Jules Bianchi remains in a critical but stable condition at the Mie General Medical Center in Yokkaichi following his accident at the Japanese Grand Prix, his family confirmed in a statement on Thursday (30/10/14).
The Marussia driver, suffered a diffuse axonal injury after colliding with a recovery vehicle at Suzuka, which had been deployed to recover Adrian Sutil's car from a previous incident.
Issued by the team on behalf of his family, the latest statement said Bianchi's condition remains unchanged almost a month on from the crash but that he "continues to fight".
"It will be four weeks this coming Sunday since Jules' accident and he remains in the Mie General Medical Center in Yokkaichi. His condition continues to be classified by the medical professionals here as critical but stable," read the statement.
"Although we have no new information to give, we recognise that there are a huge number of people all around the world who are supporting Jules and willing him on in his fight. We owe it to his many fans to acknowledge the continued outpouring of messages, and to provide some information, however brief it may be.
"Jules does indeed continue to fight. Although there have been some reports suggestive of plans for Jules' treatment, at this time his fight will continue here in Yokkaichi. We are taking things step by step.
"Once again, we would like to offer our sincere appreciation for the patience and understanding being shown towards our family at this very difficult time. We also continue to be comforted by the knowledge that Jules is receiving the best possible care at the Mie General Medical Center, with the doctors here remaining in constant contact with the neurosurgeons at the University La Sapienza of Rome, and Professor Gerard Saillant, President of the FIA Medical Commission.
"We will provide a further update when it is appropriate to do so. In the meantime, thank you to everyone who continues to keep Jules in their thoughts and prayers."
It was confirmed last week (22/10/14) that McLaren sporting director Sam Michael is to leave the team at the end of the 2014 Formula 1 season. The team said Michael was departing "on extremely good terms".
Michael actually handed in his notice in March this year as part of a long-term plan to move back to his native Australia with his family.
Michael joined McLaren at the end of 2011, having previously been technical director at Williams, and previously worked for Team Lotus and Jordan. He will attend this season's remaining Grands Prixs' with McLaren before leaving.
End of blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Recap of the last round of WRC from last weekends Round twelve of Rally de Catalunya.
Last weekends was round twelve of the World Rally Championship at the Rally de Catalunya (24th-26th October) ) was won by current WRC champion Sébastien Ogier in the works Volkswagen Polo R WRC to win the rally overall and to give Sébastien Ogier the 2014 WRC title, contracts to Sébastien Ogier for winning his second WRC drivers title and becoming the fifth WRC driver to win back to back WRC drivers' championships.
Meanwhile, team-mate Jari-Matti Latvala finished second in the other works Volkswagen Polo R WRC, Latvala was 11 seconds behind Ogier at the end. Meanwhile, Mikko Hirvonen, finished in third place in the M-Sport World Rally Team Ford Fiesta RS WRC. Hirvonen was 65 seconds 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 Nasser Al-Attiyah in his own backed Ford Fiesta RRC. Nasser Al-Attiyah finished in tenth place overall, he was over 14 minutes behind Ogier at the end of the rally.
While in WRC-3 class (Group R1, R2 and R3 cars) that was won by Mohamed Al Mutawaa in his Abu Dhabi Racing Citroën DS3 R3T. Mohamed Al Mutawaa finished in forty-seventh place overall, he was 64 minutes behind Ogier at the end of the rally.
Highlights of the rally bellow, enjoy.
End of blog for now. New post soon. Bye
Review of Round Eleven of the 2014 World Touring Car Championship season was the Race of Japan, at Suzuka Circuit in Suzuka City, Japan. This was the first time the race was held on the full Grand Prix layout.
In the first race, Citroën Total WTCC driver José María López took the race win in his Citroën C-Elysée WTCC. And the win was enough to give José María López his first WTCC drivers’ title to win the 2014 title. Contractions to José María López winning this years title.
Second was ROAL Motorsport driver Tom Chilton in his Chevrolet RML Cruze TC1, he was over eight seconds behind López in the end. While third place was Citroën Total WTCC driver Sébastien Loeb in his Citroën C-Elysée WTCC, he was nine seconds behind López in the end.
Meanwhile in TC2 class (the old s2000 cars such as BMW 320 TC, SEAT León WTCC and so forth), was won by Liqui Moly Team Engstler driver Franz Engstler in his BMW 320 TC. He finished in fifteenth place overall and 76 seconds behind López in the end. And that race win in class was enough to give Franz Engstler the Yokohama Drivers' Trophy for this season.
While in the second race, Castrol Honda World Touring Car Team driver Gabriele Tarquini took the race win in his Honda Civic WTCC. Second was NIS Petrol by Campos Racing driver Dušan Borković in his Chevrolet RML Cruze TC1, he was two seconds behind Tarquini in the end. While third place was Zengõ Motorsport driver Norbert Michelisz in his Honda Civic WTCC, he was four seconds behind Tarquini in the end.
Meanwhile in TC2 class, was won by Campos Racing driver John Filippi in his SEAT León WTCC. He finished in fourteenth place overall and was 76 seconds behind Tarquini in the end.
Next stop Guia Race of Macau, at Guia Circuit for the final round of the 2014 World Touring Car Championship season in three weeks time.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
First Caterham, and now Marussia have become the second F1 team to be placed in administration it was confirmed today (27/10/14).
Administrators FRP Advisory said the team would continue to operate but had already withdrawn from the US and Brazilian Grand Prixs' after Bernie Ecclestone gave the squad special dispensation as the same for Caterham from last week. As it means there will only be 18 cars on the grid, the smallest field since the 2005 Monaco Grand Prix.
And once again I very feel sorry for the drivers and the staff at the team at this moment of time, with a strong possibility that they may lose their jobs.
But, it had been rumours that according to the Telegraph that Baljinder Sohi and Sonny Kaushal have been in discussions with Marussia to buy the team and its debts of £30 million. But, if the team can survive in Formula 1 till the end of the season and still finished in ninth in the constructors according to prize money they will get £30 million according to the Concorde Agreement that is in Formula 1.
