Toro Rosso Is Not For Sale
Red Bull and Toro Rosso owner, Dietrich Mateschitz, has told the press that Red Bull junior team is not for sale. It had been rumoured that the Italian team was being sold to a firm from Abu Dhabi, but these seem to be false. Dietrich has said that the team is not for sale, although "partnerships will not be ruled out".
Ricciardo Wants To Race In India
After apparently losing his seat to Narain Karthikeyan, Daniel Ricciardo could still be racing at the Indian Grand Prix. It has been confirmed that Narain will step into HRT's number 2 car, but the Aussie could be about to step into HRT's number 1 car, replacing Vitantonio Liuzzi for the one race. It is not too much of a surprise, as Ricciardo has outperformed Liuzzi in the last few races. It remains to be seen what the final line-up will be, whether it is Karthikyen-Liuzzi, or Karthikeyan-Ricciardo.
Kubica To Race In 2012
Robert Kubica's docter has said that he expects the Pole to be racing in 2012. Dr Riccardo Ceccarelli, who has been looking over Robert's rehabilitation, has said that there is now reason for him not to be racing next year. Renault have already said that they want to get Robert in a F1 car in November, though probably not in a race situation. This will be great news for all F1 fans, as many cannot wait to see Rob get back to racing in Formula One.
Thursday 29 September 2011
Tuesday 27 September 2011
Climber Of The Month(s) - Bruno Senna
The Brazilian Bruno Senna has won this months Climber Of The Month award. Bruno has had an interesting month or so, starting with his Renault debut. He was brought in at Renault to replaced Nick Heidfeld, because the team was disappointed with Nick's performances. There was doubt over whether Bruno Senna could fill the boots of the experienced German, but ask anyone in the F1 circle now, and you should get a different answer. Bruno has surprised, especially with his qualifying pace. He has outperformed his team mate, Vitaly Petrov, in all three races. At the Italian GP, he got his first top 10 finish, and he finished 13th and 15th at the Italian and Sinagpore GPs. In the rankings, he has climbed 5 places, jumping from 32nd to 27th. If these great results continue, Bruno should be a favourite to hold this title next month.
Top 5 Climbers
Pos - Driver - Places Gained
1 - Bruno Senna - +5
2 - Pastor Maldonado - +4
3 - Paul Di Resta - +3
4 - Sergio Perez - +2
4 - Sebastian Buemi - +2
Top 5 Climbers
Pos - Driver - Places Gained
1 - Bruno Senna - +5
2 - Pastor Maldonado - +4
3 - Paul Di Resta - +3
4 - Sergio Perez - +2
4 - Sebastian Buemi - +2
Driver Of The Month(s) - Sebastian Vettel
Sebastian Vettel eased to another Driver Of The Month award. Due to the way the calendar is planned, this months award is for August and September. But, it would have made little difference as Vettel has been in sublime form. Sebastian has won all three races, at Belgium, Italy and Singapore. His three victories have cemented his place at number one in the F1 Rankings, and has virtually earned him a second Driver's World Championship. All three races were very similar for Vettel. He led for most of the race, and was not bothered. The Singapore GP epitomised this, as he led for 100% of the race, and his race win was very really in doubt.
Top 5 Drivers Of The Months
Pos - Driver - Points Gained
1 - Sebastian Vettel - +286.5
2 - Jenson Button - +155.5
3 - Paul Di Resta - +76
4 - Pastor Maldonado - +62
5 - Bruno Senna - +48
Top 5 Drivers Of The Months
Pos - Driver - Points Gained
1 - Sebastian Vettel - +286.5
2 - Jenson Button - +155.5
3 - Paul Di Resta - +76
4 - Pastor Maldonado - +62
5 - Bruno Senna - +48
How Vettel Can Win The Driver's Championship - Ver. 2
After, just, missing out on the Driver's title at the Singapore GP, Sebastian must now wait until the Japanese GP. The only man in his way is Jenson Button. However, Jenson will need so much luck if he is to take his second World Title. Jenson must win every single remaining Grand Prix, while Vettel must not score any points at all. The likelihood of this happening is surely nil, and I wouldn't be surprised if the bookmakers start paying out before Suzuka.
Sunday 25 September 2011
New Rankings Review
Sebastian Vettel - 2011's Number One Ranked Driver
With his great drive at the Singapore Grand Prix, Sebastian Vettel has confirmed the Number One Ranking for the end of the season. He can not turn up to any other races, and no matter how well Mark Webber and the other do, they can not topple him for another year. He becomes the first driver to hold the Number 1 Rankings for two consecutive years since Fernando Alonso in 2006 and 2007. With the form that Sebastian is in at time moment, there is also a question of who can stop him making it three on the trot. He already has a healthy lead at the top, so even if he has a so-so 2012, he will still be hard to beat.
Sutil breaks the Top 9
Adrian Sutil has broken into ninth place on the rankings, his highest ever rank. Adrian has been on the grid for a few years now, and has slowly got a few admirers. He has always been with the Force India team, even though he was rumoured to be close to securing a drive for Mercedes, before Schumacher returned to the sport. There are rumours about Adrian now though. With his consistent results, he has caught the eyes of Williams, and there is also rumours that he could be Michael Schumacher's replacement at Mercedes, when he retires again. Adrian might be more interested in the Mercedes drive, as that could take him closer to podiums and race victories, and it could also take him further up the F1 Rankings.
With his great drive at the Singapore Grand Prix, Sebastian Vettel has confirmed the Number One Ranking for the end of the season. He can not turn up to any other races, and no matter how well Mark Webber and the other do, they can not topple him for another year. He becomes the first driver to hold the Number 1 Rankings for two consecutive years since Fernando Alonso in 2006 and 2007. With the form that Sebastian is in at time moment, there is also a question of who can stop him making it three on the trot. He already has a healthy lead at the top, so even if he has a so-so 2012, he will still be hard to beat.
Sutil breaks the Top 9
Adrian Sutil has broken into ninth place on the rankings, his highest ever rank. Adrian has been on the grid for a few years now, and has slowly got a few admirers. He has always been with the Force India team, even though he was rumoured to be close to securing a drive for Mercedes, before Schumacher returned to the sport. There are rumours about Adrian now though. With his consistent results, he has caught the eyes of Williams, and there is also rumours that he could be Michael Schumacher's replacement at Mercedes, when he retires again. Adrian might be more interested in the Mercedes drive, as that could take him closer to podiums and race victories, and it could also take him further up the F1 Rankings.
Rankings - 25th September
The new rankings after the 2011 Singapore Grand Prix.
