Review of Round Eight of the 2017 World Touring Car Championship season was the Race of Japan, on the Honda owned Twin Ring Motegi circuit, Motegi, Japan.
In the opening race, Sébastien Loeb Racing driver Tom Chilton took the race win in his Citroën C-Elysée WTCC and also took the WTCC Trophy win. Second was RC Motorsport driver Yann Ehrlacher in his Lada Vesta WTCC, he was thirteen seconds behind Chilton in the end. While third was Castrol Honda World Touring Car Team driver Esteban Guerrieri in his Honda Civic WTCC, he was fifteen seconds behind Chilton in the end.
While in the main race, Castrol Honda World Touring Car Team driver Norbert Michelisz took the race win in his Honda Civic WTCC. Second was Polestar Cyan Racing driver Nicky Catsburg in his Volvo S60 Polestar TC1, he was four tenths of a second behind Michelisz in the end. While, third was Polestar Cyan Racing driver Néstor Girolami in his Volvo S60 Polestar TC1, he was two seconds behind Michelisz in the end.
Meanwhile in the WTCC Trophy, was won by Sébastien Loeb Racing driver Mehdi Bennani in his Citroën C-Elysée WTCC. He finished in sixth place overall and he was six seconds behind Girolami in the end.
Next stop Guia Race of Macau at Guia Circuit, Macau for Round Nine of the 2017 World Touring Car Championship season in three weeks time.
Tuesday 31 October 2017
Monday 30 October 2017
2017 Malaysia MotoGP Review, Franco Morbidelli 2017 Moto2 Champion!
Review of round seventeen of the 2017 MotoGP season at Sepang International Circuit, on the outskirts of Selangor, south of Kuala Lumpur for the Malaysian GP.
In the MotoGP race (V-twin, V4, or Inline-four 1000cc four stroke class), that was won by Ducati Team rider Andrea Dovizioso on his works Ducati Desmosedici GP17.
Second place was Ducati Team rider Jorge Lorenzo on his works Ducati Desmosedici GP17 to compete a Ducati one-two finish, he was seven tenths of a second behind Dovizioso at the end. While, third was Monster Yamaha Tech 3 rider Johann Zarco on his Yamaha YZR-M1, he was ten seconds behind Dovizioso at the end.
In the Moto2 race (Inline-four 600 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by Red Bull KTM Ajo rider Miguel Oliveira on the KTM. Second was Red Bull KTM Ajo rider Brad Binder on the KTM, to complete another KTM one-two finish; he was two seconds behind Oliveira at the end. While, third was EG 0,0 Marc VDS rider Franco Morbidelli on the Kalex, he was seven seconds behind Oliveira at the end.
Third place finish was enough to give Franco Morbidelli the 2017 Moto2 title. Franco Morbidelli was 43 points ahead of Thomas Lüthi with a race to spare. Contracts to Franco Morbidelli for winning the Moto2 championship.
While in the Moto3 race (single-cylinder 250 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by Leopard Racing rider and current Moto3 rider Joan Mir on the Honda. Second was Del Conca Gresini Racing rider Jorge Martín on the Honda, he was seven tenths of a second behind Mir at the end of the race. While, third was Estrella Galicia 0,0 rider Enea Bastianini on the Honda, he was eight tenths of a second behind Mir at the end of the race.
In the MotoGP race (V-twin, V4, or Inline-four 1000cc four stroke class), that was won by Ducati Team rider Andrea Dovizioso on his works Ducati Desmosedici GP17.
Second place was Ducati Team rider Jorge Lorenzo on his works Ducati Desmosedici GP17 to compete a Ducati one-two finish, he was seven tenths of a second behind Dovizioso at the end. While, third was Monster Yamaha Tech 3 rider Johann Zarco on his Yamaha YZR-M1, he was ten seconds behind Dovizioso at the end.
In the Moto2 race (Inline-four 600 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by Red Bull KTM Ajo rider Miguel Oliveira on the KTM. Second was Red Bull KTM Ajo rider Brad Binder on the KTM, to complete another KTM one-two finish; he was two seconds behind Oliveira at the end. While, third was EG 0,0 Marc VDS rider Franco Morbidelli on the Kalex, he was seven seconds behind Oliveira at the end.
Third place finish was enough to give Franco Morbidelli the 2017 Moto2 title. Franco Morbidelli was 43 points ahead of Thomas Lüthi with a race to spare. Contracts to Franco Morbidelli for winning the Moto2 championship.
While in the Moto3 race (single-cylinder 250 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by Leopard Racing rider and current Moto3 rider Joan Mir on the Honda. Second was Del Conca Gresini Racing rider Jorge Martín on the Honda, he was seven tenths of a second behind Mir at the end of the race. While, third was Estrella Galicia 0,0 rider Enea Bastianini on the Honda, he was eight tenths of a second behind Mir at the end of the race.
2017 WRC Round 12 recap - Wales Rally GB, Elfyn Evans Wins! Sébastien Ogier 2017 World Rally Champion! M-Sport WRC Manufacturers Champions!
Recap of the last round of WRC from last weekends Round twelve of Wales Rally GB.
Last weekend was the twelfth round of the 2017 World Rally Championship at Wales Rally GB (27th-29th October) was won by M-Sport World Rally Team driver Elfyn Evans in his Ford Fiesta WRC for Evans first WRC win and for DMACK as a tyre manufacture.
While, Thierry Neuville finished second in the works Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC, Neuville was thirty-seven seconds behind Evans at the end of the rally.
Meanwhile, M-Sport World Rally Team driver and current WRC champion Sébastien Ogier finished third in his Ford Fiesta WRC, Ogier was fourty-five seconds behind Evans at the end of the rally; and enough to give Sébastien Ogier the 2017 WRC title, contracts to Sébastien Ogier and co-driver Julien Ingrassia for winning their fifth WRC drivers title and becoming the second WRC driver to win five WRC drivers' championships in a row.
With M-Sport's one-three finish, it was also confirmed with a rally to spare, that M-Sport have won this years WRC Manufacturers title, M-Sport (Ford) first since 2007, congrats to M-Sport for winnings this years title.
While in the WRC Trophy (crews entering World Rally Cars used between 2011 and 2016), that was won by Jourdan Serderidis in his own backed Citroën DS3 WRC. Jean-Jourdan Serderidis finished in forty-third place overall, he was forty-five minutes behind Evans at the end of the rally.
Meanwhile in WRC-2 class (Group R5, R4, Super 2000 and Group N4 spec cars), that was won by Škoda Motorsport driver and current WRC-2 Champion Pontus Tidemand in his Škoda Fabia R5. Pontus Tidemand finished in eleventh place overall, he was ten minutes behind Evans at the end of the rally.
While in WRC-3 class (Group R1, R2 and R3 cars) that was won by Raphaël Astier in his own backed Peugeot 208 R2. Raphaël Astier finished in fourty-fifth place overall, he was forty-eight minutes behind Evans at the end of the rally.
Highlights of the rally bellow, enjoy.
Next stop, Round Thirteen and the final round of the 2017 WRC season for Rally Australia in three weeks time.
Last weekend was the twelfth round of the 2017 World Rally Championship at Wales Rally GB (27th-29th October) was won by M-Sport World Rally Team driver Elfyn Evans in his Ford Fiesta WRC for Evans first WRC win and for DMACK as a tyre manufacture.
While, Thierry Neuville finished second in the works Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC, Neuville was thirty-seven seconds behind Evans at the end of the rally.
Meanwhile, M-Sport World Rally Team driver and current WRC champion Sébastien Ogier finished third in his Ford Fiesta WRC, Ogier was fourty-five seconds behind Evans at the end of the rally; and enough to give Sébastien Ogier the 2017 WRC title, contracts to Sébastien Ogier and co-driver Julien Ingrassia for winning their fifth WRC drivers title and becoming the second WRC driver to win five WRC drivers' championships in a row.
With M-Sport's one-three finish, it was also confirmed with a rally to spare, that M-Sport have won this years WRC Manufacturers title, M-Sport (Ford) first since 2007, congrats to M-Sport for winnings this years title.
