tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2009-11-10:/I speak anything on my mind about F1 (or A1)!MokoFeed2009-11-10T16:40:38+01:00tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2006-10-08:/2006/10/08/czech_republic_a1gp_06~1201050/ghuam2006-10-08T21:15:02+02:002006-10-08T21:15:02+02:00 <p>A truly exciting race to watch. Tough luck for NZL and GER for coliding with each at the start of the Spring Race. I did get the feeling that even though the race stewards exonerated NZL of any wrongdoing the NZL driver was drifting right unnecessarily, espescially when the track is wide enough to allow 5 cars to turn into a hairpin line-abreast. An overall fantastic drive by Team Malaysia. A good car and all his Grand Prix driving experience really helped Alex Yoong to pile the pressure onto rookie Hinchcliffe of Team Canada. Better luck next time dude! The whole event had a dramatic turnaround after the 1st lap incident between NZL and GER. I was seriously expecting the black beauty and the German to be duking it out over there. I must also mention the really smooth pit work by Team Czech Rep. It was team work really got that car onto the 2nd step of the podium there.</p> <p>After the Czech Rep. GP the following are the championship standings:</p> <p>1 Germany 20<br> 2 Mexico 19<br> 3 Malaysia 17<br> 4 Canada 11<br> 5 Czech Republic 11<br> 6 Great Britain 11<br> 7 USA 10<br> 8 Netherlands 9<br> 9 France 8<br> 10 Australia 8<br> 11 China 8<br> 12 South Africa 7<br> 12 New Zealand 5<br> 13 Italy 5<br> 14 Switzerland 4<br> 15 Indonesia 1</p> <p>The real cat amongst the pigeons here is Malaysia with 17 points, 6 clear of Canada. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2006/10/08/czech_republic_a1gp_06~1201050/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2006-10-08:/2006/10/08/f1_japan_gp~1199966/ghuam2006-10-08T15:41:05+02:002006-10-08T15:41:05+02:00 <p>Holy crap in hell... I can't believe the damn engine blew up!!! I am just so disappointed here. One can't really place the blame on Ferrari. These things happen sometimes, ask Mika Hakkinen. I guess luck was on Alonso's side this time around otherwise there was no way he would've been able to win. The Ferrari pit stop strategy and Michael's driving had done the trick again. Mechanical gremlins can be such a BITCH sometimes. Well, I guess that 8th Championship title shall remain a dream for MSC. I hope he has it in himself to maybe make a comeback for one season later on and give it a shot again! Kimi did a good job to bring in the McLaren into 5th place starting from 11th. Really good going there. But I do feel that if they had gone for a 1 pit-stop strategy he could've maybe made the podium.</p> <p>Congratulations to Alonso!! I guess he deserves this victory after all! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2006/10/08/f1_japan_gp~1199966/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2006-10-07:/2006/10/07/japan_2006_quals~1197343/ghuam2006-10-07T17:01:10+02:002006-10-07T17:01:10+02:00 <p>A fantastic qualifying result for the Scuderia and Toyota. And I think this is precisely why making a switch to a single tyre supplier makes sense. It could just as well have been the other way round with the Michelin runners locking out the front 2 rows, now wouldn't that be a BITCH?!</p> <p>I think this is a one-off for Toyota, Ralf and Jarno should just calm down and make hay while the sun shines and not boast and attract too much attention. They should remind themselves that of 2 Jap automakers competing here they are the ones without a victory!!</p> <p>Anyway, I am happy about the qualifying results today. Ferrari front row and A1 Team India sticks it Pakistan again.... Suck it Pakistan! It was nice going for Germany and New Zealand, they had an awesome fight for the pole position in the Qualifiers for the Czech Republic A1GP. But one should note that the engg team for both NZL and GER is the same as the one that helped France to the championship crown last time around. It is no wonder that a rookie like Hulkenberg is managing so well. He just has a fantastically easy car to drive. I should congratulate and point out A1 Team Malaysia's efforts in the Qualifying session. I think Alex Yoong's F1 experience is really helping the team out there. Hopefully I can catch the Sprint and Main event tomorrow.</p> <p>Good driving by Nico Rosberg of the WilliamsF1 Team. I am telling you given some competitive equipment this guys could really do wonders for a team.</p> <p>There was an incident during the F1 Qualifying session at Suzuka. It seems that during the beginning of the last Qualifying session (Q3) Alonso was attempting to overtake Massa but couldn't. This happened during the 1st lap, i.e. everyone had just exited the pit lane and they were just beginning their Out Lap (it's the lap which they must do before a timed hot lap). At this point Alonso was attempting to overtake Massa but couldn't. I did not actually see the incident but it was reported as such in the live timing and commentary provided at <a href="http://www.formula1.com.">www.formula1.com.