Rank - Driver - Points - Pre Rank
1 - Sebastian Vettel - 3683 - 1
2 - Mark Webber - 2479 - 2
3 - Lewis Hamilton - 2226 - 3
4 - Fernando Alonso - 2040 - 4
5 - Jenson Button - 1836.5 - 5
6 - Felipe Massa - 1061.5 - 6
7 - Nico Rosberg - 883 - 7
8 - Rubens Barrichello - 764 - 8
9 - Adrian Sutil - 551.5 - 10
10 - Robert Kubica - 541.5 - 9
11 - Michael Schumacher - 540 - 11
12 - Sebastian Buemi - 452 - 14
13 - Vitaly Petrov - 451 - 12
14 - Nick Heidfeld - 433.5 - 13
15 - Kamui Kobayashi - 423 - 16
16 - Jaime Alguersuari - 415.5 - 15
17 - Jarno Trulli - 347 - 17
18 - Heikki Kovalainen - 310 - 18
19 - Kimi Raikkonen - 252.5 - 19
20 - Paul Di Resta - 252 - 22
21 - Timo Glock -245.5 - 20
22 - Nico Hulkenberg - 236 - 21
23 - Vitantonio Liuzzi - 198 - 23
24 - Pastor Maldonado - 138 - 25
25 - Sergio Perez - 128 - 26
26 - Giancarlo Fisichella - 112.5 - 24
27 - Bruno Senna - 101 - 29
28 - Kazuki Nakajima - 84.5 - 27
29 - Pedro De La Rosa - 84 - 28
30 - Jerome D'Ambrosio - 76 - 30
31 - Nelson Piquet Jnr - 48.5 - 31
32 - Sebastian Bourdais - 46.5 - 32
33 - Lucas Di Grassi - 43 - 33
34 - Karun Chandhok - 35 - 34
35 - Sakon Yamamoto - 30 - 35
36 - Romain Grosjean - 22 - 36
36 - Narain Karthikeyan - 22 - 37
38 - Daniel Ricciardo - 18 - 39
39 - David Coulthard - 12.5 - 38
40 - Luca Badoer - 5.5 - 40
41 - Christian Klien - 2 - 41
Rank - Driver - Points - Pre Rank
1 - Sebastian Vettel - 3683 - 1
2 - Mark Webber - 2479 - 2
3 - Lewis Hamilton - 2226 - 3
4 - Fernando Alonso - 2040 - 4
5 - Jenson Button - 1836.5 - 5
6 - Felipe Massa - 1061.5 - 6
7 - Nico Rosberg - 883 - 7
8 - Rubens Barrichello - 764 - 8
9 - Adrian Sutil - 551.5 - 10
10 - Robert Kubica - 541.5 - 9
11 - Michael Schumacher - 540 - 11
12 - Sebastian Buemi - 452 - 14
13 - Vitaly Petrov - 451 - 12
14 - Nick Heidfeld - 433.5 - 13
15 - Kamui Kobayashi - 423 - 16
16 - Jaime Alguersuari - 415.5 - 15
17 - Jarno Trulli - 347 - 17
18 - Heikki Kovalainen - 310 - 18
19 - Kimi Raikkonen - 252.5 - 19
20 - Paul Di Resta - 252 - 22
21 - Timo Glock -245.5 - 20
22 - Nico Hulkenberg - 236 - 21
23 - Vitantonio Liuzzi - 198 - 23
24 - Pastor Maldonado - 138 - 25
25 - Sergio Perez - 128 - 26
26 - Giancarlo Fisichella - 112.5 - 24
27 - Bruno Senna - 101 - 29
28 - Kazuki Nakajima - 84.5 - 27
29 - Pedro De La Rosa - 84 - 28
30 - Jerome D'Ambrosio - 76 - 30
31 - Nelson Piquet Jnr - 48.5 - 31
32 - Sebastian Bourdais - 46.5 - 32
33 - Lucas Di Grassi - 43 - 33
34 - Karun Chandhok - 35 - 34
35 - Sakon Yamamoto - 30 - 35
36 - Romain Grosjean - 22 - 36
36 - Narain Karthikeyan - 22 - 37
38 - Daniel Ricciardo - 18 - 39
39 - David Coulthard - 12.5 - 38
40 - Luca Badoer - 5.5 - 40
41 - Christian Klien - 2 - 41
2011 Singapore Grand Prix - Race
Sebastian Vettel eased to victory at the Singapore. He beat on competetion from Jenson Button, and the distraction of a safety car. He failed to win the Driver's World Championship, but now only needs 1 point to win back to back titles.
The start of the race began cleanly enough. Button managed to jump Webber for second, but his teammate Hamilton fell down to eighth behind the two Mercedes. Vettel lead Button, while Alonso took Webber for third. Then it was Massa, Rosberg, Schumacher and Hamilton. This still didn't give Vettel the Driver's Championship yet. By lap 4, the DRS was active, and the first driver to gain was Hamilton, as he took Schumacher for seventh. Lewis did not hang around, and on the next lap he had taken Rosberg to continue up the grid. Next on his radar was the battle for third between Alonso, Webber and Massa. At the very front Vettel was storming ahead, putting in more than one second a lap into Button. Meanwhile the Brit was ensuring that he was a far distance away from Alonso's Ferrari.
By lap 10, the closest action was for third. Webber managed to overtake Alonso after the bridge, and holding his position well, he put another Red Bull on the podium. Alonso went straight into the pits. He was soon followed by Hamilton and Massa who both pitted on lap 12. When they came back into the track, in the same position, Hamilton tried to pass Massa on the DRS straight. They were even on the first corner, but as the took the apex, Lewis clipped the back of the Ferrari. This broke the McLaren front wing, and gave Felipe a puncture. Both pitted, and pushed them down the grid. After the stewards looked at the incident, they gave Hamilton a drive-through penalty, putting him down to twentieth.
Elsewhere, Webber responded to Alonso pitstop, but as he exited the pitlane, Fernando retook his position. At the very front, Vettel and Button pitted, and rejoined in the lead. The best action was now in the packed midfield. With different stratergies, and different grip levels, all the drivers were moving up and down the grid. The main losers were the Saubers and Renaults as they just lacked grip. The Force India's split strategy seemed to be working for DiResta, as he spent a fair amount of time in third. By lap 18, he had a faster Alonso behind him. Paul had enough pace, until they entered the DRS zone, when Fernando eased into third. Next up for the Scot was Webber. But he gave way, pitted, and put on the super soft tyres.
The tyres on the Ferrari were not performing well, and Alonso had to switch to a three-stop strategy. When he pitted for a second time, he let Webber through into third. In the midfield, Hamilton was climbing his way up the field. He had good moves on Massa, Barrichello, & Kobayashi. By lap 27, he was in the top ten, chasing Schumacher. Michael, though, was stuck in a battle with Perez and Rosberg. These two were fighting infront, and slowing each other down. Michael caught up with Perez, and while trying to overtake the Mexican, he clipped the rear of the Sauber, braking his front wing, and sending him up into the air, and crashing him into the barriers. With debris everywhere, the safety car came out. A flurry of cars came in, including Webber, Vettel, Hamilton and the majority of the grid.
When the safety car left the track on lap 33, Vettel pulled away, putting in 5 seconds immediately into Button. Behind them, Webber put in a great overtake over Alonso, out-breaking him around the turn 10 chicane. After these, there was a very lengthy queue containing Sutil, Hamilton, Ricciardo, Alguersuari, and a flurry of other drivers. On lap 37, Lewis was the bravest, as he took he friend Sutil, on the corner after the DRS zone. On the next lap, he took Rosberg in the DRS zone. Next up for him was fellow Brit, DiResta. By the time they came round to the next DRS zone, Lewis eased around the outside of Paul. At this stage, Vettel lead Button, Webber, Alonso, Hamilton, DiResta, Rosberg,
With Lewis' next target, Alonso, 13 seconds away, the closest action in the points was Webber slightly closing in on Button. Jenson, like leader Vettel, was trying to finish the race on the tyres they were currently using. To take second, Webber would have to do the same. This would have been hardest on the Red Bull's, who were harder on the tyres than Button. On lap 48, though, Webber pitted. This gave him good pace, but it stuck him behind Alonso and Hamilton to 5th. Webber spent no time in taking Lewis though. Button and Hamilton followed Mark into the pits. Button stayed ahead of Webber, but Lewis dropped down to ninth. Vettel also pitted with 11 laps left, and so did Alonso. The top four stayed the same, but behind them was DiResta, Rosberg, Sutil, Perez an Hamilton. It wasn't long though until Lewis took Perez's 8th place. He then took 7th off Sutil. He also eased past Rosberg, with DiResta not far away next for the McLaren driver.
With 5 laps left, Button was one of the fastest on the track as he tried to put pressure on Vettel. McLaren that they could copy the Canadian GP, and force Vettel into a mistake. Both had to pass a fair bit of traffic, and with two laps to, the gap was 5.6 seconds, which killed the attack. On the last lap, Vettel, surrounded by traffic, crossed the line just ahead of Button. Webber joined them on the podium, as he finished ahead of Alonso and Hamilton.
Race Results
Pos - Driver - Team - Rank
1 - Sebastian Vettel - Red Bull - 1
2 - Jenson Button - McLaren - 5
3 - Mark Webber - Red Bull - 2
4 - Fernando Alonso - Ferrari - 4
5 - Lewis Hamilton - McLaren - 3
6 - Paul Di Resta - Force India - 22
7 - Nico Rosberg - Mercedes - 7
8 - Adrian Sutil - Force India - 10
9 - Felipe Massa - Ferrari - 6
10 - Sergio Perez - Sauber - 26
11 - Pastor Maldonado - Williams - 25
12 - Sebastian Buemi - Toro Rosso - 14
13 - Rubens Barrichello - Williams - 8
14 - Kamui Kobayashi - Sauber - 16
15 - Bruno Senna - Renault - 29
16 - Heikki Kovalainen - Lotus - 18
17 - Vitaly Petrov - Renault - 12
18 - Jerome D'Ambrosio - Virgin - 30
19 - Daniel Ricciardo - HRT - 39
20 - Vitantonio Liuzzi - HRT - 23
21 - Jaime Alguersuari - Toro Rosso - 15
R - Jarno Trulli - Lotus - 17
R - Michael Schumacher - Mercedes - 11
R - Timo Glock - Virgin - 20
The start of the race began cleanly enough. Button managed to jump Webber for second, but his teammate Hamilton fell down to eighth behind the two Mercedes. Vettel lead Button, while Alonso took Webber for third. Then it was Massa, Rosberg, Schumacher and Hamilton. This still didn't give Vettel the Driver's Championship yet. By lap 4, the DRS was active, and the first driver to gain was Hamilton, as he took Schumacher for seventh. Lewis did not hang around, and on the next lap he had taken Rosberg to continue up the grid. Next on his radar was the battle for third between Alonso, Webber and Massa. At the very front Vettel was storming ahead, putting in more than one second a lap into Button. Meanwhile the Brit was ensuring that he was a far distance away from Alonso's Ferrari.
