexico - Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, Mexico City - November 1st
19. Brazil - Autodromo Jose Carlos Pace (Interlagos), Sao Paulo - Novem ber 15th
20. Abu Dhabi - Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island - November 29th

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Article Written By: Amy Hawk.
No Copyright Infringement Intended.

 



 

Wednesday, September 10, 2014

Feature: Italian GP - Our Post-Race Quotes


F1Insider78 Feature - Post-Race Quotes

Amy Hawk - "What a race. Like I said, Italy is one of my favourites. I really enjoyed the wheel-to-wheel battle between Jenson and Checo (Perez) - I think the fans really enjoyed it too.

Congrats to Lewis on his win and of course to the other podium finishers (Rosberg, Massa) - It was a tough race and I think they all performed very well out there, especially around the new parabolica which was challenging.

It was a shame to see Alonso out in the middle of the race. It was shocking as well, but he'll be back for Singapore and will fight to be up in front.

At the end of the race, the contact between Gutierrez and Grosjean was a bit frightening, as it is with all driver-collisions. It was minor and I don't really consider it anyone's fault as Gutierrez reported he was having braking issues, so.. It was just a racing accident. No harm done to either of them, so that's a relief.

We're looking forward to Singapore, which is probably my top favourite circuit for many reasons. Not only is it a street circuit but it's also a night race and when you combine those two, you're in for a good race. Can't wait!"

Frances Fry - "This Grand Prix proved to me, that Monza is an incredible circuit for mistakes to be made without causing too much damage. I think Daniil Kvyat did a more than thorough job of displaying that. In addition to this, the Russian rookie did a fantastic job of displaying the 200mph+ speeds that the driver reach on this track made of mainly straights. 

The only real damage that was made in the race was a few bald spots on tires from locking up, a puncture for Esteban Gutierrez and of course, the DNF of Max Chilton. Having experienced his second DNF of his Formula 1 career, Chilton expressed his upset, having to sit out for the remainder of the race. 

Esteban Gutierrez's puncture was a very sad sight to see. Both Saubers had been supplying an incredible fight for their mid-teen positions before the Mexican made a slight misjudgement of space and pulled back in front of Romain Grosjean after he believed he had made the pass. With Gutierrez's rear right tyre colliding with Grosjean's front left, a puncture was caused on the tyres that Gutierrez had been using since lap 11! 

After all the incredible racing that took place in this round of the championship I believe the drivers deserve the opportunity to grab a small break in the next couple of weeks before they race again."

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Monday, August 4, 2014

Alexander Rossi joins Marussia as Reserve


Rossi joins Marussia F1 Team as new Reserve Driver. 

Recently long term Caterham boss Tony Fernandez sold the team to a Swiss and Middle Eastern Consortium. Former Dutch F1 driver Christijan Albers is taking over the running of the team. This is not the only change to have occurred. The team have let over 40 of their staff go. Perhaps one of the most shocking one would be the departure of their reserve driver, Alexander Rossi. His vacated seat at Caterham's GP2 racing team is to be filled by Tom Dillmann. 

You may be wondering who Alexander Rossi is. Well, let me enlighten you. Rossi is a Californian born aspiring Formula 1 driver.  Previously, he has been reserve and test driver at other F1 teams, including Sahara Force India. In addition to being reserve driver at the recently sold team, he also drove for them in GP2. He also instantly departed this seat. It is unknown as to why Rossi left the team so swiftly. Whether he chose to leave or whether he was dismissed is a question that has not been answered. 

Rossi didn't hang around without a team. Not days after his departure from Caterham had he been signed at his previous team's championship rival, Marussia who have recently scored their first ever championship points.  Again, not only is he their reserve driver but he is now racing for GP2 team Campos. 

He has been linked to the future American Haas team. They hope to join the grid in 2016. But for now, you an remain assured that Rossi has a reserve drivers seat and is still searching for his chance to drive in an actual race in Formula 1. Lets hope he gets there but for now, lets wait and see. 

Article Written By: Frances Fry
No copyright infringement intended.