The main problems with Formula 1 the reason that we have two of the small teams in Formula 1 that are placed in administration are a few reasons, one reason the payout to the Concorde Agreement that makes payout to small teams less money to those teams.
Another is that the cost of the power-units this season, in 2013, the V8 engines cost between £8-10 million per season to the teams; while this seasons V6 turbo hybrid engines have doubled, now costing between £15-20 million per season that has steeped up the budgets for this season and next season too.
And final reason we are in this situation is that both teams do not stand up to the big teams and the authority within Formula 1, that is why the likes of Paul Stoddart who owned and was team principal of the Minardi team back in 2000s always stand up to the big teams and the FIA when financial and sporting problems happen he would stand up for his team time and time again. And you do have a feeling that the smaller teams of today do not stands up for themselves and they have a feeling that they're too conservative for their own good, the only team boss who did stand for his team in past few years was Colin Kolles who was the former team principal and managing director of the Hispania team.
Will we see this team at Abu Dhabi in four weeks time? who knows. But, let's hope Marussia and as-well as Caterham find new owners, who do have the money to compete in Formula 1 because it will be a shame we lost two of the underdog teams in F1. Because, the fans to love underdog teams; teams like Jordan and Minardi to name a few we loved in the past.
End of blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Predictions for this weekends Formula 1 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas near Austin, Texas. So predictions for the race itself, Lewis Hamilton for the win in the Mercedes, Nico Rosberg second in the other Mercedes, and Valtteri Bottas third in his Williams. Don't forget Felipe Massa, the two Ferrari drivers, or the two McLaren drivers for a podium place as-well.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Review of round seventeen of the 2014 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 Repsol Honda Team rider and current double MotoGP champion Marc Márquez on his works Honda RC213V. Second place was the Movistar Yamaha MotoGP rider Valentino Rossi on his works Yamaha YZR-M1, he was two seconds behind Márquez at the end. While, third was the other Movistar Yamaha MotoGP rider Jorge Lorenzo on his works Yamaha YZR-M1, he was three seconds behind Márquez at the end.
In Open class (Full control ECU system, hardware and software), Avintia Racing rider Héctor Barberá won Open class and finish ninth place overall on his open spec Ducati Desmosedici GP14, he was 51 seconds behind Márquez at the end.
In the Moto2 race (Inline-four 600 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by Paginas Amarillas HP 40 rider and current Moto3 Champion Maverick Viñales on the Kalex. Second was Marc VDS Racing Team rider Mika Kallio on the Kalex, he was two seconds behind Viñales at the end of the race. While, third was the other Marc VDS Racing Team rider Esteve Rabat on the Kalex, he was eight seconds behind Viñales at the end of the race.
With third place was enough to give Esteve Rabat 2014 Moto2 title, Esteve Rabat was 37 points ahead of team-mate Esteve Rabat with one race to go. Contracts to Esteve Rabat for winning the Moto2 championship.
While in the Moto3 race (single-cylinder 250 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by SaxoPrint–RTG rider Efrén Vázquez on the Honda. Second was Red Bull KTM Ajo rider Jack Miller on the KTM, he was two tenths of a second behind Vázquez at the end of the race. While, third was Estrella Galicia rider Álex Rins on the Honda, he was four tenths of a second behind Vázquez at the end of the race.
End of blog for now. New post soon. Bye.
A doctor who treated Michael Schumacher for nearly six months after his brain injury in a skiing accident says the F1 champion has made "some progress".
But Jean-Francois Payen, a doctor at the French hospital in Grenoble where he was treated, warned that any recovery would take time.
The typical convalescence period was one to three years, he suggested.
Schumacher, 45, was skiing in the French Alps last December when he fell and hit his head on a rock.
The former seven-time Formula 1 world champion was placed in a medically induced coma to help reduce swelling in his brain as he underwent treatment in Grenoble and then in Lausanne, Switzerland.
He has now been taken out of the coma and is being looked after at his home, where Prof Payen still visits him to track his progress.
On Thursday (23/10/14), the doctor gave interviews to French radio station RTL and Le Parisien newspaper.
"I have noted some progress but I would say we should give him time," he said.
Asked about the chances of Schumacher making a recovery, he only referred to a time frame for patients with similar brain injuries.
"It's like for other patients, we are on a timescale which goes from one year to three years and we need to be patient," he said.
It was announced last week (21/10/14) that Caterham F1 Team had entered administration. It has been announced yesterday (24/10/14) that Engavest who was the consortium of Swiss and Middle Eastern investors bought the team from previous owner Tony Fernandes has withdrawn its management team.
And was confirmed that Caterham team is now in the hands of administrators Smith & Williamson, as a final attempt to save the team.
Caterham F1 Team will miss the next two races after Bernie Ecclestone gave the squad special dispensation to skip both the United States and Brazilian Grand Prixs' as the team searches for a new buyer.
First of all, personally I very feel sorry for the drivers and the staff at the team at this moment of time, with a strong possibility that they may lose their jobs.
Secondly, from the previous post, when Engavest who was the consortium of Swiss and Middle Eastern investors bought the team was this is good news for the team they need? and ask me in six months what the new owners do with the team now? and within four months, a very bad choice.
Starting with sacking over 40 former employees, which the sacked employees are taking legal action against the team for unfair dismissal, following a number of cost cuts by its new owners in late July. Dropping Kamui Kobayashi for Spa to replacing him with André Lotterer for that Grand Prix, despite Kobayashi is a paying for his drive. Not improving on track results, and Christijan Albers who was the team boss resigned after Monza due to finical reasons with the team. Which tell you this Swiss and Middle Eastern consortium do not have the money for Formula 1 and possibly destroying lifes' in a Grand Prix team.
Will we see this team at Abu Dhabi in four weeks time? who knows. But, personally I think this could be the end of Caterham in Formula 1.
Let's hope Caterham Team find new owners, who do have the money to compete in Formula 1.
End of blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Its been three 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.
Bye.