While in the WRC Trophy (crews entering World Rally Cars used between 2011 and 2016), that was won by Jourdan Serderidis in his own backed Citroën DS3 WRC. Jean-Jourdan Serderidis finished in forty-third place overall, he was forty-five minutes behind Evans at the end of the rally.
Meanwhile in WRC-2 class (Group R5, R4, Super 2000 and Group N4 spec cars), that was won by Škoda Motorsport driver and current WRC-2 Champion Pontus Tidemand in his Škoda Fabia R5. Pontus Tidemand finished in eleventh place overall, he was ten minutes behind Evans at the end of the rally.
While in WRC-3 class (Group R1, R2 and R3 cars) that was won by Raphaël Astier in his own backed Peugeot 208 R2. Raphaël Astier finished in fourty-fifth place overall, he was forty-eight minutes behind Evans at the end of the rally.
Highlights of the rally bellow, enjoy.
Next stop, Round Thirteen and the final round of the 2017 WRC season for Rally Australia in three weeks time.
2017 Mexican Grand Prix Review, Lewis Hamilton 2017 Formula 1 World Champion for a fourth time!
Review of the eighteenth round of the 2017 F1 season at Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in the centre of Mexico City for the Mexican Grand Prix.
The race was decided on the first lap of the race, with Sebastian Vettel on pole for Sunday's race, Max Verstappen who was on the front-row, took the lead by the end of the main straight, by turn two he and Vettel banged wheels. By turn three, Hamilton edged clear of Vettel. But, having brushed Verstappen, was clipped by Vettel as the pair exited Turn three; Hamilton sustained a rear-right puncture, while Vettel copped damage to his front wing. Both pitted at the end of the opening lap, with Vettel in eighteenth, while Hamilton return back in nineteenth place and minute behind race leader Verstappen.
It was Verstappen took the advantage in a hot and dry Mexican Grand Prix; Comfortably lead the race throughout, leading all seventy-one laps to conclude with a race win in this seasons Mexican Grand Prix for Max Verstappen's second race win of the season.
While, Valtteri Bottas finished second place in the Mercedes, Bottas was twenty seconds behind Verstappen at the end.
Meanwhile, Kimi Räikkönen finished in third place in the Ferrari to complete the podium, Räikkönen was fifty-four seconds behind Verstappen.
Sebastian Vettel finished in fourth place in the Ferrari, Vettel was seventy seconds behind Verstappen.
Lewis Hamilton finished in ninth place in the Mercedes, Hamilton was a lap behind Verstappen. And enough for Lewis Hamilton his fourth F1 World Drivers Championship title and fifty-six points ahead of Sebastian Vettel with two races to go. He also become the most successful British F1 driver ever winning four drivers' titles. So contractions to Lewis Hamilton for winning his fourth World Drivers' title.
Highlights of the race below, enjoy.
Rate the Teams and Drivers
Mercedes - 8
Lewis Hamilton - 8 (finished ninth, lap down)
Valtteri Bottas - 8 (finished second)
Red Bull Racing - 8
Daniel Ricciardo - 7 (DNF, Engine)
Max Verstappen - 10 (race win)
Ferrari - 7
Sebastian Vettel - 8 (pole, finished fourth, and fastest lap)
Kimi Räikkönen - 7 (finished third)
Force India - 8
Sergio Pérez - 7 (finished seventh, lap down)
Esteban Ocon - 9 (finished fifth, lap down)
Williams - 7
Felipe Massa - 6 (finished eleventh, lap down)
Lance Stroll -9 (finished sixth, lap down)
McLaren - 7
Fernando Alonso - 9 (finished tenth, lap down)
Stoffel Vandoorne - 5 (finished twelfth, lap down)
Toro Rosso - 6
Pierre Gasly - 6 (finished thirteenth, lap down)
Brendon Hartley - 7 (DNF, Engine)
Haas - 5
Romain Grosjean - 3 (finished fifteenth, two laps down)
Kevin Magnussen - 8 (finished eighth, lap down)
Renault - 6
Nico Hülkenberg - 7 (DNF, Electrics)
Carlos Sainz Jr. - 6 (DNF, Engine)
Sauber - 6
Marcus Ericsson - 7 (DNF, Engine)
Pascal Wehrlein - 5 (finished fourteenth, two laps down)
Next stop, Autódromo José Carlos Pace, Interlagos, São Paulo in two weeks time for the Brazilian Grand Prix.
The race was decided on the first lap of the race, with Sebastian Vettel on pole for Sunday's race, Max Verstappen who was on the front-row, took the lead by the end of the main straight, by turn two he and Vettel banged wheels. By turn three, Hamilton edged clear of Vettel. But, having brushed Verstappen, was clipped by Vettel as the pair exited Turn three; Hamilton sustained a rear-right puncture, while Vettel copped damage to his front wing. Both pitted at the end of the opening lap, with Vettel in eighteenth, while Hamilton return back in nineteenth place and minute behind race leader Verstappen.
It was Verstappen took the advantage in a hot and dry Mexican Grand Prix; Comfortably lead the race throughout, leading all seventy-one laps to conclude with a race win in this seasons Mexican Grand Prix for Max Verstappen's second race win of the season.
While, Valtteri Bottas finished second place in the Mercedes, Bottas was twenty seconds behind Verstappen at the end.
Meanwhile, Kimi Räikkönen finished in third place in the Ferrari to complete the podium, Räikkönen was fifty-four seconds behind Verstappen.
Sebastian Vettel finished in fourth place in the Ferrari, Vettel was seventy seconds behind Verstappen.
Lewis Hamilton finished in ninth place in the Mercedes, Hamilton was a lap behind Verstappen. And enough for Lewis Hamilton his fourth F1 World Drivers Championship title and fifty-six points ahead of Sebastian Vettel with two races to go. He also become the most successful British F1 driver ever winning four drivers' titles. So contractions to Lewis Hamilton for winning his fourth World Drivers' title.
Highlights of the race below, enjoy.
Rate the Teams and Drivers
Mercedes - 8
Lewis Hamilton - 8 (finished ninth, lap down)
Valtteri Bottas - 8 (finished second)
Red Bull Racing - 8
Daniel Ricciardo - 7 (DNF, Engine)
Max Verstappen - 10 (race win)
Ferrari - 7
Sebastian Vettel - 8 (pole, finished fourth, and fastest lap)
Kimi Räikkönen - 7 (finished third)
Force India - 8
Sergio Pérez - 7 (finished seventh, lap down)
Esteban Ocon - 9 (finished fifth, lap down)
Williams - 7
Felipe Massa - 6 (finished eleventh, lap down)
Lance Stroll -9 (finished sixth, lap down)
McLaren - 7
Fernando Alonso - 9 (finished tenth, lap down)
Stoffel Vandoorne - 5 (finished twelfth, lap down)
Toro Rosso - 6
Pierre Gasly - 6 (finished thirteenth, lap down)
Brendon Hartley - 7 (DNF, Engine)
Haas - 5
Romain Grosjean - 3 (finished fifteenth, two laps down)
Kevin Magnussen - 8 (finished eighth, lap down)
Renault - 6
Nico Hülkenberg - 7 (DNF, Electrics)
Carlos Sainz Jr. - 6 (DNF, Engine)
Sauber - 6
Marcus Ericsson - 7 (DNF, Engine)
Pascal Wehrlein - 5 (finished fourteenth, two laps down)
Next stop, Autódromo José Carlos Pace, Interlagos, São Paulo in two weeks time for the Brazilian Grand Prix.
Saturday 28 October 2017
It's Official - Daniil Kvyat out of Red Bull F1 program, so what's next for Kvyat?
Daniil Kvyat is no longer part of the Red Bull family in Formula 1 it was confirmed on Friday at the Mexican Grand Prix (27/10/17).
Although Kvyat scored a point for Toro Rosso in the United States Grand Prix last weekend, the former GP3 Champion was told after the event that he would not be racing again for the team; and there is a "high possibility" that Pierre Gasly and Brendon Hartley will race for Toro Rosso next season.