By lap 10, the closest action was for third. Webber managed to overtake Alonso after the bridge, and holding his position well, he put another Red Bull on the podium. Alonso went straight into the pits. He was soon followed by Hamilton and Massa who both pitted on lap 12. When they came back into the track, in the same position, Hamilton tried to pass Massa on the DRS straight. They were even on the first corner, but as the took the apex, Lewis clipped the back of the Ferrari. This broke the McLaren front wing, and gave Felipe a puncture. Both pitted, and pushed them down the grid. After the stewards looked at the incident, they gave Hamilton a drive-through penalty, putting him down to twentieth.
Elsewhere, Webber responded to Alonso pitstop, but as he exited the pitlane, Fernando retook his position. At the very front, Vettel and Button pitted, and rejoined in the lead. The best action was now in the packed midfield. With different stratergies, and different grip levels, all the drivers were moving up and down the grid. The main losers were the Saubers and Renaults as they just lacked grip. The Force India's split strategy seemed to be working for DiResta, as he spent a fair amount of time in third. By lap 18, he had a faster Alonso behind him. Paul had enough pace, until they entered the DRS zone, when Fernando eased into third. Next up for the Scot was Webber. But he gave way, pitted, and put on the super soft tyres.
The tyres on the Ferrari were not performing well, and Alonso had to switch to a three-stop strategy. When he pitted for a second time, he let Webber through into third. In the midfield, Hamilton was climbing his way up the field. He had good moves on Massa, Barrichello, & Kobayashi. By lap 27, he was in the top ten, chasing Schumacher. Michael, though, was stuck in a battle with Perez and Rosberg. These two were fighting infront, and slowing each other down. Michael caught up with Perez, and while trying to overtake the Mexican, he clipped the rear of the Sauber, braking his front wing, and sending him up into the air, and crashing him into the barriers. With debris everywhere, the safety car came out. A flurry of cars came in, including Webber, Vettel, Hamilton and the majority of the grid.
When the safety car left the track on lap 33, Vettel pulled away, putting in 5 seconds immediately into Button. Behind them, Webber put in a great overtake over Alonso, out-breaking him around the turn 10 chicane. After these, there was a very lengthy queue containing Sutil, Hamilton, Ricciardo, Alguersuari, and a flurry of other drivers. On lap 37, Lewis was the bravest, as he took he friend Sutil, on the corner after the DRS zone. On the next lap, he took Rosberg in the DRS zone. Next up for him was fellow Brit, DiResta. By the time they came round to the next DRS zone, Lewis eased around the outside of Paul. At this stage, Vettel lead Button, Webber, Alonso, Hamilton, DiResta, Rosberg,
With Lewis' next target, Alonso, 13 seconds away, the closest action in the points was Webber slightly closing in on Button. Jenson, like leader Vettel, was trying to finish the race on the tyres they were currently using. To take second, Webber would have to do the same. This would have been hardest on the Red Bull's, who were harder on the tyres than Button. On lap 48, though, Webber pitted. This gave him good pace, but it stuck him behind Alonso and Hamilton to 5th. Webber spent no time in taking Lewis though. Button and Hamilton followed Mark into the pits. Button stayed ahead of Webber, but Lewis dropped down to ninth. Vettel also pitted with 11 laps left, and so did Alonso. The top four stayed the same, but behind them was DiResta, Rosberg, Sutil, Perez an Hamilton. It wasn't long though until Lewis took Perez's 8th place. He then took 7th off Sutil. He also eased past Rosberg, with DiResta not far away next for the McLaren driver.
With 5 laps left, Button was one of the fastest on the track as he tried to put pressure on Vettel. McLaren that they could copy the Canadian GP, and force Vettel into a mistake. Both had to pass a fair bit of traffic, and with two laps to, the gap was 5.6 seconds, which killed the attack. On the last lap, Vettel, surrounded by traffic, crossed the line just ahead of Button. Webber joined them on the podium, as he finished ahead of Alonso and Hamilton.
Race Results
Pos - Driver - Team - Rank
1 - Sebastian Vettel - Red Bull - 1
2 - Jenson Button - McLaren - 5
3 - Mark Webber - Red Bull - 2
4 - Fernando Alonso - Ferrari - 4
5 - Lewis Hamilton - McLaren - 3
6 - Paul Di Resta - Force India - 22
7 - Nico Rosberg - Mercedes - 7
8 - Adrian Sutil - Force India - 10
9 - Felipe Massa - Ferrari - 6
10 - Sergio Perez - Sauber - 26
11 - Pastor Maldonado - Williams - 25
12 - Sebastian Buemi - Toro Rosso - 14
13 - Rubens Barrichello - Williams - 8
14 - Kamui Kobayashi - Sauber - 16
15 - Bruno Senna - Renault - 29
16 - Heikki Kovalainen - Lotus - 18
17 - Vitaly Petrov - Renault - 12
18 - Jerome D'Ambrosio - Virgin - 30
19 - Daniel Ricciardo - HRT - 39
20 - Vitantonio Liuzzi - HRT - 23
21 - Jaime Alguersuari - Toro Rosso - 15
R - Jarno Trulli - Lotus - 17
R - Michael Schumacher - Mercedes - 11
R - Timo Glock - Virgin - 20
Saturday 24 September 2011
2011 Singapore Grand Prix - Qualifying
Sebastian Vettel took Pole Position yet again this year, as Red Bull locked out the front row of the grid, with Webber in second.
In Q1, drivers where trading times for first, and seventeenth. At the top, Red Bull and McLaren were the pacesetters. However, there was more interest in the other battle. The teams under pressure were the Toro Rossos and the Saubers. They were desperate not to join three "new teams". In the end, it was the Renaults who were the biggest surprise, as Vitaly Petrov got knocked out by his team mate, Bruno Senna.
Q2 started with the big teams going out on the super-soft tyres. As the Red Bull of Sebastian Vettel took first place off Jenson Button, Kamui Kobayashi drove into the barriers, bringing out the Red Flags. The drivers who suffered more than others were Senna and Schumacher. When the track was re-opened, the track was full of cars either improving their lap time, or posting their first time. With a minute left, Hamilton got a right-rear puncture, leaving him on the bubble. However, had enough in his pocket to make it into Q3 along with the two Force India cars. They beat off Williams, Perez and Senna.
Q3 started slightly delayed due to the earlier Red Flag. But, this didn't affect the top ten, as the were all focused on Pole Position. Most of the cars queued in the pit lane, resulting in a lot of traffic on the out-lap. Vettel waited to go out, meaning he could heat up his threw more than his rivals. At halfway, Vettel took first ahead of the two McLaren drivers. As the replaced their tyres, the joined the drivers who chose to do one stint. Hamilton joined Force India in not doing that "second" stint, Due to the fact that the puncture left him with fewer sets of tyres. On the track, Webber was the first to cross the line, taking second. He was followed by Button who took third. This meant Vettel, who made a mistake in the middle sector, eased to Pole without completing that second lap.
Race Results
Pos - Driver - Team - Rank
1 - Sebastian Vettel - Red Bull - 1
2 - Mark Webber - Red Bull - 2
3 - Jenson Button - McLaren - 5
4 - Lewis Hamilton - McLaren - 3
5 - Fernando Alonso - Ferrari - 4
6 - Felipe Massa - Ferrari - 6
7 - Nico Rosberg - Mercedes - 7
8 - Michael Schumacher - Mercedes - 11
9 - Adrian Sutil - Force India - 10
10 - Paul DiResta - Force India - 22
11 - Sergio Perez - Sauber - 26
12 - Rubens Barrichello - Williams - 8
13 - Pastor Maldonado - Williams - 25
14 - Sebastian Buemi - Toro Rosso - 14
15 - Bruno Senna - Renault - 19
16 - Jaime Alguersuari - Toro Rosso - 15
17 - Kamui Kobayashi - Sauber - 16
18 - Vitaly Petrov - Renault - 12
19 - Heikki Kovalainen - Lotus - 18
20 - Jarno Trulli - Lotus - 17
21 - Timo Glock -Virgin - 20
22 - Jerome D'Ambrosio - Virgin - 30
23 - Daniel Ricciardo - HRT - 39
24 - Vitantonio Liuzzi - HRT - 23
In Q1, drivers where trading times for first, and seventeenth. At the top, Red Bull and McLaren were the pacesetters. However, there was more interest in the other battle. The teams under pressure were the Toro Rossos and the Saubers. They were desperate not to join three "new teams". In the end, it was the Renaults who were the biggest surprise, as Vitaly Petrov got knocked out by his team mate, Bruno Senna.
