Peugeot will return to the Dakar Rally in 2015, in the Rally Raid class, as the French car manufacturer confirmed on last Wednesday (26/3/14).
The French car brand has been rumoured with return to the event at the end of last year, just a few months after Sebastien Loeb smashes the Pikes Peak Hill Climb record in a 875 bhp, 3.2 litre V6 twin turbo Peugeot 208 T16.
Peugeot will be based their car on the Peugeot 2008 Crossover as the Peugeot 2008 DKR. Also confirmed, Red Bull and French oil brand Total is also involved in the project.
Peugeot has confirmed Carlos Sainz and Cyril Despres will spearhead Peugeot's return in 2015 as their drivers. Also their could be further announcements that eleven times Dakar winner Stephane Peterhansel is expected to join the team as-well.
Peugeot pervious history shows they have been dominating the old Paris-Dakar Rallies (the original route) back in the late 1980s, taking four straight victories between 1987 to 1990. In 1987 with in the Group B Peugeot 205 T16 with Ari Vatanen. Then in 1988 with Juha Kankkunen in the Peugeot 205 T16. Then in 1989 with Ari Vatanen in the new Peugeot 405 T16. And finally in 1990 Ari Vatanen once again in the Peugeot 405 T16.
A fifth win for Peugeot at Dakar in 2015? time will tell with their rally experience from the last 30 years it may happen once again.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Monday, 31 March 2014
2014 Malaysia Grand Prix Review, a few thoughts on the race itself, Bahrain Grand Prix Predictions
A quick review of yesterdays 2014 Malaysia Grand Prix Review, a few thoughts on the race itself and predictions for this weekends Bahrain Grand Prix.
Good Race
Overall, I thought it wasn't that a good race to watch. But, Lewis Hamilton had a great race for him and Mercedes, on pole from Saturday's qualifying; lead the race since from start to finish, with fastest lap to conclude with a race win. His first Formula 1 win since Hungaroring from last July.
Meanwhile, team-mate Nico Rosberg finished second in his Mercedes to give Mercedes a first one-two since the 1955 Italian Grand Prix at Monza, when Juan Manuel Fangio won and Piero Taruffi finished in second place. To complete the podium current world champion Sebastian Vettel finished in third place to complete the podium in Malaysia.
So this weekends Bahrain Grand Prix at Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir. Predictions for the race, Lewis Hamilton for the win in the Mercedes, Nico Rosberg second in the other Mercedes and third place for Filipe Massa in the Williams. Don't forget Red Bull drivers, McLaren drivers, Mercedes drivers or Romain Grosjean as well for a podium place either.
End of blog for now. New post soon. Bye.
Good Race
- Mercedes (Lewis Hamilton, pole, fastest lap, and race win; Nico Rosberg, finished 2nd)
- Sebastian Vettel (finished 3rd)
- Nico Hülkenberg (finished 5th)
- Jenson Button (finished 6th)
- Williams (Felipe Massa, finished 7th; Valtteri Bottas, finished 8th)
- Daniil Kvyat (finished 10th)
- Romain Grosjean (finished 11th)
- Caterham (Kamui Kobayashi, finished 13th; Marcus Ericsson, finished 14th ahead of Max Chilton by 0.100 at the end)
- Kimi Räikkönen (finished 12th, after a collision with Kevin Magnussen on the second lap)
- Daniel Ricciardo (DNF, Technical, also a 10-place grid penalty for the Bahrain Grand Prix, after the Red Bull team released his car in an unsafe manner, from his pit box)
- Pastor Maldonado (DNF, Engine, also Collision Damage from Jules Bianchi)
- Jules Bianchi (DNF, Brakes, also Collision Damage from Pastor Maldonado)
- Jean-Éric Vergne (DNF, Power unit)
- Sauber (Adrian Sutil, DNF, Electrics; Esteban Gutiérrez (DNF, Gearbox)
- Sergio Pérez (DNS, hydraulics)
Overall, I thought it wasn't that a good race to watch. But, Lewis Hamilton had a great race for him and Mercedes, on pole from Saturday's qualifying; lead the race since from start to finish, with fastest lap to conclude with a race win. His first Formula 1 win since Hungaroring from last July.
Meanwhile, team-mate Nico Rosberg finished second in his Mercedes to give Mercedes a first one-two since the 1955 Italian Grand Prix at Monza, when Juan Manuel Fangio won and Piero Taruffi finished in second place. To complete the podium current world champion Sebastian Vettel finished in third place to complete the podium in Malaysia.
So this weekends Bahrain Grand Prix at Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir. Predictions for the race, Lewis Hamilton for the win in the Mercedes, Nico Rosberg second in the other Mercedes and third place for Filipe Massa in the Williams. Don't forget Red Bull drivers, McLaren drivers, Mercedes drivers or Romain Grosjean as well for a podium place either.
End of blog for now. New post soon. Bye.
Thursday, 27 March 2014
Audi R18 e-tron quattro: The Facts
During last December, Audi showed off their new R18 in black and red testing livery colours.
We all thought the new R18 e-tron would have a much more developed 3.7 litre V6 turbodiesel underneath, upgrades to the flywheel accumulator system and an exhaust heat recovery system. Narrower by 10 cm from the previous R18 e-tron and the new R18 has will do 30 percent less fuel than the pervious R18 e-tron when race next season.
But, during Audi launch (25/3/14) of the R18 e-tron quattro in quattro livery colours this time at the city of Le Mans. Things has changed a bit.
For starters the cubic capacity of the V6 TDI turbodiesel underneath was increased from 3.7 to 4.0 litres in order to further optimise the engine.
And the exhaust heat recovery system which is similar to what underneath a F1 car this season is gone after system did not offer the gains that had been hoped for in testing and that there were concerns over its reliability. So it will only keep the the flywheel accumulator system this season (KERS). And that means the new Audi R18 e-tron quattro will have just one energy-retrieval system rather than the permissible two. That means Audi will use two megajoules of hybrid power through each lap this season. Compared to Porsche, will use eight megajoules of hybrid power through each lap with the Porsche 919. And Toyota will use six megajoules of hybrid power through each lap with the Toyota TS040 Hybrid.
