Grand Prix Formula 1

Travel and Hotels | The Monza Italian Formula 1 Grand Prix

2011-08-31T04:49:00.000-07:00

This is Monza a town north of Milan. This is where the Tifosi come to venerate the holy Ferrari horse, horse power and sheer Formula 1 speed. This is where their concentration on the event sees them assimilated into one of (if not the) fastest car ever made. You'll need to book hotels early if you have somewhere specific in mind but there are normally rooms available and advertised if not taken in the week preceding the Monza Grand Prix.

We discovered that we could stay in Italy and attend practicing, qualifying and the event - the Monza Formula 1 Grand Prix - but too late to book our favourite hotel. Do do this we would have had to book last year (at least) and to have paid the full amount - tricky if you don't know the hotel so go through a travel agent if this describes you. With less than two weeks to make the arrangements we were cutting it fine. What we do in these circumstances is look for a hotel advertised online, check the dates and (if they are available) take down its name and then go into a travel agent and ask them to make the arrangements. This can cost more than you would pay directly online but it does give you added safeguards.

TIP: We buy our travel insurance online as this is by far cheaper than that offered by travel agents who invariably double the cost to you with their markup.

The town is friendly but staunchly supporting Ferrari. Welcome to the Italian Monza Grand Prix. The hotels in these parts are stylish and vibrant, particularly when the Grand Prix is in town. Supporting Ferrari is akin to congratulating Italian style and ability to design and build the fastest cars in the world.

Where to Stay for the Monza Grand Prix

You could stay in Milan which is about 5 or 6 miles south of Monza but true F1 fans prefer to stay as close as they can - within walking distance if possible. Convenient hotel location is a must if you are enjoying a full on weekend: Friday practicing, Saturday qualifying and the Grand Prix race on Sunday.

Hotels nearby include:

Residence Oasi Di Monza
Hotel Re
AS Hotel Monza
Albergo Hotel Giardino
Grand Hotel Duca Di Mantova
Hotel Abacus
Cosmo Hotel Palace
Hotel Blu Inn
Motel Rona

Monaco Grand Prix Art, Photography and Posters

2011-08-28T17:57:00.000-07:00

A selection of posters depicting scenes from Formula 1 Grand Prix.

Formula 1 venues demand high design. Graphics and colour branding (Ferrari red, Jaguar green, Renault yellow), advertsisng and logo design and that's before we consider the thousands of components on the F1 cars, their aerodynamic tested smooth undulating bodywork.

Monaco was and is the most glamorous Grand Prix in the F1 Calendar. The poster reproduced on the right (click on it for details of where and how to buy) is from the 5th Monaco Grand Prix which took place in April 1933. Depicted is the view of a car as it emerges from the tunnel on the road along the harbor front. The tunnel has been rebuilt but the view is still recognisable.

Once the cars emerge from the tunnel (above) they drive on the harbor road. This scene is also recognisable in today's Monaco... as are the palm trees and the view up to the coastal path and around the headland depicted in this Monaco grand Prix poster from August 1937.

To find out more about this book of Monaco posters (depicted on the right) click on the image.

Click on the image left for details of this book which captures the excitement of the Monaco Grand Prix, the glamour of the occasion and the style of the town in its beautiful location.

Travel and Hotels | The Belgian Formula 1 Grand Prix

2011-08-28T16:39:00.000-07:00

The modern Spa (Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps) seen from the air. Image from Wikipedia

Listen to the F1 Grand Prix theme tune by Fleetwood Mac in a hotel, near the F1 circuit. With every note your anticipation of the race builds. You are living in luxury close to the circuit - sometimes even overlooking the racetrack like the Hotel de la Source - and visiting to watch practice, qualifying and the Grand Prix itself.

The Belgian Grand Prix

This is one of the drivers' favourite races. The Grand Prix in Spa Francorchamps takes them "to the edge" (Michael Schumacher), it is physically demanding and completely exhilarating. The Belgian Grand Prix has been on the F1 Grand Prix calendar since 1925. It is highly desireable to go and watch and therefore hotels need to be booked as soon as the dates of the race at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps is announced. There are many hotels near the circuit but only one overlooks it. This is (as mentioned) Hotel de la Source, the ideal hotel for F1 fans and enthusiasts.

Historical Belgian Grand Prix

Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps is well placed in Grand Prix history. The Belgian Grand Prix has not always taken place here. In the 1970s and 1980s it was moved the the Circuit Zolder because Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps was too fast and too dangerous.

In 1925 the race was won by Alfa Romeo. It was five years until the second Belgian Grand Prix (1930) which was won by Bugatti. Masserati and Mercedes-Benz were also vying for dominance. Nowadays the dominant teams are Ferrari, McLaren and Red Bull, times and designs have changed but the buzz of watching the fastest cars in the world race against one another.

Hotels and Accommodation within Walking Distance of Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps

Hotel de la Source - this hotel overlooks Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps. Gym, sauna, free WiFi, tea and coffee facilities. Rooms with balconies. ****4 star

Acqua Rossa - this is a hotel and Italian restaurant (nice combination). 500 meters from Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps main entrance. Rooms are uncluttered, bright and airy a clean Italian style with luxurious bathrooms. Free WiFi and flat screen TVs in rooms. ***3 star.