This season is McLaren twenty and last season powered by Mercedes power. As of next season, McLaren will be powered by Honda for the first time since 1992. As this post is Top Six McLaren Mercedes F1 cars.
Starting with number six:
Number 6: 1997 McLaren MP4/12
Story: The McLaren MP4/12 was designed by Neil Oatley. Underneath the McLaren MP4/12 had a Mercedes 3 litre V10. McLaren MP4/12 took three victories in 1997, two for David Coulthard and one for Mika Hakkinen. Although the McLaren MP4/12 never took a drivers' championship or the Constructors' championship but it did help McLaren and Mercedes to winning ways.
Number 5: 2005 McLaren MP4-20
Story: The McLaren MP4-20 was designed by Adrian Newey and Mike Coughlan. Underneath the McLaren MP4-20 had a Mercedes 3 litre V10. The McLaren MP4-20 took ten victories in 2005, seven for Kimi Räikkönen and three for Juan Pablo Montoya. Although the McLaren MP4-20 never took a drivers' championship in the 2005 season due to poor reliability for Kimi Räikkönen. It did took McLaren to second place in the Constructors championship in the 2005 season behind Renault in the standings by 9 points.
Number 4: 2007 McLaren MP4-22
Story: The McLaren MP4-22 was designed by Pat Fry. Underneath the McLaren MP4-22 had a Mercedes 2.4 litre V8.
However the team's season was marred by a fierce rivalry between its drivers Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso, as well as a fall out between Alonso and the team's management. This contributed to both drivers eventually losing the championship by one point to Ferrari's Kimi Räikkönen, despite both having led the championship for most of the season. McLaren led the constructor's championship from the start of the season until the Italian Grand Prix, after which they were excluded from the championship due to allegations that the MP4-22 used data obtained from rivals Ferrari. This led the MP4-22 failing to win either championship despite its competitiveness.
Overall, the McLaren MP4-22 took eight victories in 2007, four each for both Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso. Which finishes off one of the most controversial Formula 1 cars in Formula 1 history.
Number 3: 1999 McLaren MP4/14
Story: The McLaren MP4/14 was designed by Neil Oatley and Adrian Newey. Underneath the McLaren MP4/14 had a Mercedes 3 litre V10. The McLaren MP4/14 took Mika Hakkinen to the 1999 F1 Drivers title, while it took McLaren second in the F1 Constructors' standings. And the McLaren MP4/14 won seven races, five for Mika Hakkinen and two for David Coulthard as-well.
Number 2: 2008 McLaren MP4-23
Story: The McLaren MP4-23 was designed by Neil Oatley, Tim Goss and Paddy Lowe. Underneath the McLaren MP4-23 had a Mercedes 2.4 litre V8. The McLaren MP4-23 took Lewis Hamilton to the 2008 F1 Drivers title, while it took McLaren second in the F1 Constructors' standings. And the McLaren MP4-23 won six races, five for Lewis Hamilton and one for Heikki Kovalainen as-well.
Number 1: 1998 McLaren MP4/13
Story: The last time McLaren have won the F1 Constructors championship was with this car the McLaren MP4/13. The McLaren MP4/13 was design by Neil Oatley and was Adrian Newey first F1 car design since leaving Williams at the start of 1997 season. The car had a Mercedes 3.0 litre V10 underneath. It won the F1 constructors championship in 1998. Also, David Coulthard won a grand prix in that car and Mika Hakkinen won eight grand prixs that season to concluded with the 1998 F1 drivers championship for Hakkinen.
And end of an era for both McLaren and Mercedes.
End of blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Review of round sixteen of the 2014 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 Movistar Yamaha MotoGP rider Valentino Rossi on his works Yamaha YZR-M1. Second place was the other Movistar Yamaha MotoGP rider Jorge Lorenzo on his works Yamaha YZR-M1, he was eleven seconds behind Rossi at the end. While, third was Monster Yamaha Tech 3 rider Bradley Smith on Yamaha YZR-M1, he was twelve seconds behind Rossi at the end.
In Open class (Full control ECU system, hardware and software), Avintia Racing rider Héctor Barberá won Open class and finish fifth place overall on his open spec Ducati Desmosedici GP14, he was 30 seconds behind Rossi at the end.
In the Moto2 race (Inline-four 600 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by Paginas Amarillas HP 40 rider and current Moto3 Champion Maverick Viñales on the Kalex. Second was Interwetten Paddock Moto2 rider Thomas Lüthi on the Suter, he was one second behind Viñales at the end of the race. While, third was Marc VDS Racing Team rider Esteve Rabat on the Kalex, he was one and half a second behind Viñales 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 just over 0.029! of a second behind Miller at the end of the race. While, third was the other Estrella Galicia rider Álex Rins on the Honda, he was just over 0.032! of a second behind Miller at the end of the race.
End of blog for now. New post soon. Bye.
BMW confirmed last week (8/10/14) that it will replace its Z4 GT3 with the BMW M6.
It was confirmed from BMW Motorsport division, that development of the new car, which will be released to customers in time for the 2016 season, is already in "full swing" and that testing will begin at the start of 2005.
The M6 will use the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 of the road-going car instead of using the normally-aspirated V8 of the Z4.
It is likely that the M6 will form the basis of the BMW's next GTE-class racer should it decide to stay in the GTLM class of the United SportsCar Championship in seasons to come.
End of Post now, new Post soon. Bye.
Chrysler has axed its Dodge Viper United SportsCar Championship campaign less than 48 hours after winning the GT Le Mans drivers' title it was confirmed last Monday (6/10/14).
It was announced on Monday that Chrysler would discontinue its programme with the Riley Technologies-run SRT Motorsports squad in what was described as a "business decision" that would lead to a redirection of the Dodge's "focus and efforts on the brand's product line-up".
The announcement followed Kuno Wittmer winning the USC GTLM drivers' title at Road Atlanta last Saturday with third place in class aboard the Dodge Viper SRT GTS-R he shared with Marc Goossens and Ryan Hunter-Reay.