Audi have also announced the driver pairings for the FIA World Endurance Championship and 24 Hours of Le Mans campaign this season, Tom Kristensen, Loic Duval and Lucas di Grassi will drive the #1 car this season. Andre Lotterer, Benoit Trelyer and Marcel Fassler will drive the #2 car for the whole of 2014. And Oliver Jarvis, Marco Bonanomi and Filipe Albuquerque will drive the #3 car at Spa and Le Mans rounds only.
A challenging season ahead for Audi.
End of post for now, new post soon. Bye.
We all thought the new R18 e-tron would have a much more developed 3.7 litre V6 turbodiesel underneath, upgrades to the flywheel accumulator system and an exhaust heat recovery system. Narrower by 10 cm from the previous R18 e-tron and the new R18 has will do 30 percent less fuel than the pervious R18 e-tron when race next season.
But, during Audi launch (25/3/14) of the R18 e-tron quattro in quattro livery colours this time at the city of Le Mans. Things has changed a bit.
For starters the cubic capacity of the V6 TDI turbodiesel underneath was increased from 3.7 to 4.0 litres in order to further optimise the engine.
And the exhaust heat recovery system which is similar to what underneath a F1 car this season is gone after system did not offer the gains that had been hoped for in testing and that there were concerns over its reliability. So it will only keep the the flywheel accumulator system this season (KERS). And that means the new Audi R18 e-tron quattro will have just one energy-retrieval system rather than the permissible two. That means Audi will use two megajoules of hybrid power through each lap this season. Compared to Porsche, will use eight megajoules of hybrid power through each lap with the Porsche 919. And Toyota will use six megajoules of hybrid power through each lap with the Toyota TS040 Hybrid.
Audi have also announced the driver pairings for the FIA World Endurance Championship and 24 Hours of Le Mans campaign this season, Tom Kristensen, Loic Duval and Lucas di Grassi will drive the #1 car this season. Andre Lotterer, Benoit Trelyer and Marcel Fassler will drive the #2 car for the whole of 2014. And Oliver Jarvis, Marco Bonanomi and Filipe Albuquerque will drive the #3 car at Spa and Le Mans rounds only.
A challenging season ahead for Audi.
End of post for now, new post soon. Bye.
Toyota TS040 Hybrid
Today (27/3/14), Toyota launch their new LMP1 race car the Toyota TS040 Hybrid for this seasons World Endurance Championship and 24 Hours of Le Mans. And according to Toyota it will have a total power output of nearly 1000 bhp with both its energy-retrieval systems deployed.
Toyota unveiled its 2014 new LMP1 race car at Paul Ricard on Thursday, has revealed that the new version of its normally-aspirated 3.7 litre V8 engine will produce 512 bhp and that it has 473 bhp available from its front and rear-axle hybrid systems. Compared to its TS030 predecessor, which had a quoted output from its lone rear-axle unit of 300 bhp. So basically, the new Toyota TS040 Hybrid is a 985 bhp Four-wheel-drive monster race car since the Group C days.
Also, Toyota has opted to run in the second highest sub-class of hybrid power, which allows for six megajoules to be released over a lap of Le Mans due to weight issuses when running in the highest 8MJ class which Porsche will compete with the 919.
Toyota have also announced the driver pairings for the FIA World Endurance Championship and 24 Hours of Le Mans campaign this season, Alex Wurz, Kazuki Nakajima and Stephane Sarrazin will drive the #7 car this season. Anthony Davidson, Nicolas Lapierre and Sebastien Buemi will drive the #8 car for the whole of 2014.
A big season ahead for Toyota.
End of post for now, new post soon. Bye.
Toyota unveiled its 2014 new LMP1 race car at Paul Ricard on Thursday, has revealed that the new version of its normally-aspirated 3.7 litre V8 engine will produce 512 bhp and that it has 473 bhp available from its front and rear-axle hybrid systems. Compared to its TS030 predecessor, which had a quoted output from its lone rear-axle unit of 300 bhp. So basically, the new Toyota TS040 Hybrid is a 985 bhp Four-wheel-drive monster race car since the Group C days.
Also, Toyota has opted to run in the second highest sub-class of hybrid power, which allows for six megajoules to be released over a lap of Le Mans due to weight issuses when running in the highest 8MJ class which Porsche will compete with the 919.
Toyota have also announced the driver pairings for the FIA World Endurance Championship and 24 Hours of Le Mans campaign this season, Alex Wurz, Kazuki Nakajima and Stephane Sarrazin will drive the #7 car this season. Anthony Davidson, Nicolas Lapierre and Sebastien Buemi will drive the #8 car for the whole of 2014.
A big season ahead for Toyota.
End of post for now, new post soon. Bye.
Chrysler withdraws SRT Viper squad from this year's 24 hours of Le Mans
Chrysler has withdrawn its factory SRT Viper squad from this year's 24 Hours of Le Mans it was announced on Tuesday (25/3/14).
Chrysler, which returned to Le Mans under the SRT brand last season, has decided not to contest the race with its pair of Riley-run SRT Viper GTS-Rs in the GTE Pro class. Instead focus in this seasons United SportsCar Championship.
However, they might be back at Le Mans for the 2015 race.
Overall, this is sad news that we won't see a Viper at Le Mans this year. But, did they did the right thing withdrawing its factory SRT Viper squad from this year's race? I personally think they've done wrong thing. It you look at their United SportsCar Championship results this season, third in GTLM class at Daytona, second in GTLM class at Sebring last time out, and eighth (24th overall) and ninth (31st overall) in LMGTE Pro class at Le Mans last year. And the Viper improving still all the time, I think Chrysler has done the wrong thing to withdrawn its Viper's at Le Mans this season.
So in GTE Pro class this year at Le Mans, we're only going to see Ferrari 458 Italia GT2, Aston Martin Vantage GTE, Porsche 991 RSR and the new Chevrolet Corvette C7.R competing in GTE Pro class at Le Mans this season.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Chrysler, which returned to Le Mans under the SRT brand last season, has decided not to contest the race with its pair of Riley-run SRT Viper GTS-Rs in the GTE Pro class. Instead focus in this seasons United SportsCar Championship.