Hostellerie Le Roannay - an outdoor swimming pool and a helliport. The dining room looked lush and it seems to be about the food here. 800 meters from Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps and set in beautiful surroundings. ****4 star

The Gap Between Hamilton and Alonso was Button! Canada F1 RESULTS

2010-06-13T11:04:00.000-07:00

Yippee Our Man Hamilton Won!

Two poles and two wins out of his three Canada Grand Prix in Canada. The man-made island in the Saint Laurence River next to Montreal is becoming the property of our favourite driver in the world and all time - Lewis Hamilton. Mr Angry (Fernando Alonso) came third and wasn't he unhappy at the after race interview? YES!

Now Hamilton leads the championship and Button is 3 points behind - 3 points behind Button is Mark Webber. Mr Angry is in 4th. Things are shaping up well for Lewis and fans like us will be hoping that this is the start of things to come. We can't wait to see how he speeds up with the new car at Silverstone.

Schummy was supposedly naughty but we think he was actually a genius and, with the state of his tyres, how could he have - beyond all doubt - got rid of Massa... unless he is a real genius. Shut up Eddie Jordan who was heard going on about Schummy worse race ever - your envy is beginning to cloud your judgement.

McClaren Tyre Strategy Wins

In addition to outclassing the other F1 teams with skill and determination the McClaren team also outclassed them with their tyre strategy. We'll add the full finishing positions and points for drivers and maybe constructors soon - check back - now it is off to wathc some world cup football - YIPPEE!

Hamilton is Ready For the Canadian Formula 1 Grand Prix!

2010-06-13T08:21:00.000-07:00

Good Luck Hamilton

Hamilton won his first Grand Prix of the 2010 season last time out in Turkey. This was thanks to Red Bull's ridiculous "racing incident" (we blame Webber) but not thanks to racing orders or the slick and underhand tactics employed by his team mate, the ugly Jenson Button. Thankfully, Lewis Hamilton's superior driving skills were able to ensure that he took back the lead from Jenson after he had been told (obviously but denied by McClaren) that he need not be careful to preserve fuel.

Hamilton Starts From Position One!

At qualifying yesterday Lewis showed Alonso (the angry Spaniard) both Red Bull Cars and his teamy Jenson Button that he was the best. Under pressure, during the last lap of qualifying Q3, Hamilton didn't make a mistake and got a faster time than Webber and Vettel who start in second and third respectively.

Button and Mr Angry

Jenson Button in the same car as Hamilton and with the favouritism being shown to him did not match Hamilton in qualifying. Button starts in fifth, managing to record a dismal time which was half a second slower than our favourite - gues who - Lewis Hamilton. Mr Angry Alonso managed to get his underperforming Ferrari ahead of Mr not so shiny Button.

Good Luck Lewis

We wish Lewis Hamilton all the best luck at Sunday's Grand Prix. He shouldn't need it as he has the best car and the best ability of all the drivers. That said he is up against a lot of jealousy and unfairness.

Good Luck Schummy Too

Schummy failed to get into Q3 - even though Rosberg managed sixth position on the starting grid. We are confident that he will make up places. We wish Schummy good luck too and hope he stands in second place after the finish of the Canadian Grand Prix... which our Lewis Hamilton wins!

F1 Drivers' and Constructors' Points after Seven Races

2010-05-30T15:13:00.000-07:00

Here are the drivers' and constructors' points after seven of 19 Formula 1 Grand Prix races in this the 2010 season. The new points system which includes 25 points for a win and gives points for all the top ten drivers is adding more excitement to proceedings.

Drivers - Position and Points after 7 Races

1	Mark Webber	93
2	Jenson Button	88
3	Lewis Hamilton	84
4	Fernando Alonso	79
5	Sebastian Vettel	78
6	Robert Kubica	67
7	Felipe Massa	67
8	Nico Rosberg	66
9	Michael Schumacher	34
10	Adrian Sutil	22
11	Vitantonio Liuzzi	10
12	Rubens Barrichello	7
13	Vitaly Petrov	6
14	Jaime Alguersuari	3
15	Sébastien Buemi	1
16	Kamui Kobayashi	1
17	Nico Hülkenberg	1
18	Pedro de la Rosa	0
19	Heikki Kovalainen	0
20	Karun Chandhok	0
21	Lucas Di Grassi	0
22	Jarno Trulli	0
23	Bruno Senna	0
24	Timo Glock	0

Position	Constructor	Points
1	McLaren-Mercedes	172
2	Red Bull-Renault	171
3	Ferrari	146
4	Mercedes	100
5	Renault	73
6	Force India-Mercedes	32
7	Williams-Cosworth	8
8	Toro Rosso-Ferrari	4
9	BMW Sauber-Ferrari	1
10	Lotus-Cosworth	0
11	HRT-Cosworth	0
12	Virgin-Cosworth	0

Starting Grid The Formula 1 Turkish Grand Prix at Istanbul

2010-05-29T06:51:00.000-07:00

At last, our favourite will start on the front line. We take this opportunity to wish Lewis Hamilton all the best. While we are at it we are sending good vibes to Lewis we are also sending them to Michael Schumacher. Schumy is still at least the second best F1 driver in the world (the best if not for Lewis) but the press have given him a hard time. The decision to deduct points from him for what we thought was an excellent move against the bad tempered Alonso was wrong and we still suspect a score settled by the ridiculous Damien Hill.