In my opinion, gutted for Daniil Kvyat as hasn't been a great two years dropped by Red Bull Racing after his home Grand Prix in 2016 returning back to Toro Rosso and have been outperformed by former team-mate Carlos Sainz Jr. The crash in Singapore was the catalyst for Toro Rosso/Red Bull to drop him from their Formula 1 program. What's next for Kvyat?
There is still three drives left for the 2018 season, with two at Sauber, one at Williams. Two at Sauber will likely go to Marcus Ericsson to retain one of the seats while F2 champion Charles Leclerc will likely get the second seat. While the remaining seat at Williams will likely go between Felipe Massa, Paul di Resta or Robert Kubica as Kvyat is still 23, and Williams title sponsor Martini wants one of their drivers needs to be 25 years and over to promote their brand.
Kvyat better bet would be get a test-drive and Friday morning Practice sessions at a middle of the grid team and get full time seat in 2019, when the F1 driver market will open out with more drives available then in 2018. Similar to 2011 when Nico Hülkenberg lost his drive at Williams, he was later confirmed as Force India's reserve driver for the 2011 season which did include Friday morning Practice sessions for most of the season, then in 2012 he was promoted as one of their drivers. That may be the better bet for Kvyat.
New challenge ahead for Daniil Kvyat in 2018, but where?
Although Kvyat scored a point for Toro Rosso in the United States Grand Prix last weekend, the former GP3 Champion was told after the event that he would not be racing again for the team; and there is a "high possibility" that Pierre Gasly and Brendon Hartley will race for Toro Rosso next season.
In my opinion, gutted for Daniil Kvyat as hasn't been a great two years dropped by Red Bull Racing after his home Grand Prix in 2016 returning back to Toro Rosso and have been outperformed by former team-mate Carlos Sainz Jr. The crash in Singapore was the catalyst for Toro Rosso/Red Bull to drop him from their Formula 1 program. What's next for Kvyat?
There is still three drives left for the 2018 season, with two at Sauber, one at Williams. Two at Sauber will likely go to Marcus Ericsson to retain one of the seats while F2 champion Charles Leclerc will likely get the second seat. While the remaining seat at Williams will likely go between Felipe Massa, Paul di Resta or Robert Kubica as Kvyat is still 23, and Williams title sponsor Martini wants one of their drivers needs to be 25 years and over to promote their brand.
Kvyat better bet would be get a test-drive and Friday morning Practice sessions at a middle of the grid team and get full time seat in 2019, when the F1 driver market will open out with more drives available then in 2018. Similar to 2011 when Nico Hülkenberg lost his drive at Williams, he was later confirmed as Force India's reserve driver for the 2011 season which did include Friday morning Practice sessions for most of the season, then in 2012 he was promoted as one of their drivers. That may be the better bet for Kvyat.
New challenge ahead for Daniil Kvyat in 2018, but where?
Friday 27 October 2017
Confirmed: Fernando Alonso to contest 24 Hours of Daytona
It was confirmed of Thursday (26/10/17) Fernando Alonso will contest next seasons 24 Hours of Daytona in January, with the United Autosports team, the team co-owned and chaired by McLaren chief Zak Brown.
Alonso hinted during the United States Grand Prix weekend that he wanted to compet in the endurance event, and United Autosports announced on Thursday that Alonso will race for the team in January.
It will be Alonso's debut in prototype sports car racing. Alonso will race in Prototype class with a Ligier JS P217 alongside McLaren-backed F3 champion Lando Norris and Phil Hanson.
In my opinion, no surprises with this news has happened, the big advantage for Fernando Alonso there is no Formula 1 racing or testing in January.
Alonso hinted during the United States Grand Prix weekend that he wanted to compet in the endurance event, and United Autosports announced on Thursday that Alonso will race for the team in January.
It will be Alonso's debut in prototype sports car racing. Alonso will race in Prototype class with a Ligier JS P217 alongside McLaren-backed F3 champion Lando Norris and Phil Hanson.
In my opinion, no surprises with this news has happened, the big advantage for Fernando Alonso there is no Formula 1 racing or testing in January.
Thursday 26 October 2017
Confirmed: Nissan to enter Formula E in 2018/19
It was confirmed on Wednesday (25/10/17), Nissan will enter Formula E for the fifth season of the category in 2018/19, it was announced at the Tokyo Motor Show that it will enter the electric single-seater series in place of an existing manufacturer Renault who will focus on Formula 1 instead with Nissan to take its place at the e.dams operation.
Nissan will becomes the first Japanese Manufacture to enter the electric series.
Nissan will compete from the fifth season of the all-electric single-seater championship, when the series introduces a new chassis and battery specifications.
No surprises there, as Renault and Nissan have held a strategic partnership/Alliance since 1999.
A new challenge ahead for Nissan.
Nissan will becomes the first Japanese Manufacture to enter the electric series.
Nissan will compete from the fifth season of the all-electric single-seater championship, when the series introduces a new chassis and battery specifications.
No surprises there, as Renault and Nissan have held a strategic partnership/Alliance since 1999.
A new challenge ahead for Nissan.
Tuesday 24 October 2017
Musical chairs at Toro Rosso, Pierre Gasly and Brendon Hartley will race at Mexico
It was confirmed yesterday (23/10/17), Pierre Gasly and Brendon Hartley will race for Toro Rosso at this weekend's Mexican Grand Prix, leaving Daniil Kvyat on the sidelines, amid questions over his future in Formula 1 once again.
Kvyat returned to Toro Rosso at the United States Grand Prix, after being dropped for Malaysia and Japan, with Carlos Sainz Jr. making an early move to Renault and Gasly entering the Super Formula finale.
Kvyat registered a tenth place finish, Kvyat first points since the Spanish Grand Prix back in May.
However, for this weekend's Mexican Grand Prix, Kvyat will lose his spot once again, with Gasly and Hartley forming Toro Rosso's fourth different line-up in 2017.
Gasly missed the United States Grand Prix to fight for the Super Formula championship, but the event was cancelled amid an approaching typhoon, meaning he finished as runner-up.
WEC driver Hartley, meanwhile, made his Formula 1 debut, finishing in thirteen place after starting towards the back of the grid with a sizeable engine-related penalty.
Good to see Brendon Hartley gets another change at Toro Rosso, as for Daniil Kvyat feel sorry for him once again. Hope he gets his change for the final two Grand Prixs of the season.
Kvyat returned to Toro Rosso at the United States Grand Prix, after being dropped for Malaysia and Japan, with Carlos Sainz Jr. making an early move to Renault and Gasly entering the Super Formula finale.
Kvyat registered a tenth place finish, Kvyat first points since the Spanish Grand Prix back in May.
However, for this weekend's Mexican Grand Prix, Kvyat will lose his spot once again, with Gasly and Hartley forming Toro Rosso's fourth different line-up in 2017.
Gasly missed the United States Grand Prix to fight for the Super Formula championship, but the event was cancelled amid an approaching typhoon, meaning he finished as runner-up.
WEC driver Hartley, meanwhile, made his Formula 1 debut, finishing in thirteen place after starting towards the back of the grid with a sizeable engine-related penalty.
Good to see Brendon Hartley gets another change at Toro Rosso, as for Daniil Kvyat feel sorry for him once again. Hope he gets his change for the final two Grand Prixs of the season.
Monday 23 October 2017
Celebrating Life Marco Simoncelli, six years on
Its been six years today that Marco Simoncelli has past away from us, from the accident at was competing the last but one round at Sepang in Malaysia of the 2011 MotoGP season. On lap 2, Simoncelli was fighting for fourth with Alvaro Bautista when he lost the front of his bike at turn 11 and slid across the circuit, into the path of both Colin Edwards and Valentino Rossi, both of whom then hit the Honda rider and got instantly killed.
Today it should be celebrating life and never ever forget who was Marco Simoncelli.
Today it should be celebrating life and never ever forget who was Marco Simoncelli.
2017 Australian MotoGP Review, Joan Mir Moto3 Champion!
Review of round sixteen of the 2017 MotoGP season at Phillip Island Grand Prix Circult, Phillip Island, south-southeast of Melbourne, for the Australian GP.