</a> What I don't understand is how in god's name our dear beloved Signor Briatore is finding this similar to the Monza incident where Alonso was found impeding Massa's timed hot lap. I think Briatore is acting more like a kid than Massa is. Briatore has gone as far to state that inspite of lodging a complaint the FIA will not do anything against Ferrari. 1st of all, there has to be something to punish, how the hell does one impede someone on their out lap?? </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2006/10/07/japan_2006_quals~1197343/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2006-10-06:/2006/10/06/technicalities~1194196/ghuam2006-10-06T15:53:38+02:002006-10-06T16:18:32+02:00 <p>As the blue arrow shows in the picture, Ferrari have increased the height of the barge board (it's a plece of bodywork that sits in front of but lower than the side air in-takes). It's primary purpose is to regulate the air-flow around the sides of the car. Typically the barge board rear-facing edge (or as we like to call it 'barge board profile' ) is smooth and slanting down. By giving it a sabertooth profile and varying the height of the profile it is supposed to reduce the turbulence in that area and provide for better engine cooling as the less turbulent air enters the engine side air in-takes - better engine cooling means better reliability.<br><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/005/869005_8cb23458c7_m.jpg" alt="Ferrari Barge Board Japan 2006" title="Ferrari Barge Board Japan 2006" width="374" height="231"><br>Image courtesy <a href="http://www.formula1.com">www.formula1.com</a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2006/10/06/technicalities~1194196/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2006-10-05:/2006/10/05/alonso_feeling_lonely~1190737/ghuam2006-10-05T15:43:42+02:002006-10-05T15:43:42+02:00 <p>Everyone that knows F1 also knows that F1 in the end is a team sport. No matter how great the driver is, he cannot do jack on track if he is not with a team that gels well with themselves and himself. All the great champions that ever graced F1 know it, except for Alonso and a certain Canadian driver/singer/songwriter. I would put Jenson Button into this category as well, but then he is not a champion (as much as I would like to finish this sentence with 'as yet' something inside just laughs whenever I think about it). If Alonso is suddenly starting to feel lonely in his team, then maybe he should've thought twice or at least should have had the decency to involve our beloved Signor Briatore in his negotiations with McLaren last year when he dropped a bomb on everyone and announced his plan to jump ship to McLaren after having secured the Drivers' Championship with Renault. I have my doubts that Renault will even think about sabotaging a champions title defence, espescially after having committed their future to F1. Absolutely no team will want to come within a hundred feet of being projected as a team where they sabotage your race if they know you're about to leave. It's just not good business sense. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2006/10/05/alonso_feeling_lonely~1190737/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2006-10-04:/2006/10/04/comparing_across_eras~1188519/ghuam2006-10-04T20:38:40+02:002006-10-04T20:38:40+02:00 <p>I would just like to apologize to all those Senna and Fangio fans out there for comparing them with MSC and making a point that MSC is better. I have realized that it was wrong and there is no point in comparing across eras because it is quite pointless. All the aforementioned Drivers are great and will be regarded as the greatest of their times. Like Sir Frank Williams put it, can we really compare Wellington with Patten? </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2006/10/04/comparing_across_eras~1188519/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2006-10-03:/2006/10/03/a1_gp_and_f1~1185230/ghuam2006-10-03T21:03:51+02:002006-10-03T21:03:51+02:00 <p>The new season of Motorsport World Cup started and France, the defending champions have made a good start to their campaign. The suprise of the race at Zandvoort, Holland was Team USA, managing a podium finish. Way to go guys! Team India had another disappointing race. I dont know why they keep putting that 17 year old into the Sprint and Main event all the time. He needs more practice time and maybe an odd shot at Qualifying, but we definitely need someone with much more experience behind the wheel during the Sprint and Main event. Hopefully we can do slightly better next time... Suck it Pakistan!</p> <p>2007 marks some major changes to F1 as we know it. First and foremost, MSC will not be there. I have not known F1 without the guy, so I had to mention it one more time. There will be a return to a single tyre supplier, so that races dont go to the team with the better tyres that particular week-end. Engine homologation will come into place. This is simply the worst thing that could happen to F1. Like I have mentioned earlier, I simply don't support freezing engine development for 3 seasons, that's just insane to me. Where is the logic that is preventing them from freezing it for 4 or even 5 years? I am sure it is there somewhere, if someone can find it then please let me know. While I do support every measure to help privateer teams be more competitive, there is a limit to everything. I don't want to see F1 being reduced to GP2! I am glad they will be continuing with the existing qualifying format... thank god for that. This format is truly exciting and they should not even dream about fiddling around with it for another decade or so.