The Offical F1 Thread #2

[Suspective]

Lewis Hamilton's received a 5 place grid penalty for a gearbox change. So I'm going to put my money on Button getting the pole once that has been taken into account. People are saying Schumacher will get it but I really can't see that happening.

[Deak]

Schumi may get close, but cant see him getting pole!
I'm not sure who will get pole, but i have a weird feeling that it will be a shock... :/

[j0rd]

Finish work at 4, grab a mcdonalds + a few energy cans from Tesco on way home, eat mcdonalds wait for F1 to start, drink cans to keep me awake. Sounds like a plan.

Same on Sunday morning after work. My sleeping pattern will be messed...

[Deak]

Finish work at 4, grab a mcdonalds + a few energy cans from Tesco on way home, eat mcdonalds wait for F1 to start, drink cans to keep me awake. Sounds like a plan.

Same on Sunday morning after work. My sleeping pattern will be messed...

Sounds like a plan to me! lol

What time does the race actually start on Sunday, 8 isn't it?

[j0rd]

Sounds like a plan to me! lol

What time does the race actually start on Sunday, 8 isn't it?

Qualifying is 7 and Race is 8 I believe :)

[Deak]

Qualifying is 7 and Race is 8 I believe :)

Might have to be a Sky+ job for me then!

[Deak]

I had a feeling Nico was going to get pole ... Dont know why, but i just did!

So Mercedes front row (after Hamilton drops from 2nd to 7th) and Kobayashi 3rd!

Should be a great start to the race tomorrow!

[j0rd]

Amazing lap for Nico, what a run
Quite happy with Kimi's 4th grid place too

[DPS]

Now that was a suprise.. in todays race lol

Starting to like it that Seb isnt winning lol

[xxMATTGxx]

I just have to post this from today's race:

http://26.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m2iqneA1O31qlt7lao1_r1_500.gif

[j0rd]

Webber's wheelie was amazing :D

Just watched the replay (could not for my life get up this morning) and was a really interesting race towards the end, had a somewhat slow start though.
Awesome driving from Nico, if he keeps putting these performances in, I can see him having some good races this season!

Kimi towards the last few laps, I was virtually crying inside. From 2nd to 14th in less than 10 laps?!?!

[Deak]

lol nicely done Mr Webber!

Always knew that Nico would win a race at some point!

So now we have Hamilton & Button leading the championship :)

Roll on Bahrain next weekend!

[Ajthedragon]

Awesome race. Can't wait for Bahrain next weekend.

Surprised McLaren haven't had a 1-2 yet?! (Albeit they should of had one in Oz)

[Jordy]

'cause of Force India speaking out against Formula 1's decision to race in Bahrain they received virtually no TV coverage despite getting into the final qualifying session. Scandalous.

[Ajthedragon]

'cause of Force India speaking out against Formula 1's decision to race in Bahrain they received virtually no TV coverage despite getting into the final qualifying session. Scandalous.

Apparently it's because they have whisky branding, and Alcohol is banned in Bahrain. Nonetheless ridiculous.

I'm a bit disappointed to be honest, I don't want Red Bull winning all season given we've had two years of it. :P

[Deak]

Apparently it's because they have whisky branding, and Alcohol is banned in Bahrain. Nonetheless ridiculous.

I'm a bit disappointed to be honest, I don't want Red Bull winning all season given we've had two years of it. :P

Im sure they will show bits of all cars if possible on the tele ... Its not like if force india are 1st or 2nd they wont show them....
Regarding red bull, yes it did get annoying them (seb mainly) winning everything. I personally think he will not be winning come the end of lap 1.

I had a prediction before qualyfing that the person in 2nd would win the race - in this case Hamilton.

[xxMATTGxx]

Quite pleased with Kimi for getting 2nd. I wanted him to win it as well :( But still a good job from the team as both drivers got on the podium. Crap weekend for McLaren for sure, Lewis with the pit problems twice due to the same tyre/wheel nut issue and then Jenson who retired in the end.

[Suspective]

McLaren need to sort their act out, the pit problems are awful.

I'm hoping Red Bull don't pull away from everyone else, like last year as it would be really good to see somebody different win the title (McLaren) :P

Shame the Iceman didn't win :(

[Deak]

Really bad day for McLaren as said above due to the pit stops - i think some training may be done before the next race!

I also really thought Kimi was going to overtake Seb, which is what i wanted ... but still, 2nd is a good result. Obviously with Grosjean also getting on the podium too makes it great for Lotus.

4 races and 4 different winners which is good... Hope it continues to be close races - but if the McLaren boys want to keep getting 1st & 2nd - i wont complain!

[j0rd]

Excellent race for Kimi and the whole Lotus team again, some more to come hopefully too!

[Zak]

I hate Adrian Newey I wish he'd **** off and join some other team.... like McLaren so we might stand a chance of another british championship winning year. I can just see Vettel pulling away again now. You should have heard me cheer for Kimi ;P

[xxMATTGxx]

Bit of a close call eh? :P

http://26.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m2wkz6DnNo1qlt7lao1_250.gif http://30.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m2wkz6DnNo1qlt7lao2_250.gif

[Ajthedragon]

Shocking race for McLaren - exploding exhausts and dodgy pit stops. And also a lack of pace? (I assume it was due to the lower tyre temperatures, as I'm sure Hamilton had the pace to match Webber anyway).

Congratulations to Lotus, they finally had a good race. Kimi should start from 11th every race!

[Oleh]

Schumy and raikonnen did superb this weekend. Both gaining a lot of places. Schumy from last to 10th + raikonnen 11th to 2nd. WELL DONE

[Deak]

Bit of a close call eh? :P

http://26.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m2wkz6DnNo1qlt7lao1_250.gif http://30.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m2wkz6DnNo1qlt7lao2_250.gif

When i saw this happening, i thought he was going to be getting a penalty or something for crossing the white lines and was committed to the pits.

But obviously, this didnt happen!

It was very close though!

[Ajthedragon]

A lot of criticism towards Pirelli regarding its tyres having too greater impact on the racing. In all honesty I'm inclined to agree, it seems more a lottery on set-up at the moment.

[Deak]

So after a 3 week break F1 Returns for the spanish grand prix.

Lewis Hamilton is the bookies favourite to take the victory.

Lets hope for a great race as i've missed watching the races during the 3 weeks off! :P

[xxMATTGxx]

Hamilton excluded from qualifying. Will start last tomorrow. :@

[David]

unlucky for hamilton, he done great and still thrown at the back

[Oleh]

Such a shame really, he should do well though.

[xxMATTGxx]

There's reports that 4 people have left the McLaren team due to what happened and some sort of argument that went on.

[Deak]

It is a shame that Hamilton has to start from last... But im sure he'll be doing his best to move up the grid

[xxMATTGxx]

No one has the left the team according to Martin Whitmarsh.

[xxMATTGxx]

Amazing win for Pastor Maldonado! What a weekend to do it as well, must be a fantastic birthday present for Frank. Well Done to him and the Williams Team.

[xxMATTGxx]

Wow at what just happened at Williams - Some sort of fire/explosion at their garage. The whole pit lane is now closed off.

[DPS]

Not being bad but its all blame on the team, as they didnt fuel the car enough.. and yeah congrats to Maldonado nice to see a change of the same people winning.