In the MotoGP race (V-twin, V4, or Inline-four 1000cc four stroke class), that was won by Repsol Honda Team rider and current MotoGP champion Marc Marquez on his works Honda RC213V.
Second place was Movistar Yamaha MotoGP rider Valentino Rossi on his works Yamaha YZR-M1, he was seventeen tenths of a second behind Marquez at the end. While, third was Movistar Yamaha MotoGP rider Maverick Viñales on his works Yamaha YZR-M1, he was eighteen tenths of a second behind Marquez at the end.
In the Moto2 race (Inline-four 600 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by Red Bull KTM Ajo rider Miguel Oliveira on the KTM. Second was Red Bull KTM Ajo rider and current Moto3 Champion Brad Binder on the KTM, to complete a KTM one-two finish; he was three seconds behind Oliveira at the end. While, third was EG 0,0 Marc VDS rider Franco Morbidelli on the Kalex, he was four seconds behind Oliveira at the end.
While in the Moto3 race (single-cylinder 250 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by Leopard Racing rider Joan Mir on the Honda.
First place was enough to give Joan Mir the 2017 Moto3 title, Joan Mir is 70 points ahead of Romano Fenati in the standings with two races to go. Contracts to Joan Mir for winning this seasons Moto3 championship.
Second was Leopard Racing rider Livio Loi on the Honda, he was three tenths of a second behind Mir at the end of the race. While, third was Del Conca Gresini Racing Moto3 rider Jorge Martín on the Honda, he was over three tenths of a second behind Mir at the end of the race.
In the MotoGP race (V-twin, V4, or Inline-four 1000cc four stroke class), that was won by Repsol Honda Team rider and current MotoGP champion Marc Marquez on his works Honda RC213V.
Second place was Movistar Yamaha MotoGP rider Valentino Rossi on his works Yamaha YZR-M1, he was seventeen tenths of a second behind Marquez at the end. While, third was Movistar Yamaha MotoGP rider Maverick Viñales on his works Yamaha YZR-M1, he was eighteen tenths of a second behind Marquez at the end.
In the Moto2 race (Inline-four 600 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by Red Bull KTM Ajo rider Miguel Oliveira on the KTM. Second was Red Bull KTM Ajo rider and current Moto3 Champion Brad Binder on the KTM, to complete a KTM one-two finish; he was three seconds behind Oliveira at the end. While, third was EG 0,0 Marc VDS rider Franco Morbidelli on the Kalex, he was four seconds behind Oliveira at the end.
While in the Moto3 race (single-cylinder 250 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by Leopard Racing rider Joan Mir on the Honda.
First place was enough to give Joan Mir the 2017 Moto3 title, Joan Mir is 70 points ahead of Romano Fenati in the standings with two races to go. Contracts to Joan Mir for winning this seasons Moto3 championship.
Second was Leopard Racing rider Livio Loi on the Honda, he was three tenths of a second behind Mir at the end of the race. While, third was Del Conca Gresini Racing Moto3 rider Jorge Martín on the Honda, he was over three tenths of a second behind Mir at the end of the race.
F1 2017 Mexican Grand Prix Predictions
Predictions for this weekends Formula 1 Mexican Grand Prix at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez in the centre of Mexico City.
So Predictions for the race, for the win, I predict that, Lewis Hamilton for the win in the Mercedes and for the F1 Drivers' Championship too, Valtteri Bottas second in the other Mercedes, and Sebastian Vettel third in the Ferrari. Don't forget Kimi Räikkönen, the Red Bull drivers and the Force India drivers as well for a podium place.
So Predictions for the race, for the win, I predict that, Lewis Hamilton for the win in the Mercedes and for the F1 Drivers' Championship too, Valtteri Bottas second in the other Mercedes, and Sebastian Vettel third in the Ferrari. Don't forget Kimi Räikkönen, the Red Bull drivers and the Force India drivers as well for a podium place.
2017 United States Grand Prix Review, Mercedes F1 Constructor Champions of 2017!
Review of the seventeenth round of the 2017 F1 season at Circuit of the Americas near Austin, Texas for the United States Grand Prix.
Overall the race itself was enjoyable and entertaining race to watch. Lewis Hamilton was on pole for Sunday's race. At the start of the United States Grand Prix, Sebastian Vettel had the better start and took the lead and took a strong lead over Hamilton. By lap 7, Hamilton took the lead overtaking Vettel at the end of the back straight and stayed there to the end to conclude with a race win in this seasons United States Grand Prix for Lewis Hamilton's ninth race win of the season.
With Lewis Hamilton win was enough for Mercedes to win this seasons F1 Constructors' Championship with one hundred and forty-seven points ahead of Ferrrari with three races to go. Contracts to Mercedes for winning their fourth Constructors' Championship in Formula 1.
While, Sebastian Vettel finished second place in the Ferrari, Vettel was ten seconds behind Hamilton at the end.
Meanwhile, Max Verstappen finished in third place in the Red Bull to complete the podium. However Verstappen has been given a five-second time penalty following the race after leaving the track and gaining an advantage while passing Kimi Räikkönen on the last lap of the race.
Meaning Kimi Räikkönen finished in third place in the Ferrari to complete the podium, Räikkönen was eleven seconds behind Hamilton at the end of the fifty-six lap race.
With Lewis Hamilton's win in Austin and Sebastian Vettel only managing a second place finish, Hamilton still leads the Drivers' Championship from Sebastian Vettel, the gap is now improved from fifty-nine points to sixty-six points in the standings with three races to go.
Lewis Hamilton could win his fourth Drivers' Championship in Mexico. If Hamilton finishes fifth or higher at the Mexican Grand Prix to guaranteed the championship.
Highlights of the race below, enjoy.
Rate the Teams and Drivers
Mercedes - 8
Lewis Hamilton - 10 (pole, race win)
Valtteri Bottas - 7 (finished fifth)
Red Bull Racing - 8
Daniel Ricciardo - 7 (DNF, Engine)
Max Verstappen - 9 (finished fourth)
Ferrari - 8
Sebastian Vettel - 9 (finished second, fastest lap)
Kimi Räikkönen - 7 (finished third)
Force India - 7
Sergio Pérez - 7 (finished eighth, lap down)
Esteban Ocon - 8 (finished sixth)
Williams - 6
Felipe Massa - 8 (finished ninth, lap down)
Lance Stroll - 5 (finished eleventh, lap down)
McLaren - 6
Fernando Alonso - 8 (DNF, Engine)
Stoffel Vandoorne - 5 (finished twelfth, lap down)
Toro Rosso - 7
Daniil Kvyat - 7 (finished tenth, lap down)
Brendon Hartley - 8 (finished thirteenth, lap down)
Haas - 4
Romain Grosjean - 5 (finished fourteenth, lap down)
Kevin Magnussen - 4 (finished sixteenth, lap down)
Renault - 8
Nico Hülkenberg - 6 (DNF, Engine)
Carlos Sainz Jr. - 10 (finished seventh)
Sauber - 5
Marcus Ericsson - 6 (finished fifteenth, lap down)
Pascal Wehrlein - 4 (DNF, Collision damage from Magnussen)
Next stop Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, Mexico City in a weeks time for the Mexican Grand Prix.
Overall the race itself was enjoyable and entertaining race to watch. Lewis Hamilton was on pole for Sunday's race. At the start of the United States Grand Prix, Sebastian Vettel had the better start and took the lead and took a strong lead over Hamilton. By lap 7, Hamilton took the lead overtaking Vettel at the end of the back straight and stayed there to the end to conclude with a race win in this seasons United States Grand Prix for Lewis Hamilton's ninth race win of the season.
With Lewis Hamilton win was enough for Mercedes to win this seasons F1 Constructors' Championship with one hundred and forty-seven points ahead of Ferrrari with three races to go. Contracts to Mercedes for winning their fourth Constructors' Championship in Formula 1.
While, Sebastian Vettel finished second place in the Ferrari, Vettel was ten seconds behind Hamilton at the end.
Meanwhile, Max Verstappen finished in third place in the Red Bull to complete the podium. However Verstappen has been given a five-second time penalty following the race after leaving the track and gaining an advantage while passing Kimi Räikkönen on the last lap of the race.