However, they might be back at Le Mans for the 2015 race.
Overall, this is sad news that we won't see a Viper at Le Mans this year. But, did they did the right thing withdrawing its factory SRT Viper squad from this year's race? I personally think they've done wrong thing. It you look at their United SportsCar Championship results this season, third in GTLM class at Daytona, second in GTLM class at Sebring last time out, and eighth (24th overall) and ninth (31st overall) in LMGTE Pro class at Le Mans last year. And the Viper improving still all the time, I think Chrysler has done the wrong thing to withdrawn its Viper's at Le Mans this season.
So in GTE Pro class this year at Le Mans, we're only going to see Ferrari 458 Italia GT2, Aston Martin Vantage GTE, Porsche 991 RSR and the new Chevrolet Corvette C7.R competing in GTE Pro class at Le Mans this season.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Tuesday, 25 March 2014
Formula 1 360 degrees view!
How about this! A full 360˚ view of Nico Rosberg driving his F1 W05 during a TV day at Silverstone's National Circuit from a month back to enjoy.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Malaysia Grand Prix Predictions
So this weekends Malaysia Grand Prix at Sepang International Circuit, outside of Kuala Lumpur.
So Predictions for the race, and for the win I predict Lewis Hamilton for the race win in the Mercedes, Valtteri Bottas second in the Williams, and Filipe Massa third in the other Williams. Don't forget Nico Rodberg, Red Bull drivers, McLaren drivers, Ferrari drivers and Force India as well for a podium place.
End of blog for now. New post soon. Bye.
So Predictions for the race, and for the win I predict Lewis Hamilton for the race win in the Mercedes, Valtteri Bottas second in the Williams, and Filipe Massa third in the other Williams. Don't forget Nico Rodberg, Red Bull drivers, McLaren drivers, Ferrari drivers and Force India as well for a podium place.
End of blog for now. New post soon. Bye.
Monday, 24 March 2014
Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG coupe vs Australian V8 Supercar Holden VF Commodore vs Red Bull RB7
During last weeks Australian Grand Prix weekend. There was a speed comparison test on the Albert Park race track between a Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG coupe driven by five time 500cc champion Mick Doohan, a V8 Supercar spec Holden VF Commodore driven by Triple Eight Race Engineering Endurance driver Steven Richards and a 2011 Red Bull RB7 driven by former Williams, McLaren and Red Bull driver David Coulthard.
The facts: Mick Doohan's Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG coupe has a 6.2 litre V8 producing around 480 bhp. While, Steven Richards's Holden VF Commodore race car has a 5.0 litre V8 producing around 600 bhp. And David Coulthard's Red Bull RB7 has a Renault 2.4 litre V8 producing around 750 bhp. Who gonna win the race around one lap at Albert Park?
What a surprise the F1 car wins again, just as last season.
End of blog for now. New post soon. Bye.
The facts: Mick Doohan's Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG coupe has a 6.2 litre V8 producing around 480 bhp. While, Steven Richards's Holden VF Commodore race car has a 5.0 litre V8 producing around 600 bhp. And David Coulthard's Red Bull RB7 has a Renault 2.4 litre V8 producing around 750 bhp. Who gonna win the race around one lap at Albert Park?
What a surprise the F1 car wins again, just as last season.
End of blog for now. New post soon. Bye.
2014 Qatar MotoGP Review
Review of the first round of the 2014 MotoGP season at Losail, Doha in Qatar for MotoGP's only night race of the season. And for this season, all MotoGP classes are reviewed (MotoGP, Moto2 and Moto3).
Quick note: ITV have got highlights of the MotoGP races this season on ITV4. After last season it was announced that BT will take over on exclusive live races this season from both Eurosport and BBC who had the live races from last season.
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 Márquez on his works Honda RC213V. Second was Movistar Yamaha MotoGP rider Valentino Rossi on his works Yamaha YZR-M1, he was only under 25 hundredths of a second behind Márquez at the end. While, third was the other Repsol Honda Team rider Dani Pedrosa on his works Honda RC213V, he was over 3 seconds behind Márquez at the end of the race.
In Open class (Full control ECU system, hardware and software. 24 litres of race fuel, 12 engine changes for the season. No engine development freeze, a softer rear tyre allocation and more testing opportunities relative to the Factory option), the NGM Forward Racing rider Aleix Espargaró won Open class and finished 4th overall on his FTR-Yamaha YZR-M1, he was under 12 seconds behind Márquez at the end.
In the Moto2 race (Inline-four 600 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by Marc VDS Racing Team rider of Esteve Rabat on the Kalex.
Second was Idemitsu Honda Team Asia rider Takaaki Nakagami on the Kalex, he was only 4 hundredths of a second behind Rabat at the end. However, Takaaki Nakagami was later disqualified for using an illegal air filter in his Kalex Moto2 machine.
So therefore, other Marc VDS Racing Team rider of Mika Kallio on the Kalex finished in second place to make a Marc VDS Racing Team one-two finish, he was a second behind Rabat at the end of the race. While, third was Interwetten Paddock Moto2 rider of Thomas Lüthi on the Suter, he was under 4 seconds behind Rabat at the end of the race.
While in the Moto3 race (single-cylinder 250 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by Red Bull KTM Ajo rider Jack Miller on the KTM. Second was Estrella Galicia rider Álex Márquez on the Honda, he was only 24 hundredths of a second behind Miller at the end of the race. While, third was axoPrint–RTG rider Efrén Vázquez on the Honda, he was only 28 hundredths of a second behind Miller at the end of the race.
End of blog for now. New post soon. Bye.
Quick note: ITV have got highlights of the MotoGP races this season on ITV4. After last season it was announced that BT will take over on exclusive live races this season from both Eurosport and BBC who had the live races from last season.