</p> <p>With MSC gone I will be only 50% motivated to watch the new F1. Hopefully Kimi can give Alonso a good fight if Ferrari can build a car tough enough for the guy. Kimi is a great driver, but in order to succeed he really needs a car that suits his driving style and he is a driver that deserves that sort of a car. In the mean time, I would like to see how Alonso adjusts to driving a McLaren with that ticking time bomb in the rear. That thing has had more engine failures in the last few seasons than I can remember. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2006/10/03/a1_gp_and_f1~1185230/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2006-10-03:/2006/10/03/china_gp~1185225/ghuam2006-10-03T21:02:28+02:002006-10-04T08:09:36+02:00 <p>It was quite an interesting Chinese Grand Prix that was held at Shanghai this Sunday. While Ferrari did take a hit in its quest for the Constructors' Title, dear old MSC couldn't have proven it more convincingly that he was, is and for a long time will be the BEST thing that ever happened to F1. I am truly gonna miss the excitement and magic this guy brings to the F1 race track. So, heading into Suzuka, Japan, Alonso and Michael are tied in the Drivers' crown. The Chinese Grand Prix also marks 91 victories for Michael along with the fact that he has officially surpassed Alonso in total victories this season 7 to 6.</p> <p>I was being told last year that Michael's time is over and he should retire. All this just proves that Michael's time is not over, he has chosen to end it here, on a high. I can guarantee that if he were to continue he would be pick up a 9th Championship and become the only Centurion in F1 history.... No offence to Fangio and Senna, but take that!!!</p> <p>Now about the Chinese Grand Prix. I am very disappointed in Bridgestone again for not being able to produce a good wet weather tyre. I can't imagine how frustrating that is for someone who is considered as quick and comfy as a fish in a wet race (MSC)! I think they are taking it easy now it has been confirmed that Bridgestone will be the sole tyre supplier for the next season. Shame on them!</p> <p>Jenson drove another strong race, and congratulations to him for that. Still doubt if he will ever be able to repeat his Hungary glory ever again if Kimi, Kubica, Massa and Renault have their way. I guess he should be looking to switch to McLaren, Renault or Ferrari after his Honda contract expires. I for one would not like to see him in a Ferrari, he is just not good enough.</p> <p>I am bummed out by the fact that I have to go to work this Sunday and so will be missing out on the F1 Japan GP and the A1 Czech Republic GP. But since the Brazil GP will be in a different time zone I hope to catch that late in the night. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2006/10/03/china_gp~1185225/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2006-03-22:/2006/03/22/engine_homologation~667027/ghuam2006-03-22T18:17:45+01:002006-03-22T18:17:45+01:00 <p>The FIA (well, Max Mosley actually) is hell bent on restricting F1 engine development. This whole idea of engine homologation means that the championship entrants will have submit an engine to the FIA, which the FIA will certify. After this the team/supplier will not be allowed to modify the engine (basically make improvements in performance to it) for a whopping 3 years!!! I couldn't believe it when I first read it. The whole idea is to reduce costs. While it will definitely reduce costs it takes a big chunk out of the technical pinnacle that F1 really is. I mean, this thing is extreme. I could understand a 6 month to a 1 year freeze. That would also reduce costs, but this is taking it too far. I mean, they could just as well have asked them to use existing road car parts. While it would still be F1 and still be motor racing, but that not at all exciting in anyway.</p> <p>F1 is supposed to be unique, not something that is ChampCar pretending to be unique. I totally support restrictions on design modifications for the running season, but not something that restricts design across seasons. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2006/03/22/engine_homologation~667027/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2006-03-18:/2006/03/18/confusion_about_the_starting_grid~655679/ghuam2006-03-18T19:42:34+01:002006-03-18T20:30:14+01:00 <p>There is apparently a huge confusion in the FIA about the grid line-up because of the different combinations that can be followed to enforce the 10 spot penalty. According to me they should proceed down the grid in the order in which the drivers qualified and enforce the penalty. Therefore the grid should look this tomorrow (logically):</p> <p>01 Fisichella<br> 02 Button<br> 03 Rosberg<br> 04 Webber<br> 05 Montoya<br> 06 Raikkonen<br> 07 Alonso<br> 08 Klien<br> 09 Trulli<br> 10 Villeneuve<br> 11 Schumacher M<br> 12 Heidfeld<br> 13 Speed<br> 14 Liuzzi<br> 15 Albers<br> 16 Schumacher R<br> 17 Coulthard<br> 18 Barrichello<br> 19 Monteiro<br> 20 Sato<br> 21 Ide<br> 22 Massa </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2006/03/18/confusion_about_the_starting_grid~655679/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2006-03-18:/2006/03/18/more_fun_at_malaysia~654678/ghuam2006-03-18T13:09:36+01:002006-03-18T13:09:36+01:00 <p>More Fun At Malaysia</p> <p>Seriously, this new qualifying format is quite amazing. I still can't believe how MSC managed to qualify in 4th position after he was narrowly eliminated in the 1st qualifying session itself. This new format is giving some very close and edge-of-the-seat action. I actually think it's more fun than the race itself.</p> <p>Nico has continued with his storming form. I am certainly not the only one when I say - "Did you see that!!" It's turning out that Sir Frank's decision to give the race seat to Nico instead of Narain is turning out to be a fantastic decision for the Williams-Cosworth team, but we will never know how good Narain would've been with such a competitive car. My guess is, pretty damn good.</p> <p>I had a few Qs about the 10 spot grid penalty that everyone will be incurring (I am not complaining about it, just wondering how it works). If anyone knows the answer then please let me know. Since MSC and Ralf both will be incurring the penalty, does this mean that Ralf will slot into 19? Because after MSC takes the shaft it means Ralf is in P9 after which a 10 spot penalty puts him in P19 and not P20 ( = P10 + 10). Whatever happens, P20 isn't much worse than P19 considering he only has to contend with either a Midland or a Toro Rosso.</p> <p>Finally things seem to be going right for the little Roman, it seems that the bad luck mistakingly stung Alonso as issues with his fuel rig meant that he accidentally got more fuel into his car which made it underperform during the last qualifying session. Hence the Spaniard will slot into P7 after MSC gets the shaft for changing his engine.</p> <p>Congratulations to Christian Klien for out-qualifying his veteran team-mate DC. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2006/03/18/more_fun_at_malaysia~654678/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2006-03-16:/2006/03/16/of_course_everything_can_be_improved~649691/ghuam2006-03-16T20:23:19+01:002006-03-16T20:23:19+01:00 <p>DC hasn't been the one to hide his feelings about F1. While it is commendable that he speaks his mind, he should also be careful not to be whining. And, I am afraid that I have seen a lot of DC whining during his time at McLaren and it doesn't seem like it has changed.</p> <p>I agree with the fact that there are aspects of the Quali rules that can easily confuse the spectator. I agree that race fuel 3rd quali session is a little wierd, but it sure does get extremely interesting during the last 5-7 mins. I also think that the fuel credits system is unnecessary. Even the 10 spot grid penalty is quite severe. I think it should be 5 spots. Basically, it's a system, and it's not fool-proof and has some flaws. I think it's the best system that has been put in place since a long time. Let the people get used to it, and if people are still complaining - I mean people who are not DC - then something should definitely be done to improve it. One of the reasons that the previous system fell apart was that people didn't give it time to entrench itself. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2006/03/16/of_course_everything_can_be_improved~649691/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2006-03-14:/2006/03/14/farewell_suzuka~641684/ghuam2006-03-14T09:10:58+01:002006-03-14T09:10:58+01:00 <p>It is being reported that Bernie Ecclestone has struck a deal with Fuji Speedway to host the Japanese GP from 2007 onwards. There is also speculation that it is possible that Japan might be the only Asian nation to be hosting 2 rounds of the F1 World Championship. So is Suzuka out or not?</p> <p>I hope it isn't, Suzuka is a wonderful track that has given us some spectacular wet weather racing. It will be surely missed. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2006/03/14/farewell_suzuka~641684/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2006-03-14:/2006/03/14/quick_nic~641680/ghuam2006-03-14T09:09:46+01:002006-03-14T09:09:46+01:00 <p>Nico made quite an impressive debut in F1 in Bahrain. He is the 1st rookie in 10 years to have set a fastest lap time in his debut. The last time round this happened was in 1996 and the rookie behind the wheel at the time was spectacled Canadian Villeneuve (currently racing for BMW). Another point to notice is that Villeneuve was in a Williams at the time, same as Nico. I am sure Nico has a great future in F1 ahead of him. I will definitely be watching out for this guy. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2006/03/14/quick_nic~641680/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2006-03-13:/2006/03/13/more_bad_luck_for_fisi~640040/ghuam2006-03-13T18:17:43+01:002006-03-13T18:17:43+01:00 <p>This was yet another torrid day for the little Roman. I still can't believe how much bad luck has hounded Fisico since he joined the Renault F1 Team. I am beginning to think that he may have actually made a mistake in doing so and should maybe stuck with Sauber.</p> <p>Speculation is rife that Renault will be pulling out of F1 at the end of this season anyway with their No. 1 driver heading to McLaren. So, it'd be in Fisi's best interest if he could secure a race drive ASAP with another team. I would highly encourage a jumping of ships because it seems Renault dont really seem to give a CRAP about him. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2006/03/13/more_bad_luck_for_fisi~640040/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2006-03-12:/2006/03/12/here_we_go~637055/ghuam2006-03-12T19:29:22+01:002006-03-12T19:29:22+01:00 <p>Finally the 2006 Formula One World Championship has begun. You cannot begin to imagine how anxiously I have been waiting.</p> <p>So, it's a brand new season with brand new rules and brand new cars(mostly) and brand new livery. In fact, I would say it's probably the best looking season yet. I really like the McLaren livery and the timeless scarlet red of Scuderia Ferrari (I hope that doesn't ever change).</p> <p>One thing (amongst many) that has changed is the Qualifying format. And I couldn't believe it, but it actually turned out to be very exciting and action packed. Hats off to whoever came up with the idea, I just hope the tail enders dont complain about not getting enough air-time anymore. But, inspite of this exciting new format, there are still are people who found the middle 10 min of the 60 min session to be boring... All I can say is 'Damn dudes, go bungie jumping during that time to get your heart rates up!' I hope this system is here to stay.</p> <p>I still can't believe that the FIA hasn't done anything about Toro Rosso running V10s when they can clearly afford a brand new V8 from Cosworth, who incidentally are supplying V8s to Williams. Do they need someone to drop an anvil on their head? If there's anyone who should be running V10s it is Super Aguri!! The FIA is truly an entity of contrasts, they can come up with brilliant stuff like the new Qualifying system and be completely stupid at the same time. But on the other hand the world does come in contrasting opposites, so I really shouldn't be surprised... and yet I am!!</p> <p>I thoroughly enjoyed watching the race as well. 'Congratulations' and 'Well Done!' to the Renault F1 team. Alonso's victory was pure team work in my opinion. It just happened to be that on this day Renault's team work was a smidge better than Ferrari's.</p> <p>Massa did a great job qualifying in 2nd place, just a little bad luck during the race. I am sure he should be fine for the next one.</p> <p>When it comes to Schumacher I am officialy speechless. In my opinion there is only one other person who anyone can compare with Schumacher - and that is Sachin Tendulkar. Both are veterans of their sport and after 16 years of active duty they still continue to rewrite the record books - not just by edging past the previous record holder, but by completely decimating him. on Mar 11, 2006, Michael Schumacher matched the legendary Ayrton Senna No. of Poles record by reaching 65. With this being the beginning of the 18 race season I reckon that that record will be overtaken by a huge amount by Michael. If there's anyone out there who think of a more grandiose title than 'His Royal Highness' then please let me and everyone know. In my opinion Michael certainly deserves it.</p> <p>Kimi certainly did a fastastic job finishing 3rd after failing to qualify, awesome stuff. I now firmly believe that he is the one who deserves to take over at Ferrari after MSC retires. Nico Rosberg was also impressive in setting and resetting the fastest lap during the race. That surely was unexpected. Best of luck to him. I am sure he has a long and properous future ahead of him. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2006/03/12/here_we_go~637055/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2005-08-19:/2005/08/19/i_beseech_thee_rain_god/ghuam2005-08-19T04:32:06+02:002005-08-19T04:32:06+02:00 <p>As the following <a href="http://www.formula1.com/race/news/3445/745.html">link</a> will show you, there is a chance of rain at Turkey. That's more good news for Bridgestone, they are definitely better than Michelin in the wet. Considering MSC drives in the wet like a fish swimming through water, it appears the Turkish Grand Prix will be the most exciting one yet (Remember Australia when it rained just a smidge). I've been dieing to watch a wet race. It's been a more than a season since that happened. I just hope they don't change the date of the Turkish Grand Prix next season.</p> <p>All Ferrari fans, pray to the Rain Gods!! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2005/08/19/i_beseech_thee_rain_god/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2005-08-15:/2005/08/15/a1_grand_prix_qualifying_format_revealed/ghuam2005-08-15T14:50:59+02:002005-08-15T14:54:32+02:00 <p>Recently the qualifying format that A1 Grand Prix Racing is going to use, was revealed. The Qualifying session will be made up of 4 (that's right, 4) 15 min sessions, interspersed with brief breaks. During each 15 min session any car may roll-out at any time and post a maximum of 1 flying lap. After the 4 sessions the best 2 lap times for each car will be aggregated and the resulting time will be used to determine the the position for Sunday's Sprint Race. The Sprint Race is a 15 min race (featuring a 'rolling start'). The finishing order of this race will determine the grid positions of each car in the main event. The qualifying session will be held on the Saturday of the Grand Prix week-end at 2PM local time. The time of the Sunday Sprint has not been decided yet.</p> <p>This is quite an interesting qualifying format, very different from Formula 1. The fact that the drivers might have to contend with traffic (upto 24 other cars) during qualifying is quite interesting. Lap times will obviously get quicker and quicker as more and more rubber laid out on the tarmac during the course of the qualifying session. The last session will be very interesting. The Sunday Sprint does ensure that the most consistent teams will occupy the top spots of the starting grid. But, the fans may not want to wait till Sunday morning to know about the final starting grid. That was a major reason why Sunday Qualifying was abandoned in Formula 1. Maybe they should have the Sprint on Saturday itself.</p> <p>I will write about more Sporting regulations as and when I find out about them. Keep checking in. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2005/08/15/a1_grand_prix_qualifying_format_revealed/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2005-08-15:/2005/08/15/a1_team_india_launch/ghuam2005-08-15T14:13:14+02:002005-08-15T14:13:46+02:00 <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/g/ghuamf1/img/A1-Team-India.jpg" title="A1 Team India"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/g/ghuamf1/img/A1-Team-India_small.jpg" border="0" alt="A1 Team India"></a><br> His Highness Sheikh Makhtoum drives the A1 Team India car down Rajpath, Delhi, India on a demonstration run<br> Image courtesy <a href="http://www.pitpass.com">www.pitpass.com</a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2005/08/15/a1_team_india_launch/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2005-08-15:/2005/08/15/another_qualifying_suggestion/ghuam2005-08-15T08:43:53+02:002005-08-15T08:43:53+02:00 <p>The FIA has been given another proposal for a new Qualifying format suggested by the drivers' of F1. Their suggestion is to allow them to do another hot lap after everyone has done 1 with low fuel and using the fastest lap time of the 2 to determine the grid position. This is reminiscent of the dual session quailfying format we had in the beginning of the season.</p> <p>Here's an alternate suggestion (like we need another one, but here it is nonetheless)! Have each driver do 3 consecutive hot laps. Use the aggregate time of the 3 laps to determine grid position. Allow refuelling after qualifying run. Allow tyre change after qualifying run. order of appearance to be determined by the championship ranking in reverse (this will mean that the leader of the championship will always qualify last).</p> <p>With the average lap time being 1:23 sec this would mean that approx 1:24 min of air-time would be needed for broadcasters. With about 20 min of commercial time they could easily have a 1:45 min qualifying session. If we can spend that much time watching a race, why can't we do the same for qualifying? </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2005/08/15/another_qualifying_suggestion/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2005-08-15:/2005/08/15/midland_aka_jordan_linked_with_anthony_d/ghuam2005-08-15T08:03:37+02:002005-08-15T08:03:37+02:00 <p>There are rumours circulating the paddock about a possible link between Anthony Davidson of BAR and Jordan. Jordan seem to be in the hunt for a new driver. This cannot be good news for NK, but NK has revealed that he has been offered everything from a race seat to a testing seat from 'other' teams. All this is making me nervous about the possibility of seeing NK race next season. God help him! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2005/08/15/midland_aka_jordan_linked_with_anthony_d/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2005-08-15:/2005/08/15/numbers_to_fascinate_you/ghuam2005-08-15T07:35:41+02:002005-08-15T07:35:41+02:00 <p>Here is an <a href="http://www.gp2005.com/news/controller.php?lang=en&theme=default&team_id=3&month=08&seasonid=2&nextMode=GpNewsForm&news_id=13664">article</a> that gives you a little insight into the world of high-tech motor racing. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2005/08/15/numbers_to_fascinate_you/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2005-08-14:/2005/08/14/1_week_to_go_1/ghuam2005-08-14T15:45:43+02:002005-08-15T08:07:01+02:00 <p>Finally, we will be seeing some Formula 1 action on the other end of this week. There is plenty of excitement around the paddock about the new Istanbul circuit in Turkey. All the teams have begun extensive simulation and testing work to determine what kind of tyres to use for the inaugural Turkish Grand Prix. Besides the high-tech simulators that the teams have, drivers have been practicing on their PlayStations to determine braking points and racing lines. Istanbul is one of 3 circuits on which the cars run in the anticlockwise direction.</p> <p>It is going to be a hot week-end with ambient temps forecast to touch 40 deg C and track temps 55 deg C. This is all good news for Bridgestone/Ferrari as their tyres performed fantastically in Budapest to help put Ferrari on pole position. There should definitely be a Ferrari in the top 4 positions of the grid.</p> <p>Jordan have organized a demonstration run for Turkey's first F1 driver. They should do the same for NK in India. That would certainly generate a lot of attention and possibly sponsorship as well. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2005/08/14/1_week_to_go_1/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2005-08-13:/2005/08/13/a1_update/ghuam2005-08-13T08:11:25+02:002005-08-14T11:40:15+02:00 <p>A1 Team India is set to put its A1 car through its paces in France at the Paul Ricard Circuit on August 24th and 25th. The drivers in the team are Karun Chandhok, 21, of Chennai and Anwar Ebrahim, 16.</p> <p>Karun was slapped with a 3 race ban for unsafe driving in the British racing series he is currently participating in. It is reported that he might not get to race just yet for A1 Team India until he gets himself an Indian Drivers' Licence. How lame is that? </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2005/08/13/a1_update/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2005-08-13:/2005/08/13/webber_sticks_with_williams_inspite_of_b/ghuam2005-08-13T07:59:00+02:002005-08-13T08:04:15+02:00 <p>Mark Webber has made it clear that he has no intention of swapping places with Giancarlo Fisichella of Renault. Speculation was rife that the MW might be in for a swap with Fisichella on account of the divorce between BMW and Williams and that Flavio Briatore (Renault Team Boss) is MW's manager. MW told Autosport<br> <blockquote>"I am 100 percent behind the team."</blockquote> All this is inspite of a clause in his contract with Williams, for 2006, which stipulates that he has the freedom to leave if Williams were unable secure a major engine manufacturer for 2006(what a co-incidence that this is exactly the reason why Button does not want to join Williams anymore). It currently believed that Williams will be employing a Cosworth power plant in the rear of next year's Williams.</p> <p>I am glad that there are still people around who you can trust to support you in your time of need. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2005/08/13/webber_sticks_with_williams_inspite_of_b/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2005-08-12:/2005/08/12/my_thoughts_on_the_changes_at_ferrari/ghuam2005-08-12T10:23:14+02:002005-08-12T10:23:14+02:00 <p>I think RB leaving Ferrari was inevitable. Ferrari were stifling any competition on RB's part. No driver wants that. That's the reason they had to settle for Massa. No other driver will even consider Ferrari before Schumacher retires. To some extent I can't blame them(Ferrari). Who wants to see their successful formula being challenged by anybody? But it has been detrimental in the long term but very advantageous in the short term. During RB's 6 seasons Ferrari took 5 Driver's Championships and 5 Constructors Championshops. I am still a die hard MSC fan, I am also a die hard Ferrari fan <img src="/img/smilies/icon_twisted.gif" alt=":>" class="middle" border="0">. I will still be supporting Ferrari after MSC retires <img src="/img/smilies/icon_cry.gif" alt=":'(" class="middle" border="0">. I am just glad I was there to witness the most amazing 5 seasons of F1 in it's 50 year history. <img src="/img/smilies/icon_mrgreen.gif" alt=":>>" class="middle" border="0"> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2005/08/12/my_thoughts_on_the_changes_at_ferrari/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2005-08-12:/2005/08/12/thou_shall_honour_thy_word/ghuam2005-08-12T07:11:22+02:002005-08-12T07:43:57+02:00 <p>I told you so! Did I or did I not say that this Button fickle mindedness will give us the opportunity to witness some poetic justice?</p> <p>If Jenson Button does not agree to race for Sir Frank Williams then he might just get sued for all the sponsorship deals that Sir FW will be losing. And believe me, not even a Formula 1 driver of Kimi's caliber wants that kinda thing. These sponsorship deals tend to be quite long term and hence worth millions upon millions of dollars. I think only someone like Schumacher could probably get away with getting hit with a lawsuit like this and not have to worry about it. Imagine if you lost a multi-million dollar sponsorship deal and had to settle for a rookie to drive for you...