Meaning Kimi Räikkönen finished in third place in the Ferrari to complete the podium, Räikkönen was eleven seconds behind Hamilton at the end of the fifty-six lap race.
With Lewis Hamilton's win in Austin and Sebastian Vettel only managing a second place finish, Hamilton still leads the Drivers' Championship from Sebastian Vettel, the gap is now improved from fifty-nine points to sixty-six points in the standings with three races to go.
Lewis Hamilton could win his fourth Drivers' Championship in Mexico. If Hamilton finishes fifth or higher at the Mexican Grand Prix to guaranteed the championship.
Highlights of the race below, enjoy.
Rate the Teams and Drivers
Mercedes - 8
Lewis Hamilton - 10 (pole, race win)
Valtteri Bottas - 7 (finished fifth)
Red Bull Racing - 8
Daniel Ricciardo - 7 (DNF, Engine)
Max Verstappen - 9 (finished fourth)
Ferrari - 8
Sebastian Vettel - 9 (finished second, fastest lap)
Kimi Räikkönen - 7 (finished third)
Force India - 7
Sergio Pérez - 7 (finished eighth, lap down)
Esteban Ocon - 8 (finished sixth)
Williams - 6
Felipe Massa - 8 (finished ninth, lap down)
Lance Stroll - 5 (finished eleventh, lap down)
McLaren - 6
Fernando Alonso - 8 (DNF, Engine)
Stoffel Vandoorne - 5 (finished twelfth, lap down)
Toro Rosso - 7
Daniil Kvyat - 7 (finished tenth, lap down)
Brendon Hartley - 8 (finished thirteenth, lap down)
Haas - 4
Romain Grosjean - 5 (finished fourteenth, lap down)
Kevin Magnussen - 4 (finished sixteenth, lap down)
Renault - 8
Nico Hülkenberg - 6 (DNF, Engine)
Carlos Sainz Jr. - 10 (finished seventh)
Sauber - 5
Marcus Ericsson - 6 (finished fifteenth, lap down)
Pascal Wehrlein - 4 (DNF, Collision damage from Magnussen)
Next stop Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, Mexico City in a weeks time for the Mexican Grand Prix.
Saturday 21 October 2017
Confirmed: Red Bull retains Max Verstappen till 2020
It was confirmed before practice start at the United States Grand Prix (20/10/17) that Red Bull will retain Max Verstappen through to the end of the 2020 Formula 1 season and alongside Daniel Ricciardo for the 2018 F1 season.
Verstappen's current Red Bull deal was set to expire at the end of the 2018 season despite been linked to Mercedes and Ferrari for 2019, when the driver market will open up, but has opted to sign a new deal with Red Bull covering the next three seasons.
Verstappen joined Red Bull from Toro Rosso in May 2016 replacing Daniil Kvyat, winning on his team debut at the Spanish Grand Prix. With a best finish of a Grand Prix win at Malaysia so far this season.
Overall, a very good decision from Red Bull to keep Max Verstappen for next three seasons. Although, the only thing that could go wrong would be what power-unit will Red Bull use 2019 and onwards with rumours that Renault will not supply the team after 2018 season? is there a contract clause for Verstappen if the car is rubbish going into 2019? can Verstappen win the Drivers' Title with Red Bull in the next three seasons? time will tell. It's a very good deal for Red Bull for the next three seasons.
Verstappen's current Red Bull deal was set to expire at the end of the 2018 season despite been linked to Mercedes and Ferrari for 2019, when the driver market will open up, but has opted to sign a new deal with Red Bull covering the next three seasons.
Verstappen joined Red Bull from Toro Rosso in May 2016 replacing Daniil Kvyat, winning on his team debut at the Spanish Grand Prix. With a best finish of a Grand Prix win at Malaysia so far this season.
Overall, a very good decision from Red Bull to keep Max Verstappen for next three seasons. Although, the only thing that could go wrong would be what power-unit will Red Bull use 2019 and onwards with rumours that Renault will not supply the team after 2018 season? is there a contract clause for Verstappen if the car is rubbish going into 2019? can Verstappen win the Drivers' Title with Red Bull in the next three seasons? time will tell. It's a very good deal for Red Bull for the next three seasons.
Friday 20 October 2017
Confirmed: McLaren retains Fernando Alonso till 2018
It was confirmed yesterday on the eve of the United States Grand Prix (19/10/17) that McLaren will retain Fernando Alonso for next season alongside Stoffel Vandoorne.
Alonso rejoined McLaren on a three-year deal in 2015, for the start of the outfit's latest partnership with power unit supplier Honda. Last three seasons of fruitless results from Honda, McLaren announced last month that it would split from Honda and align itself with Renault for 2018. Meant, Alonso will stay at McLaren for another season.
Overall, a very good decision from McLaren to keep Fernando Alonso for next season. Renault deal was the catalyst for Alonso to retain at McLaren for another seoasn, which makes McLaren line-up a very strong one going into 2018.
Alonso rejoined McLaren on a three-year deal in 2015, for the start of the outfit's latest partnership with power unit supplier Honda. Last three seasons of fruitless results from Honda, McLaren announced last month that it would split from Honda and align itself with Renault for 2018. Meant, Alonso will stay at McLaren for another season.
Overall, a very good decision from McLaren to keep Fernando Alonso for next season. Renault deal was the catalyst for Alonso to retain at McLaren for another seoasn, which makes McLaren line-up a very strong one going into 2018.
Tuesday 17 October 2017
2017 WTCC Round 7 Recap - Race of China
Review of Round Seven of the 2017 World Touring Car Championship season was the Race of China, at Ningbo International Circuit, on the outskirts of Ningbo, East of China.
In the opening race, Campos Racing driver Esteban Guerrieri took the race win in his Chevrolet RML Cruze TC1 and also took the WTCC Trophy win. Second was RC Motorsport driver Yann Ehrlacher in his Lada Vesta WTCC, he was seven tenths of a second behind Guerrieri in the end. While third was Polestar Cyan Racing driver Nicky Catsburg in his Volvo S60 Polestar TC1, he was twelve seconds behind Guerrieri in the end.
While in the main race, Polestar Cyan Racing driver Néstor Girolami took the race win in his Volvo S60 Polestar TC1. Second was Castrol Honda World Touring Car Team driver Norbert Michelisz in his Honda Civic WTCC, he was a second behind Girolami in the end. While, third was Polestar Cyan Racing driver Thed Björk in his Volvo S60 Polestar TC1, he was two and half seconds behind Girolami in the end.
Meanwhile in the WTCC Trophy, was won by Sébastien Loeb Racing driver Tom Chilton in his Citroën C-Elysée WTCC. He finished in fifth place overall and he was four and half seconds behind Girolami in the end.
Next stop Race of Japan at Twin Ring Motegi for Round Eight of the 2017 World Touring Car Championship season in two weeks time.
In the opening race, Campos Racing driver Esteban Guerrieri took the race win in his Chevrolet RML Cruze TC1 and also took the WTCC Trophy win. Second was RC Motorsport driver Yann Ehrlacher in his Lada Vesta WTCC, he was seven tenths of a second behind Guerrieri in the end. While third was Polestar Cyan Racing driver Nicky Catsburg in his Volvo S60 Polestar TC1, he was twelve seconds behind Guerrieri in the end.
While in the main race, Polestar Cyan Racing driver Néstor Girolami took the race win in his Volvo S60 Polestar TC1. Second was Castrol Honda World Touring Car Team driver Norbert Michelisz in his Honda Civic WTCC, he was a second behind Girolami in the end. While, third was Polestar Cyan Racing driver Thed Björk in his Volvo S60 Polestar TC1, he was two and half seconds behind Girolami in the end.
Meanwhile in the WTCC Trophy, was won by Sébastien Loeb Racing driver Tom Chilton in his Citroën C-Elysée WTCC. He finished in fifth place overall and he was four and half seconds behind Girolami in the end.
Next stop Race of Japan at Twin Ring Motegi for Round Eight of the 2017 World Touring Car Championship season in two weeks time.