[xxMATTGxx]

Photo:

https://p.twimg.com/AsyPVFNCMAAHKi0.jpg

[DPS]

Photo:

https://p.twimg.com/AsyPVFNCMAAHKi0.jpg

woah is anyone hurt...

---------- Post added 13-05-2012 at 04:44 PM ----------

http://d3j5vwomefv46c.cloudfront.net/photos/full/578930556.jpg?key=600450&Expires=1336924836&Key-Pair-Id=APKAIYVGSUJFNRFZBBTA&Signature=sU5m5aMElaZC4L98FUdgQfkyQ3Ms7mOZm04ZB0ZS dxlD8nAf2lB5tB%7EormH9Dnxba5lkeerHeLnWRwfTrTTKcNW2 8ds4jMjkRPsuTXYzYeSS0hZJMsIQtxpKZ46zx8BnJ99Yxx9muU 0NFLSBYIgzj9O9ODP8rVBBgOyDT2FjOaY_

[xxMATTGxx]

I think everyone is safe, some people might be getting some medical treatment due to the smoke but I don't think anyone has any major injuries.

Edit: 9 injured following fire in Williams garage. Looks like fuel fire started the blaze.

https://p.twimg.com/AsyWwaKCAAA19ZK.png

[xxMATTGxx]

http://www1.skysports.com/formula1/video/12870/7754160

Video that shows the amount of mechanics and other people who rushed to help put the fire out.

[Deak]

Wow! Great victory for Williams and Maldonado!

WOW even more due to the fire what happened - hope everybody is fine!

[xxMATTGxx]

Some more images:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/541978_215624185220813_126215434161689_363054_1657 417598_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/543701_215623748554190_126215434161689_363052_1112 928858_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/521280_215621091887789_126215434161689_363043_1760 678599_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/579423_215616318554933_126215434161689_363037_4409 13513_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/305668_215614971888401_126215434161689_363033_3284 9709_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/576974_215598665223365_126215434161689_362996_1030 211150_n.jpg

http://mattgarner.net/upload/images/2Jmne.jpg

[DPS]

Jesus.. so much money is lost there, and now i guess the car is ******.

[David]

someone tweeted that the car is salvageable

[Deak]

The car will probably be salvageable, but it will cost them quite a lot of money (more than likely anyway)!

Some great shots of the fire, but obviously the grand prix weekend should not be remember because of it, but remembered for Williams winning.

[Oleh]

Probably have backups of all the equipment lost. Got another fortnight to get it all back in working order.

[Lee]

Such a shame that it ended like this! Its lucky nobody was killed.

[Deak]

FIA report that 31 were injured / hurt and being checked out at the hospital

Hope all connected make a full recovery in time for Monaco ( arguably the best race going in F1 )

[Ajthedragon]

Luckily for them it'll all be insured. They'll have spare equipment which are coming back from the fly-away races one imagines. A terrible end to what had been a great day for Williams F1.

[Ajthedragon]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/formula1/18188453.

Alonso fastest but the timings are a bit deceiving. Grosjean was consistently faster than Alonso throughout the session and Alonso got his last time out just before the red flag. Hamilton also didn't get a final quick lap due to the red flag.

From watching it I'd predict it's a three-way battle between Hamilton, Grosjean and Alonso, and we've yet to see what Raikkonen can do.

[Deak]

Button fastest in FP2.

Monaco has always been one of my fave races to see... but i think qualifying will be crucial on saturday due to the tightness of the track!

[David]

missed most of qualifying :( only saw the last couple of minutes of Q3.
Schumacher has a penalty?

[xxMATTGxx]

missed most of qualifying :( only saw the last couple of minutes of Q3.
Schumacher has a penalty?

From the last race due to the crash he had.

[Oleh]

Such a shame, would have been his first pole/win of the season too :( Poor bloke.

[Ajthedragon]

Such a shame, would have been his first pole/win of the season too :( Poor bloke.

Shouldn't drive into the back of people then!

I reckon Webber will bog off the start and it will be a race-long battle between Rosberg, Webber, Hamilton and Grosjean. If the conditions are wet then I'm inclined to go with Hamilton.

[xxMATTGxx]

"Teams may protest hole in Red Bull floor. May force a change and start from pit lane."

[Deak]

"Teams may protest hole in Red Bull floor. May force a change and start from pit lane."

Red Bull have decided NOT to change the part as they think it is legal ... the other teams have 2 hours after the race finishes to protest as to why they think it is not legal.

It's a shame about Schumi getting pole and then having his penalty from the last race making him start 6th.

Webber, Hamilton, Rosberg & Grosjean will hopefully have a great battle today!

Always loved the Monaco GP :D

[xxMATTGxx]

This is the hole they are protesting about:

http://mattgarner.net/upload/images/2012/05/27/O1MmK.jpg

[Oleh]

Wow! big crash and not even into the first 5 laps.

[Mathew]

You can't beat a bit of drama when the lights go out. The Monaco track is brilliant, we have a few friends out there for it right now. I've never really been all that interested in F1 but I'm slowly getting into it.. :P

[Oleh]

Here's a gif of the GP3 crash if anybody was interested.
http://i.imgur.com/u3QOU.gif

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=kXszF6m_ew8#t=39 s

[Deak]

Great race, despite little overtaking on track - but passing through tactics on pit stops like vettel & alonso on hamilton.
That crash looks horrible, was the driver ok?
Loved it when the top 6 were very very close at the end!

Any news on the Red Bull protests?

[Ajthedragon]

Where the hell has McLaren's pace gone? I know they struggle in low speed corners but this is ridiculous.

Plus lol at Lewis absolutely owning Jenson this season when everyone said Jenson was more 'consistent'. :P

[Deak]

FIA say Red Bull's "hole" is illegal, so they now must change this part of the car before the Canadian GP next weekend.

Reports also say that the Monaco GP result will stand and no penalties will be implied on Red Bull.

[Deak]

Vettel on pole for the race tomorrow with Lewis in 2nd and Alonso starting in 3rd.

Should be a good start, Alonso has done well on all starts of races up to now ... but Vettel & Hamilton will be no easy pass to take!

[xxMATTGxx]

Well Done to Lewis, he drove amazing. So glad that he has now won a race! Congratulations to him and the McLaren team of course.

[Deak]

7 Races & 7 different winners! Wow!

Glad Lewis won today!

[Ajthedragon]

Lewis was phenomenal today, drove the wheels off that McLaren to get back past Vettel and Alonso.

Where was Jenson!? So much for consistency. :P

[Deak]

Lewis was phenomenal today, drove the wheels off that McLaren to get back past Vettel and Alonso.

Where was Jenson!? So much for consistency. :P

True, something is obviously wrong with Button & his car... hopefully McLaren will try to solve the problem before the next race

[xxMATTGxx]

True, something is obviously wrong with Button & his car... hopefully McLaren will try to solve the problem before the next race

I'm thinking it's more aimed at the tyres than the car? As Lewis is in near enough the same car apart from different setups and he doesn't have the same problems. Maybe he can't manage the tyres as well like he could last year? Or maybe it's something they are doing wrong. It's just not like him to be struggling as much as he has been doing this year. It's a shame as he can drive for sure.