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 Márquez on his works Honda RC213V. Second was Movistar Yamaha MotoGP rider Valentino Rossi on his works Yamaha YZR-M1, he was only under 25 hundredths of a second behind Márquez at the end. While, third was the other Repsol Honda Team rider Dani Pedrosa on his works Honda RC213V, he was over 3 seconds behind Márquez at the end of the race.
In Open class (Full control ECU system, hardware and software. 24 litres of race fuel, 12 engine changes for the season. No engine development freeze, a softer rear tyre allocation and more testing opportunities relative to the Factory option), the NGM Forward Racing rider Aleix Espargaró won Open class and finished 4th overall on his FTR-Yamaha YZR-M1, he was under 12 seconds behind Márquez at the end.
In the Moto2 race (Inline-four 600 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by Marc VDS Racing Team rider of Esteve Rabat on the Kalex.
Second was Idemitsu Honda Team Asia rider Takaaki Nakagami on the Kalex, he was only 4 hundredths of a second behind Rabat at the end. However, Takaaki Nakagami was later disqualified for using an illegal air filter in his Kalex Moto2 machine.
So therefore, other Marc VDS Racing Team rider of Mika Kallio on the Kalex finished in second place to make a Marc VDS Racing Team one-two finish, he was a second behind Rabat at the end of the race. While, third was Interwetten Paddock Moto2 rider of Thomas Lüthi on the Suter, he was under 4 seconds behind Rabat at the end of the race.
While in the Moto3 race (single-cylinder 250 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by Red Bull KTM Ajo rider Jack Miller on the KTM. Second was Estrella Galicia rider Álex Márquez on the Honda, he was only 24 hundredths of a second behind Miller at the end of the race. While, third was axoPrint–RTG rider Efrén Vázquez on the Honda, he was only 28 hundredths of a second behind Miller at the end of the race.
End of blog for now. New post soon. Bye.
Saturday, 22 March 2014
Formula E live on ITV4 next season
It was confirmed on Monday (18/3/14) that ITV will televised live all 10 rounds of the first Formula E season on free-to-air in the UK as the series organisers confirmed on Monday.
Each Formula E programme will feature race coverage together with comprehensive pre-race build-up, including highlights from earlier practice and qualifying sessions as well as post-race reaction and interviews. With all Formula E events will take place exclusively on Saturdays, with races getting underway at 4pm local time.
This is great news in the UK that ITV has got the rights for Formula E next season, as I don't believe it could develop as much as it would be on a premium channel such as a Sky or BT for example. Anyway this is great news in the UK for motorsport fans in general as the only three are free to air and live is Formula 1 (well half of it), BTCC and now Formula E.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Each Formula E programme will feature race coverage together with comprehensive pre-race build-up, including highlights from earlier practice and qualifying sessions as well as post-race reaction and interviews. With all Formula E events will take place exclusively on Saturdays, with races getting underway at 4pm local time.
This is great news in the UK that ITV has got the rights for Formula E next season, as I don't believe it could develop as much as it would be on a premium channel such as a Sky or BT for example. Anyway this is great news in the UK for motorsport fans in general as the only three are free to air and live is Formula 1 (well half of it), BTCC and now Formula E.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Tuesday, 18 March 2014
2014 Sebring 12 Hours Review
As the title says a Sebring 12 Hours Review of the race. Review of Round two of the 2014 United SportsCar Championship at Sebring International Raceway and the second round of the North American Endurance Championship.
Chip Ganassi Racing team won the race overall and Prototype class too of Scott Pruett, Memo Rojas and Marino Franchitti in their Riley DP, Ford Ecoboost 3.5 L V6. While, Extreme Speed Motorsports team finished second place in their HPD ARX-03b, Honda HR28TT 2.8 L Turbo V6, the team of David Brabham, Ryan Dalziel, and Scott Sharp; they were 4.6 seconds behind the leaders. Meanwhile, Action Express Racing team finished third place in their Corvette DP, Chevrolet 5.5L V8, the team of João Barbosa, Christian Fittipaldi and Sébastien Bourdais; they were 8.9 seconds behind the leaders.
In Prototype Challenge Class (all teams using Oreca FLM09 race car), CORE Autosport team won Prototype Challenge Class and finished in tenth place overall; with the drivers of Jon Bennett, Colin Braun, and James Gue; they were 3 laps behind the leaders.
In GT Le Mans Class, Porsche North America team won GT Le Mans Class and finished in twelfth place overall in their Porsche 911 RSR; with the drivers of Patrick Long, Michael Christensen, Jörg Bergmeister; they were 5 laps behind the leaders.
In GT Daytona Class,Magnus Racing team won GT Daytona Class and finished in twenty-third place overall in their Porsche 911 GT America; with the drivers of Andy Lally, John Potter and Marco Siefried; they were 13 laps behind the leaders.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Chip Ganassi Racing team won the race overall and Prototype class too of Scott Pruett, Memo Rojas and Marino Franchitti in their Riley DP, Ford Ecoboost 3.5 L V6. While, Extreme Speed Motorsports team finished second place in their HPD ARX-03b, Honda HR28TT 2.8 L Turbo V6, the team of David Brabham, Ryan Dalziel, and Scott Sharp; they were 4.6 seconds behind the leaders. Meanwhile, Action Express Racing team finished third place in their Corvette DP, Chevrolet 5.5L V8, the team of João Barbosa, Christian Fittipaldi and Sébastien Bourdais; they were 8.9 seconds behind the leaders.
In Prototype Challenge Class (all teams using Oreca FLM09 race car), CORE Autosport team won Prototype Challenge Class and finished in tenth place overall; with the drivers of Jon Bennett, Colin Braun, and James Gue; they were 3 laps behind the leaders.
In GT Le Mans Class, Porsche North America team won GT Le Mans Class and finished in twelfth place overall in their Porsche 911 RSR; with the drivers of Patrick Long, Michael Christensen, Jörg Bergmeister; they were 5 laps behind the leaders.