2017 DTM Round 9 Recap, René Rast 2017 DTM Champion!
Review of Round Nine and the final round of the 2016 Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters season was held at was held at the Hockenheimring, Hockenheim, in South-West Germany.
On Saturday's race, Team Rosberg driver Jamie Green took the race win in his Audi RS5 DTM. Second was Team Phoenix driver Mike Rockenfeller in his Audi RS5 DTM, he was four seconds behind Green in the end. While, third place was BMW Team RMG driver Timo Glock in his BMW M4 DTM, he was six seconds behind Green in the end.
On Sunday's race, BMW Team RMG driver and outgoing DTM Champion Marco Wittmann took the race win in his BMW RS5 DTM. Second was Team Rosberg driver René Rast in his Audi RS5 DTM, he was three seconds behind Wittmann in the end; and enough for René Rast to be 2017 DTM Drivers' champion for his first title to beat Mattias Ekström by only three points in the last round of the year.
While, Team Phoenix driver Mike Rockenfeller in his Audi RS5 DTM, he was six seconds behind Wittmann in the end.
And so, this years champions, René Rast took the DTM Drivers' Championship. Audi took the DTM Manufacturers' championship.
That's the end of 2017 Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters season. Contracts to the Champions in DTM this season. And now for the 2018 Season.
On Saturday's race, Team Rosberg driver Jamie Green took the race win in his Audi RS5 DTM. Second was Team Phoenix driver Mike Rockenfeller in his Audi RS5 DTM, he was four seconds behind Green in the end. While, third place was BMW Team RMG driver Timo Glock in his BMW M4 DTM, he was six seconds behind Green in the end.
On Sunday's race, BMW Team RMG driver and outgoing DTM Champion Marco Wittmann took the race win in his BMW RS5 DTM. Second was Team Rosberg driver René Rast in his Audi RS5 DTM, he was three seconds behind Wittmann in the end; and enough for René Rast to be 2017 DTM Drivers' champion for his first title to beat Mattias Ekström by only three points in the last round of the year.
While, Team Phoenix driver Mike Rockenfeller in his Audi RS5 DTM, he was six seconds behind Wittmann in the end.
And so, this years champions, René Rast took the DTM Drivers' Championship. Audi took the DTM Manufacturers' championship.
That's the end of 2017 Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters season. Contracts to the Champions in DTM this season. And now for the 2018 Season.
Monday 16 October 2017
Celebrating Life Dan Wheldon, six years on
Its been six years today that Dan Wheldon has past away from us, from the accident he was competing in the final round of the Indy Car Series championship at Las Vegas Raceway, were Dan Wheldon was involved in a 15-car accident multi-car pile-up.
Today it should be celebrating life and never ever forget Dan Wheldon.
Today it should be celebrating life and never ever forget Dan Wheldon.
2017 6 Hours of Fuji Review
Review of Round seven of the 2017 FIA World Endurance Championship at Fuji International Speedway in Fuji, Japan.
The Toyota Gazoo Racing team won the race overall and the LMP1 class too of Sébastien Buemi, Anthony Davidson and Kazuki Nakajima in their Toyota TS050 Hybrid. While, second place was the other Toyota Gazoo Racing to complete a Toyota one-two finish, with the team of Mike Conway, Kamui Kobayashi and José María López in their Toyota TS050 Hybrid, they were fourteen tenths of a second behind the leaders at the end of the race. Meanwhile, third place was the Porsche Team of Neel Jani, Nick Tandy and André Lotterer in their Porsche 919 Hybrid, they were two seconds behind the leaders at the end of the race.
In LMP2 class (all cars using the Gibson 4.2 L V8 engine), the Vaillante Rebellion team of Julien Canal, Nicolas Prost and Bruno Senna in their Oreca 07 won LMP2 class. They finish in fifth place overall and they were three laps behind the leaders at the end of the race.
While in GTE Pro class, was won by AF Corse team of James Calado and Alessandro Pier Guidi won in their Ferrari 488 GTE. They finish in eleventh place overall and they were four laps behind the leaders at the end of the race.
While in GTE Am class, was won by Spirit of Race team of Thomas Flohr, Francesco Castellacci and Miguel Molina in their Ferrari 488 GTE. They finish in nineteenth place overall and they were six laps behind the leaders at the end of the race.
Highlights of the 6 Hours of Fuji below, enjoy.
Next Stop 6 Hours of Shanghai in three weeks time for round eight of the FIA World Endurance Championship.
The Toyota Gazoo Racing team won the race overall and the LMP1 class too of Sébastien Buemi, Anthony Davidson and Kazuki Nakajima in their Toyota TS050 Hybrid. While, second place was the other Toyota Gazoo Racing to complete a Toyota one-two finish, with the team of Mike Conway, Kamui Kobayashi and José María López in their Toyota TS050 Hybrid, they were fourteen tenths of a second behind the leaders at the end of the race. Meanwhile, third place was the Porsche Team of Neel Jani, Nick Tandy and André Lotterer in their Porsche 919 Hybrid, they were two seconds behind the leaders at the end of the race.
In LMP2 class (all cars using the Gibson 4.2 L V8 engine), the Vaillante Rebellion team of Julien Canal, Nicolas Prost and Bruno Senna in their Oreca 07 won LMP2 class. They finish in fifth place overall and they were three laps behind the leaders at the end of the race.
While in GTE Pro class, was won by AF Corse team of James Calado and Alessandro Pier Guidi won in their Ferrari 488 GTE. They finish in eleventh place overall and they were four laps behind the leaders at the end of the race.
While in GTE Am class, was won by Spirit of Race team of Thomas Flohr, Francesco Castellacci and Miguel Molina in their Ferrari 488 GTE. They finish in nineteenth place overall and they were six laps behind the leaders at the end of the race.
Highlights of the 6 Hours of Fuji below, enjoy.
Next Stop 6 Hours of Shanghai in three weeks time for round eight of the FIA World Endurance Championship.
2017 F1 United States Grand Prix Predictions
Predictions for this weekends Formula 1 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas near Austin, Texas; for Haas F1 Team's home race.
So Predictions for the race, for the win, I predict that, Lewis Hamilton for the win in the Mercedes, Sebastian Vettel second in the Ferrari, and Valtteri Bottas third in the other Mercedes. Don't forget Kimi Räikkönen, the Red Bull drivers and the Force India drivers as well for a podium place.
So Predictions for the race, for the win, I predict that, Lewis Hamilton for the win in the Mercedes, Sebastian Vettel second in the Ferrari, and Valtteri Bottas third in the other Mercedes. Don't forget Kimi Räikkönen, the Red Bull drivers and the Force India drivers as well for a podium place.
2017 Japanese MotoGP Review
Review of round fifteen of the 2017 MotoGP season at Twin Ring Motegi, Motegi, Tochigi for the Japanese GP.
In the MotoGP race (V-twin, V4, or Inline-four 1000cc four stroke class), that was won by Ducati Team rider Andrea Dovizioso on his works Ducati Desmosedici GP17.
Second was Repsol Honda Team rider and current MotoGP champion Marc Marquez on his works Honda RC213V, he was three tenths of a second behind Dovizioso at the end. While, third was Octo Pramac Racing rider Danilo Petrucci on his Ducati Desmosedici GP17, he was ten seconds behind Dovizioso at the end of the race.
In the Moto2 race (Inline-four 600 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by EG 0,0 Marc VDS rider Álex Márquez on the Kalex. Second was Tech 3 Racing rider Xavi Vierge on the Tech 3, he was fifteen tenths of a second behind Márquez at the end. While, third was Petronas Raceline Malaysia rider Hafizh Syahrin on the Kalex, he was three seconds behind Márquez at the end of the race.
While in the Moto3 race (single-cylinder 250 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by Marinelli Rivacold Snipers rider Romano Fenati on the Honda. Second was Red Bull KTM Ajo rider Niccolò Antonelli on the KTM, he was four seconds behind Fenati at the end. While, third was CIP rider Marco Bezzecchi on the Mahindra, he was five seconds behind Fenati at the end of the race.