[Deak]

I'm thinking it's more aimed at the tyres than the car? As Lewis is in near enough the same car apart from different setups and he doesn't have the same problems. Maybe he can't manage the tyres as well like he could last year? Or maybe it's something they are doing wrong. It's just not like him to be struggling as much as he has been doing this year. It's a shame as he can drive for sure.

Jenson has said in the interviews after the race that it's not the tyres which are the problem... but i do agree that he should be a lot nearer the front as he is in the same car as Lewis. We will just have to see what happens at the next race!

[Deak]

European GP this weekend @ Valencia Street Circuit.

Will it be 8 different winners in 8 races?

I don't believe it will be, but you never know - the lotus' have a chance of winning or even Schumi has a chance if they have no errors or car troubles.

If i was to put a bet on, which i'm not planning on doing .... i'd back Hamilton to win back to back races.

[xxMATTGxx]

Anyone here going to the Silverstone this year?

[Deak]

Anyone here going to the Silverstone this year?

Unfortunately not, never been to see a live GP... but would love to one day & silverstone would be the one i'd go to.

---

I take it by the post that you will be going to Silverstone...?

[xxMATTGxx]

Unfortunately not, never been to see a live GP... but would love to one day & silverstone would be the one i'd go to.

---

I take it by the post that you will be going to Silverstone...?

Yeah I am, first time as well. Should be a good experience? Haha :P

[Deak]

Yeah I am, first time as well. Should be a good experience? Haha :P

You going for all 3 days - free practice, quali & race day?

I bet you will have a great time... especially seeing the cars and teams for the first time in front and around you.

#Jealous ;)

[xxMATTGxx]

You going for all 3 days - free practice, quali & race day?

I bet you will have a great time... especially seeing the cars and teams for the first time in front and around you.

#Jealous ;)

Yeah going for the three days! :P

[Deak]

Yeah going for the three days! :P

Even more jealous!

Are you sure you want to go... because you know you wont enjoy it at all and you should give your ticket away ( to me please :P )

Will you be taking a banner with HxF on it so we can look out for you? :)

[mrwoooooooo]

Went Valencia in February, its a beautiful city. Walked along the track and the pits but didnt take any photos :X
http://mattgarner.net/upload/images/2012/06/23/VdME.jpg
http://mattgarner.net/upload/images/2012/06/23/J7Ngm.jpg

[Deak]

Vettel on pole for European GP tomorrow with Hamilton 2nd & Maldonado starting in 3rd!

I reckon the fight for the win will be between Hamilton & Vettel - which means no 8th different winner in 8 races!

Should be a decent race tomorrow - i hope it is anyway!

[N!ck]

Anyone here going to the Silverstone this year?

Yes, got Platinum 3-day tickets at Club corner :).

[DPS]

Hahahahahaha Vettel is OUT! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!

Just when he thinks hes getting some luck.. his car decides to STOP HAHAHAHA

[orientalframe?]

it's a really interesting race this one haha, my dad was on his toes bless him :P

[David]

he mad bro

[xxMATTGxx]

he mad bro

Of course he would be mad, the other guy did that while he was off the track.

[DPS]

Of course he would be mad, the other guy did that while he was off the track.

Yup and MS is ****** if he used DRS while under yellow flag LOL

[Ajthedragon]

Maldonado is a ******* idiot. You can't turn in on somebody off-track and then blame it on them. He has a huge attitude problem.

Congratulations to Alonso, although commiserations to Vettel, Grosjean, Hamilton, Kovalainen who were all heading for good results.

[xxMATTGxx]

Pastor Maldonado has been handed out a twenty-second penalty, demoting the South American from a points-paying position for the European Grand Prix, after ramming Lewis Hamilton out of Sunday's race in Valencia.

Good stuff.

[Ajthedragon]

Maldonado deserved it too!

The DNFs for Vettel and Hamilton are going to have huge implications on the championship if it remains so nip-and-tuck with nobody really gaining or losing ground on pure performance in the drivers championship.

[DPS]

Well look at webber hes 2nd atm.. and he has hardly been doing tht well lol

[j0rd]

Gutted about Hamilton but so glad Kimi got second

[Deak]

Damn you Maldonado!

What good is the 20 second penalty going to do for Hamilton - it's not like he can be promoted back in to the race and get points!

[xxMATTGxx]

Damn you Maldonado!

What good is the 20 second penalty going to do for Hamilton - it's not like he can be promoted back in to the race and get points!

It's better than nothing to be honest.

[Deak]

It's better than nothing to be honest.

True, but i would have preffered that Hamilton finished the race with some good points.

Lets hope that Hamilton, Button & Di Resta will have good races at Silverstone.

I know its too much to ask ... but ... can we have a British 1,2,3 please? :P

[Zak]

Anyone here going to the Silverstone this year?

I went last year, I am going to Spa this year :)

[Ajthedragon]

Sadly don't imagine I'm going to any Grand Prix this year. Although I will be doing a few European Drag Racing events to make up for it. :P

I hope McLaren's updates in Silverstone work, they really need to if they want to rescue this season.

[Suspective]

I can't wait till Silverstone next Fri/Sat/Sun. I'm going for the third time (in a row) now. Praying for a McLaren 1-2 but a win by either Lewis/Jenson will be enough to make me happy. :D

[Deak]

Practice today was a bit washed out, hopefully we will have a decent day for P3 & quali tomorrow!

[Deak]

Should be a good race tomorrow with many surprises if the weather continues to as it has been.

Fernando Alonso & Mark Webber start on the front row.

Such a shame for Lewis having to start 8th, but even worse for Jenson starting 18th!

Lets just see what happens tomorrow during the race!

[DPS]

Woop!!!!! My fav Driver wins :)

[Deak]

Glad Webber won over Alonso!

Great race with some good overtakes!

Shame for both Lewis & Jenson, but hopefully in the next race in Germany McLaren will have a decent set of upgrades and they will be near the front again!

[Deak]

Woop woop - i won the competition set for the grand prix :P

I got alonso 2nd & schumi 7th... So i'm happy that webber won overall & that alonso came 2nd :P

[Ajthedragon]

What is wrong with McLaren. Lewis wasn't able to out-do the car this race, it was painfully slow for all to see.

Let's hope the 'visual updates' work for Germany.

[xxMATTGxx]

Fantastic race, everyone cheered near me when Mark Webber won even if they don't support the Red Bull team.

[Deak]

Fantastic race, everyone cheered near me when Mark Webber won even if they don't support the Red Bull team.

I bet that was brilliant & Webber does live not far away from Silverstone according to commentary during the race - so he technically can be an adopted brit :)

---

In other news ... Mark Webber has signed up with Red Bull for 2013 despite also talking with Ferrari.

So, Red Bull are the first team to confirm their driving line up for the 2013 season!

[xxMATTGxx]

I bet that was brilliant & Webber does live not far away from Silverstone according to commentary during the race - so he technically can be an adopted brit :)

---

In other news ... Mark Webber has signed up with Red Bull for 2013 despite also talking with Ferrari.

So, Red Bull are the first team to confirm their driving line up for the 2013 season!

Yeah and probably due to Mark being a great guy regardless. I would also imagine they didn't want Alonso to win! :P

[Deak]

Yeah and probably due to Mark being a great guy regardless. I would also imagine they didn't want Alonso to win! :P

True, because nobody likes Alonso ... do they :P

[Zak]

I like Alonso he's a far better driver than Webber

[Suspective]

Good win for Webber, he's a nice guy but I can't see him winning the championship.