In GT Daytona Class,Magnus Racing team won GT Daytona Class and finished in twenty-third place overall in their Porsche 911 GT America; with the drivers of Andy Lally, John Potter and Marco Siefried; they were 13 laps behind the leaders.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Monday, 17 March 2014
2014 Australian Grand Prix Review and thoughts
2014 Australian Grand Prix Review of the first round of the 2014 F1 season at Albert Park in Melbourne, and thoughts on the race as well.
Good Race
Bad Race
With Red Bull debutante Daniel Ricciardo finishing in second place, until hours later he was disqualified, due to for breaching of 100kg per hour fuel limits. Which, means F1 rookie and new McLaren driver Kevin Magnussen took second place, the first time that a rookie have finished second place in his debut Grand Prix since Jacques Villeneuve in 1996. And Magnussen team-mate Jenson Button took third place in his McLaren to take the last step of the podium.
Next stop Malaysia in two weeks time.
End of blog for now, new post soon, Bye.
Good Race
- Nico Rosberg (race win in the new turbo hybrid era)
- McLaren (Kevin Magnussen, finished 2nd on his debut; Jenson Button, finished 3rd)
- Fernando Alonso (finished 4th)
- Valtteri Bottas (finished 5th)
- Force India (Nico Hülkenberg, finished 6th; Sergio Pérez, finished 10th)
- Toro Rosso (Jean-Éric Vergne, finished 8th; Daniil Kvyat, finished 9th)
Bad Race
- Red Bull Racing (Sebastian Vettel, DNF, Engine; Daniel Ricciardo, finished 2nd, then hours later disqualified, for breaching of fuel limit)
- Lewis Hamilton (DNF, Engine Cylinder)
- Jules Bianchi (finished 14th, eight laps down from the leaders)
- Filipe Massa (DNF, Collision with Kamui Kobayashi)
- Caterham (Kamui Kobayashi, DNF, Brakes/Collision with Filipe Massa; Marcus Ericsson, DNF, Oil pressure)
- Lotus (Pastor Maldonado, DNF, MGU-K problem; Romain Grosjean DNF, MGU-K problem)
With Red Bull debutante Daniel Ricciardo finishing in second place, until hours later he was disqualified, due to for breaching of 100kg per hour fuel limits. Which, means F1 rookie and new McLaren driver Kevin Magnussen took second place, the first time that a rookie have finished second place in his debut Grand Prix since Jacques Villeneuve in 1996. And Magnussen team-mate Jenson Button took third place in his McLaren to take the last step of the podium.
Next stop Malaysia in two weeks time.
End of blog for now, new post soon, Bye.
Thursday, 13 March 2014
Animating the rules for 2014
Found this on the internet recently. An animation from Red Bull Racing themselves, narrated by World Champ Sebastian Vettel and new Red Bull Racing driver Daniel Ricciardo; explaining the new rules for 2014, which includes the new 1.6 litre V6 turbo power units, and also explain the differences between the old RB9 and the brand new RB10. Another great 3D animation from Red Bull.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Wednesday, 12 March 2014
Michael Schumacher condition shows 'encouraging signs'
Injured Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher has been showing "small, encouraging signs" in his fight for recovery, his family says.
"We are and remain confident that Michael will pull through and will wake up," the relatives said in a statement.
Doctors in France have been working to bring the seven-time champion out of a medically induced coma.
Schumacher suffered a severe head injury in a skiing accident in the French Alps on 29 December.
He has been kept in a coma to help reduce the swelling in his brain
On Wednesday (12/3/14), Schumacher's manager, Sabine Kehm, released a statement on behalf of his family because of "an increasing interest in [his] condition in light of the start of the Formula 1 season".
The family praised the efforts of the French doctors at Grenoble hospital, but also warned that "it was clear from the start that this will be a long and hard fight for Michael."
"We are and remain confident that Michael will pull through and will wake up. There sometimes are small, encouraging signs, but we also know that this is the time to be very patient," the statement added.
Investigators probing the accident said Schumacher had been going at the speed of "a very good skier" at the time of his crash in the resort of Meribel.
He had been skiing off-piste when he fell and hit a rock, investigators said.
Experts reconstructed events leading up to the crash after examining Schumacher's skiing equipment and viewing footage filmed on a camera attached to his helmet.
"We are and remain confident that Michael will pull through and will wake up," the relatives said in a statement.
Doctors in France have been working to bring the seven-time champion out of a medically induced coma.
Schumacher suffered a severe head injury in a skiing accident in the French Alps on 29 December.
He has been kept in a coma to help reduce the swelling in his brain
On Wednesday (12/3/14), Schumacher's manager, Sabine Kehm, released a statement on behalf of his family because of "an increasing interest in [his] condition in light of the start of the Formula 1 season".
The family praised the efforts of the French doctors at Grenoble hospital, but also warned that "it was clear from the start that this will be a long and hard fight for Michael."
"We are and remain confident that Michael will pull through and will wake up. There sometimes are small, encouraging signs, but we also know that this is the time to be very patient," the statement added.
Investigators probing the accident said Schumacher had been going at the speed of "a very good skier" at the time of his crash in the resort of Meribel.
He had been skiing off-piste when he fell and hit a rock, investigators said.
Experts reconstructed events leading up to the crash after examining Schumacher's skiing equipment and viewing footage filmed on a camera attached to his helmet.
Tuesday, 11 March 2014
Formula 1 2014 Season preview, predicting this season and Australian Grand Prix predictions too
Today post is a 2014 F1 preview, all the teams and drivers. Also, predicting this seasons Championship winners and Australian Grand Prix predictions as-well. Starting of with last year constructors champions Red Bull Racing:
Red Bull: a very unreliable car in testing due to the new Renault Turbo engine, slow car due to Renault unreliability with the power unit. But if Renault sort out these problems, Red Bull could be fast possibly when we get back to Europe. Sebastian Vettel needs to defend his title for a fifth year in a row. No Mark Webber this season off to WEC with Porsche, Daniel Ricciardo taking the tough challenge as Vettel's team-mate, wins this season? maybe.
Mercedes: the team to beat for drivers and constructors championship this year as test shows as they look very fast in testing, but needs to show in races to win the drivers and constructors championship this season. Both Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton looks fast in testing, but can one of them wins the drivers championship this season? it could happen.