Monday, March 31, 2014

Malaysian GP: Race - Re-Cap & Results

The Malaysian GP is now finished and done for the year. Thousands of people showed up despite the sadness looming over the country due to the recent Malaysian Airlines missing plane, which had hundreds of people aboard. May I just start by saying my thoughts and prayers are with the people affected by the situation. It is a true tragedy and I'm hoping they will soon recover the plane.

So, now, where shall I begin? Before the race even started there was problems. The Force India of Sergio Perez was having problems and then it was said he'd start from the pit lane. However, as things were about to get underway, Sergio climbed out the car, stuck in 4th gear and having no way to fix the problem, he was forced to retire before he'd even begun. People, (Including me) were absolutely shocked and saddened by this. One of the most disappointing things is when a driver can't even start the race and this unfortunately does happen.

The lights then went out and at the first turn, Kevin Magnussen tried to pass Kimi Raikkonen and in result, ended up hitting the World Champion Fin, damaging his car and his own McLaren as well. Around the same time, Jules Bianchi made contact with Pastor Maldonado and they both did a little spin. Luckily, both were able to continue for a bit, but after awhile, Maldonado had to retire as did Bianchi.

Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton, who started on pole, was now leading, with Vettel, Rosberg, Hulkenberg and Alonso all somewhere close behind him. The biggest battle during the whole race was that of Fernando Alonso and Nico Hulkenberg. It was really quite the show.

Later on it was Jean-Eric Vergne who had issues with the Turbo and was forced to retire from the race, while his team-mate, 19-Year-Old Daniil Kvyat was in the top 10 and gaining on the Williams' drivers. Both Saubers had to retire as well a bit later on, the first double retirement for the Sauber team in years. 

Daniel Ricciardo, who was called in for a pit-stop, had horrible luck when one of the mechanics was not done fastening his front-left tyre, and the crew released him, not noticing what was going on. Daniel had to be pushed back to get the wheel fastened before he could head back out, but due to all the commotion, when the Aussie got back out on the circuit, his front wing came loose and fell in a slanted position, cutting into his front-right tyre, making a deep cut, all around. He was called back into the pit-lane and had things fixed, but retired only a few laps later.

On the last few laps, there was BIG drama between the two Williams' drivers, when the team radioed Massa, telling him that Bottas was faster and to not hold him up. He was told multiple times to let Bottas pass, but did not obey orders. Something identical to what happened between Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber last year. Another case of Multi-21 disobeyed.

It was Lewis Hamilton who brought home the win of the Malaysian GP and dedicated his win to everyone affected by the flight MH370 tragedy. His Team-Mate, Nico Rosberg finished in Second while Defending-4-Time-World-Champion, Sebastian Vettel, came in Third. Here are the rest of the results.

RACE RESULTS:

1. Lewis Hamilton / Mercedes / Great Britain - +25 Points
2. Nico Rosberg / Mercedes / Germany - +18 Points
3. Sebastian Vettel / Redbull / Germany - +15 Points
4. Fernando Alonso / Ferrari / Spain / - +12 Points
5. Nico Hulkenberg / Force India / Germany - +10 Points
6. Jenson Button / McLaren / Great Britain - +8 Points
7. Felipe Massa / Williams / Brazil -  +6 Points
8. Valtteri Bottas / Williams / Finland - +4 Points
9. Kevin Magnussen / McLaren / Denmark - +2 Points
10. Daniil Kvyat / Toro Rosso / Russia - +1 Point
11. Romain Grosjean / Lotus / France - +0 Points
12. Kimi Raikkonen / Ferrari / Finland - +0 Points
13. Kamui Kobayashi / Caterham / Japan - +0 Points
14. Marcus Ericsson / Caterham / Sweden - +0 Points
15. Max Chilton / Marussia / Great Britain - +0 Points
16. Daniel Ricciardo / Redbull / Australia / RETIRED - Multiple Problems - =0 Points
17. Esteban Gutierrez / Sauber / Mexico / RETIRED - Gearbox - +0 Points
18. Adrian Sutil / Sauber / Germany / RETIRED - Power Unit -+ 0 Points
19. Jean-Eric Vergne / Toro Rosso / France / RETIRED - Engine - +0 Points
20. Jules Bianchi / Marussia / France / RETIRED - Collision - +0 Points
21. Pastor Maldonado / Lotus / Venezuela / RETIRED - Power Unit - +0 Points
22. Sergio Perez / Force India / Mexico / DID NOT START - Gearbox - +0 Points

Article Written By: Amy Hawk.
No Copyright Infringement Intended.