In the MotoGP race (V-twin, V4, or Inline-four 1000cc four stroke class), that was won by Ducati Team rider Andrea Dovizioso on his works Ducati Desmosedici GP17.
Second was Repsol Honda Team rider and current MotoGP champion Marc Marquez on his works Honda RC213V, he was three tenths of a second behind Dovizioso at the end. While, third was Octo Pramac Racing rider Danilo Petrucci on his Ducati Desmosedici GP17, he was ten seconds behind Dovizioso at the end of the race.
In the Moto2 race (Inline-four 600 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by EG 0,0 Marc VDS rider Álex Márquez on the Kalex. Second was Tech 3 Racing rider Xavi Vierge on the Tech 3, he was fifteen tenths of a second behind Márquez at the end. While, third was Petronas Raceline Malaysia rider Hafizh Syahrin on the Kalex, he was three seconds behind Márquez at the end of the race.
While in the Moto3 race (single-cylinder 250 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by Marinelli Rivacold Snipers rider Romano Fenati on the Honda. Second was Red Bull KTM Ajo rider Niccolò Antonelli on the KTM, he was four seconds behind Fenati at the end. While, third was CIP rider Marco Bezzecchi on the Mahindra, he was five seconds behind Fenati at the end of the race.
Saturday 14 October 2017
Brendon Hartley to make F1 debut with Toro Rosso
Brendon Hartley will make his Formula 1 debut at Austin with Toro Rosso at next weekends United States Grand Prix, it has been announced yesterday (13/10/17).
The Porsche Le Mans driver will replace Pierre Gasly, who will compete for the Super Formula title at Suzuka next weekend.
Hartley becomes the first driver from New Zealand to race in F1 since Mike Thackwell in 1984. and also the first WEC driver to race in F1 since the 2014 Belgian Grand Prix when André Lotterer drove for Caterham.
Hartley will partner Danii Kvyat in Austin, who Daniil Kvyat will return to Toro Rosso after having missed the Malaysian and Japanese Grands Prix,
Hartley does have previous experience in F1, he was a test driver for both Red Bull Racing and Toro Rosso in 2009 and 2010 part of Red Bull's junior academy.
Recently with Mercedes in 2012 and 2013.
But his achieved success is in sports cars, having won the 24 Hours of Le Mans this year with Porsche. And even winning the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2015 and looks to be curtain to win again this season with Porsche, also winning last weekends Petit Le Mans with the Tequila Patrón ESM team.
A surprising bit of news, anyway, good luck Brendon Hartley for next weekend at Austin.
The Porsche Le Mans driver will replace Pierre Gasly, who will compete for the Super Formula title at Suzuka next weekend.
Hartley becomes the first driver from New Zealand to race in F1 since Mike Thackwell in 1984. and also the first WEC driver to race in F1 since the 2014 Belgian Grand Prix when André Lotterer drove for Caterham.
Hartley will partner Danii Kvyat in Austin, who Daniil Kvyat will return to Toro Rosso after having missed the Malaysian and Japanese Grands Prix,
Hartley does have previous experience in F1, he was a test driver for both Red Bull Racing and Toro Rosso in 2009 and 2010 part of Red Bull's junior academy.
Recently with Mercedes in 2012 and 2013.
But his achieved success is in sports cars, having won the 24 Hours of Le Mans this year with Porsche. And even winning the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2015 and looks to be curtain to win again this season with Porsche, also winning last weekends Petit Le Mans with the Tequila Patrón ESM team.
A surprising bit of news, anyway, good luck Brendon Hartley for next weekend at Austin.
Tuesday 10 October 2017
2017 F2 and GP3 champions news
This post is all about the new 2017 F2 and GP3 champions.
Charles Leclerc won the Formula 2 championship at Circuito de Jerez from last weekend, Charles Leclerc won this years Formula 2 championship with a round to spare ahead of both Oliver Rowland and Artem Markelov in the standings. So where going to see Charles Leclerc next season? A Ferrari test-driver for next season or a Sauber drive happens which is highly likely.
Meanwhile still at Circuito de Jerez, George Russell won this years GP3 series championship with a round to spare ahead of both Jack Aitken and Nirei Fukuzumi in the standings. We will possibly see George Russell in a top GP2 team. While Russell will be a development driver for Mercedes next season.
So, contractions to the new champions. Bring on 2018.
Charles Leclerc won the Formula 2 championship at Circuito de Jerez from last weekend, Charles Leclerc won this years Formula 2 championship with a round to spare ahead of both Oliver Rowland and Artem Markelov in the standings. So where going to see Charles Leclerc next season? A Ferrari test-driver for next season or a Sauber drive happens which is highly likely.
Meanwhile still at Circuito de Jerez, George Russell won this years GP3 series championship with a round to spare ahead of both Jack Aitken and Nirei Fukuzumi in the standings. We will possibly see George Russell in a top GP2 team. While Russell will be a development driver for Mercedes next season.
So, contractions to the new champions. Bring on 2018.
2017 TCR Round 9 Recap
Review of Round Nine of the 2017 TCR International Series season was at the Zhejiang International Circuit, on the outskirts of Zhejiang, China.
In the first race, BRC Racing Team driver Gabriele Tarquini took the race win in his Hyundai i30 N TCR. Second was Leopard Racing Team WRT driver Jean-Karl Vernay in his Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR, he was sixteen tenths of a second behind Tarquini in the end. While, third place was Leopard Racing Team WRT driver Rob Huff in his Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR, he was two seconds behind Tarquini in the end.
While in the second race, Leopard Racing Team WRT driver Rob Huff took the race win in his Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR. Second was WestCoast Racing driver Gianni Morbidelli in his Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR, he was two seconds behind Huff in the end. While, third place was Lukoil Craft-Bamboo Racing driver James Nash in his SEAT León TCR, he was four seconds behind Huff in the end.
Next stop Dubai Autodrome, Dubai in United Arab Emirates for Round Ten and the final round of the 2017 TCR International Series season in six weeks time.
In the first race, BRC Racing Team driver Gabriele Tarquini took the race win in his Hyundai i30 N TCR. Second was Leopard Racing Team WRT driver Jean-Karl Vernay in his Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR, he was sixteen tenths of a second behind Tarquini in the end. While, third place was Leopard Racing Team WRT driver Rob Huff in his Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR, he was two seconds behind Tarquini in the end.
While in the second race, Leopard Racing Team WRT driver Rob Huff took the race win in his Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR. Second was WestCoast Racing driver Gianni Morbidelli in his Volkswagen Golf GTI TCR, he was two seconds behind Huff in the end. While, third place was Lukoil Craft-Bamboo Racing driver James Nash in his SEAT León TCR, he was four seconds behind Huff in the end.
Next stop Dubai Autodrome, Dubai in United Arab Emirates for Round Ten and the final round of the 2017 TCR International Series season in six weeks time.
Monday 9 October 2017
2017 Bathurst 1000 Review
Review of the V8 Supercars round of the 2017 Bathurst 1000 at the famous Mount Panorama Circuit in Bathurst, New South Wales.
Erebus Motorsport drivers David Reynolds and Luke Youlden won the 166 lap race overall in their Holden VF Commodore. The win was David Reynolds and Luke Youlden's first around the New South Wales track.
Second place was Walkinshaw Racing drivers Scott Pye and Warren Luff in their Holden VF Commodore, they were four seconds behind the leaders at the end. Meanwhile, DJR Team Penske drivers Fabian Coulthard and Tony D'Alberto finished in third place in their Ford FG X Falcon, they were four and half seconds behind the leaders at the end.
Erebus Motorsport drivers David Reynolds and Luke Youlden won the 166 lap race overall in their Holden VF Commodore. The win was David Reynolds and Luke Youlden's first around the New South Wales track.
Second place was Walkinshaw Racing drivers Scott Pye and Warren Luff in their Holden VF Commodore, they were four seconds behind the leaders at the end. Meanwhile, DJR Team Penske drivers Fabian Coulthard and Tony D'Alberto finished in third place in their Ford FG X Falcon, they were four and half seconds behind the leaders at the end.