SRT also claimed the teams' title at the Petit Le Mans 10-hour race and finished second to Porsche in the GTLM manufacturers' standings.
The decision follows Chrysler's withdrawal from this year's Le Mans 24 Hours, which was understood to have been based entirely on financial considerations, and comes against a backdrop of pauses in production of the Viper to clear backlogs of unsold cars.
It's a shame like that a brand Chrysler can not race Viper any more with its previous history, back in the late 90's and early 2000s when Viper won GTS class at Le Mans 24 hour races in 1998, 99 and 2000. And with recent success in the United SportsCar Championship outperforming Chevrolet in the GTLM category this season. It's a sad thing that Dodge can not develop their race car on Sunday, because they can not sell on Monday.
So Long, Farewell Viper.
End of Post now, new Post soon. Bye.
Jules Bianchi's situation remains "challenging" and he is still in a "critical but stable condition" in intensive care after the diffuse axonal traumatic brain injury sustained in the accident at the Japanese Grand Prix, it has been confirmed on Tuesday (14/10/14).
Marussia issued another statement on behalf of Bianchi's family, in conjunction with Mie General Medical Center in Yokkaichi, where the Frenchman is being cared for, it comes exactly one week after the last one.
"The past nine days have been extremely difficult for Jules and his family," read the statement.
"As a consequence of the accident at Suzuka, a number of medical challenges have needed to be overcome and the situation remains challenging due to the diffuse axonal traumatic brain injury Jules has sustained.
"Jules remains in a critical but stable condition in the Intensive Care Unit of Mie General Medical Center in Yokkaichi.
"The Bianchi family continue to be comforted by the thoughts and prayers of Jules' many fans and the motor sport community.
"In particular, the many demonstrations of support and affection during the course of the Russian Grand Prix in Sochi were of enormous comfort to Jules' parents and the relatives and friends also present at the hospital.
"The family will provide further medical updates when appropriate."
Bianchi sustained his injuries during the race at last weeks Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka, when he struck a recovery vehicle which had been working to clear Adrian Sutil's crashed Sauber at the exit of the Dunlop Curve.
Review of Round Ten and the final round of the 2014 British Touring Car Championship season was at Brands Hatch's Grand Prix Circuit, in Kent.
In the first race, MG KX Clubcard Fuel Save driver Jason Plato took the race win in his MG6 GT. Second was MG KX Clubcard Fuel Save driver Sam Tordoff in his MG6 GT to take a MG one-two finish, he was nine tenths of a second behind Plato in the end. While third place was eBay Motors driver Colin Turkington in his BMW 125i M Sport and also took Independents class too, he was two seconds behind Plato in the end.
Which gives enough points with two races to spare to give Colin Turkington 2014 BTCC Drivers' Championship and the Independents' Trophy as-well.
While Turkington team eBay Motors took the Teams' Championship and the Independent Teams' Trophy. While MG/Triple Eight took the Manufacturers'/Constructors' Championship for 2014.
Meanwhile in the second race, once again it was MG KX Clubcard Fuel Save driver Jason Plato took the race win in his MG6 GT. But, after the race stewards handed on-track winner Plato a 20 second penalty after clash with Colin Turkington on the second lap, and eliminated the new champion from the lead.
Which means WIX Racing driver Adam Morgan took the race win in his Mercedes-Benz A-Class and also took Independents class too. Second was MG KX Clubcard Fuel Save driver Sam Tordoff in his MG6 GT, he was one and a half second behind Morgan in the end. While third place was Pirtek Racing driver and 2013 BTCC Champion Andrew Jordan in his Honda Civic, he was three seconds behind Morgan in the end.
While in the third race, Honda Yuasa Racing driver Gordon Shedden took the race win in his Honda Civic Tourer. Second was Crabbie's Racing driver Jack Clarke in his Ford Focus ST Mk.III and also took Independents class too, he was three seconds behind Shedden in the end. While third place was Airwaves Racing driver Mat Jackson in his Ford Focus ST Mk.III, he was four seconds behind Shedden in the end.
And despite finishing in twelve place in the last race, AmD Tuning.com driver Dave Newsham took the Jack Sears Trophy in his Ford Focus ST Mk.III to finish off the season.
That's the end of 2014 British Touring Car Championship season. Contracts to the Champions in BTCC this season. And now for the 2015 Season.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Review of Round Ten of the 2014 World Touring Car Championship season was the Race of Shanghai, at Shanghai International Circuit, on the outskirts of Shanghai.
In the first race, Citroën Total WTCC driver José María López took the race win in his Citroën C-Elysée WTCC. Second was Citroën Total WTCC driver Ma Qing Hua in his Citroën C-Elysée WTCC, he was over two seconds behind López in the end. While third place was Citroën Total WTCC driver and current WTCC champion Yvan Muller in his Citroën C-Elysée WTCC, he was five seconds behind López in the end.
Meanwhile, Citroën Total WTCC driver Sébastien Loeb in his Citroën C-Elysée WTCC finished in forth place to complete a Citroën one-two-three-four finish and Citroën winning WTCC Manufacturers' Championship in their first season in the WTCC.
Meanwhile in TC2 class (the old s2000 cars such as BMW 320 TC, SEAT León WTCC and so forth), was won by Liqui Moly Team Engstler driver Franz Engstler in his BMW 320 TC. He finished in thirteenth place overall and 89 seconds behind López in the end.
While in the second race, Proteam Racing driver Mehdi Bennani took his first WTCC race win in his Honda Civic WTCC. Second was Castrol Honda World Touring Car Team driver Tiago Monteiro in his Honda Civic WTCC, he was two and a half seconds behind Bennani in the end. While third place was Citroën Total WTCC driver José María López in his Citroën C-Elysée WTCC, he was four seconds behind Bennani in the end.
Meanwhile in TC2 class, was won by Liqui Moly Team Engstler driver Franz Engstler in his BMW 320 TC. He finished in fourteenth place overall and was 71 seconds behind Bennani in the end.