Tuesday, March 25, 2014

Appeal for Red Bull will be heard in April

After the Australian GP, Daniel Ricciardo was disqualified and stripped from his Second-Place-Podium-Finish when it was found out that he been running with the cars Fuel exceeding the maximum amount allowed. Red Bull racing have appealed the case, saying that the fuel level was 'Legal' and that Ricciardo was not driving with an illegal amount of fuel.

The appeal will be heard in Paris, France on April 14th.

Article Written By: Amy Hawk.
No Copright Infringement Intended.

Friday, January 24, 2014

Feature: Sebastian Vettel - German Wonder.

 If there's one name that's really been talked about this year, it's Sebastian Vettel, the 26-Year-Old Redbull Racing driver from Heppenheim, Germany. Vettel was young when he began Karting. At the age of 11 he found himsellf accepted into 'The Redbull Junior Team'. After racing for other various series & teams, BMW Sauber let him have his first race when Robert Kubica was unable to race in The United States Grand Prix, after an accident during the Canadian Grand Prix.

    Later on he moved on to become a driver for Toro Rosso, in place of Scott Speed, who did not even comlete the full season due to issues he had with the team. Vettel did okay during what was left of the 2007 Season. His best result was 4th. One of his most noted races during that season was the Japanese GP, which was held in Fuji. He crashed into Mark Webber and both of them had to retired from the race. Before that crash, he'd been holding 3rd. His punishment was a 10-Place-Grid-Penalt for the Chinese Grand Prix which took place the following weekend.

    His 2008 Season with Toro Rosso stared out terribly when he retired from the first 4 races on the Calander. He finished 17th in the Turkish Grand Prix and then scored points in Monaco, finishing in 5th. Vettel then retired during the British GP and the Hungarian Grand Prix. Finally, in Italy, Vettel won his first Formula1 Grand Prix and also broke a record for youngest driver to win an F1 race, at 21 Years/74 Days. He continued to get consitant finishes for the rest of the season.

    In 2009, Vettel took David Coulthard's seat at Redbull Racing. The first two races he had to retire. He then won in China. He didn't win again until the British Grand Prix. The same results were done in Japan and Abu Dhabi. It wasn't a bad season for him and Redbull was impressed.

     Redbull kept Vettel in 2010. He got Pole Positon in the first race of the Season, but finished in 4th. He went on to retire in the Australian Grand Prix, then win in Malaysia. He got Podium in both Spain and Monaco, before retiring again in Turkey. He didn't win again until the European Grand Prix. He won 3 more races that year including; Japan. Brazil and Abu Dhabi. In result, he won his first F1 Drivers Championship and became the youngest to ever do so.

    He continued to race for Redbull in the 2011 Season. Winning the first two races felt incredible to him and the team. Even more incredible, after finishing Second in China, he then won Turkey, Spain and Monaco Back-To-Back, finished Second in Canada and then won again in Europe. In the rest of the season, he ended up winning 5 more races including; Belgium, Italy, Singapore, Korea and India. He once again won The Drivers Championship, making it 2 years in a row.

  Still sticking with Redbull in 2012, Vettel didn't have as good as a year as in 2011. He only won 5 races out of the 20 on the calander. His overall results were consistant though and he only retired from 2 races. Despite the struggles, he got his Third Drivers Championship win in a row. He beat the late Ayrton Senna's record for it as well, as youngest Triple-World-Champion.

 Vettel ended up staying with Redbull last year in 2013 and acheived a huge goal with winning a 4th Drivers Championship in a row. The only race he retired from was the British GP with a tire blow-out and his lowest points finish of the year was only 4th. That's some incredible consistancy and impecible driving from the young German.

 Vettel continues to stay with Redbull for this year and is looking forward to the start of the F1 season. So, now Let's just go over some of his stats.

World Championships: 4
Races Won: 39.
Podiums: 62.
Fastest Laps: 22.
Pole Positions: 45
Total Points Tally: 1,451.

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Article Written By: Amy Hawk
No Copyright Infringement Intended
Special Thanks and Credit To: Emily Tydell