Ferrari: looks fast in testing despite rumours that the Ferrari power unit is a little bit more thirsty than the Mercedes power unit. Kimi Raikkonen back at Ferrari after four seasons away looks curtain to challenge for the world drivers championship and a few race wins this year. And same goes to Fernando Alonso this season as-well more of a contender than Kimi to win the drivers title.
Lotus: looks like a very unreliable car in testing due to the new Renault Turbo engine, the worst unreliable between the Renault powered cars in testing at Bahrain. No Kimi Raikkonen this season replaced by Pastor Maldonado with Venezuelan money. Meanwhile kept Romain Grosjean for another season, but the form from end of last season won't be there due to the unreliability of both the Lotus and the Renault power unit.
McLaren: looks fast in testing, last season with Mercedes before returning to Honda power. So race wins are on the cards this season with top three in the constructors is a strong possibility. Jenson Button has been fast in testing. And as-well as Kevin Magnussen, don't be surprise a race win might happen in his rookie season either.
Force India: Nico Hulkenberg returns to Force India after a season a Sauber, Sergio Pérez comes to Force India after a tough season at McLaren. Looks very fast in testing, fourth place in the constructors standings with podiums this season is their target ahead of the likes of Lotus, Williams, Sauber and Red Bull and might it happen if they stay fast.
Sauber: looks fast in testing. Another season at Sauber for Esteban Gutierrez. Adrian Sutil swap seats with Nico Hulkenberg at Force India, now the team leader and looks faster than his team-mate in testing so far.
Toro Rosso: Jean-Eric Vergne stays in the team for 2014. Daniil Kvyat replaces the promoted Daniel Ricciardo. Top eight in the constructors championship is the target this season.
Williams: Out goes Renault engines and replace with Mercedes power units this season, looks very fast in testing, fourth place in the constructors standings this season is their target ahead of the likes of Lotus, Force india, Sauber and Red Bull and it might happen if they stay fast throughout the season. Valtteri Bottas stays at Williams for another season. Felipe Massa replaces Pastor Maldonado, a new challenge ahead for the former Ferrari driver and his been fast in testing as-well.
Marussia: kept both Max Chilton and Jules Bianchi for another season. Swap Cosworth power to Ferrari power units. Looks faster than Caterham in testing, top ten in the constructors standings is the target this season with points as a possibly.
Caterham: Out goes Charles Pic and Giedo van der Garde and replace with both Marcus Ericsson and returnee Kamui Kobayashi back to F1. Top ten in the constructors standings is must be the target this season ahead of Marussia, but a slow and unreliable renault powered car in testing does not help, although the most reliable Renault power team in testing. A make or brake year for Caterham in many ways.
So predictions time, Who gonna win the world drivers championship this season for 2014? My prediction is Lewis Hamilton for his second world drivers championships this season because of performance and reliability in testing. But, if Hamilton don't adapted to the new power units and the Pirelli tyres I would predict this team-mate Nico Rosberg could get the title this season as a dark horse to win, as his was as fast as Lewis Hamilton last season. Sebastian Vettel, Jenson Button, Fernando Alonso and Kimi Raikkonen will also challenge for this years title as-well. It will be another close drivers championship once again this year in my opinion, and if Red Bull drivers can catch up with pace and reliability when the championship really hots up at the end of October.
Constructors title: I will predict that Mercedes to win the constructors championships. Also don't forget Red Bull, Ferrari, McLaren, Force India and Williams will be challenging the constructors championship as-well.
And so predictions for this weekends Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park in Melbourne. For the win I predict Lewis Hamilton for the race win in the Mercedes, Nico Rosberg second in the other Mercedes and Valtteri Bottas third in the Williams. Don't forget Felipe Massa, Ferrari drivers, McLaren drivers, Force India drivers, and the Red Bull drivers either for the race for a podium position too.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Red Bull: a very unreliable car in testing due to the new Renault Turbo engine, slow car due to Renault unreliability with the power unit. But if Renault sort out these problems, Red Bull could be fast possibly when we get back to Europe. Sebastian Vettel needs to defend his title for a fifth year in a row. No Mark Webber this season off to WEC with Porsche, Daniel Ricciardo taking the tough challenge as Vettel's team-mate, wins this season? maybe.
Mercedes: the team to beat for drivers and constructors championship this year as test shows as they look very fast in testing, but needs to show in races to win the drivers and constructors championship this season. Both Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton looks fast in testing, but can one of them wins the drivers championship this season? it could happen.
Ferrari: looks fast in testing despite rumours that the Ferrari power unit is a little bit more thirsty than the Mercedes power unit. Kimi Raikkonen back at Ferrari after four seasons away looks curtain to challenge for the world drivers championship and a few race wins this year. And same goes to Fernando Alonso this season as-well more of a contender than Kimi to win the drivers title.
Lotus: looks like a very unreliable car in testing due to the new Renault Turbo engine, the worst unreliable between the Renault powered cars in testing at Bahrain. No Kimi Raikkonen this season replaced by Pastor Maldonado with Venezuelan money. Meanwhile kept Romain Grosjean for another season, but the form from end of last season won't be there due to the unreliability of both the Lotus and the Renault power unit.
McLaren: looks fast in testing, last season with Mercedes before returning to Honda power. So race wins are on the cards this season with top three in the constructors is a strong possibility. Jenson Button has been fast in testing. And as-well as Kevin Magnussen, don't be surprise a race win might happen in his rookie season either.
Force India: Nico Hulkenberg returns to Force India after a season a Sauber, Sergio Pérez comes to Force India after a tough season at McLaren. Looks very fast in testing, fourth place in the constructors standings with podiums this season is their target ahead of the likes of Lotus, Williams, Sauber and Red Bull and might it happen if they stay fast.
Sauber: looks fast in testing. Another season at Sauber for Esteban Gutierrez. Adrian Sutil swap seats with Nico Hulkenberg at Force India, now the team leader and looks faster than his team-mate in testing so far.