Where I was sitting it absolutely erupted when Alonso was overtaken :P

I think its a bit of a shame Webber's re-signed as it would have been good to see somebody different put in the Red Bull. But I guess they will be doing that the year after once they see what happens to Vettel and if he goes elsewhere.

[Deak]

Not the best race ever today, but was still some very good moves.

I think Alonso will win the overall championship if he continues as he is doing.

Shame for Hamilton, being the only one to get a puncture - thought he did the right thing making himself un-lapped over Vettel, who did eventually finish 2nd (5th now due to the 20 second penalty - promoting JB to 2nd)

[Oleh]

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-GsNxWaKAgew/UENQWZVh_vI/AAAAAAAAAHw/sTbA2qXSUQs/s450/f1start.gif

YAY GROSJEAN

[xxMATTGxx]

Grosjean is a complete idiot.


https://fbcdn-sphotos-h-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/546477_417823661609258_833948478_n.jpg

[j0rd]

Grosjean has now been given a one race ban

[Deak]

Not seen the race, but will be watching the highlights later!

If its as bad as everyone is saying then he derserves to get a race ban.


Glad that JB won the race :)

[Oleh]

HAHAHAHAHA Found this GIF just
Contains swears
https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-DyYfgj5gUSs/UEP-vtjmHNI/AAAAAAAAIu0/6gy_vlgXfSg/s497/gif4.gif

[Kardan]

Personally I'm not sure if a one race ban is justified when drivers like Maldonado escape with just grid penalties.

[Charz777]

Personally I'm not sure if a one race ban is justified when drivers like Maldonado escape with just grid penalties.

I think Grosjean deserves it. He had all the space on his other side which then caused Hamilton to be run off the track. Up until then, yes, that's the sort of thing Maldonado would do, and Grosjean would just get grid penalties for driving into Hamiton. But what followed was just not acceptable. Anyone could have been seriously hurt, especially Alonso. And he screwed up the race for himself and what 4 other drivers? Not to mention the ones affected by the debris.

That was dangerous and he deserves it.

[Deak]

Rumour going round that Lewis Hamilton will be joining Mercedes next season... Mclaren are currently denying any truth in this.

The rumour is what Eddie Jordan has heard and he was the first to find out about Schumi coming back into F1.

If this it true would that mean Rosberg joing Button at McLaren?

Thoughts... ?

[Kardan]

Rumour going round that Lewis Hamilton will be joining Mercedes next season... Mclaren are currently denying any truth in this.

The rumour is what Eddie Jordan has heard and he was the first to find out about Schumi coming back into F1.

If this it true would that mean Rosberg joing Button at McLaren?

Thoughts... ?

No, it means Schumacher is retiring. Di Resta/Raikkonen is more probable at McLaren, I'm sure Rosberg has a contract next year for Mercedes. I hope it doesn't happen, mostly because I'm a McLaren/Hamilton fan - but if he does go, I'll be sticking to just McLaren :P

[xxMATTGxx]

McLaren or Lewis's management have said it's not true. Although I don't know what is happening. I think it would make sense for Lewis to stay with McLaren as surely he has more chance of wins with that team then he does with Mercedes.

[Oleh]

Wouldn't mind Schumi going to Ferarri for 1 last season :D

We all know it won't happen though :(

[Kardan]

Wouldn't mind Schumi going to Ferarri for 1 last season :D

We all know it won't happen though :(

No, it won't :P

Hopefully Perez gets Massa's seat :)

[Charz777]

No, it means Schumacher is retiring. Di Resta/Raikkonen is more probable at McLaren, I'm sure Rosberg has a contract next year for Mercedes. I hope it doesn't happen, mostly because I'm a McLaren/Hamilton fan - but if he does go, I'll be sticking to just McLaren :P

Rosberg already has his contract with Mercedes, as does Raikkonen with Lotus :) Who would be going to McLaren...?

[Kardan]

Rosberg already has his contract with Mercedes, as does Raikkonen with Lotus :) Who would be going to McLaren...?

Raikkonen has a performance clause in his contract, so if the Lotus suddenly does crap from now on, he isn't with them next season, but if he carries on, teams will have to pay Lotus to get Raikkonen out.

Di Resta is rumoured to go to Mercedes, so maybe McLaren will pick him if Hamilton goes to Mercedes, since there won't be any seats left. I'd prefer Hamilton to stay though.

[Charz777]

Raikkonen has a performance clause in his contract, so if the Lotus suddenly does crap from now on, he isn't with them next season, but if he carries on, teams will have to pay Lotus to get Raikkonen out.

Di Resta is rumoured to go to Mercedes, so maybe McLaren will pick him if Hamilton goes to Mercedes, since there won't be any seats left. I'd prefer Hamilton to stay though.

I think Hamilton and McLaren go well together. But is he really not liking the team since all the screw-ups?

[Kardan]

I think Hamilton and McLaren go well together. But is he really not liking the team since all the screw-ups?

We don't know anything for sure, but I get the impression that Hamilton and McLaren are probably at the low point of their time together at the moment with the pit stops and Hamilton's tweets.

[Deak]

Well i for one will also still support McLaren if hamilton does leave - its like a football team, you wouldnt swap because one of the players went.

Lets just see what happens ... but hopefully Lewis will stay with McLaren!

[Oleh]

I always saw it as the drivers being the ones to support e.g. I support Raikonnen, Schumacher and Vettel. Not Redbull, Lotus or Mercedes.

That's just me though, same with Michael Owen, I have to watch him play at Stoke ffs albeit supporting Liverpool, just because he's my fav footballer etc

[Kardan]

I always saw it as the drivers being the ones to support e.g. I support Raikonnen, Schumacher and Vettel. Not Redbull, Lotus or Mercedes.

That's just me though, same with Michael Owen, I have to watch him play at Stoke ffs albeit supporting Liverpool, just because he's my fav footballer etc

Always the team, which has been quite unfortunate in my case. Supported Raikkonen at McLaren, and when he left I supported Hamilton for Raikkonen to steal the championship from Hamilton by a point :P

I mean, Hamilton will still be my favourite driver, but in terms of my merchandise I buy for example, it will always be McLaren.

[Charz777]

At first I just supported the driver; Vettel. But then after a while the team grows on you and then even the other driver. So, I support Vettel, Webber and Red Bull.

However, I think if Webber were to leave I'd still support the team, because I support the team more than I do the driver. But if Vettel left I'd be very split. I love my team, but Vettel has my support the most.

Seb will just have to stay at Red Bull :)

[xxMATTGxx]

Not a bad start to the weekend with McLaren 1 and 2 for the race start.

[Oleh]

UGH. Second time I've been caught out by the races being a week apart instead of a fortnight :(

Missed qualifying :( :(

At least I know the race is on now and not like last time where I stumbled across the final 10 laps at my aunts.

[Deak]

UGH. Second time I've been caught out by the races being a week apart instead of a fortnight :(

Missed qualifying :( :(

At least I know the race is on now and not like last time where I stumbled across the final 10 laps at my aunts.

I think they are mainly all now on a weekly basis ...

Great for the McLarens to get a 1-2 for the start of the race!