Here are the starting positions of all drivers for the 2010 Formula 1 Grand Prix in Istanbul, Turkey.

Mark Webber ~ Red Bull-Renault
Lewis Hamilton ~ McLaren-Mercedes
Sebastian Vettel ~ Red Bull-Renault
Jensen Button ~ McLaren-Mercedes
Michael Schumacher ~ Mercedes GP
Nico Rosberg ~ Mercedes GP
Robert Kubica ~ Renault
Filipe Massa ~ Ferrari
Vitaly Petrov ~ Renault
Kamui Kobayashi ~ BMW Sauber-Ferrari
Adrian Sutil ~ Force India-Mercedes
Fernando Alonso ~ Ferrari
Pedro de la Rosa ~ BMW Sauber-Ferrari
Sebastien Buemi ~ Toro Rosso-Ferrari
Rubens Barrichello ~ Williams-Cosworth
Jaime Algeursuari ~ Toro Rosso-Ferrari
Nico Hulkenberg ~ Williams-Cosworth
Vitantonio Liuzzi ~ Force India-Mercedes
Jarno Trulli ~ Lotus Cosworth
Heikki Kovalainen ~ Lotus Cosworth
Timo Glock ~ Virgin-Cosworth
Bruno Senna ~ Hispania-Cosworth
Lucas de Grassi ~ Virgin-Cosworth
Karun Chandhok ~ Hispania-Cosworth

Schumy, Beyonce and the Monaco F1 Grand Prix Results

2010-05-16T11:36:00.000-07:00

Fashion and Celebrity + An Exciting Formula 1 Grand Prix in Monte Carlo

Beyonce wandered the starting grid in Monte Carlo - hand in hand with her partner. Beyonce was dressed in a black and white cat suit - like the ones we wore in the 60s: full, flowing pants - ideal for feeling the cool Mediterranean seaside breeze - with the 2010s addition of a revealed midriff and African princess matching headdress. Beyonce's outfit was black and white too, not 60s psychedelic... We didn't see Paris Hilton but heard someone say she had overdone it the night before - this is probably untrue but other more gossipy sites will update us on this - back to the race...

The Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix 2010

This was a most exciting race - Monte Carlo for all its glitz and celebrity can sometimes be boring and monotonous. The track has no places to overtake. With this in mind Alonso's progress from last and starting from the pit lane needs to be remembered. Alonso Ferrari did well but he and it could not overtake his ex team mate and our favourite Lewis Hamilton in his McLaren. Furthermore, Alonso went to sleep and assisted some Schumy magic when the safety car retired and the race resumed for the last few hundred metres. Schumy notched up sixth place and sleepy Alonso fell back to seventh.

Here are the drivers who won points results of the 2010 Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix in Monte Carlo:

Webber
Vettel
Kubica
Massa
Hamilton
Schumacher
Rosberg
Sutil
Liuzzi

We are looking forward to the next Grand Prix - see you in Turkey.

Monaco Grand Prix Starting Grid 2010

2010-05-16T03:58:00.000-07:00

Mark Webber in the Red Bull Renault pipped Kubica in the Renault. Lewis Hamilton out qualified his McLaren team mate Jenson Button. Hamilton starts fifth but Button only eighth. Felipe Massa - has a bigger starting lead than his team mate Alonso. Massa starts in fourth but Alonso starts from last place in the pit lane due to his crash and chassis right off during Friday's practice. Here is the full list of starting positions at today's Monaco Grand Prix:

Mark Webber ~ Red Bull-Renault
Robert Kubica ~ Renault
Sebastian Vettel ~ Red Bull-Renault
Felipe Massa ~ Ferrari
Lewis Hamilton ~ McLaren Mercedes
Nico Rosberg ~ Mercedes GP
Michael Schumacher ~ Mercedes GP
Jenson Button ~ McLaren Mercedes
Rubens Barrichello ~ Williams Cosworth
Vitantonio Liuzz~ Force India-Mercedes
Nico Hulkenberg ~ Williams Cosworth
Adrian Sutil ~ Force India-Mercedes
Sebastien Buemi ~ Torro Rosso Ferrari
Vitaly Petrob ~ Renault
Pedro de la Rosa ~ BWW Sauber-Ferrari
Kamui Kobayashi ~ BWW Sauber-Ferrari
Jaime Alguersuari ~ Torro Rosso Ferrari
Heikki Kovalainen ~ Lotus-Cosworth
Jamo Truilli ~ Lotus-Cosworth
Timo Glock ~ Virgin-Cosworth
Lucas di Grassi ~ Virgin-Cosworth
Bruno Senna ~ Hispania-Cosworth
Karun Chandhok ~ Hispania-Cosworth
Fernando Alonso ~ Ferrari

Paris Hilton Partying at Monaco | Alonso Blaming Hamilton

2010-05-16T03:36:00.000-07:00

As the BBC have reported we can confirm that Paris Hilton is in town to enjoy the pre and post Grand Prix parties at Monaco. But, apart from this being the place where the beautiful people (those with money anyway) party, why is Paris Hilton here? Do you want the gossip? (Of course you do!) Thanks to the Katie Price Gossip website for this information

Paris Hilton Looks for a F1 Husband

That's the gossip anyway. Paris Hilton is looking for a husband and she wants a Formula 1 Grand Prix race driver. Normally, what Paris wants, Paris gets.