</p> <p>Maybe a good ol' American style lawsuit might teach him a few lessons in 'honour thy word'! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2005/08/12/thou_shall_honour_thy_word/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2005-08-11:/2005/08/11/heidfeld_may_end_up_at_bar/ghuam2005-08-11T18:47:30+02:002005-08-11T18:47:30+02:00 <p>It has been revealed that BAR have a contract with Nick Heidfeld for the 2006 season. The particulars of the contract state that BAR will benefit from Nick's services provided Sir Frank Williams chooses not to sign on Nick for the 2006 season before September 11th. How interesting! This pretty much fills up the race seats at BAR. So who gets the 2nd race seat at BMW? (I still can't believe BMW (previously Sauber) are continuing with Jacques) And what of Button? </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2005/08/11/heidfeld_may_end_up_at_bar/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2005-08-11:/2005/08/11/going_here_and_there/ghuam2005-08-11T10:06:02+02:002005-08-11T10:06:02+02:00 <p>Alonso has made it public that he wouldn't mind racing for a team like Ferrari (who wouldn't? it is the most successful team around). I am glad to hear that. Alonso is definitely championship material and I would prefer seeing Alonso win the championship in a Ferrari than in a Renault. Additionaly, I would like to see Kimi beaten by Alonso in a Ferrari.</p> <p>It seems that Heidfeld's move to BMW isn't final yet. But guess what, if Heidfeld stays at Williams, it means there is no room for Button, good news for Button. I wouldn't be surprised if Button was shmoozing Heidfeld to convince him to stay at Willams. I wonder who will be racing for BMW, I certainly hope they aren't stupid enough to sign on JV, he's never done any good for new teams (remember his stint at BAR when BAR was the new kid on the block?)</p> <p>It seems that Narain is also keeping his options open, i.e. willing to go into a test role at a different team. I don't think that's a good idea though, testing unjustly labels you as somehow not fit for racing, e.g. Antonio Pizzonia, Luca Badoer, Marc Gene, Franck Montagny, Ricardo Zonta. Zonta and Pizzonia are drivers that could definitely shake things up in the right equipment. I think Narain should look for a race seat more than a testing seat. He should also reveal the teams that have placed offers in front of him... the secrecy is killing me here!!!</p> <p>People are speculating the multiple MotoGP Champion Valentino Rossi might be on track to securing himself a test role at Ferrari post 2006. Why would someone so high-profile wanna do testing for Ferrari? It seems his lap times at Fiorano have been impressive, only about 1.5 secs off the pace. Not bad for a rookie. I think Rossi and Alonso in a Ferrari in 2007 would be great for the Scuderia. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2005/08/11/going_here_and_there/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:ghuamf1.blog.co.uk,2005-08-10:/2005/08/10/a1_grand_prix_racing/ghuam2005-08-10T09:17:30+02:002005-08-10T12:17:58+02:00 <p><a href="http://data1.blog.de/blog/g/ghuamf1/img/A1-Team-Portugal.jpg" title="A1 Team Portugal driven by Pedro Lamy"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/blog/g/ghuamf1/img/A1-Team-Portugal_small.jpg" border="0" alt="A1 Team Portugal driven by Pedro Lamy"></a><br> Pedro Lamy of A1 Team Portugal tests the car at Silverstone, UK<br> Image courtesy <a href="http://www.a1gp.com">www.a1gp.com</a></p> <p>So, what is A1 Grand Prix Racing? Sounds like a rip off of F1?</p> <p>Actually, it's a racing series where countries instead of private teams compete with each other. Kind of like the Motorsport World Cup. Each country can run 1 car with 1 driver. There is one Chasis, Engine and Tyre Manufacturer (Lola, Zytek(550 bhp) and Cooper Tires respectively). So there is a level playing field. The differences in performance come from aerodynamic tweaking of the car and some other mechanical parts like the suspension and the amount of fuel on board, etc. There are 16 confirmed entries ranging from USA to India (including countries from Africa, South America and South-east Asia and Asia-Pacific). The participants are set to expand to 25 countries, representing about 80% of the world population. </p> <p>Recently India launched its A1 Team and their first outing will be at a test session at the Paul Ricard Circuit in France. The 1st grand prix flags off at Brands Hatch, UK (Sept 25th, 2005) and other venues include California, Texas, Malaysia, Singapore, Germany and Dubai. The season will go on till March 26th, 2006. Hopefully when the infrastructure permits, they'll (including F1) make a pit stop in India as well.</p> <p>Stay tuned for more happenings and my thoughts about them. For starters... Team India is gonna kick Pakistan's ass!!! </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://ghuamf1.blog.co.uk/2005/08/10/a1_grand_prix_racing/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>