Hope they can end with the 1-2 in the race too!

[xxMATTGxx]

Lot's of stuff has happened in this race! Now on the final lap, come on Lewis.


Italian GP: Hamilton, Perez, Alonso, Massa, Raikkonen, Schumacher, Rosberg, Di Resta, Kobayashi, Senna

[Deak]

Well that was a good race! Glad Lewis won the race, but such a shame for Jenson.

Not a good day at all for both of the Red Bull cars, but a great one for Chico (Perez) getting 2nd place!

[Oleh]

http://i.imgur.com/JHpcn.jpgSchumi keeping his nice run of Top 7 places :D

[Deak]

http://i.imgur.com/JHpcn.jpgSchumi keeping his nice run of Top 7 places :D

I like how he thinks that his car is a new aeroplane, lol!

[xxMATTGxx]

Fan of the BBC Formula 1 coverage and a fan of Jake Humphrey?

Well it seems he won't be hosting the 2013 season that's for sure. He has a kid on the way anyway but it seems he is going to work with BT.


Jake Humphrey to be the face of BT’s Premier League football

TV sports broadcaster Jake Humphrey is to be the face of BT’s Barclays Premier League football coverage.

Jake, 33, who fronted some of the BBC’s European Championships football coverage from Poland and Ukraine this summer, will be the studio anchor of BT Vision’s Barclays Premier League programming from the start of the 2013/14 season.

During ten years with the BBC, he has fronted Formula One coverage, the London 2012 Olympics for BBC1 and BBC3 and co-hosted the BBC Sports Personality of the Year.

Speaking about his new role, Jake said: “I’m incredibly excited to be joining the team at BT not just because I get to fulfil a lifelong dream of presenting the Barclays Premier League but because of the fresh perspective that BT will bring to both sport and broadcasting in this country.”

In June we announced that BT has won the rights to show 38 live games a season for three Premier League seasons, including 18 of the best quality ‘first pick’ games – the first time anyone but Sky has won any of the prime live Premier League matches.

http://www.btlife.bt.com/entertainment/jake-humphrey-to-be-the-face-of-bts-premier-league-football/

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2204919/Jake-Humphrey-leaves-BBC-BT-Vision-football-role.html?ito=feeds-newsxml

[Kardan]

Fan of the BBC Formula 1 coverage and a fan of Jake Humphrey?

Well it seems he won't be hosting the 2013 season that's for sure. He has a kid on the way anyway but it seems he is going to work with BT.


http://www.btlife.bt.com/entertainment/jake-humphrey-to-be-the-face-of-bts-premier-league-football/

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2204919/Jake-Humphrey-leaves-BBC-BT-Vision-football-role.html?ito=feeds-newsxml

Probably spurred on by the fact that the BBC don't even have full coverage anymore.

[Oleh]

http://i.imgur.com/4QEPx.jpg

[Deak]

As mentioned above, Jake will have decided to move on due to the BBC not having full rights to show the races.

Despite me mainly now watching SKY for F1 i know Jake is a really good presenter for any kind of sport and a very good one especially for BBC F1.

Back to the Singapore GP now... can only see Vettel getting pole!

I always like this race with it being a night race & a tight track... hopefully will be a decent race tomorrow

[Oleh]

Hamilton gets pole, even though he smashed the wall :D

[xxMATTGxx]

As mentioned above, Jake will have decided to move on due to the BBC not having full rights to show the races.

Despite me mainly now watching SKY for F1 i know Jake is a really good presenter for any kind of sport and a very good one especially for BBC F1.

Back to the Singapore GP now... can only see Vettel getting pole!

I always like this race with it being a night race & a tight track... hopefully will be a decent race tomorrow

Since getting the Sky Sports package specifically for F1 I haven't watched any of the BBC F1 coverage as it's just a pain in finding out when they are doing live ones or not. Plus may as well still to the channel that has them all live anyway! I seen Jake at Silverstone this year and he is a nice guy and a good presenter so I agree with you there.

[Kardan]

Good job by Haamilton, hopefully he'll keep his lead, even after the safety car restart ;) 4th win in a row for McLaren hopefully :D

[Oleh]

Hamilton gearbox failure whilst in front a big margin. Maldonado out too. Karthikeyan caused safety car.

[j0rd]

Interesting race, such a shame about Hamilton

[Oleh]

Schumacher straight into the back of Vergne

2nd Safety car.

[Deak]

Not seen the full race, just little bits (watching highlights a bit later).

Such a shame for Hamilton - a certain victory if he didnt have a gear box penalty...

Looks like its between Alonso & Vettel for the championship & to be fair i think Alonso deserves it this year (as much as im not a fan of his)

[Oleh]

http://i.imgur.com/4OTiC.jpg

[xxMATTGxx]

Felt so gutted when Lewis had to retire due to the gearbox failure he faced. He was doing quite well before that happened which is a shame. Early race next time it's on!

[j0rd]

Just watched a video back of that Shumacher crash, was certainly a big one!

He's also now been given a 10 place grid penalty

[Zak]

Lewis's championship hopes are ruined now thanks to that race

[xxMATTGxx]

So close..

http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_mav1xi5jKG1qlt7lao1_250.gif

[Charz777]

Bit late but I thought I'd throw this in;

How happy was I to see Seb finally win another! :D

[Kardan]

Hamilton to Mercedes.
Perez to McLaren.
Schumacher is now without a seat, Sauber now have a free seat, most likely going to Alguersuari.

As a Hamilton/McLaren fan, I'm pretty heartbroken. I'm determined to stay a McLaren fan, but the Button/Perez line up doesn't sound too thrilling. Plus Vodafone wiill be leaving as the team sponsor, most likely being replaced by Perez's Telmex sponsor.

Telmex McLaren Mercedes - now without the McLaren orange!

[xxMATTGxx]

Could be a win win for Lewis as he's going to a team who supplies engines for Formula 1. And there are upcoming changes in those in 2014 isn't there? We'll have to wait and see. I'm a bit unsure whether it was a good decision as I am a McLaren and a Lewis fan. He must have his reasons why he no longer wants to be with the team.

[Deak]

I am a Lewis / McLaren fan, but will stick with McLaren & hope Perez & Button will do well together. I will still support Lewis as he is British just as i do with Di Resta at Force India.

Lewis must have his reasons to why he is moving... maybe it is due to the engine changes in 2014.

Only time will tell to see if he has made the right decision. Regarding schumi i think he will retire again unless Sauber do decide to give him the seat vacated by Perez.

[Kardan]

I am a Lewis / McLaren fan, but will stick with McLaren & hope Perez & Button will do well together. I will still support Lewis as he is British just as i do with Di Resta at Force India.

Lewis must have his reasons to why he is moving... maybe it is due to the engine changes in 2014.

Only time will tell to see if he has made the right decision. Regarding schumi i think he will retire again unless Sauber do decide to give him the seat vacated by Perez.

I reckon Schumacher is gone, and Sauber will be Alguersuari/Gutiérrez

[Charz777]

If Schumi does leave, who do we think will fill the Ferrari seat for a year?

[xxMATTGxx]

If Schumi does leave, who do we think will fill the Ferrari seat for a year?