If we were Paris Hilton and not just a pair of old codgers we reckon we'd be doing exactly what Paris is supposedly doing.

We are grateful for a reporter from the Katie Price Gossip website for this gossip. No, Katie Price is not in Monaco this year but word is she'll be in Monaco for the 2011 race... apparently Alex Reid is one hell of an F1 Grand Prix fan.

Alonso's Problem with Hamilton

Alonso's problem with Hamilton can be traced back to Lewis Hamilton's first F1 season when both drivers were with McLaren in 2007. It is difficult to come to any other conclusion but Alonso's problem with the younger man stem from Hamilton's being such a good driver. Any chance Alonso had of putting the jealousy behind him went out the window when Lewis had the cheek to win the F1 World Championship in 2008.

Alonso's Delight

A source told us that Fernando Alonso was "made up" when Lewis Hamilton's McLaren failed to finish the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona. Lewis had been in second place and there seemed that nothing would stop him finishing in this podium position... until a dramatic puncture led to his crashing out in the penultimate lap. This did assist Alonso's points tally as Lewis's retirement gave him the second place. The fact that Alonso could have achieved second place any other way - ie he did not have the speed or tactics himself - was lost on the driver.

Hamilton's Sympathy

Our favourite Lewis Hamilton either rises above the ongoing situation with Alonso or just has too much going on in his professional and private life to be bothered. That said, we have it on good authority that Hamiliton empathised with Alonso over his Monaco practice crash. In case you don't know, Alonso crashed his Ferrari during practising on Friday. His Ferrari's chassis suffered irreparable damage and Alonso was unable to take part in Saturday's Qualifying. As a result Alonso has had a chassis change and will be starting from the pit lane in today's Monaco Grand Prix.

Go To the Next Shanghai Grand Prix! Chinese Grand Prix 2011

2010-04-18T03:18:00.000-07:00

Was Shanghai the best Formula 1 Grand Prix of the 2010 season so far?

Yes!

Why was the Shanghai Grand Prix so exciting? This was mainly the outcome of F1 on a superlative Grand Prix circuit. Have a look at the diagram of Shanghai below to see what we mean:

Image from Wikipedia Commons

What you can't see in the diagram is the width of the track and the many points at which overtaking manoeuvres can be won or lost. Wheel to wheel action around corners and slip-stream darting to get round competing cars in straits. Overtaking is the most exciting part of any Grand Prix and this explains why any Grand Prix at Shanghai will be worth watching. Imagine watching it live...

Start Planning Your Shanghai Grand Prix Experience in 2011 Now!

The wheels off-Buemi incident in Friday's practice, the Qualyfying Sessions' Saturday action - not to mention the best Grand Prix of the 2010 F1 Season so far, nor the post Grand Prix buzz and the instant mood for celebration, will have made the weekend special for F1 fans with 4 day Shanghai Circuit passes. They'll be staying in a local hotels and enjoying the best in hospitality. Some will have had VIP Hospitality and will have experienced the glamour of the F1 teams' lifestyle.

Getting to Shanghai by Boat

The 2010 weekend experience was strange. The pre race pit lanes were less busy and Eddie Jordan wasn't commentating for the BBC F1 audience. Eddie and would-be pit chatters had been delayed from Heathrow and most other European airports because of the Volcanic emissions from Iceland. If you are seriously planning a trip to Shanghai in 2011 perhaps you you look at times for a slow boat to China rather than miss the Chinese Grand Prix experience there.

We understand that there is sufficient hotel accommodation in Shanghai but, to ensure you can stay at the hotel of your choice, you should book your hotel as soon as the dates for the 2011 Chinese Grand Prix are announced.

Getting Ready for the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai 2010

2010-04-06T00:43:00.000-07:00

All F1 Grand Prix Fans Look Forward to the Chinese Grand Prix

The Shanghai International Grand Prix Circuit Image from Wikipedia

Mark Webber drives for Red Bull in the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai in 2009. Who will win this year? Image from Wikipedia

Results of the Malaysian Grand Prix at Sepang Circuit

2010-04-04T02:55:00.000-07:00

The Results of the Grand Prix in Malaysia (Sepang)

1 Vettel

2 Webber

3 Rosberg

4 Kubica

5 Suttil

6 Hamilton

7 Massa

8 Button

9 Buemi

10 Barrichello

The Malaysian Grand Prix remained dry throughout. It started out with much hope for Hamilton who went up to 12th from 20th in within the first two corners. Schumy retired quietly (the wheel nuts on his back left wheel all missing) by mid race. Alonso retired dramatically, smoke bellowing, in lap 55 of 56. The second half of the Grand Prix was relatively boring. Hamilton could not overtake Suttil's Force India...