Next stop Race of Japan, at Suzuka Circuit for Round Eleven of the 2014 World Touring Car Championship season in two weeks time.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Review of the V8 Supercars round of the 2014 Bathurst 1000 at the famous Mount Panorama Circuit in Bathurst, New South Wales.
The team of Chaz Mostert and Paul Morris won the 166 lap race overall in their Ford Performance Racing, Ford FG Falcon. Also claimed victory on the final lap of an incredible 2014 Bathurst 1000 as Jamie Whincup ran low on fuel on the final lap.
Second place was Nissan Motorsport drivers James Moffat and Taz Douglas in their Nissan Altima L33, they were four seconds behind the leaders at the end. Meanwhile, James Rosenberg Racing drivers Nick Percat and Oliver Gavin finished in third place in their Holden VF Commodore, they were eight seconds behind the leaders at the end.
End of Post now, new Post soon. Bye.
Review of Round five of the 2014 FIA World Endurance Championship at Fuji International Speedway in Fuji, Japan.
Toyota Racing team won the race overall and WEC LMP1 class too of Anthony Davidson and Sébastien Buemi in their Toyota TS030 Hybrid.
While, the second Toyota of Alexander Wurz, Stéphane Sarrazin and Kazuki Nakajima took second place in their Toyota TS030 Hybrid to complete a Toyota one-two finish at Toyota home race, they were 25 seconds behind the leaders at the end of the race. Meanwhile, third place was the Porsche Team of Timo Bernhard, Mark Webber and Brendon Hartley in their Porsche 919 Hybrid, they were a lap behind the leaders at the end of the race.
In LMP2 class, the G-Drive Racing team of Julien Canal, Olivier Pla and Roman Rusinov in their Ligier JS P2 with a Nissan VK45DE 4.5 L V8 engine won in LMP2 class. They finish in seventh place overall and they were seventeen laps behind the leaders at the end of the race.
In LMP1-L class (a new category this season, designed solely for privateers without hybrid systems in their cars), the Rebellion Racing team of Dominik Kraihamer, Andrea Belicchi and Fabio Leimer in their Rebellion R-One with a Toyota RV8KLM 3.4 L V8 engine won LMP1-L class class. They finish in eleventh place overall and they were twenty-one laps behind the leaders at the end of the race.
While in GTE Pro class, was won by AF Corse team of Gianmaria Bruni and Toni Vilander won in their Ferrari 458 Italia GT2. They finish in thirteenth place overall and they were twenty-eight laps behind the leaders at the end of the race.
While in GTE Am class, was won by Aston Martin Racing team of David Heinemeier Hansson, Kristian Poulsen and Nicki Thiim in their Aston Martin Vantage GTE. They finish in seventeenth place overall and they were twenty-nine laps behind the leaders at the end of the race.
Next Stop 6 Hours of Shanghai in three weeks time for round six of the FIA World Endurance Championship.
End of blog for now. New post soon. Bye.
Review of the round fifteen of the 2014 MotoGP season at Twin Ring Motegi, Motegi, Tochigi for the Japanese GP. The news that Marc Márquez has retain his MotoGP title for another season. And the news of Loris Baz will make his MotoGP debut with NGM Forward Racing in 2015.
In the MotoGP race (V-twin, V4, or Inline-four 1000cc four stroke class), that was won by Movistar Yamaha MotoGP rider Jorge Lorenzo on his works Yamaha YZR-M1. Second place was Repsol Honda Team rider and current MotoGP champion Marc Márquez on his works Honda RC213V, he was one and a half a second behind Lorenzo at the end to give Marc Márquez the MotoGP title for this year and retain his title from 2013. Márquez is now 82 points ahead of Valentino Rossi who is second in the standings with three rounds remaining. Contracts to Marc Márquez for winning the MotoGP championship.
While, third was Movistar Yamaha MotoGP rider Valentino Rossi on his works Yamaha YZR-M1, he was two and a half seconds behind Lorenzo at he end.
In Open class (Full control ECU system, hardware and software), NGM Forward Racing rider Aleix Espargaró won Open class and finish eleventh overall on his Forward-Yamaha YZR-M1, he was 40 seconds behind Márquez at the end.
In the Moto2 race (Inline-four 600 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by Interwetten Paddock Moto2 rider Thomas Lüthi on the Suter. Second was Paginas Amarillas HP 40 rider and current Moto3 Champion Maverick Viñales on the Kalex, he was one second behind Lüthi at the end. While, third was Marc VDS Racing Team rider Esteve Rabat on the Kalex, he was three and a half seconds behind Lüthi at the end.
While in the Moto3 race (single-cylinder 250 cc four-stroke class), that race was won by Estrella Galicia rider Álex Márquez on the Honda. Second was SaxoPrint–RTG rider Efrén Vázquez on the Honda, he was three tenths of a second behind Márquez at the end. While, third was Ambrogio Racing rider Brad Binder on the Mahindra, he was half a second behind Márquez in the end.
Meanwhile, it was confirmed last week (3/10/14) that Kawasaki World Superbike rider Loris Baz will make his MotoGP debut with NGM Forward Racing in 2015.
Baz, who currently rides in the World Superbikes Championship, who sits fifth in the standings riding a works Kawasaki will ride the Forward-Yamaha YZR-M1 next season. Baz will join Stefan Bradl as his team-mate for next season at NGM Forward Racing.
End of blog for now. New post soon. Bye.
Russian Grand Prix review of round sixteen of the F1 season at Sochi Autodrom, in Sochi , and thoughts on the race as well.
Good points
- Mercedes (Lewis Hamilton, pole and race win; Nico Rosberg, finished 2nd; Mercedes winning their first ever F1 Constructors Championship)
- Valtteri Bottas (finished 3rd)
- McLaren (Jenson Button, finished 4th; Kevin Magnussen, finished 5th)
- Sergio Pérez (finished 10th)
Bad points
- Kimi Räikkönen (finished 9th)
- Toro Rosso (Jean-Éric Vergne, finished 13th; Daniil Kvyat, finished 14th)
- Pastor Maldonado (finished 18th)
- Kamui Kobayashi (DNF, Brakes)
- Max Chilton (DNF, Suspension)
A dominating race weekend from Lewis Hamilton in the Mercedes, pole position on Saturday, lead all the laps, to conclude with a race win on Sunday winning the first Russian Grand Prix to give Lewis his ninth Grand Prix win of the season.