Q2 started with the big teams going out on the super-soft tyres. As the Red Bull of Sebastian Vettel took first place off Jenson Button, Kamui Kobayashi drove into the barriers, bringing out the Red Flags. The drivers who suffered more than others were Senna and Schumacher. When the track was re-opened, the track was full of cars either improving their lap time, or posting their first time. With a minute left, Hamilton got a right-rear puncture, leaving him on the bubble. However, had enough in his pocket to make it into Q3 along with the two Force India cars. They beat off Williams, Perez and Senna.
Q3 started slightly delayed due to the earlier Red Flag. But, this didn't affect the top ten, as the were all focused on Pole Position. Most of the cars queued in the pit lane, resulting in a lot of traffic on the out-lap. Vettel waited to go out, meaning he could heat up his threw more than his rivals. At halfway, Vettel took first ahead of the two McLaren drivers. As the replaced their tyres, the joined the drivers who chose to do one stint. Hamilton joined Force India in not doing that "second" stint, Due to the fact that the puncture left him with fewer sets of tyres. On the track, Webber was the first to cross the line, taking second. He was followed by Button who took third. This meant Vettel, who made a mistake in the middle sector, eased to Pole without completing that second lap.
Race Results
Pos - Driver - Team - Rank
1 - Sebastian Vettel - Red Bull - 1
2 - Mark Webber - Red Bull - 2
3 - Jenson Button - McLaren - 5
4 - Lewis Hamilton - McLaren - 3
5 - Fernando Alonso - Ferrari - 4
6 - Felipe Massa - Ferrari - 6
7 - Nico Rosberg - Mercedes - 7
8 - Michael Schumacher - Mercedes - 11
9 - Adrian Sutil - Force India - 10
10 - Paul DiResta - Force India - 22
11 - Sergio Perez - Sauber - 26
12 - Rubens Barrichello - Williams - 8
13 - Pastor Maldonado - Williams - 25
14 - Sebastian Buemi - Toro Rosso - 14
15 - Bruno Senna - Renault - 19
16 - Jaime Alguersuari - Toro Rosso - 15
17 - Kamui Kobayashi - Sauber - 16
18 - Vitaly Petrov - Renault - 12
19 - Heikki Kovalainen - Lotus - 18
20 - Jarno Trulli - Lotus - 17
21 - Timo Glock -Virgin - 20
22 - Jerome D'Ambrosio - Virgin - 30
23 - Daniel Ricciardo - HRT - 39
24 - Vitantonio Liuzzi - HRT - 23
Tuesday 20 September 2011
2011 Singapore Grand Prix - Preview
2011 Singapore GP
Location : Marina Bay, Singapore
Lap Stats : 61 laps - 3.1 miles/lap - 192.065 miles
Lap Record : Kimi Raikkonen - 1:45:599
2010
Pole : Fernando Alonso - Ferrari
Fastest Lap : Fernando Alonso - Ferrari
Winner : Fernando Alonso - Ferrari
Weather
Saturday : Showers & Cloudy. Possibility of Thunderstorms
Sunday : Rain
Last Time
2010 was about two men - Sebastian Vettel and Fernando Alonso. In a fascinating dual, Alonso managed to hold of Championship Rival Vettel for the whole race. In the end only 0.2 seconds separated them. Behind, Webber and Button followed them, while Hamilton crashed out for the second race in a row, destroying his championship hopes.
This Time
With this race being the possible title decider, expect a lot of tense moments throughout the weekend. As mentioned before, Vettel really needs to win, and don't bet against him. He should be battling the usual suspects. Alonso might be his biggest rival, win two Singapore wins under his belt. One thing to look out for is the weather. As written above, there is a high probability of rain, and a slight possibility of thunderstorms, throughout the weekend. So we could have the chance of a jumbled grid on Saturday and Sunday.
Location : Marina Bay, Singapore
Lap Stats : 61 laps - 3.1 miles/lap - 192.065 miles
Lap Record : Kimi Raikkonen - 1:45:599
2010
Pole : Fernando Alonso - Ferrari
Fastest Lap : Fernando Alonso - Ferrari
Winner : Fernando Alonso - Ferrari
Weather
Saturday : Showers & Cloudy. Possibility of Thunderstorms
Sunday : Rain
Last Time
2010 was about two men - Sebastian Vettel and Fernando Alonso. In a fascinating dual, Alonso managed to hold of Championship Rival Vettel for the whole race. In the end only 0.2 seconds separated them. Behind, Webber and Button followed them, while Hamilton crashed out for the second race in a row, destroying his championship hopes.
This Time
With this race being the possible title decider, expect a lot of tense moments throughout the weekend. As mentioned before, Vettel really needs to win, and don't bet against him. He should be battling the usual suspects. Alonso might be his biggest rival, win two Singapore wins under his belt. One thing to look out for is the weather. As written above, there is a high probability of rain, and a slight possibility of thunderstorms, throughout the weekend. So we could have the chance of a jumbled grid on Saturday and Sunday.
Monday 19 September 2011
Latest F1 News
Button To Ferrari?
Recently, F1 Ranks gave you details that Button was closing in on a long term contract at McLaren. Details of a confirmations still haven't come through yet, with many questioning whether there may be obsticals. A possible one is that Jenson Button fancies driving for the Italian team in 2013, replacing Felipe Massa. We are unsure how true these rumours are, but there must be some reason why he hasn't signed yet.
Raikkonen To Williams?
The rumour mill went crazy this week after Kimi Raikkonen was spotted having a tour around the Williams head quarters. Apparently, the Finn has been seeking a return to Formula One, but with the larger teams taken, will Kimi have to settle with Williams.
Bahrain Paid To Be Cancelled
Bahrain has paid the hosting fee for this years cancelled grand prix. Bernie was quoted saying that turnover will not be down this year, due to the fact that Bahrain paid a reported $40 million! Ecclestone had said in February that he would wave the fees for the cancelled grand prix.
Narain Will Race In India
Hispania Racing Team have confirmed that Narain Karthikeyan will race at the inougral Indian Grand Prix in October. He will retake his seat from Daniel Ricciardo, and will race at his new home GP. It had been rumoured at the time, but the change has now been confirmed. At the moment, he will be the only Indian on the grid, but he could be joined by Karun Chandhok at Trulli. Mallya had been quoted that he would like Karun to drive for them their, but we will have to see if any deal can be sorted before the race.
Recently, F1 Ranks gave you details that Button was closing in on a long term contract at McLaren. Details of a confirmations still haven't come through yet, with many questioning whether there may be obsticals. A possible one is that Jenson Button fancies driving for the Italian team in 2013, replacing Felipe Massa. We are unsure how true these rumours are, but there must be some reason why he hasn't signed yet.
Raikkonen To Williams?
The rumour mill went crazy this week after Kimi Raikkonen was spotted having a tour around the Williams head quarters. Apparently, the Finn has been seeking a return to Formula One, but with the larger teams taken, will Kimi have to settle with Williams.
Bahrain Paid To Be Cancelled
Bahrain has paid the hosting fee for this years cancelled grand prix. Bernie was quoted saying that turnover will not be down this year, due to the fact that Bahrain paid a reported $40 million! Ecclestone had said in February that he would wave the fees for the cancelled grand prix.
Narain Will Race In India
Hispania Racing Team have confirmed that Narain Karthikeyan will race at the inougral Indian Grand Prix in October. He will retake his seat from Daniel Ricciardo, and will race at his new home GP. It had been rumoured at the time, but the change has now been confirmed. At the moment, he will be the only Indian on the grid, but he could be joined by Karun Chandhok at Trulli. Mallya had been quoted that he would like Karun to drive for them their, but we will have to see if any deal can be sorted before the race.
2012 Line Up - Part 3
Here is the final part of our preview of 2012's possible Driver Line Up.
Red Bull
1st - Sebastian Vettel
2nd - Mark Webber
No real surprises, why break up a great team. It will be unlikely that Sebastian will race for another team, and Mark would be stupid to leave such a strong team.
McLaren
1st - Lewis Hamilton
2nd - Jenson Button
Again, similar to Red Bull, why break up a great partnership. When Button joined Lewis at McLaren, some doubted whether Jenson would just be a number two driver, but he proved the critics wrong, and has seemed to form a great team with Hamilton.
Ferrari
1st - Fernando Alonso
2nd - Felipe Massa
With the Ferrari team nearly 100% behind Alonso, it was always going to be hard for Felipe Massa. But even with that pressure, he still hasn't been putting in the performances that we expect from a great driver. These poor performances have put a doubt on his Ferrari future, but Domenicalli seems determined to keep Massa for at least next year.