Toro Rosso: Jean-Eric Vergne stays in the team for 2014. Daniil Kvyat replaces the promoted Daniel Ricciardo. Top eight in the constructors championship is the target this season.
Williams: Out goes Renault engines and replace with Mercedes power units this season, looks very fast in testing, fourth place in the constructors standings this season is their target ahead of the likes of Lotus, Force india, Sauber and Red Bull and it might happen if they stay fast throughout the season. Valtteri Bottas stays at Williams for another season. Felipe Massa replaces Pastor Maldonado, a new challenge ahead for the former Ferrari driver and his been fast in testing as-well.
Marussia: kept both Max Chilton and Jules Bianchi for another season. Swap Cosworth power to Ferrari power units. Looks faster than Caterham in testing, top ten in the constructors standings is the target this season with points as a possibly.
Caterham: Out goes Charles Pic and Giedo van der Garde and replace with both Marcus Ericsson and returnee Kamui Kobayashi back to F1. Top ten in the constructors standings is must be the target this season ahead of Marussia, but a slow and unreliable renault powered car in testing does not help, although the most reliable Renault power team in testing. A make or brake year for Caterham in many ways.
So predictions time, Who gonna win the world drivers championship this season for 2014? My prediction is Lewis Hamilton for his second world drivers championships this season because of performance and reliability in testing. But, if Hamilton don't adapted to the new power units and the Pirelli tyres I would predict this team-mate Nico Rosberg could get the title this season as a dark horse to win, as his was as fast as Lewis Hamilton last season. Sebastian Vettel, Jenson Button, Fernando Alonso and Kimi Raikkonen will also challenge for this years title as-well. It will be another close drivers championship once again this year in my opinion, and if Red Bull drivers can catch up with pace and reliability when the championship really hots up at the end of October.
Constructors title: I will predict that Mercedes to win the constructors championships. Also don't forget Red Bull, Ferrari, McLaren, Force India and Williams will be challenging the constructors championship as-well.
And so predictions for this weekends Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park in Melbourne. For the win I predict Lewis Hamilton for the race win in the Mercedes, Nico Rosberg second in the other Mercedes and Valtteri Bottas third in the Williams. Don't forget Felipe Massa, Ferrari drivers, McLaren drivers, Force India drivers, and the Red Bull drivers either for the race for a podium position too.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Monday, 10 March 2014
Felix Baumgartner enters this years Nurburgring 24 Hours in Audi R8 LMS Ultra
Felix Baumgartner will compete in this year's Nurburgring 24 Hours driving an Audi R8 LMS ultra, the German manufacturer has announced on Friday (7/3/14).
Baumgartner made headlines in 2012 when the Skydiver completed a jump from the edge of space, breaking the sound barrier during his 26 miles descent.
His previous racing experience, having taken part in the VW Scirocco R-Cup last year.
He was also set to compete in the 2013 Race of Champions before the event was called off.
Audi said Baumgartner will obtain the racing licence he needs and compete in the 24-hour race as a guest entrant.
He will partner five-time Le Mans winner Frank Biela, three-time Le Mans winner Marco Werner and GT racer Pierre Kaffer in the June 21 event.
He won't be as fast in his Audi R8 then his 2012 record.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
Baumgartner made headlines in 2012 when the Skydiver completed a jump from the edge of space, breaking the sound barrier during his 26 miles descent.
His previous racing experience, having taken part in the VW Scirocco R-Cup last year.
He was also set to compete in the 2013 Race of Champions before the event was called off.
Audi said Baumgartner will obtain the racing licence he needs and compete in the 24-hour race as a guest entrant.
He will partner five-time Le Mans winner Frank Biela, three-time Le Mans winner Marco Werner and GT racer Pierre Kaffer in the June 21 event.
He won't be as fast in his Audi R8 then his 2012 record.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
2014 WRC Round 3 recap
Recap of the last round of WRC from this weekends Round 3 of Rally Mexico.
This weekends was the third round of the World Rally Championship at the Rally Mexico (6th-9th March) was won by defending WRC champion Sébastien Ogier in the works Volkswagen Polo R WRC.
Meanwhile, team-mate Jari-Matti Latvala finished second in the other works Volkswagen Polo R WRC, Latvala was 72 seconds behind Ogier at the end. Meanwhile, Thierry Neuville finished in third place in the works Hyundai i20 WRC and the first WRC podium and the highest ever result overall for the brand. Neuville was 5 and a half minutes behind Ogier 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 Yuriy Protasov in his Yuriy Protasov backed Ford Fiesta R5. Yuriy Protasov finished in tenth place overall, he was over 28 minutes behind Ogier at the end of the rally.
Highlights of the rally bellow, enjoy.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
This weekends was the third round of the World Rally Championship at the Rally Mexico (6th-9th March) was won by defending WRC champion Sébastien Ogier in the works Volkswagen Polo R WRC.
Meanwhile, team-mate Jari-Matti Latvala finished second in the other works Volkswagen Polo R WRC, Latvala was 72 seconds behind Ogier at the end. Meanwhile, Thierry Neuville finished in third place in the works Hyundai i20 WRC and the first WRC podium and the highest ever result overall for the brand. Neuville was 5 and a half minutes behind Ogier 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 Yuriy Protasov in his Yuriy Protasov backed Ford Fiesta R5. Yuriy Protasov finished in tenth place overall, he was over 28 minutes behind Ogier at the end of the rally.
Highlights of the rally bellow, enjoy.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Saturday, 8 March 2014
Williams and Martini join forces in Sponsorship deal
It was officially confirmed on Thursday (6/3/14) that Williams will be sponsored by Italian multinational alcoholic beverage Martini & Rossi as their title sponsor this season. Will be now named as Williams Martini Racing.
As it was unveiled on Thurday at Williams factory its 2014 Formula 1 livery which has the legendary Martini colours back into Formula 1 for the first time since in the mid to late 1970's when Brabham cars had the famous Martini livery between 1975 to 1977. And with Lotus in 1979.
This deal has been rumoured and was already signed three weeks ago that Martini will returned to Formula 1 with Williams on a multi-year deal.