Massa

[xxMATTGxx]

LOL at this:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kdr-XL6NOZs

[xxMATTGxx]

Crap weekend for McLaren, nothing went well for them at all. Only one driver to finish the race and even that had it's problems. Also found the race quite boring to be honest.

[Kardan]

Probably the most boring race of the year, and McLaren have gone from having a chance at the constructors to not much chance at all, now needing McLaren podiums with Red Bull DNF's, not going to happen...

Hamilton has also probably kissed goodbye to the Drivers Championship as well, Kimi has an outside chance still, but it's pretty much a two way battle now sadly. I'd prefer Alonso to get it over Vettel.

[Deak]

Not seen the race - probably watch highlights later...

Very bad weekend (as said also above) for McLaren & now they wont win either championships.

I think i would prefer Alonso to win it (even though im not a fan of his) rather than having vettel win the title (again!!!)

[Zak]

Vettel's won the WC again it seems. I hate him.

I'd rather Alonso win it over him..

[Oleh]

Vettel's won the WC again it seems. I hate him.

I'd rather Alonso win it over him..

I used to hate him, mainly because he won 2 in a row. But then I've grown to love him. He's like the knew Schumacher imo. Will be dominant for a fair few year.

[Zak]

I used to hate him, mainly because he won 2 in a row. But then I've grown to love him. He's like the knew Schumacher imo. Will be dominant for a fair few year.

I hated Schumacher :P I can't deal with another era like that :(

[Kardan]

Button is officially out, and Hamilton is 75 behind with 75 remaining - meaning Hamilton needs to win every race with Vettel not scoring, so the title is officially over now, not even an outside chance.
McLaren 101 behind, with 129 points left, another year gone.

Can't believe Vettel is walking away with it again, really want Alonso to get the title now...

[xxMATTGxx]

This was probably the best part of the race:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zySK3zIa1Fg

[Zak]

This was probably the best part of the race:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zySK3zIa1Fg

Surprised it went on so easy.

Super boring race!!!!!

[Deak]

The race was pretty boring & i wanted Vettel to have to retire when his floor was really low scraping the floor rather than winning again!

It really looks like it will be Vettel / Red Bull titles again :(

The Hamilton pit stop was awesome... 3.3 seconds to change tyres and a steering wheel!

[xxMATTGxx]

What a crazy/mad race so far.

[Deak]

That was a crazy race!

Shame for Hamilton once again... But a great podium for Vettel starting from the pit lane!

[xxMATTGxx]

Yeah such a shame that Lewis had problems once again, not his fault though. The radio transmissions between the pit wall and Kimi were classic though, made me laugh for sure.

[xxMATTGxx]

One of the highlights from the race:

http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_md4lrygYdb1qlt7lao1_500.gif

[xxMATTGxx]

Great track, great race and a fantastic drive by Lewis Hamilton. That has made my weekend for sure, congratulations to him. He's not had the greatest luck in the past few races but today he did brilliant.

[Kardan]

Lewis is back :) Still shocked that its the first time.we've had a Vet/Alo/Ham podium though, and the battle goes to Brazil where its forecast rain, hopefully Alonso gets it!

[Deak]

Fantastic race yesterday! Glad Lewis ended up winning too - just the one more race before he leaves & joins Mercedes!

Its game on between Alonso & Vettel... i hope it does rain during the race next week as it will spice things up very nicely - still think Vettel will win unless he crashes out or has a fault with the car.

Roll on Brazil!

[xxMATTGxx]

Ah the fail epic high five:

http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_mdr253vofI1qgnn8y.gif

Also can't forget about the Sky vs BBC moment when interviewing Vettel on the Grid:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OeCQZPsJ1vk

[Deak]

Yes i saw the failed high five! lol @ that

In regrads to BBC v Sky - i think Martin Brundle took over the interview after allowing DC one question.

[Oleh]

http://i.imgur.com/NDDDWh.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/cDoc4h.jpg

[Kardan]

As a Hamilton fan I should be glad that he topped both practices so far, but considering we're going to have a full wet race with a probable safety car start and possibly a red flag thrown in, I don't have much hope.

Come on Alonso!

[Deak]

a McLaren one-two for the race tomorrow! Would be a nice way for Lewis to leave McLaren ending with the last 2 races being wins!

Maldonado given 10 place drop penalty after missing the random weight check in Q2, moving Alonso up to the clean side of the grid in P7.

Should be a good race & a little rain would be nice!

I reckon Vettel will win the title unless his car fails on him, but then it will still be tough for Alonso to get a podium position whatever happens!

[xxMATTGxx]

Get this race on. It's going to be so good, it's crazy already.

[Deak]

WOW WOW WOW! That was an amazing race!

Vettel on first lap getting tapped and going to the back of the pack & then making his way easily back up the grid!

Such a shame for Lewis on his McLaren drive to end up out... but what a response by the team when he went back to the pits!

Suppose thats it now for a while, roll on 2013 season with Lewis in a Merc!

final point - Congratulations to Red Bull on a triple constructors (i know they won it last race) & a triple drivers championship!

[Oleh]

http://i.imgur.com/iHPxi.jpg

Feels like it was only yesterday :(

[Deak]

http://i.imgur.com/iHPxi.jpg

Feels like it was only yesterday :(

It certainly doesnt feel like it should be the end of the season! Jenson Button put a tweet out today saying 111 days to Australia ... so roll on 111 days and they will be back in action again!

[xxMATTGxx]

Don't think I will ever forget this moment:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugig2WPx860

[Deak]

Don't think I will ever forget this moment:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugig2WPx860

Yes that was a good moment ... thought he could go through the gate (which he did last year - as it was open) but obviously not this year!

[Zak]

Don't think I will ever forget this moment:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugig2WPx860

Never seen one like that before :P Love Raikkonen.. I love it when he talks to his pit crew like "Yes, yes i know what I am doing" :P

Hate Vettel though. Fernando drove the nuts off that Ferrari all year.. I really felt it was his time in the last race of the season..

[xxMATTGxx]

Never seen one like that before :P Love Raikkonen.. I love it when he talks to his pit crew like "Yes, yes i know what I am doing" :P

Hate Vettel though. Fernando drove the nuts off that Ferrari all year.. I really felt it was his time in the last race of the season..

He bought all of the team t-shirts with that quote on.

[Zak]

He bought all of the team t-shirts with that quote on.

Really?! Haha what I legend.

I've always liked him. :)

[Deeanoo]

So what does people think about hamilton moving to mercedes :)

[Deak]

So what does people think about hamilton moving to mercedes :)

Only time will tell if he has made a mistake or the correct move.

I personally think he has made a mistake, but as i wrote above ... only time will tell

[Kardan]

First car of 2013 revealed, the Lotus E21...

http://i.imgur.com/bc7BMfRl.jpg

Not a fan of the new livery myself...

[xxMATTGxx]

Decent image of it:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/792169_478325485559075_1812033215_o.jpg

[Deak]

Wehey! This means F1 is nearly back!

See that the step is still there - i wonder if McLaren will still avoid the step & if any others will have no step.

[xxMATTGxx]

Wehey! This means F1 is nearly back!

See that the step is still there - i wonder if McLaren will still avoid the step & if any others will have no step.

They are optional this time round so it would be interesting to see how many keep it or don't.

[Kardan]

They are optional this time round so it would be interesting to see how many keep it or don't.