Mercedes
1st - Michael Schumacher
2nd - Nico Rosberg
Everything that can be said about Michael has been said, and it looks like he will ignore all critics and continue on into 2012. Really, more attention should be cast on Nico Rosberg. He has been consistent in his Mercedes, consistent enough to be a lead driver for a team. He should have that privilege when Michael, or if Michael, retires for a second time.
Renault
1st - Robert Kubica ?
2nd - Vitaly Petrov / Bruno Senna / Romain Grosjean
The drivers for Renault next year entirely depends on two things. The fitness of Robert Kubica, and the amount of funds in the bank. We know they are struggling with Nick Heidfeld leaving. If Robert does return, and return to Renault, there seems to be a three-way tie for the number two seat. Petrov has had 2 years to impress, and has done OK. Bruno Senna is being given a go, and is already looking speedy. Romain Grosjean has just won GP2 by a country mile, and the former Renault driver could get a race seat again.
Red Bull
1st - Sebastian Vettel
2nd - Mark Webber
No real surprises, why break up a great team. It will be unlikely that Sebastian will race for another team, and Mark would be stupid to leave such a strong team.
McLaren
1st - Lewis Hamilton
2nd - Jenson Button
Again, similar to Red Bull, why break up a great partnership. When Button joined Lewis at McLaren, some doubted whether Jenson would just be a number two driver, but he proved the critics wrong, and has seemed to form a great team with Hamilton.
Ferrari
1st - Fernando Alonso
2nd - Felipe Massa
With the Ferrari team nearly 100% behind Alonso, it was always going to be hard for Felipe Massa. But even with that pressure, he still hasn't been putting in the performances that we expect from a great driver. These poor performances have put a doubt on his Ferrari future, but Domenicalli seems determined to keep Massa for at least next year.
Mercedes
1st - Michael Schumacher
2nd - Nico Rosberg
Everything that can be said about Michael has been said, and it looks like he will ignore all critics and continue on into 2012. Really, more attention should be cast on Nico Rosberg. He has been consistent in his Mercedes, consistent enough to be a lead driver for a team. He should have that privilege when Michael, or if Michael, retires for a second time.
Renault
1st - Robert Kubica ?
2nd - Vitaly Petrov / Bruno Senna / Romain Grosjean
The drivers for Renault next year entirely depends on two things. The fitness of Robert Kubica, and the amount of funds in the bank. We know they are struggling with Nick Heidfeld leaving. If Robert does return, and return to Renault, there seems to be a three-way tie for the number two seat. Petrov has had 2 years to impress, and has done OK. Bruno Senna is being given a go, and is already looking speedy. Romain Grosjean has just won GP2 by a country mile, and the former Renault driver could get a race seat again.
Sunday 18 September 2011
2012 Line Up - Part 2
Continuing our look at 2012s Driver Line Up, we start with -
Force India
1st - Adrian Sutil
2nd - Paul Di Resta
Force India seem to be in the situation that their driver line-up depends on the driver line-up of the teams above them. Throughout his carear, Adrian Sutil has been linked with bigger teams, but nothing has ever come of the rumours. His new team may also make it difficult for the young German. With impressive drives in his debut season, Paul Di Resta seems to have caught the eye of Mercedes, and he could be lined up as Michael's eventual successor.
Sauber
1st - Kamui Kobayashi
2nd - Sergio Perez
Sauber seem to be in the same situation as Force India. Both Kamui and Sergio have had solid 2011s, with both drivers picking up plaudits along the way. Both will need time to mature, but Peter Sauber is the perfect man to be under. He has seen Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikkonen onto bigger and better things. Currently the team and drivers are happy with the situation, and there should be no change for next year.
Williams
1st - Rubens Barrichello / Jules Bianchi / Giedo van der Garde
2nd - Pastor Maldonado
Things are tight at Williams at the moment. This lack of money could see them take drastic measures with their driver line-up for next year. It seems Rubens Barrichello's seat is under pressure, and he could be replaced with a younger driver, who can bring in sponsorship. Jules Bianchi and Giedo van der Garde seem to be the front runners for the possible seat. But other drivers have been rumoured, including Bruno Senna and Adrian Sutil.
Toro Rosso
1st - Jaime Alguersuari / Daniel Ricciardo
2nd - Sebastian Buemi / Jean-Eric Vergne
It seems to be that the end of 2011 is now or never for Alguersuari and Buemi. After three years in the sport, neither have had fantastic success, and as Toro Rosso's aims is to bring up the next Sebastian Vettel, then it may be that they are both replaced. The two most likely to take their places are Daniel Ricciadro and Jean-Eric Vergne. Both are from Red Bull's young driver programmes, and both have succeeded in lower formula. But as Jaime and Sebastian can tell them, it takes more than previous success to be good in Formula One.
Force India
1st - Adrian Sutil
2nd - Paul Di Resta
Force India seem to be in the situation that their driver line-up depends on the driver line-up of the teams above them. Throughout his carear, Adrian Sutil has been linked with bigger teams, but nothing has ever come of the rumours. His new team may also make it difficult for the young German. With impressive drives in his debut season, Paul Di Resta seems to have caught the eye of Mercedes, and he could be lined up as Michael's eventual successor.
Sauber
1st - Kamui Kobayashi
2nd - Sergio Perez
Sauber seem to be in the same situation as Force India. Both Kamui and Sergio have had solid 2011s, with both drivers picking up plaudits along the way. Both will need time to mature, but Peter Sauber is the perfect man to be under. He has seen Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikkonen onto bigger and better things. Currently the team and drivers are happy with the situation, and there should be no change for next year.
Williams
1st - Rubens Barrichello / Jules Bianchi / Giedo van der Garde
2nd - Pastor Maldonado
Things are tight at Williams at the moment. This lack of money could see them take drastic measures with their driver line-up for next year. It seems Rubens Barrichello's seat is under pressure, and he could be replaced with a younger driver, who can bring in sponsorship. Jules Bianchi and Giedo van der Garde seem to be the front runners for the possible seat. But other drivers have been rumoured, including Bruno Senna and Adrian Sutil.
Toro Rosso
1st - Jaime Alguersuari / Daniel Ricciardo
2nd - Sebastian Buemi / Jean-Eric Vergne
It seems to be that the end of 2011 is now or never for Alguersuari and Buemi. After three years in the sport, neither have had fantastic success, and as Toro Rosso's aims is to bring up the next Sebastian Vettel, then it may be that they are both replaced. The two most likely to take their places are Daniel Ricciadro and Jean-Eric Vergne. Both are from Red Bull's young driver programmes, and both have succeeded in lower formula. But as Jaime and Sebastian can tell them, it takes more than previous success to be good in Formula One.
Saturday 17 September 2011
2012 Line Up - Part 1
With the end of the season nearly around the corner, some people will start to think about the new year, and the new season. Indeed, drivers will be the first to start wondering, usually about which team they will be racing for this season. Here at F1 Ranks we decided to beat everyone to the punches at show who might be going where.
Lotus
1st - Heikki Kovalainen
2nd - Jarno Trulli
After months of speculations, Lotus confirmed that they will keep Heikki and Jarno for next year. It had been rumoured that Trulli could be on his way out, with Karun Chandhok a possible replacement, but the rumours will be wrong, and the Italian will be entering another season in Formula One.
Virgin
1st - Timo Glock
2nd - Jerome D'Ambrosio / Robert Wickens
Virgin managed to keep Timo Glock for another year, even though he has apparently been looking elsewhere for a driver. His partner could change though. D'Ambrosio has been given the rest of the year to prove himself capable for next year's race seat. But good performances from Robert Wickens in lower Formula has caught the eye of the team, and the Canadian could join the grid next year.
HRT
1st - Vitantonio Liuzzi
2nd - ?
A whole host of drivers could be driving for the Spanish team next year. Ricciardo will probably be racing in a different team next year. But Liuzzi is keen on extending his contract. To partner him, it is anyones guess who will take that role. Names mentioned have been Javier Villa, Narain Karthikeyan, Christian Klien, and many others.
Lotus
1st - Heikki Kovalainen
2nd - Jarno Trulli
After months of speculations, Lotus confirmed that they will keep Heikki and Jarno for next year. It had been rumoured that Trulli could be on his way out, with Karun Chandhok a possible replacement, but the rumours will be wrong, and the Italian will be entering another season in Formula One.
Virgin
1st - Timo Glock
2nd - Jerome D'Ambrosio / Robert Wickens
Virgin managed to keep Timo Glock for another year, even though he has apparently been looking elsewhere for a driver. His partner could change though. D'Ambrosio has been given the rest of the year to prove himself capable for next year's race seat. But good performances from Robert Wickens in lower Formula has caught the eye of the team, and the Canadian could join the grid next year.