Starting Grid The Formula 1 Malaysian Grand Prix at Sepang

2010-04-03T05:15:00.000-07:00

Here is the line up for the F1 Grand Prix at Sepang, Malaysia 4th April 2010:

1 Mark Webber Red Bull-Renault
2 Nico Rosberg Mercedes GP
3 Sebastian Vettel Red Bull-Renault
4 Adrian Suttil Force India Mercedes
5 Nico Hulkenberg Williams-Cosworth
6 Robert Kubica Renault
7 Rubens Barrichello Williams Cosworth
8 Michael Schumacher Mercedes GP
9 Kamui Kobayashi BMW Sauber-Ferrari
10 Vitantonio Liuzzi Force India Mercedes
11 Vitaly Petrov Renault
12 Pedro de la Rosa BMW Sauber-Ferrari
13 Sebastian Buemi Toro Rosso-Ferrari
14 Jaime Alguersuari Toro Rosso-Ferrari
15 Heikki Kovalainen Lotus-Cosworth
16 Timo Glock Virgin-Cosworth
17 Jensen Button McClaren-Mercedes
18 Jarno Truli Lotus-Cosworth
19 Fernando Alonso Ferrari
20 Lewis Hamilton McLaren-Mercedes
21 Felipe Massa Ferrari
22 Karun Chandhok Hispania-Cosworth
23 Bruno Senna Hispania-Cosworth
24 Lucas di Grassi Virgin Cosworth

We Want Lewis Hamilton

To win! Please Lewis drive the Grand Prix of your life!

Image from Wikipedia

Sepang Practice and Qualifying | The Malaysian Grand Prix 2010

2010-04-03T04:55:00.000-07:00

Top 5 After Friday's Practice at Sepang

Lewis Hamilton was fastest in practice at Sepang yesterday. Ahead of today's Qualifiers Hamilton (McLaren) was first, Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull) second, Nico Rosberg (Mercedes) third, Jesen Button (McLaren) fourth and Michael Schumacher (Mercedes) fifth. We woke optimistic that our bet (Hamilton first, Button second and Schumy third) was looking good. However, the nagging pessimist in us was saying "anything can happen in F1 and REALLY anything can happen in Sepang".

It Happened - Rain Shuffles Results - All Change for Sepang

Just before the start of Qualifying the rain put in a spectacular appearance. You'd think that teams like McClaren and Ferrari, with their decades of Formula 1 experience, would have their plan B (the rain plan) firmly in place - but it seems they didn't. Hence, Hamilton and Alonso - McLaren and Ferrari - did not make in past Qualifying 1. That's right, Hamilton will start tomorrow's Malaysian Grand Prix in 20th and Alonso in 19th. Phew!

The Top 5 Starters at Sepang

Because of the Sepang rain Qualifying times were more than 10 seconds slower than at yeatserday's practice. Mark Webber (Red Bull) gambled on intermediate tyres in the final Qualifying session and his gamble completely paid off: Webber starts in pole. Webber's Red Bull team mate Sebastian Vettel elected to stay on intermediates and made only third. The interloper is Mercedes' Nico Rosberg (starts in second). Fourth was secured by Adrian Sutil in the Force India car. Congratulation goes to the rookie driver Nico Hulkenberg in the Williams.

All Bets Off!

Our bet that Hamilton would stand first on the finishing podium at tomorrow's Malaysian Grand Prix still stands but the odds have gone out. What the heck, we only bet £2. We will place the same bet today. Hamilton (our hero) first, Button second and Schumy third. After all, anything can happen in Formula 1 and especially on the Sepang circuit.

Wishing Hamilton all the Best for the Malaysian Grand Prix 2010

Image from Wikipedia

Get Ready for the Malaysian Grand Prix 2010 | WATCH CIRCUIT SIMULATION

2010-04-01T14:59:00.000-07:00

Last year (2009) the Malaysian Grand Prix was spectacular. A deluge of rain turned the race circuit into a river and the race was abandoned. Jenson Button stood on the top of the podium but all points were halved.

Get Ready for the Malaysian Grand Prix Watch this Circuit Simulation by Red Bull's Mark Webber

Who Will Win the Malaysian Grand Prix in 2010?

We are betting on a McLaren one two! Lewis Hamilton to take podium and Jenson Button (last year's winner) second. Reports from the McLaren team are positive and rain (a reasonable amount) favours Hamilton. Hamilton himself is optimistic and appears to have sorted out problems within his team. There will be no repeat of last week's mess up (during the Australian Grand Prix) when Hamilton was brought in for an unnecessary tyre change and the win was stolen from him in the process.

Who Will Share the Podium with Hamilton and Button?

Our money is on Michael Schumacher - Schumy is another master in the rain and has now served his second apprenticeship in his comeback to Formula 1 Grand Prix.

Endnote

This is Formula 1 Grand Prix - nothing is certain and anything can happen.

Hamilton Ready for High Speed Corners at the Malaysian Grand Prix

2010-04-01T08:13:00.000-07:00

Lewis Hamilton is Ready!

Lewis Hamilton will not let last week's experiences at the Australian Grand Prix get him down. Our hero is looking forward to Easter Sunday's Grand Prix in Malaysia at the Sepang circuit. The best driver on the circuit (that's best out of 24) will relish the fast corners.

Picture via Wikipedia

Beware False Reports about Hamilton

Amid ridiculous reports that Hamilton was worried about rain in Sepang - Lewis is at his best in the rain - Lewis Hamilton told reporters he was "optimistic" about the race

Lewis said:

“Sepang has some of the best high-speed corners on the entire calendar"

Hamilton is also pleased with his McLaren car this year:

“And, this year, I think we’ve got a car that will be far better suited to the circuit than we did last year, so I’m heading to Malaysia optimistic of a good result.”