I read that Lotus didn't want the stepped nose, but the cover to hide it just added weight to the car with no benefit to downforce, so they've decided to keep the stepped nose. Most teams will go the other way I guess.

[xxMATTGxx]

I read that Lotus didn't want the stepped nose, but the cover to hide it just added weight to the car with no benefit to downforce, so they've decided to keep the stepped nose. Most teams will go the other way I guess.

Does seem you are correct as it says here:


Allison said: "We have not done it yet because the cosmetic panel would weigh a few grams and with a Formula 1 car putting a few grams on that you don't need to is anathema.

"But if we find a cosmetic panel that looks nice but much more importantly and crucially gains us a bit of downforce we'll pop it on quick as you like."

[xxMATTGxx]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/391879_10200245315046144_1242837443_n.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/542510_496508953735146_1476491376_n.jpg

[xxMATTGxx]

http://mattgarner.net/upload/images/2013/01/31/yKd72.jpg

[j0rd]

Matt beat me :(
There is obviously a different between the 2012 and 2013, the 2013 is much shineier

[Deak]

Lets hope that is a winning car this season :D

[Kardan]

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BB8AU2uCMAAbQkl.jpg

McLaren 2013 helmets. Probably going to spend half the year thinking that Hamilton has crashed out of the race, and having to remind myself it's actually Perez :P

[xxMATTGxx]

Can't wait to see the Mercedes one due to being a Lewis fan. Ahhh, bring on the first race!

[xxMATTGxx]

Ferrari F138

http://mattgarner.net/upload/images/2013/02/01/bdcI.jpg

I do like the changes they have done to their livery.

[xxMATTGxx]

Force India

http://mattgarner.net/upload/images/2013/02/01/NuFfT.jpg

[Zak]

So what does people think about hamilton moving to mercedes :)

mistake imo

[j0rd]

The red on the ferarri looks quite dark, probably because of the light though
Lotus livery is still my favorite so far

[xxMATTGxx]

mistake imo

Mistake for him or a mistake for McLaren leaving him? Lewis wanted to go somewhere fresh and get away with the issues he was facing with the McLaren. It could be good for him - He may not have a good car to start with but if he sticks with the team for a few years then you never know.

[Zak]

Mistake for him or a mistake for McLaren leaving him? Lewis wanted to go somewhere fresh and get away with the issues he was facing with the McLaren. It could be good for him - He may not have a good car to start with but if he sticks with the team for a few years then you never know.

I just think his dream is to be accredited as the best f1 driver of all time.. something I do not believe he can achieve at Mercedes sadly

[Callum.]

Interesting choice of noses, looking forward to seeing RBR.

[xxMATTGxx]

I just think his dream is to be accredited as the best f1 driver of all time.. something I do not believe he can achieve at Mercedes sadly

There is that but some people want to have a challenge, do something a bit different which Lewis has chosen to do. He's still young in terms of his career and has many many years left so it's not like he can't go back to say a top team like McLaren, Red Bull, Ferrari etc.

"Every decision is a bit of a gamble. I could have stayed and just kept on winning races at McLaren. Most people just go for the easier route, which may be the way to go. I just want to try something different and I'm not scared of trying new things. Just really wanted a different experience.

Plus, who knows what will happen in 2014 onwards...

[Callum.]

There is that but some people want to have a challenge, do something a bit different which Lewis has chosen to do. He's still young in terms of his career and has many many years left so it's not like he can't go back to say a top team like McLaren, Red Bull, Ferrari etc.

"Every decision is a bit of a gamble. I could have stayed and just kept on winning races at McLaren. Most people just go for the easier route, which may be the way to go. I just want to try something different and I'm not scared of trying new things. Just really wanted a different experience.

Plus, who knows what will happen in 2014 onwards...

Indeed. 2014 will be interesting. V6, everyone having KERS, very different chassis'. Could be a good ticket for Hamilton providing this season doesn't ruin him. Personally he's my favourite driver, and I'm very excited to see what he can get out of the Merc, but he evidently loves winning and can you imagine a year without winning a race? Hope it doesn't come to that, and hopefully like last year, it takes more races to see who is gunna do well and who may struggle. Roll on 2013 season, month and a half!

[xxMATTGxx]

Lewis Hamilton's helmet design:

http://mattgarner.net/upload/images/2013/02/02/sdSH.jpg

[Deak]

Only time will tell if Lewis made a mistake or not & as said above lets see how the rule changes in 2014 affect the cars

[Kardan]

Force India

http://mattgarner.net/upload/images/2013/02/01/NuFfT.jpg

I saw an image of Paul sitting on the tyre of the new Force India, and he looks so sad sitting all alone with no 2nd driver :P

---------- Post added 02-02-2013 at 04:51 PM ----------


Mistake for him or a mistake for McLaren leaving him? Lewis wanted to go somewhere fresh and get away with the issues he was facing with the McLaren. It could be good for him - He may not have a good car to start with but if he sticks with the team for a few years then you never know.

I reckon for 2013 it's a mistake, and I don't see how many people could say otherwise (unless Mercedes do a 2009 season from nowhere again, which is unlikely due to the lack of rule changes). Not only is it a mistake for Hamilton because it means a slow year, but it's also a mistake for McLaren really, Perez is nowhere nearly as strong as Hamilton and they'll struggle to get near the constructors championship (as always it seems :P). As for 2014 onwards, Hamilton and Mercedes might be awesome, so that might not be a mistake. I suppose that a 1 year deal for Hamilton at McLaren just for 2013 was unlikely though.

Glad to see that Hamilton has kept his yellow and not felt pressured to change it because of Rosberg.

[xxMATTGxx]

I saw an image of Paul sitting on the tyre of the new Force India, and he looks so sad sitting all alone with no 2nd driver :P

---------- Post added 02-02-2013 at 04:51 PM ----------



I reckon for 2013 it's a mistake, and I don't see how many people could say otherwise (unless Mercedes do a 2009 season from nowhere again, which is unlikely due to the lack of rule changes). Not only is it a mistake for Hamilton because it means a slow year, but it's also a mistake for McLaren really, Perez is nowhere nearly as strong as Hamilton and they'll struggle to get near the constructors championship (as always it seems :P). As for 2014 onwards, Hamilton and Mercedes might be awesome, so that might not be a mistake. I suppose that a 1 year deal for Hamilton at McLaren just for 2013 was unlikely though.

Glad to see that Hamilton has kept his yellow and not felt pressured to change it because of Rosberg.

We'll just have to see. Good luck to him though, he could do good things for the team which would help them in further years.

Sauber:

http://www.f1fanatic.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Sauber_C32_Side_01.jpg

[xxMATTGxx]

RedBull

http://mattgarner.net/upload/images/2013/02/03/wsLiH.jpg

http://www.infiniti-redbullracing.com/cs/RedBull/RBImages/000/000/358/68/photo960x540/ThreeQuarterWebber.jpg

https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/67903_483770991681191_271389552_n.jpg

http://mattgarner.net/upload/images/2013/02/03/8VdLv.jpg

[j0rd]

I really like Sauber's and Red Bull isn't too bad either, looks a lot like last year.