While, team-mate Nico Rosberg finished in second place in the Mercedes to give the team its ninth one-two finish of the season. Which gives Mercedes winning their first ever F1 Constructors Championship as a constructor (before Mercedes as a constructor, first time as a team since 2009 as Brawn GP) in their history in F1. Contracts to Mercedes.
While, Valtteri Bottas finished in third place, in the WIlliams, to complete the podium.
Hamilton has now improve his lead of the F1 driver championship from 10 points to 17 points ahead of team-mate Nico Rosberg with three races to go.
Next stop Circuit of the Americas Austin in three weeks time for the United States Grand Prix.
End of blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Marussia will field a single car for the rest of the Russian Grand Prix, out of respect for Jules Bianchi, who remains in a critical but stable condition in hospital following his accident in Japan it was confirm an hour before Friday Free Practice one (10/10/14).
Reserve driver Alexander Rossi had been placed alongside Max Chilton on the Sochi entry list, but the team later wrote to the stewards stating its intention to withdraw the second car.
In a statement on Friday morning, Marussia said it felt running just one car for Chilton was "the appropriate course of action under the difficult circumstances of the weekend".
Bianchi's car has been built up on his side of the garage, while both cars feature the #JB17 graphic in support of the Frenchman and his family.
Predictions for this weekends Formula 1 Russian Grand Prix at Sochi autodrom near Sochi for Formula 1 first ever F1 race in Russia.
So predictions for the race itself, Lewis Hamilton for the win in the Mercedes, Nico Rosberg second in the other Mercedes, and Valtteri Bottas third in the Williams. Don't forget Felipe Massa, the two Red Bull drivers, the two Ferrari drivers, or the two McLaren drivers either for a podium place.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Review of Round Thirteen and final round of the 2014 United SportsCar Championship and the final round of the North American Endurance Championship at Road Atlanta, Braselton, Georgia for the annual Petit Le Mans.
Wayne Taylor Racing team won the race overall and Prototype class too of Jordan Taylor, Ricky Taylor and Max Angelelli in their Corvette DP, Chevrolet 5.5L V8. While, Action Express Racing team finished in second place in their Corvette DP, Chevrolet 5.5L V8, with the drivers of João Barbosa, Christian Fittipaldi and Sébastien Bourdais; they were eleven seconds behind the leaders. Meanwhile, Chip Ganassi Racing team finished in third place in their Riley DP, Ford Ecoboost 3.5 L V6, with the drivers of Scott Pruett, Memo Rojas and Scott Dixon; they were a lap behind the leaders in the end.
Meanwhile, quick mention to the DeltaWing Racing Cars team who finished in fifth place two years ago in their DeltaWing, finished in fourth place this time in their DeltaWing DWC13, Mazda 1.9 L in-line 4 turbo, with the drivers of Katherine Legge, Andy Meyrick and Gabby Chaves; they were 5 laps behind the leaders in the end.
In Prototype Challenge Class (all teams using Oreca FLM09 race car), Starworks Motorsport team won Prototype Challenge Class and finished in sixth place overall; with the drivers of Renger van der Zande, Mirco Schultis and Alex Popow; they were 5 laps behind the leaders.
In GT Le Mans Class, Team Falken Tire team won GT Le Mans Class and finished in ninth place overall in their Porsche 911 RSR; with the drivers of Wolf Henzler, Bryan Sellers and Marco Holzer; they were 9 laps behind the leaders.
In GT Daytona Class, Paul Miller Racing team won GT Daytona Class and finished in twenty-fourth place overall in their Audi R8 LMS; with the drivers of Christopher Haase, Bryce Miller and Matthew Bell; they were 24 laps behind the leaders.
And so who are this years champions as its the final round of the season. In Prototype Class, João Barbosa and Christian Fittipaldi won the drivers championship, while Action Express Racing took the teams championship; while Chevrolet took the Engine manufacturers championship.
In Prototype Challenge Class, Jon Bennett and Colin Braun won the drivers championship, while CORE Autosport took the teams championship.
In GT Le Mans Class, Kuno Wittmer won the drivers championship, while SRT Motorsports took the teams championship; while Porsche took the Manufacturers championship.
In GT Daytona Class, Dane Cameron won the drivers championship, while Turner Motorsport took the teams championship; while Porsche took the Manufacturers championship.
To give the end of the first season of the United SportsCar Championship of 2014.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
2014 Japanese Grand Prix review of round fifteen of the F1 season at Suzuka, and thoughts on the race, and thoughts of Jules Bianchi's crash.
The result itself will be forgotten in the future due to the headlines from Suzuka last week. With Nico Rosberg took pole on Saturday and stayed into the lead ahead of team-mate lewis Hamilton after the safety car went in. Rosberg stayed in the lead, until lap 29, when Hamilton managed to overtake Rosberg for the race lead at turn one, with Rosberg struggling with oversteer. To give Lewis his eighth Grand Prix win of the season.
While, team-mate Nico Rosberg finished in second place in the Mercedes to give the team its eighth one-two finish of the season.
Meanwhile, Sebastian Vettel finished in third place,in the Red Bull, to complete the podium.
Hamilton has now improve his lead of the F1 driver championship from 3 points to 10 points ahead of team-mate Nico Rosberg. While Daniel Ricciardo only managed a fourth place finish in the race, his is now 73 points behind Hamilton with four races to go.
So my thoughts on Jules Bianchi's crash from last week, as you guess this post is from Thursday and not Monday. So I could gather my thoughts without being angry or confused as I wanted a more calmer view on things.
First off thoughts and prayers are still with Jules Bianchi's friends and family.