Australian Grand Prix Race Report Part 3

2010-03-28T02:24:00.000-07:00

Read Australian Grand Prix Race Report Part 1 CLICK HERE
Read Australian Grand Prix Race Report Part 2 CLICK HERE

Australian Grand Prix Race Report Part 3 Conclusion

Both Virgins are out now. That’ll wipe the smug grin off Branson’s face. Massa is told he must pass Kubica and that Hamilton is catching Alonso. Hamilton is 2 seconds faster than Button. Lap 47: Hamilton is 4.6 behind Alonso and 26 seconds behind Button with 11 laps to go Hamilton could still win. We are thinking “why the hell was Hamilton told to change tyres but Button was not?” The Ferraris are not going to pit for new tyres. This Grand Prix has been stolen from Hamilton.

Lap 50: Schumy is 72 seconds behind Button and in 12th position. Alonso is informed that Hamilton is 4.5 seconds behind (radio delay – he is actually now only 1.5 seconds in front of his arch rival). Alonso replies “I don’t want to know”. Lap 52 and Button with clear run is setting personal bests. Barichello takes de la Rosa and moves up into 9th position. Hamilton complains about his tyres. Schumy in Alguersuari’s wake for 15 laps. Alonso, Hamilton and Webber are in a tight train formation. Hamilton is harrying Alonso and being harried by Webber – high tension Hamilton sandwich.

Lap 54 Schumy at last overtakes Alguersuari. Hamilton asks “why did you bring me in?” We ask “why did they bring him in?”. Hamilton recovers and makes a move on Alonso but old man Webber takes him off in a ridiculous move which he had no chance of pulling off. Hamilton manages to get back on track in 6th. We are imagining Alonso’s glee. Schumy gets into 10th – great, another point for our favourite old guy.

John Travolta waves the chequered flag:

1st Jenson Button
2nd Kubica
3rd Massa
4th Alonso
5th Rosberg
6th Hamilton
7th Luizi
8th Barichello
9th Webber
10th Schumacher

Read Australian Grand Prix Race Report Part 1 CLICK HERE
Read Australian Grand Prix Race Report Part 2 CLICK HERE

Australian Grand Prix Race Report Part 2

2010-03-28T02:22:00.000-07:00

Australian Grand Prix Race Review Part 1 CLICK HERE

Australian Grand Prix Race Report Part 2

Now, with rain, there’s a scramble to the pits and it’s not pretty – but very exciting for pit stop fanatics. The cramped conditions are every lollipop man’s nightmare but the teams need to follow Button’s tyre change lead. Before the drivers pit Brundle comments on the BBC:

“You know what? I think it has worked out for Button”

Petrov leaves track and is stuck in gravel. Safety car expected but instead the double wave yellow flag informs drivers they should be ready to stop. Senna is out.

Hamilton is informed that Webber’s tyres are old and to go for it. (Hamilton had remarked that Webber was too old earlier in the week – supposedly). During the madness of the pit crowd scene Hamilton is delayed. Alonso is up to position 10 by lap 13. Another radio announcement predicts “light rain in 5 minutes”.

Lap 14 Alonso takes Barichello and is in 8th. Hamilton and Button are setting the fastest lap times. Lap 17 Massa and the brilliant opportunist Hamilton take Webber who comes off. Now Vettel 1st, Button 2nd, Kubica 3rd, Rosberg 4th, Massa 5th, Hamilton 6th and Alonso 7th. Schumacher is 13th from 24th.

Lap 21 Hamilton is harrying Massa. Hamilton takes Massa. Webber takes Alonso and Ferrari don’t look anywhere as good as they did in boring Bahrain.

Lap 23. There are worried that Hamilton’s wing has been damaged. McLaren are ready to replace it but decide not to. The Bridgestone tyres will see the cars to the end of the race (58 laps in total – 45 laps to go). Positions: Vettel 1st, Button 2nd, Kubica 3rd, Rosberg 4th, Hamilton 5th. Massa receives advice from his engineer who tells him how to drive. The sky darkens – will it rain again?

Vettel is off! It is lap 26 and Button now leads. Positions Button 1st, Kubica 2nd, Hamilton 3rd, Rosberg 4th, Massa 5th. Schumy is in 11th. BBC commentators are truly glad that Hamilton is having a better time in Melbourne this year – last year was the lies debarcle followed by the public apology. Hamilton is on Kubica, nearly, nearly but Kubica shuts the door. Schumy sets faster lap 32. Rosberg pits. BBC cut to onboard with Hamilton – he is just the best. Button does fastest lap but Kubica is holding Hamilton up. No worries, Hamilton is a dead cert to take Kubica… Hamilton is told to pit for new tyres. Button is not.

Hamilton might have exceeded pit lane speed limit. Re-enters behind Webber. Lap 39 Hamilton is in 5th, Alonso is 4th.