HRT
1st - Vitantonio Liuzzi
2nd - ?
A whole host of drivers could be driving for the Spanish team next year. Ricciardo will probably be racing in a different team next year. But Liuzzi is keen on extending his contract. To partner him, it is anyones guess who will take that role. Names mentioned have been Javier Villa, Narain Karthikeyan, Christian Klien, and many others.
Thursday 15 September 2011
How Vettel Can Win The Drivers World Championship
Sebastian Vettel is getting very close to his second Drivers World Championship. If results go his way, he can win the title at Singapore. But he can't do it himself, he does need help from his rivals. Below is the mathematics on how the title can be won.
If Vettel wins -
Alonso must finish fourth or lower,
and Webber and Button need to finish third or lower.
If Vettel comes second -
Alonso cannot finish higher than eighth,
and Webber and Button cannot finish fifth or higher,
and Hamilton must finish second or lower.
If Vettel finishes in third -
Alonso can only finish in ninth, tenth, or out of the points.
Webber and Button can only finish seventh or lower,
and Hamilton cannot finish in the top two.
Overall then, it is fairly unlikely that Vettel wins the title next weekend, but anything is possible.
If Vettel wins -
Alonso must finish fourth or lower,
and Webber and Button need to finish third or lower.
If Vettel comes second -
Alonso cannot finish higher than eighth,
and Webber and Button cannot finish fifth or higher,
and Hamilton must finish second or lower.
If Vettel finishes in third -
Alonso can only finish in ninth, tenth, or out of the points.
Webber and Button can only finish seventh or lower,
and Hamilton cannot finish in the top two.
Overall then, it is fairly unlikely that Vettel wins the title next weekend, but anything is possible.
Sunday 11 September 2011
New Rankings Review
Sebastian Vettel Closes In On End Of Year Number One Ranking
With Sebastian Vettel closing in on the Driver's World Championship, the young German is closing in on the Number One Ranking for the end of the year. After finishing 2010 in the Number One spot, he would be the first driver since Fernando Alonso to hold the spot for two years running. At Singapore he can clinch the Number 1 ranking, and in the other races, he can continue to build on his huge lead.
Battle For 10th
The closest battle in the rankings at the moment is for tenth place. Sutil currently holds the rank, but with a run good consistent races from Michael Schumacher has helped him close the gap. Also involved in the mix is Robert Kubica, who sadly, is dropping down. But currently only seven points separate Michael Schumacher, and a return to the top 10.
With Sebastian Vettel closing in on the Driver's World Championship, the young German is closing in on the Number One Ranking for the end of the year. After finishing 2010 in the Number One spot, he would be the first driver since Fernando Alonso to hold the spot for two years running. At Singapore he can clinch the Number 1 ranking, and in the other races, he can continue to build on his huge lead.
Battle For 10th
The closest battle in the rankings at the moment is for tenth place. Sutil currently holds the rank, but with a run good consistent races from Michael Schumacher has helped him close the gap. Also involved in the mix is Robert Kubica, who sadly, is dropping down. But currently only seven points separate Michael Schumacher, and a return to the top 10.
Rankings - 11th September
The new rankings after the Italian Grand Prix.
Pos - Driver - Points - Pre Rank
1 - Sebastian Vettel - 3589.5 - 1
2 - Mark Webber - 2430.5 - 2
3 - Lewis Hamilton - 2208.5 - 3
4 - Fernando Alonso - 2118.5 - 4
5 - Jenson Button - 1779.5 - 5
6 - Felipe Massa - 1080 - 6
7 - Nico Rosberg - 878 - 7
8 - Rubens Barrichello - 786 - 8
9 - Robert Kubica - 567 - 9
10 - Adrian Sutil - 559 - 10
11 - Michael Schumacher - 552 - 11
12 - Vitaly Petrov - 451 - 13
13 - Nick Heidfeld - 449 - 12
14 - Sebastian Buemi - 448 - 14
15 - Jaime Alguersuari - 421.5 - 16
16 - Kamui Kobayashi - 409 - 15
17 - Jarno Trulli - 354.5 - 17
18 - Heikki Kovalainen - 335.5 - 18
19 - Kimi Raikkonen - 286 - 19
20 - Timo Glock - 259.5 - 20
21 - Nico Hulkenberg - 250 - 21
22 - Paul Di Resta -222 - 23
23 - Vitantonio Liuzzi - 205 - 22
24 - Giancarlo Fisichella - 118.5 - 24
25 - Pastor Maldonado - 118 - 28
26 - Sergio Perez - 106 - 25
27 - Kazuki Nakajima - 94.5 - 26
28 - Pedro De La Rosa - 91 - 27
29 - Bruno Senna - 89 - 30
30 - Jerome D'Ambrosio - 70 - 29
31 - Nelson Piquet Jnr - 54 - 32
32 - Sebastian Bourdais - 50.5 - 31
33 - Lucas Di Grassi - 44 - 33
34 - Karun Chandhok - 35 - 34
35 - Sakon Yamamoto - 32 - 35
36 - Romain Grosjean - 25 - 36
37 - Narain Karthikeyan - 22 - 37
38 - David Coulthard - 15 - 38
39 - Daniel Ricciardo - 14 - 39
40 - Luca Badoer - 5.5 - 40
41 - Christian Klien - 2 - 41
Pos - Driver - Points - Pre Rank
1 - Sebastian Vettel - 3589.5 - 1
2 - Mark Webber - 2430.5 - 2
3 - Lewis Hamilton - 2208.5 - 3
4 - Fernando Alonso - 2118.5 - 4
5 - Jenson Button - 1779.5 - 5
6 - Felipe Massa - 1080 - 6
7 - Nico Rosberg - 878 - 7
8 - Rubens Barrichello - 786 - 8
9 - Robert Kubica - 567 - 9
10 - Adrian Sutil - 559 - 10
11 - Michael Schumacher - 552 - 11
12 - Vitaly Petrov - 451 - 13
13 - Nick Heidfeld - 449 - 12
14 - Sebastian Buemi - 448 - 14
15 - Jaime Alguersuari - 421.5 - 16
16 - Kamui Kobayashi - 409 - 15
17 - Jarno Trulli - 354.5 - 17
18 - Heikki Kovalainen - 335.5 - 18
19 - Kimi Raikkonen - 286 - 19
20 - Timo Glock - 259.5 - 20
21 - Nico Hulkenberg - 250 - 21
22 - Paul Di Resta -222 - 23
23 - Vitantonio Liuzzi - 205 - 22
24 - Giancarlo Fisichella - 118.5 - 24
25 - Pastor Maldonado - 118 - 28
26 - Sergio Perez - 106 - 25
27 - Kazuki Nakajima - 94.5 - 26
28 - Pedro De La Rosa - 91 - 27
29 - Bruno Senna - 89 - 30
30 - Jerome D'Ambrosio - 70 - 29
31 - Nelson Piquet Jnr - 54 - 32
32 - Sebastian Bourdais - 50.5 - 31
33 - Lucas Di Grassi - 44 - 33
34 - Karun Chandhok - 35 - 34
35 - Sakon Yamamoto - 32 - 35
36 - Romain Grosjean - 25 - 36
37 - Narain Karthikeyan - 22 - 37
38 - David Coulthard - 15 - 38
39 - Daniel Ricciardo - 14 - 39
40 - Luca Badoer - 5.5 - 40
41 - Christian Klien - 2 - 41
2011 Italian Grand Prix - Race
Sebastian Vettel won an entertaining Italian GP, easing to victory ahead of Jenon Button and Fernando Alonso.
The race started with chaos at the first corner. Liuzzi had a tank-slapper down the straight. He clipped the edge of the grass, and losing control of his HRT, he slid into the cars coming around the first corner. The accident ended the race of Rosberg, Petrov, D'Ambrosio and Liuzzi. With debris all over the front chicane, the safety car was deployed.
At the front Alonso had a brilliant start, and was first around the first corner. Schumacher also pushed his Mercedes up to fourth.When the safety car left the track, the biggest battles was for 1st and 3rd. Vettel was all behind Alonso, and with a wheel on the grass, the German took the lead. Behind him, a Mercedes with a higher top speed, took Hamilton for third. There was more fighting behind these drivers as well. Webber found himself behind Massa. As they both tried to get around the first corner, they touched with Webber losing his nose, and Massa left facing the other way. Webber retired, after losing grip, and Massa fell down the field. The accident left Button through. He started to close in on the Schumacher-Hamilton battle for third.