Final thoughts, a very nice livery from Williams this season with the Martini logos, and possibly the best livery of the season too.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
As it was unveiled on Thurday at Williams factory its 2014 Formula 1 livery which has the legendary Martini colours back into Formula 1 for the first time since in the mid to late 1970's when Brabham cars had the famous Martini livery between 1975 to 1977. And with Lotus in 1979.
This deal has been rumoured and was already signed three weeks ago that Martini will returned to Formula 1 with Williams on a multi-year deal.
Final thoughts, a very nice livery from Williams this season with the Martini logos, and possibly the best livery of the season too.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
Friday, 7 March 2014
Condition of Michael Schumacher 'not changed'
Doctors treating injured Michael Schumacher are still working to bring him out of a coma.
The former seven-time champion, suffered a severe head injury in a skiing accident in the French Alps on 29 December.
"Michael is still in the wake-up phase," said his manager Sabine Kehm in a statement on Friday. "The situation has not changed."
Schumacher has been in a medically induced coma to help reduce the swelling in his brain.
Last month, Schumacher's family said they still "strongly believe" in his recovery, adding: "We are aware the wake-up phase can take a long time."
Investigators probing the accident said Schumacher had been going at the speed of "a very good skier" at the time of his crash in the resort of Meribel.
He had been skiing 8m off-piste when he fell and hit a rock, investigators said.
Experts reconstructed events leading up to the crash after examining Schumacher's skiing equipment and viewing footage filmed on a camera attached to his helmet.
The former seven-time champion, suffered a severe head injury in a skiing accident in the French Alps on 29 December.
"Michael is still in the wake-up phase," said his manager Sabine Kehm in a statement on Friday. "The situation has not changed."
Schumacher has been in a medically induced coma to help reduce the swelling in his brain.
Last month, Schumacher's family said they still "strongly believe" in his recovery, adding: "We are aware the wake-up phase can take a long time."
Investigators probing the accident said Schumacher had been going at the speed of "a very good skier" at the time of his crash in the resort of Meribel.
He had been skiing 8m off-piste when he fell and hit a rock, investigators said.
Experts reconstructed events leading up to the crash after examining Schumacher's skiing equipment and viewing footage filmed on a camera attached to his helmet.
Wednesday, 5 March 2014
Porsche 919 hybrid
This week, Porsche has unveiled their all new car LMP1 for this seasons FIA World Endurance Championship season, and it will race at the 24 Hours of Le Mans later this season, and their first LMP1 race car since 1998. Their 2014 race car will be the all new Porsche 919 hybrid, which was revealed at the Geneva motor show on Tuesday (4/3/14). As it was announced what is being billed as its biggest ever factory motorsport programme at Porsche's event on last Tuesday.
The new colour scheme incorporates the the 'Porsche Intelligent Performance' slogan, with the opening letters of each word being emblazoned down the car when looking from above.
The new car will use Porsche built 2 litre V4 turbocharged petrol engine with direct injection and two energy recuperation systems. The 919 hybrid will also race on Michelin tyres.
The 919 hybrid will make its race debut at the 6 Hours of Silverstone at Silverstone of the FIA World Endurance Championship opener in seven weeks time.
Porsche have also announced the driver pairings for the FIA World Endurance Championship and 24 Hours of Le Mans campaign, Marc Lieb, Romain Dumas and Neel Jani will drive the #14 car this season; and Timo Bernhard, Mark Webber and Brendon Hartley will drive in the #20 car.
A race winning Porsche at Le Mans this season? time will tell.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
The new colour scheme incorporates the the 'Porsche Intelligent Performance' slogan, with the opening letters of each word being emblazoned down the car when looking from above.
The new car will use Porsche built 2 litre V4 turbocharged petrol engine with direct injection and two energy recuperation systems. The 919 hybrid will also race on Michelin tyres.
The 919 hybrid will make its race debut at the 6 Hours of Silverstone at Silverstone of the FIA World Endurance Championship opener in seven weeks time.
Porsche have also announced the driver pairings for the FIA World Endurance Championship and 24 Hours of Le Mans campaign, Marc Lieb, Romain Dumas and Neel Jani will drive the #14 car this season; and Timo Bernhard, Mark Webber and Brendon Hartley will drive in the #20 car.
A race winning Porsche at Le Mans this season? time will tell.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Saturday, 1 March 2014
Jacques Villeneuve to enter Indy 500 with Schmidt
Jacques Villeneuve will enter this year's Indianapolis 500 with Schmidt Peterson Motorsports it was announced on Wednesday (16/2/14).
The former Formula 1 world champion, who recently announced that he is to contest the 2014 World Rallycross Championship, who is a previous winner of the Indy 500, having triumphed at the oval en route to the 1995 CART title.
Villeneuve's latest Indianapolis 500 start will come after a 19-year break, the most in the event's history.
That's not the last of a former Formula 1 driver in the Indy 500, former Williamsf1 driver, former CART champion and 2000 Indianapolis 500 winner Juan Pablo Montoya will also be entering this year's Indianapolis 500 with Team Penske. And just like Villeneuve, his latest Indianapolis 500 start will come after a 14-year break.
And to finish off, instead of a one off race he will be racing a full season in the Indycar Series with Penske after seven seasons in Nascar with Earnhardt Ganassi Racing.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
The former Formula 1 world champion, who recently announced that he is to contest the 2014 World Rallycross Championship, who is a previous winner of the Indy 500, having triumphed at the oval en route to the 1995 CART title.
Villeneuve's latest Indianapolis 500 start will come after a 19-year break, the most in the event's history.
That's not the last of a former Formula 1 driver in the Indy 500, former Williamsf1 driver, former CART champion and 2000 Indianapolis 500 winner Juan Pablo Montoya will also be entering this year's Indianapolis 500 with Team Penske. And just like Villeneuve, his latest Indianapolis 500 start will come after a 14-year break.
And to finish off, instead of a one off race he will be racing a full season in the Indycar Series with Penske after seven seasons in Nascar with Earnhardt Ganassi Racing.
End of blog for now, new post soon, bye.
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