2017 Petit Le Mans Review
Review of Round Twelve and final round of the 2017 WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and the final round of the North American Endurance Championship at Road Atlanta, Braselton, Georgia for the annual Petit Le Mans.
Tequila Patrón ESM won the race overall and Prototype class too of Ryan Dalziel, Scott Sharp and Brendon Hartley in their Nissan Onroak DPi, Nissan 3.8 L Turbo V6.
While, Whelen Engineering Racing finished second place in their Cadillac DPi-V.R, Cadillac 6.2 L V8, the team of Dane Cameron, Eric Curran and Mike Conway; they were seven and half seconds behind the leaders. Meanwhile, Team Penske finished third place in their Oreca 07, Gibson GK428 4.2 L V8, the team of Hélio Castroneves, Juan Pablo Montoya and Simon Pagenaud; they were eight seconds behind the leaders.
In GT Le Mans Class, BMW Team RLL team won GT Le Mans Class and finished in seventh place overall in their BMW M6 GTLM; with the drivers of Bill Auberlen, Alexander Sims and Nick Catsburg; they were ten laps behind the leaders.
In Prototype Challenge Class (all teams using Oreca FLM09 race car), BAR1 Motorsports team won Prototype Challenge Class and finished in fifteenth place overall; with the drivers of Tomy Drissi, Garett Grist and John Falb; they were eighteen laps behind the leaders.
In GT Daytona Class, Montaplast by Land-Motorsport team won GT Daytona Class and finished in sixteenth place overall in their Audi R8 LMS; with the drivers of Connor De Phillippi, Christopher Mies and Sheldon van der Linde; they were twenty laps behind the leaders.
And so who are this years champions as its the final round of the season. In Prototype Class, Jordan Taylor and Ricky Taylor won the drivers championship, while Wayne Taylor Racing took the teams championship; while Cadillac took the Manufacturers championship.
In Prototype Challenge Class, James French and Patricio O'Ward won the drivers championship, while Performance Tech Motorsports took the teams championship.
In GT Le Mans Class, Antonio García and Jan Magnussen won the drivers championship, while Corvette Racing took the teams championship; while Chevrolet took the Manufacturers championship.
In GT Daytona Class, Alessandro Balzan and Christina Nielsen won the drivers championship, while Scuderia Corsa took the teams championship; while Ferrari took the Manufacturers championship.
To conclude this seasons WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.
Tequila Patrón ESM won the race overall and Prototype class too of Ryan Dalziel, Scott Sharp and Brendon Hartley in their Nissan Onroak DPi, Nissan 3.8 L Turbo V6.
While, Whelen Engineering Racing finished second place in their Cadillac DPi-V.R, Cadillac 6.2 L V8, the team of Dane Cameron, Eric Curran and Mike Conway; they were seven and half seconds behind the leaders. Meanwhile, Team Penske finished third place in their Oreca 07, Gibson GK428 4.2 L V8, the team of Hélio Castroneves, Juan Pablo Montoya and Simon Pagenaud; they were eight seconds behind the leaders.
In GT Le Mans Class, BMW Team RLL team won GT Le Mans Class and finished in seventh place overall in their BMW M6 GTLM; with the drivers of Bill Auberlen, Alexander Sims and Nick Catsburg; they were ten laps behind the leaders.
In Prototype Challenge Class (all teams using Oreca FLM09 race car), BAR1 Motorsports team won Prototype Challenge Class and finished in fifteenth place overall; with the drivers of Tomy Drissi, Garett Grist and John Falb; they were eighteen laps behind the leaders.
In GT Daytona Class, Montaplast by Land-Motorsport team won GT Daytona Class and finished in sixteenth place overall in their Audi R8 LMS; with the drivers of Connor De Phillippi, Christopher Mies and Sheldon van der Linde; they were twenty laps behind the leaders.
And so who are this years champions as its the final round of the season. In Prototype Class, Jordan Taylor and Ricky Taylor won the drivers championship, while Wayne Taylor Racing took the teams championship; while Cadillac took the Manufacturers championship.
In Prototype Challenge Class, James French and Patricio O'Ward won the drivers championship, while Performance Tech Motorsports took the teams championship.
In GT Le Mans Class, Antonio García and Jan Magnussen won the drivers championship, while Corvette Racing took the teams championship; while Chevrolet took the Manufacturers championship.
In GT Daytona Class, Alessandro Balzan and Christina Nielsen won the drivers championship, while Scuderia Corsa took the teams championship; while Ferrari took the Manufacturers championship.
To conclude this seasons WeatherTech SportsCar Championship.
2017 WRC Round 11 recap - Rally de Catalunya, Nil Solans J-WRC Champion!
Recap of the last round of WRC from last weekends Round Eleven of Rally de Catalunya.
Last weekends was the eleventh round of the World Rally Championship at Rally de Catalunya (6th - 8th October) was won by that was won by Kris Meeke in the works Citroën C3 WRC.
While, M-Sport World Rally Team driver and current WRC champion Sébastien Ogier finished second in his Ford Fiesta WRC, Ogier was twenty-eight seconds behind Meeke at the end. Meanwhile, M-Sport World Rally Team driver Ott Tänak finished third in his Ford Fiesta WRC, Tänak was thirty-three seconds behind Meeke at the end of the rally.
While in the WRC Trophy (crews entering World Rally Cars used between 2011 and 2016), that was won by Eurolamp World Rally Team driver Valeriy Gorban in his Mini John Cooper Works WRC. Valeriy Gorban finished in twenty-fourth place overall, he was twenty-three minutes behind Meeke at the end of the rally.
Meanwhile in WRC-2 class (Group R5, R4, Super 2000 and Group N4 spec cars), that was won by M-Sport World Rally Team driver Teemu Suninen in his Ford Fiesta R5. Teemu Suninen finished in eighth place overall, he was thirteen minutes behind Meeke at the end of the rally.
While in WRC-3 class (Group R1, R2 and R3 cars) that was won by Nil Solans in his own backed Ford Fiesta R2T. Nil Solans finished in twenty-eighth place overall, he was twenty-eight minutes behind Meeke at the end of the rally. With that result, Nil Solans did clinched the J-WRC Championship this season with a round to spare in his own backed Ford Fiesta R2T, contracts to Nil Solans for winning the WRC3 championship as-well his WRC3 Championship he won early on the season.
Highlights of the rally below, enjoy.
Next stop, Round Twelve of the 2016 WRC season for Wales Rally GB in three weeks time.
Last weekends was the eleventh round of the World Rally Championship at Rally de Catalunya (6th - 8th October) was won by that was won by Kris Meeke in the works Citroën C3 WRC.
While, M-Sport World Rally Team driver and current WRC champion Sébastien Ogier finished second in his Ford Fiesta WRC, Ogier was twenty-eight seconds behind Meeke at the end. Meanwhile, M-Sport World Rally Team driver Ott Tänak finished third in his Ford Fiesta WRC, Tänak was thirty-three seconds behind Meeke at the end of the rally.
While in the WRC Trophy (crews entering World Rally Cars used between 2011 and 2016), that was won by Eurolamp World Rally Team driver Valeriy Gorban in his Mini John Cooper Works WRC. Valeriy Gorban finished in twenty-fourth place overall, he was twenty-three minutes behind Meeke at the end of the rally.
Meanwhile in WRC-2 class (Group R5, R4, Super 2000 and Group N4 spec cars), that was won by M-Sport World Rally Team driver Teemu Suninen in his Ford Fiesta R5. Teemu Suninen finished in eighth place overall, he was thirteen minutes behind Meeke at the end of the rally.
While in WRC-3 class (Group R1, R2 and R3 cars) that was won by Nil Solans in his own backed Ford Fiesta R2T. Nil Solans finished in twenty-eighth place overall, he was twenty-eight minutes behind Meeke at the end of the rally. With that result, Nil Solans did clinched the J-WRC Championship this season with a round to spare in his own backed Ford Fiesta R2T, contracts to Nil Solans for winning the WRC3 championship as-well his WRC3 Championship he won early on the season.
Highlights of the rally below, enjoy.
Next stop, Round Twelve of the 2016 WRC season for Wales Rally GB in three weeks time.
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