For starters I think it was a good thing that FOM did not show the footage from the accident on Sunday, as from the spectators' video footage and photographs of the accident showed how vicious the crash is and it was disturbing footage to show from the footage from Youtube.
Should the race should have happen despite having Typhoon Phanfone on the out-skits of Japan for a wet race? And my answer is yes, Formula 1 have been to wetter places a round the world for a Grand Prix such as Fuji, Sao Paulo and Spa to name a few examples that have been wetter races that Suzuka had last weekend, personally the race from 20 years ago was much more wetter race when you see the footage from that race.
But, the race should have started a few hours earlier in my opinion if the Typhoon was near the track to avoid the bad light if needed anyway, they should have sacrifice the viewers ratings from Europe.
Overall, I think the accident was a complete freak accident what we saw with Jules Bianchi's crash from last week. Maybe if the JCB wasn't there and Jules hit the tyres barriers instead, it would have been a different story. Maybe he will be out for a Grand Prix rather than a long time. I highly doubt it he will be back this season. If he does recovered, which will take time, I think he may take a very long time or may never race in a Formula 1 car again, time will tell what will happen with Jules Bianchi.
All I can say now is for Jules is to keep fighting just like Michael Schumacher with his skiing accident, and some latest report that Schumacher is improving. Which is great.
Final thoughts is that motorsport is dangerous sport. No matter if its Go-Karting, motorbikes, Formula 1, Indy Car, any kind of Motorsport is dangerous, but motorsport can be safer between tracks, fans, specators, tracks marshells, people in pits, cars and drivers too.
Jules Bianchi's family has revealed the extent of the head injuries he suffered in a crash during the Japanese Grand Prix.
While the 25-year-old remains in intensive care at the Mie General Medical Center in Yokkaichi in a critical but stable condition, it has been confirmed that he has suffered a diffuse axonal injury.
Such an injury is usually the consequence of the forces of a rapid acceleration or deceleration of the head and affects the nerves in the brain.
Its severity can vary over a wide range.
"This is a very difficult time for our family, but the messages of support and affection for Jules from all over the world have been a source of great comfort to us," said Bianchi's family in a statement.
"We would like to express our sincere appreciation.
"The hospital will continue to monitor and treat Jules and further medical updates will be provided when appropriate."
The family thanked FIA Medical Commission president Professor Gerard Saillant for his presence at the hospital, and also Professor Alessandro Frati, neurosurgeon of the University of Rome La Sapienza, who has travelled to Japan at Ferrari's request.
"They arrived at the hospital today and met with the medical personnel responsible for Jules' treatment, in order to be fully informed of his clinical status so that they are able to advise the family," the statement added.
"Professors Saillant and Frati acknowledge the excellent care being provided by the Mie General Medical Center and would like to thank their Japanese colleagues."
Recap of the last round of WRC from last weekends Round eleven of Rallye de France.
Last weekends was the eleventh round of the World Rally Championship at the Rallye de France (3rd- 5th October) was won by Jari-Matti Latvala in the works Volkswagen Polo R WRC, to win the rally overall. Meanwhile, team-mate Andreas Mikkelsen finished second in the other works Volkswagen Polo R WRC, Mikkelsen was 44 seconds behind Latvala at the end. Meanwhile, Kris Meeke, finished in third place in the works Citroën DS3 WRC. Meeke was 65 seconds behind Latvala 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 Quentin Gilbert in his own backed Ford Fiesta R5. Quentin Gilbert finished in fifteenth place overall, he was over 10 minutes behind Latvala at the end of the rally.
While in WRC-3 class (Group R1, R2 and R3 cars) that was won by Alastair Fisher in his own backed Citroën DS3 R3T. Alastair Fisher finished in twenty-first place overall, he was 19 minutes behind Latvala at the end of the rally.
Highlights of the rally bellow, enjoy.
End of blog for now. New post soon. Bye
Review of Round Nine of the 2014 World Touring Car Championship season was the Race of Beijing, at Goldenport Park Circuit, on the outskirts of Beijing.
In the first race, ROAL Motorsport driver Tom Chilton took the race win in his Chevrolet RML Cruze TC1. Second was was Citroën Total WTCC driver and current WTCC champion Yvan Muller in his Citroën C-Elysée WTCC, he was over two seconds behind Chilton in the end. While third place was Citroën Total WTCC driver José María López in his Citroën C-Elysée WTCC, he was five seconds behind Chilton in the end.
Meanwhile in TC2 class (the old s2000 cars such as BMW 320 TC, SEAT León WTCC and so forth), was won by Liqui Moly Team Engstler driver Franz Engstler in his BMW 320 TC. He finished in tenth place overall and 54 seconds behind Chilton in the end.
While in the second race, Lada Sport Lukoil driver Robert Huff took the race win in his Lada Granta 1.6T and Lada's first ever race win in the WTCC. Second was ROAL Motorsport driver Tom Coronel in his Chevrolet RML Cruze TC1, he was under a second behind Huff in the end. While third place was Citroën Total WTCC driver Sébastien Loeb in his Citroën C-Elysée WTCC, he was three seconds behind Huff in the end.
Meanwhile in TC2 class, was won by Liqui Moly Team Engstler driver Franz Engstler in his BMW 320 TC. He finished in fourteenth place overall and was a lap behind Huff in the end.
Next stop Race of Shanghai, at Shanghai International Circuit for Round Ten of the 2014 World Touring Car Championship season in a weeks time.
End of post/blog for now, new post soon. Bye.
Jules Bianchi is in a "critical but stable" condition in hospital following his crash in the Japanese Grand Prix, the FIA has confirmed.
An FIA spokesman confirmed Bianchi's condition from Mie General Hospital, where Bianchi is being treated. Earlier on Monday, Marussia asked for "patience and understanding" over updates as the team focuses on Bianchi and his family.
Bianchi was taken to Mie General Hopsital after hitting a recovery vehicle during at Suzuka, and underwent surgery on Sunday evening following a CT scan which showed a "severe head injury". On Monday, Marussia released a statement which thanked fans for their support and urged patience regarding any updates on Bianchi's condition.