After Michael had overtaken Lewis for third, Hamilton had not let Schumacher get away. The McLaren was the faster car, but the Mercedes had a higher top speed. Lewis could stay with Michael, but just couldn't take him. They fought hammer and tongue for over ten laps, Button closing all the time. Eventually all three were separated by a second. Hamilton tried a move coming out of the second chicane. Schumacher saw him, and started to push him onto the grass. Lewis backed of, letting Button through. Then, coming into the Ascari chicane, he took Michael for third. This left Hamilton to have another go, but he copied Buttons move. But, the three of them went straight into the pits. The stops left Button in third, but Michael jumped Lewis. This left us with Hamilton vs Schumacher part 2. Michael made some debatable moves. Moves which resulted in Ross Brawn telling him to give Hamilton at least some room. In the end the overall faster driver prevailed, and Hamilton took fourth.
At the very front, Vettel was untroubled in the lead. He lead Alonso, who was being chased by Button. Jenson was one of the fastest cars on the track. It wasn't long until Button was within touching distance of Alonso. With a good run off the first chicane, Button slipstreamed Fernando and took second place off him. In the remaining laps, the best place to watch was down in the midfield. Bruno Senna was showing what he is made of. On the softer tyres, Senna was all over the back of Buemi. But a slow Buemi gave little fight to the Brazilian.
In the end it was an easy win for Vettel, ahead of Button, Alonso and a fast Hamilton. Alguersuari did well to take seventh, and Bruno Senna took his first top 10 finish.
Race Results
Pos - Driver - Team - Rank
1 - Sebastian Vettel - Red Bull - 1
2 - Jenson Button - McLaren - 5
3 - Fernando Alonso - Ferrari - 4
4 - Lewis Hamilton - McLaren - 3
5 - Michael Schumacher - Mercedes - 11
6 - Felipe Massa - Ferrari - 6
7 - Jaime Alguersuari - Toro Rosso - 16
8 - Paul Di Resta - Force India - 23
9 - Bruno Senna - Renault - 30
10 - Sebastian Buemi - Toro Rosso - 14
11 - Pastor Maldonado - Williams - 28
12 - Rubens Barrichello - Williams - 8
13 - Heikki Kovalainen - Lotus - 18
14 - Jarno Trulli - Lotus - 17
NC - Daniel Ricciardo - HRT - 39
R - Sergio Perez - Sauber - 25
R - Kamui Kobayashi - Sauber - 15
R - Adrian Sutil - Force India - 10
R - Mark Webber - Red Bull - 2
R - Jerome D'Ambrosio - Virgin - 29
R - Vitaly Petrov - Renault - 13
R - Nico Rosberg - Mercedes - 7
R - Vitantonio Liuzzi - HRT - 22
The race started with chaos at the first corner. Liuzzi had a tank-slapper down the straight. He clipped the edge of the grass, and losing control of his HRT, he slid into the cars coming around the first corner. The accident ended the race of Rosberg, Petrov, D'Ambrosio and Liuzzi. With debris all over the front chicane, the safety car was deployed.
At the front Alonso had a brilliant start, and was first around the first corner. Schumacher also pushed his Mercedes up to fourth.When the safety car left the track, the biggest battles was for 1st and 3rd. Vettel was all behind Alonso, and with a wheel on the grass, the German took the lead. Behind him, a Mercedes with a higher top speed, took Hamilton for third. There was more fighting behind these drivers as well. Webber found himself behind Massa. As they both tried to get around the first corner, they touched with Webber losing his nose, and Massa left facing the other way. Webber retired, after losing grip, and Massa fell down the field. The accident left Button through. He started to close in on the Schumacher-Hamilton battle for third.
After Michael had overtaken Lewis for third, Hamilton had not let Schumacher get away. The McLaren was the faster car, but the Mercedes had a higher top speed. Lewis could stay with Michael, but just couldn't take him. They fought hammer and tongue for over ten laps, Button closing all the time. Eventually all three were separated by a second. Hamilton tried a move coming out of the second chicane. Schumacher saw him, and started to push him onto the grass. Lewis backed of, letting Button through. Then, coming into the Ascari chicane, he took Michael for third. This left Hamilton to have another go, but he copied Buttons move. But, the three of them went straight into the pits. The stops left Button in third, but Michael jumped Lewis. This left us with Hamilton vs Schumacher part 2. Michael made some debatable moves. Moves which resulted in Ross Brawn telling him to give Hamilton at least some room. In the end the overall faster driver prevailed, and Hamilton took fourth.
At the very front, Vettel was untroubled in the lead. He lead Alonso, who was being chased by Button. Jenson was one of the fastest cars on the track. It wasn't long until Button was within touching distance of Alonso. With a good run off the first chicane, Button slipstreamed Fernando and took second place off him. In the remaining laps, the best place to watch was down in the midfield. Bruno Senna was showing what he is made of. On the softer tyres, Senna was all over the back of Buemi. But a slow Buemi gave little fight to the Brazilian.
In the end it was an easy win for Vettel, ahead of Button, Alonso and a fast Hamilton. Alguersuari did well to take seventh, and Bruno Senna took his first top 10 finish.
Race Results
Pos - Driver - Team - Rank
1 - Sebastian Vettel - Red Bull - 1
2 - Jenson Button - McLaren - 5
3 - Fernando Alonso - Ferrari - 4
4 - Lewis Hamilton - McLaren - 3
5 - Michael Schumacher - Mercedes - 11
6 - Felipe Massa - Ferrari - 6
7 - Jaime Alguersuari - Toro Rosso - 16
8 - Paul Di Resta - Force India - 23
9 - Bruno Senna - Renault - 30
10 - Sebastian Buemi - Toro Rosso - 14
11 - Pastor Maldonado - Williams - 28
12 - Rubens Barrichello - Williams - 8
13 - Heikki Kovalainen - Lotus - 18
14 - Jarno Trulli - Lotus - 17
NC - Daniel Ricciardo - HRT - 39
R - Sergio Perez - Sauber - 25
R - Kamui Kobayashi - Sauber - 15
R - Adrian Sutil - Force India - 10
R - Mark Webber - Red Bull - 2
R - Jerome D'Ambrosio - Virgin - 29
R - Vitaly Petrov - Renault - 13
R - Nico Rosberg - Mercedes - 7
R - Vitantonio Liuzzi - HRT - 22
Saturday 10 September 2011
2011 Italian Grand Prix - Qualifying
Sebastian Vettel took his 25th carear pole position, beating Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button.
Q1 started with teams still discussing about the camber on their cars, and its possible affect on the Pirelli tyres. However, all was forgotten when the green light came out for the start of qualifying. Everything was calm for the first haf of Q1 as everyone was focussed on their own lap time. However, while going around the final corner, Pastor Maldonado lost control of his car, and crashed into the barriers. The Williams team had enough time to fix Pastor's nose, and he was able to go out to do a flying lap. In the end, it was Jaime Alguersuari who was the biggest scalp. He joined Trulli, Kovalainen, Glock, D'Ambrosio, Ricciadro and Liuzzi.
Q2 was all about the midfield teams. The front-runners all did fast enough times to ensure passage into the final round of qualifying, only leaving space for a few more drivers. With the chequered flag out, it was Paul Di Resta who has 10th. However, he was to be beaten by 0.006 seconds by Bruno Senna. The Brazilian managed to get a tow on his in-lap to increase his top speed, giving him the tiniest of margins.
Q3 was split. Vettel, the McLaren's, the Ferrari's, and Petrov went out to fo do 2 stints. At halfway, it was Vettel who has prilemery pole. Mark Webber decided to do a long single stint with Scumacher. While Rosberg did a very long stint on the harder tyres. While Senna chose not to run at all. With 0:00 on the clock left, all the big runners were in a line. Webber crossed first, improving his time, but not his position. Behind him Button and Hamilton were even on their previous times, and Alonso was slightly faster. But the fastest was Vettel. While the McLaren drivers abandoned their laps, Vettel stormed through to beat Lewis Hamilton by half a second.
Grid For Tomorrow
Pos - Driver - Team - Rank
1 - Sebastian Vettel - Red Bull - 1
2 - Lewis Hamilton - McLaren - 3
3 - Jenson Button - McLaren - 5
4 - Fernando Alonso - Ferrari - 4
5 - Mark Webber - Red Bull - 2
6 - Felipe Massa - Ferrari - 6
7 - Vitaly Petrov - Renault - 13
8 - Michael Schumacher - Mercedes - 11
9 - Nico Rosberg - Mercedes - 7
10 - Bruno Senna - Renault - 30
11 - Paul Di Resta - Force India - 23
12 - Adrian Sutil - Force India - 10
13 - Rubens Barrichello - Williams - 8
14 - Pastor Maldonado - Williams - 28
15 - Sergio Perez - Sauber - 25
16 - Sebastian Buemi - Toro Rosso - 14
17 - Kamui Kobayashi - Sauber - 15
18 - Jaime Alguersuari - Toro Rosso - 16
19 - Jarno Trulli - Lotus - 17
20 - Heikki Kovalainen - Lotus - 18
21 - Timo Glock - Virgin - 20
22 - Jerome D'Ambrosio - Virgin - 29
23 - Daniel Ricciardo - HRT - 39
24 - Vitantonio Liuzzi - HRT - 22
Q1 started with teams still discussing about the camber on their cars, and its possible affect on the Pirelli tyres. However, all was forgotten when the green light came out for the start of qualifying. Everything was calm for the first haf of Q1 as everyone was focussed on their own lap time. However, while going around the final corner, Pastor Maldonado lost control of his car, and crashed into the barriers. The Williams team had enough time to fix Pastor's nose, and he was able to go out to do a flying lap. In the end, it was Jaime Alguersuari who was the biggest scalp. He joined Trulli, Kovalainen, Glock, D'Ambrosio, Ricciadro and Liuzzi.