Lap 40: Hamilton sets fastest lap but is 32.2 seconds behind Button. Will Button have to pit too? Lap 31: Button is 13.5 ahead of Kubica in 2nd. Massa is 3rd. Hamilton is much faster than ex team mate Alonso. Brundle announces that “Button has it in the bag” we wince because this man can jinx drivers. Lap 44: Hamilton is told he can take the Ferraris. Hamilton asks his team via radio “do the Ferraris have to pit?”. McClaren reply – no, but their tyres are in poor condition…

continued Read Australian Grand Prix Race Report CLICK HERE

Australian Grand Prix Race Report Part 1

2010-03-28T02:18:00.000-07:00

Overview of the Australian Grand Prix, Albert Park, Melbourne

There was more action in the Melbourne Grand Prix in the first few yards then the entire Bahrain Grand Prix. Button won but stupid decisions by the McClaren team stole the race from Hamilton. Hamilton was our man of the Grand Prix.

John Travolta waved the chequered flag to Jenson Button as he drove through 12 seconds ahead of second place Kubica.

“I feel so good” said a delighted Jenson

Here are the results:

1st Jenson Button

2nd Kubica

3rd Massa

4th Alonso

5th Rosberg

6th Hamilton

7th Luizi

8th Barichello

9th Webber

10th Schumacher

Full Report

The First Ever Red Bull Front Line

Vettel in pole and Webber in 2nd made the first ever Red Bull Front row. Just before the race started so did the rain. This mixed it up and the “boring” race Vettel was hoping for just never happened. Schumacher’s team radio a tip “stay off the slippery white lines” a reference to the road markings which add to the Albert Park Grand Prix road circuit. The Virgin team start from the pit (unknown reasons). All drivers apart from Kubica haven’t trialled the intermediate tyres – will this be telling? Formation lap over, red lights turn green, lights turn off and we’re off!

As the cars race off Alonso is jostled and is pointing the wrong way. Hamilton (who according to some right-wing hacks in the British press will do badly following his arrest for honing) moves up from 11th to 5th Schumacher damages his front wing and the Safety Car is launched. Alonso is now in 22nd position and Schumy, after pitting for a wing change, is 24th.

Replay shows that Alonso caused his one point turn when he crowds Button who justwasn’t having it. Four cars are already out: Kobayashi Japan BMW Sauber-Ferrari, Buemi Switzerland STR-Ferrari, Hulkenberg Germany Williams Cosworth and Trulli Italy Lotus-Cosworth. The latter has hydraulic problems.

More rain expected in 20 minutes – Vettel is 1st, Massa is 2nd 9started 5th) and Kubica is 3rd (started 9th). Button has slipped to 7th from 4th but Hamilton has moved up from 11th to 5th. Button goes in to the pit and has soft slick tyres fitted. This tyre change decision is panned by the BBC commentators, words the effect “he must be mad!”

Continued CLICK HERE

Button Wins in Melbourne | Hamilton Stuffs it Up his Critics

2010-03-28T00:44:00.000-07:00

Full Race Report to follow...

John Travolta waves the chequered flag as Button takes his first race win for McLaren

Button 1st
Kubica 2nd
Massa 3rd
Rosberg 5th
Alonso 4th
Hamilton 6th
Luizi 7th
Barichello 8th
Webber 9th
Schumacher 10th

Getting Ready for the Australian Grand Prix 2010 | Starting Grid Positions

2010-03-27T12:02:00.000-07:00

The AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX 2010 - Sunday 28th March

The venue for the Australian Grand Prix is Melbourne's Albert Park. The first Grand Prix to be held here was in 1996. At that race Martin Brundle (now a prized BBC F1 commentator) split his car in two in the first lap of the race. It was a horrifying crash and viewers feared the worst. But Brundle defied what viewers witnessed with their eyes and emerged unharmed from the right-off car. Brundle actually sprinted back to the pit and when the race restarted he lined up in the Jordan team's spare car. Brundle spun off again in the same place in the first lap.

24 drivers will start the race and will aim to finish 58 laps of the 3.295 circuit. Last year's winner here was Jenson Button who was then driving for the Brawn team.

Starting Positions with Qualifying Times for the Australian Grand Prix 2010

Red Bull Sebastian Vettel, 1m 23.919s, P1
Red Bull Mark Webber, 1m 24.035s, P2
Ferrari Fernando Alonso, 1m 24.111s, P3
McLaren Jenson Button, 1m 24.675s, P4
Ferrari Felipe Massa, 1m 24.837s, P5
Mercedes GP Nico Rosberg, 1m 24.884s, P6
Mercedes GP Michael Schumacher, 1m 24.927s, P7
Williams Rubens Barrichello, 1m 25.217s, P8
Renault Robert Kubica, 1m 25.372s, P9
Force India Adrian Sutil, 1m 26.036s, P10
McLaren Lewis Hamilton, 1m 25.184s, P11
Toro Rosso Sebastien Buemi, 1m 25.638s, P12
Force India Vitantonio Liuzzi, 1m 25.743s, P13
BMW Sauber Pedro de la Rosa, 1m 25.747s, P14
Williams Nico Hulkenberg, 1m 25.748s, P15
BMW Sauber Kamui Kobayashi, 1m 25.777s, P16
Toro Rosso Jaime Alguersuari 1m 26.089s, P17
Renault Vitaly Petrov, 1m 26.471s, P18
Lotus Heikki Kovalainen, 1m 28.797s, P19
Lotus Jarno Trulli, 1m 29.111s, P20
Virgin Timo Glock, 1m 29.592s, P21
Virgin Lucas di Grassi, 1m 30.185s, P22
HRT Bruno Senna, 1m 30.526s, P23
HRT Karun Chandhok, 1m 30.613s, P24