The full statement reads as follows:
"Following the accident involving Jules Bianchi during yesterday's 2014 Formula One Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka Circuit, the Marussia F1 Team would like to acknowledge the huge outpouring of support and affection for Jules and the Team at this very difficult time.
"With regard to the communication of information concerning Jules' medical condition, we will respect, and be guided by, the wishes of the Bianchi family. Together with Jules' care, they will remain our highest priority. Therefore, we would ask for patience and understanding with regard to further medical updates, which will be communicated in conjunction with the Mie General Medical Center in Yokkaichi, where Jules is being treated, when they feel it is appropriate.
"Representatives of the Marussia F1 Team and Scuderia Ferrari will remain at the hospital to support Jules and the Bianchi family.
Yesterday afternoon (5/10/14), former Jordan, McLaren and Tyrrell F1 driver Andrea de Cesaris has died at the age of 55 following a motorbike accident in his native Italy.
Local media reports say that de Cesaris lost control of his bike on a road near Rome and was killed instantly.
De Cesaris competed in 214 races across a 15-year career, claiming a pole position and five podiums. He held the record for the most races without claiming a victory.
He made his debut with Alfa Romeo in 1980 before moving to McLaren for 1981, a decision which proved unsuccessful and he returned to Alfa Romeo for two seasons. 1983 proved to be his best year as he twice finished on the podium and classified eighth in the championship.
In 1984 he raced for Ligier for two seasons. Then followed by a season at each at Minardi, Brabham, and Rial. Then in 1989 race at Dallara for two seasons.
De Cesaris joined Jordan for its first foray into Formula 1 in 1991 and claimed the team's maiden points in Canada, as well as competing for victory in Belgium. He join Tyrrell for a couple of seasons. And in his final year in1994 was his final year he briefly returned to Jordan to replace Eddie Irvine for a few races, before bowing out with Sauber replacing Karl Wendlinger at the team, which concludes his Formula 1 career.
Thoughts goes out to Andrea De Cesaris family and friends at this period of time.
R.I.P. Andrea De Cesaris
Jules Bianchi has suffered a "severe head injury" after crashing in to a recovery vehicle during yesterday's (5/10/14) Japanese Grand Prix.
A mobile crane was recovering Adrian Sutil's Sauber when Bianchi's Marussia slid off in increasing rain and hit the rear of the crane. The medical car and ambulance were soon on the scene and the race was red flagged and didn't restart.
An FIA spokesman said Bianchi had suffered a "severe head injury" and is being operated on before being moved to intensive care.
The full FIA statement read as follows:
"On lap 42, Adrian Sutil lost control of his car, spun and hit the tyre barrier on the outside of Turn 7. The marshals displayed double waved yellow flags before the corner to warn the drivers of the incident. A recovery vehicle was despatched in order to lift the car and take it to a place of safety behind the guardrail. While this was being done the driver of car 17, Jules Bianchi, lost control of his car, travelled across the run-off area and hit the back of the tractor.
"Once the marshals reported that the driver was injured, medical teams were despatched and the Safety Car was deployed. These were followed by an extrication team and an ambulance.
"The driver was removed from the car, taken to the circuit medical centre and then by ambulance to Mie General Hospital.
"The CT scan shows that he has suffered a severe head injury and is currently undergoing surgery. Following this he will be moved to intensive care where he will be monitored."
Having said he himself aquaplaned off, Sutil confirmed that Bianchi had appeared to have the same problem: "It was more or less the same crash but the outcome was a bit different," Sutil said.
Thoughts and Prayers are with Jules Bianchi's friends and family tonight.
Reigning F1 World Champion Sebastian Vettel will leave Red Bull at the end of the season, with the team also confirming that Toro Rosso driver Daniil Kvyat is to replace him at Red Bull along side Daniel Ricciardo.
Vettel is said to have activated a release clause in his contract with Red Bull, and after a six-year spell with Red Bull he is set to switch to Ferrari, with strong rumours that Fernando Alonso poised for a return to McLaren.
Vettel has claimed 38 wins, 44 pole positions, four Drivers' titles and four Constructors' crowns at his six year stay at Red Bull.
This must be the biggest shock for next season, who ever expect it that Sebastian Vettel will stay at Red Bull in 2015. So does that means that Sebastian Vettel will be off to Ferrari next season. Does that means that Fernando Alonso will return to McLaren. What does it mean for Jenson Button? will he quit F1 then, who knows. Time will tell who will be driving where.
An end of an era for Sebastian Vettel at the Red Bull family from the last decade of dominance.
End of blog for now. New post soon. Bye.
Eugene Laverty has been officially confirmed today (2/10/14), that he will be ridding for the Aspar team for the 2015 MotoGP season.
The Suzuki World Superbike rider, who will race Honda's Open class bike next season along side 2006 MotoGP champion Nicky Hayden at Aspar.
Laverty twice finished as runner-up in the Supersport World Championship (2009 and 2010), before making the switch to the Superbike World Championship in 2011 with Yamaha, where he also took the runner-up spot last season with Aprillia.
Laverty previously raced in the 250cc Grand Prix class, departing halfway through his second term in 2008.
This has been rumoured since for over a month now that Laverty will join Drive M7 Aspar for next season. Good luck to Eugene Laverty riding at Drive M7 Aspar next season.
End of blog for now. New post soon. Bye.
It was confirmed today (1/10/14), that Danilo Petrucci will join the Pramac Racing team next season, with Yonny Hernández as his team-mate.
Petrucci, who has been competing with Ioda Racing since making his MotoGP debut in 2012, has inked a deal to join Pramac to race a top-spec Ducati till 2016 as he will replace the Ducati Team-bound Andrea Iannone.
This has been rumoured since Aragon MotoGP race that Petrucci will join Pramac Racing for next season. Good luck to Danilo Petrucci riding at Pramac Racing next season.
End of blog for now. New post soon. Bye.