[Kardan]

I'm liking the purple on the new Red Bull, hopefully they struggle to get going this season :P

Mercedes official launch tomorrow :)

[xxMATTGxx]

Yeah a lot of comments about the cars looking similar to last year. Probably due to the lack of changes in terms of rules and stuff? Plus 2014 and onwards is when we expect changes in the cars. If I remember correctly? But when you look at comparison photos of each car then you can see the differences for sure and most of the changes is probably under the skin as well.

Can't wait for the season to start really :D

[xxMATTGxx]

Mercedes AMG Petronas

https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/841183_10151489012849874_646264282_o.jpg

http://mattgarner.net/upload/images/2013/02/04/YjVd4.jpg

[xxMATTGxx]

Toro Rosso

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/67951_484360848288872_106922354_n.jpg

[Kardan]

Mercedes AMG Petronas

https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn1/841183_10151489012849874_646264282_o.jpg

http://mattgarner.net/upload/images/2013/02/04/YjVd4.jpg

And so it begins... Not sure if Hamilton or Rosberg...

Going to go with Rosberg...

[xxMATTGxx]

And so it begins... Not sure if Hamilton or Rosberg...

Going to go with Rosberg...

Yeah it was Rosberg in that photo

[Kardan]

Yeah it was Rosberg in that photo

It'll be okay in the season, you'll be able to tell them apart from the T-Cams, but for pre-season testing we're just going to have to go with the slight difference in yellow :P

[xxMATTGxx]

It'll be okay in the season, you'll be able to tell them apart from the T-Cams, but for pre-season testing we're just going to have to go with the slight difference in yellow :P

Haha yeah :P


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qw_p7neUfFM

[xxMATTGxx]

Caterham F1

http://mattgarner.net/upload/images/2013/02/05/cSjHK.jpg

http://mattgarner.net/upload/images/2013/02/05/X7yNt.jpg


Marussia F1

http://mattgarner.net/upload/images/2013/02/05/avmN3.jpg

http://mattgarner.net/upload/images/2013/02/05/uCjLP.jpg

[Kardan]

The first test has started and the McLaren has already broke down. Button stops at turn 4 :/

[Callum.]

http://i.imgur.com/p3LFSW7.jpg
All but Williams who are still running 2012 atm. Who are you guys liking?

Merc nose looks weird, Sauber looks awesome and has small sidepods which will be interesting to see how their counter for the overheating works and how beneficial it is. Like the Caterham a lot better than last year too. Lotus' looking nice but it's not exactly hard to do.

[j0rd]

I think Lotus is still my favorite livery, was last year too

[xxMATTGxx]

I do like Sauber's livery this year compared to last:

https://fbcdn-sphotos-c-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/539726_485249711533319_1975873499_n.jpg

[xxMATTGxx]

Quite pleased for Kimi for winning the race - McLaren seem to be having some big problems and they keep saying they are as well. Lewis didn't do too bad either considering he's with a brand new team now. Bring on the next race.

[j0rd]

Watching the replay now, so glad Kimi won though. I think he's going to do surprisingly well this year, he definitely deserves it.

[Deak]

I am also glad that Kimi won too! Looks like there will be quite a few good drivers this year going for the title(s)! Hamilton looks like he has got a decent car under him this year and i hope Massa does well over the season.
Heres also hoping somebody in the McLaren garage gets an idea of where the car can be improved as they are obviously not going too well.

roll on the next race!

[Kardan]

Really glad for Kimi :D Also glad that Hamilton did well in his new car :) McLaren looks awful though :/ Hopefully a Kimi V Fernando V Seb battle for the championship :)

[Deak]

Vettel on pole - where have we seen that before ��

massa beating alonso to 2nd place - looks like he could beat alonso this year!

great to see the Mercedes boys near the front again

[xxMATTGxx]

Bit of drama and angry people across two teams at the end of that race. Although it seems mostly Red Bull as the Mercedes pair sorted it out/were calm.

[Kardan]

Vettel's a *****, end of. Hamilton seemed unaware of the situation until after the race, and rightfully said Nico should have took 3rd. He said in the press conference that hopefully in the future he can repay the favour :) Vettel however, I wasn't much of a fan of him, but now, urgh, it's just bad sportsmanship. Would have preferred Webber to have won it today, great shame.

[Zak]

Vettel's a *****, end of. Hamilton seemed unaware of the situation until after the race, and rightfully said Nico should have took 3rd. He said in the press conference that hopefully in the future he can repay the favour :) Vettel however, I wasn't much of a fan of him, but now, urgh, it's just bad sportsmanship. Would have preferred Webber to have won it today, great shame.

Totally agree. To be honest I'm sure Seb will still win the title this year as his car is clearly the best, all he had to do was give this one race to his team mate but he couldn't even do that. Proud of Nico for holding back but I still think he should have been let through because he was quicker than Lewis. Too much politics in racing now.... it's like they're being told not to race one another :(

[j0rd]

Bahrain qualifying

http://icap.me/i/Kilg0L0Q4a.png

Surprising to see Rosberg on pole. Not seen the coverage yet, i'll watch it later.

[Deak]

2 Mercedes Pole positions in a row!

I reckon Vettel or Alonso will win in the end.

On the Mercedes front ... It looks like Lewis made a good choice leaving the McLaren

[Zak]

Good luck to Lewis and Nico tomorrow. I like them both so I'm glad of the qualifying result

Sent from iPhone

[Kardan]

2 Mercedes Pole positions in a row!

I reckon Vettel or Alonso will win in the end.

On the Mercedes front ... It looks like Lewis made a good choice leaving the McLaren

3 poles for Mercedes in a row :P Lewis in China, Nico in Bahrain and Spain :) Mercedes have more poles than Red Bull this season :D

Shame about their race pace and tyre degredation, both Mercedes reckon it'll be hard to even get onto the podium today, ah well :P I expect if Lewis and Nico are relatively close by the end, with Lewis in front, and in around 4th/5th, Lewis will let Nico through for Malaysia.

[Deak]

Seems that the Mercs are great over one lap but havent got the tyre deg sorted put!

Hopefully they & the mclarens will get upgrades and bcome stronger due to the end of the year

[xxMATTGxx]

Seems people are complaining about the tyres more and more (fans) but are forgetting that the FIA told them to make it like this. What do people think about the tyres? I know they are looking to do changes to them for Silverstone.

[Kardan]

Seems people are complaining about the tyres more and more (fans) but are forgetting that the FIA told them to make it like this. What do people think about the tyres? I know they are looking to do changes to them for Silverstone.

I think 2011 and 2012 pirellis were fine, but this year it seems they've gone too far. Races should be 2/3 pitstops, not 4/5.

[Kardan]

Well, a bit of a procession at the moment. Red Flagged because of the two Marussias and Maldonado. That's about the only time where I've shouted 'Red Flag' and the FIA actually Red Flagged it.
When the SC was deployed, I swore, because I knew Hamilton would be caught out, but then Vettel/Webber ended up being behind the SC, so it was fine. And then somehow it went back to the original situation. So sucks for Hammy, hopefully Rosberg can defend Vettel and Webber, who now won't have tyre issues (Much like Monaco 2011).

And Perez, I didn't like the fact of him coming to McLaren at the start of the year, but wow, he's got some balls. He should be ahead of Alonso here.

And wow, looking at the replay, what the hell did Chilton do there? I suppose that's what you get for a pay driver. Maldonado in the right for once.