Lewis Hamilton Arrested in Melbourne Video

2010-03-27T11:21:00.000-07:00

Here is the video of Lewis Hamilton being arrested under Australian "anti hooning laws". (Wait a second for it to download). Our article in support of our hero Lewis Hamilton and against certain sections of the British Press continues below:

Hamilton Hooning

"Hooning" is an Australian term for a class of driving offences. "Hoons" include driving at inappropriate speeds, driving in tight circles (known as "dougnuts"), swerving the back of the car (known as "fish tails) and burning rubber - spinning the wheels from stationary to driving off which makes dust fly - which was what Lewis Hamilton was booked and arrested for.

Has the Hooning Arrest Affected Hamilton?

At Friday's practising, before the offence, the McLaren team (Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button) had recorded the fastest lap times and Lewis was 2/10 of a second faster than Jenson. However, Hamilton did not get past Q2 in Qualifying and will start from position 11 on the grid at tomorrow's Melbourne Grand Prix. Unsurprisingly the press have speculated that this poor showing - particularly in relation to team mate Button who managed to secure position 4 on the grid - was as a direct result of Lewis's furore with Melbourne's road traffic police.

Hamilton Disagrees

Martin Whitmarsh, the spokesperson from Lewis's McLaren team said, words to the effect, that Lewis had been affected by his run in and his "not so good day" but Lewis himself disagreed. Lewis cited problems with tyre temperatures as the reason for his 11th position. The former (2008) World Champion was seemingly over the incident but, as is to be expected, certain sectors of the UK's press were whipping it up and doing their utmost to ensure Lewis Hamilton is put off during tomorrow's Grand Prix.

Come On Hamilton!

This site is a fan of Lewis Hamilton and very much against the nasty neo-racist, overly judgemental and hypocritical elements of the UK's press. We are hoping that Hamilton has a flying start, shows his wet weather prowess when the threatened rain falls during the Melbourne Grand Prix. This would be magnificent and would show his detractors they should wind their necks in.

Message to Lewis Detractors

Go slime elsewhere you bunch of envious ****s. Also, when you are reporting on F1 ensure you give your readers the correct information. (One leading Lewis basher "newspaper" reported that Jenson Button was starting in 3rd position on the grid)

F1 Drivers - Position After Race 1

2010-03-20T15:08:00.000-07:00

Drivers and Points after the first Grand Prix of the season in Bahrain ~ 14th March 2010 ~

1 Fernando Alonso Spain Ferrari 25 points

2 Felipe Massa Brazil Ferrari 18 points

3 Lewis Hamilton Britain Mclaren-Mercedes 15 points

4 Sebastian Vettel Germany RBR-Renault 12 points

5 Nico Rosberg Germany Mercedes Benz GP Ltd 10 points

6 Michael Schumacher Germany Mercedes Benz GP Ltd 8 points

7 Jenson Button Britain McLaren-Mercedes 6 points

8 Mark Webber Australia RBR-Renault 4 points

9 Vitantonio Liuzzi Italy Force-India Mercedes 2 points

10 Rubens Barrichello Brazil Williams Cosworth 1 point

11 Robert Kubica Poland Renault 0 points

12 Adrian Sutil Germany Force India-Mercedes 0 points

13 Jaime Alguersuari Spain STR-Ferrari 0 points

14 Nico Hulkenberg Germany Williams Cosworth 0 points

15 Heikki Kovalainen Finland Lotus-Cosworth 0 points

16 Sebastien Buemi Switzerland STR-Ferrari 0 points

17 Jarno Trulli Italy Lotus-Cosworth 0 points

18 Pedro de la Rosa Spain Sauber-Ferrari 0 points

19 Bruno Senna Brazil HRT-Cosworth 0 points

20 Timo Glock Germany Virgin-Cosworth 0 points

21 Vitaly Petrov Russia Renault 0 points

22 Kamui Kobayashi Japan BMW Sauber-Ferrari 0 points

23 Lucas di Grassi Brazil Virgin-Cosworth 0 points

24 Karun Chandhok India HRT-Cosworth 0 points

Welcome Back to Michael Schumacher

2010-03-20T13:48:00.000-07:00

Michael Schumacher came back to Formula 1 after a four year break. The German driver is now driving a German car and races for the Brawn team which has been renamed Mercedes. The Mercedes car is silver but Schumy has decided to race wearing a red coloured helmet to the displeasure of some in the Ferrari team.

Ferrari Win

Ferrari aced the first race of the 2010 Formula 1 grand Prix season in Bahrain. Their new driver, the Spaniard Alonso, took first place and the recovered Brazillian Massa came second. (The Brit Lewis Hamilton won the other podium).

BBC on Michael Schumacher

There were no congratulations from the BBC for Michael Schumacher. The sentiments suggested by its reporters were that Michael Schumacher didn't do that well. This came as a huge surprise to some watching BBC live coverage. Schumacher had been out for four years yet still managed to finish ahead of last year's F1 Champion Jenson Button. Watch Highlights from the first Grand Prix of the 2010 season CLICK HERE

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Pre 2010 F1 Season News from Mercedes