Q2 was all about the midfield teams. The front-runners all did fast enough times to ensure passage into the final round of qualifying, only leaving space for a few more drivers. With the chequered flag out, it was Paul Di Resta who has 10th. However, he was to be beaten by 0.006 seconds by Bruno Senna. The Brazilian managed to get a tow on his in-lap to increase his top speed, giving him the tiniest of margins.
Q3 was split. Vettel, the McLaren's, the Ferrari's, and Petrov went out to fo do 2 stints. At halfway, it was Vettel who has prilemery pole. Mark Webber decided to do a long single stint with Scumacher. While Rosberg did a very long stint on the harder tyres. While Senna chose not to run at all. With 0:00 on the clock left, all the big runners were in a line. Webber crossed first, improving his time, but not his position. Behind him Button and Hamilton were even on their previous times, and Alonso was slightly faster. But the fastest was Vettel. While the McLaren drivers abandoned their laps, Vettel stormed through to beat Lewis Hamilton by half a second.
Grid For Tomorrow
Pos - Driver - Team - Rank
1 - Sebastian Vettel - Red Bull - 1
2 - Lewis Hamilton - McLaren - 3
3 - Jenson Button - McLaren - 5
4 - Fernando Alonso - Ferrari - 4
5 - Mark Webber - Red Bull - 2
6 - Felipe Massa - Ferrari - 6
7 - Vitaly Petrov - Renault - 13
8 - Michael Schumacher - Mercedes - 11
9 - Nico Rosberg - Mercedes - 7
10 - Bruno Senna - Renault - 30
11 - Paul Di Resta - Force India - 23
12 - Adrian Sutil - Force India - 10
13 - Rubens Barrichello - Williams - 8
14 - Pastor Maldonado - Williams - 28
15 - Sergio Perez - Sauber - 25
16 - Sebastian Buemi - Toro Rosso - 14
17 - Kamui Kobayashi - Sauber - 15
18 - Jaime Alguersuari - Toro Rosso - 16
19 - Jarno Trulli - Lotus - 17
20 - Heikki Kovalainen - Lotus - 18
21 - Timo Glock - Virgin - 20
22 - Jerome D'Ambrosio - Virgin - 29
23 - Daniel Ricciardo - HRT - 39
24 - Vitantonio Liuzzi - HRT - 22
Monday 5 September 2011
Latest F1 News
The Future Of Nick Heidfeld
German veteran - Nick Heidfeld - appears to have said goodbye to Formula One. After being replaced by Bruno Senna in the Renault team, and leaving the team all together last week, news is that he is looking elsewhere for a new job. Currently, the German is being linked with a seat in a new BMW team in Germany's Touring Car Championship. It is unsure whether he is closing to signing, or whether he will return to F1.
Narain Close To Driving In India
Hispania's former driver Narain Karthikeyan is closing in on a drive at his home grand prix. He has secured a new sponsorship deal that should see him replace Daniel Ricciardo for the one race. It is unsure if he will be the only Indian racing, as it may be possible that Karun Chandhok gets a drive in the Lotus team, but the money would have to be there.
Next Year's Calendar
Turkey has been officially dropped from next years calendar. It had been rumored for most of the year, due to the lack of interest in the country. There will still be 20 races next yar though, with the return of the American GP, which will be held in the latter parts of the year.
2012's Calendar
18 March - Australia - Melbourne
25 March - Malaysia - Sepang
15 April - China - Shanghai
22 April - Bahrain - Sakhir
13 May - Spain - Barcelona
27 May - Monaco - Monte-Carlo
10 June - Canada - Monteal
24 June - Europe - Valencia
8 July - Britain - Silverstone
22 July - Germany - Hockenheim
29 July - Hungary - Budapest
2 September - Belgium - Spa
9 September - Italy - Monza
23 September - Singapore - Marina Bay
7 October - Japan - Suzuka
14 October - Korea - Yeongam
28 October - India - Greater Noida
4 November - Abu Dhabi - Yas Marina
18 November - USA - Austin
25 November - Brazil - Sao Paulo
German veteran - Nick Heidfeld - appears to have said goodbye to Formula One. After being replaced by Bruno Senna in the Renault team, and leaving the team all together last week, news is that he is looking elsewhere for a new job. Currently, the German is being linked with a seat in a new BMW team in Germany's Touring Car Championship. It is unsure whether he is closing to signing, or whether he will return to F1.
Narain Close To Driving In India
Hispania's former driver Narain Karthikeyan is closing in on a drive at his home grand prix. He has secured a new sponsorship deal that should see him replace Daniel Ricciardo for the one race. It is unsure if he will be the only Indian racing, as it may be possible that Karun Chandhok gets a drive in the Lotus team, but the money would have to be there.
Next Year's Calendar
Turkey has been officially dropped from next years calendar. It had been rumored for most of the year, due to the lack of interest in the country. There will still be 20 races next yar though, with the return of the American GP, which will be held in the latter parts of the year.
2012's Calendar
18 March - Australia - Melbourne
25 March - Malaysia - Sepang
15 April - China - Shanghai
22 April - Bahrain - Sakhir
13 May - Spain - Barcelona
27 May - Monaco - Monte-Carlo
10 June - Canada - Monteal
24 June - Europe - Valencia
8 July - Britain - Silverstone
22 July - Germany - Hockenheim
29 July - Hungary - Budapest
2 September - Belgium - Spa
9 September - Italy - Monza
23 September - Singapore - Marina Bay
7 October - Japan - Suzuka
14 October - Korea - Yeongam
28 October - India - Greater Noida
4 November - Abu Dhabi - Yas Marina
18 November - USA - Austin
25 November - Brazil - Sao Paulo
Saturday 3 September 2011
2011 Italian Grand Prix - Preview
2011 Italian GP
Location : Autodromo Nazionale Monza, Monza, Italy
Lap Stats : 53 laps - 3.6 miles/lap - 190.58 miles
Lap Record : Rubens Barrichello - 1:21.046
2010
Pole : Fernando Alonso - Ferrari
Fastest Lap : Fernando Alonso - Ferrari
Winner : Fernando Alonso - Ferrari
Weather
Saturday : Sunny
Sunday : Sunny
Last Time
It was a straight battle between Fernando Alonso and Jenson Button across the weekend. The two of them took the front row of the grid, and the two of them led most of the race. Red Bull slightly struggled, with a slower top speed, and Lewis Hamilton retired on the first lap, the beginning of a poor end of season.
This Time
After experimenting at Montreal and Valencia, the FIA have decided to re-introduce two DRS zones for this weekends grand prix. The slight difference will be that they will be independent, with two detection and activation zones. The first zone is on the main straight, with the other being between the second and third chicane (Curva di Lesmo and Ascari). Like 2010, expect teams with a high top speed to possibly dominate, but you can never really discount Red Bull, can you?
Location : Autodromo Nazionale Monza, Monza, Italy
Lap Stats : 53 laps - 3.6 miles/lap - 190.58 miles
Lap Record : Rubens Barrichello - 1:21.046
2010
Pole : Fernando Alonso - Ferrari
Fastest Lap : Fernando Alonso - Ferrari
Winner : Fernando Alonso - Ferrari
Weather
Saturday : Sunny
Sunday : Sunny
Last Time
It was a straight battle between Fernando Alonso and Jenson Button across the weekend. The two of them took the front row of the grid, and the two of them led most of the race. Red Bull slightly struggled, with a slower top speed, and Lewis Hamilton retired on the first lap, the beginning of a poor end of season.
This Time
After experimenting at Montreal and Valencia, the FIA have decided to re-introduce two DRS zones for this weekends grand prix. The slight difference will be that they will be independent, with two detection and activation zones. The first zone is on the main straight, with the other being between the second and third chicane (Curva di Lesmo and Ascari). Like 2010, expect teams with a high top speed to possibly dominate, but you can never really discount Red Bull, can you?
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