Williams F1 in turmoil!!

[ferrari fan]

Williams 2 drivers are not happy with their Boss Frank Williams.
Both have different reasons and one has already signed on with McLaren for next year.
ralf Schumacher has trouble getting a deal together for continuing his contract after late 2004 expiry and has treatened to walk away.
This is potential very dangerous as the BMW engine deal and a few other German sponsors do have a big influence on the matter.
Frank does take a few medicine to be as well as he can be and has been known to like to play the contract game right to the line at times.
In my oppinion this must be a tactic of him as the current car seems to be right up there in pace, so to gee his combatance up he puts up the preasure, in my book pretty full on gambling.
Fireworks for sure this season on the track and may the best team win.
Minardi has signed an 3th driver in Tommy Coronel, hope they have the cars to run all these paying drivers.
Montoya will go ballistic and will be providing fireworks/incidents.
Get ready for the punitive retribution debate,in my book the most clashes will be with Barrichello and Raikonnen.
Do I hear the engines running there in Melbourne or is it my imagination
Ferrari,Williams,Renault,BAR,Jaguar,McLaren,Toyota , all will go hard.
All have less USA $ to spend due to the fact that they get their sponsorship allocation in the value of the U$A.This has had a beating compared to the EURO etc.

[timbo333]

I think Frank Williams is right to stand up to the greed of Ralf S. Wants a huge increase in pay and naturally Frank Williams is resisting the demand.

Can't wait for the 1st GP of the season. Less than 2 weeks to go.

Ferrari Fan are you going to the GP this year?

Cheers,

Timbo.

[Gan88]

As a Williams fan, I am not the least bit concerned. Williams cars win GP. They build cars that the likes of Senna would drive for free! They have won heaps of driver's and manufacturer's championships on the strength of their cars alone. I'm sure Gene would be all too keen on stepping up if Ralf feels he's underpaid.

[wayno]

I think Ralf should take his medicine. He was in the right place at the right time when his previous contract was negotiated as there was no decent drivers available and benefitted as a result.
Since then he's proved to be inconsistent to say the least, and was made to look quite silly by JPM last year. This guy in my mind is the most over-rated paid driver in F1.

[BB]

Originally posted by Gan88
As a Williams fan, I am not the least bit concerned. Williams cars win GP. They build cars that the likes of Senna would drive for free! They have won heaps of driver's and manufacturer's championships on the strength of their cars alone. I'm sure Gene would be all too keen on stepping up if Ralf feels he's underpaid.

Ayrton Senna did say he would drive for Frank Williams for free but finished up paying (the ultimate price)....

Frank Williams is first and foremost a business man and has a long history of cutting pays to top drivers, Mansell and Hill to name but two. He firmly believes rightly or wrongly its his cars that win Word Championships not the drivers (with perhaps the exception of Alan Jones) and I believe this is just his way of letting the drivers know who is boss. With a little gamesmanship thrown in for good measure.

I'm sure he revells in it!

[ferrari fan]

Well in the second half of this season Mark WEBBER will show what this creration is realy made of.
To Wayno; you are wrong as Ralf has at times the capacity to be blistering fast, when the car is set up right.
Monty has NOT shown up Ralf, and that is indicative of what Monty is capable of overall.
Dennis bought a lemon.:D

[XR6T]

Originally posted by ferrari fan
Well in the second half of this season Mark WEBBER will show what this creration is realy made of.

We can live in hope.

To Wayno; you are wrong as Ralf has at times the capacity to be blistering fast, when the car is set up right.[/QUOTE]

Exactly right, at times Ralf is fast if everything is set up right. JPM is fast all of the time. JPM drives around problems in set up, Ralf sits there and sulks.

Monty has NOT shown up Ralf, and that is indicative of what Monty is capable of overall.
Dennis bought a lemon.:D [/QUOTE]

JPM has beaten Ralf in the drivers championship 2 out of three years (and the one time he didn't was his first year in F1). Have you ever noticed that every time JPM has a few good races behind him out trots Willie Webber (Ralfs manager) claiming JPM has better equipment than Ralf?. Ralf is a sook!

Ralf is no where near JPM and even further from his brother (IMO of course).

[wayno]

Originally posted by ferrari fan
To Wayno; you are wrong as Ralf has at times the capacity to be blistering fast, when the car is set up right.
Does the term 'at times' appear in the above quote? These times are very few and far between.
Ralf should feel lucky to get a drive with Minardi :p

[ferrari fan]

This is the beauty with F1; the passion that one feels for a team/driver.
I was and still am very much a Damon Hill fan and before that a Nigel Mansell, Jean Alesi fan.
Since the appearance of Michael Schumacher at FERRARI this has all changed, and who will I go for when he retires?one thing for sure ,not Montoya. Hopefully Webber.
My team always been FERRARI, and it will be till I croak it.
Hopefully we will have a super season with more turns,twists,overtaking and great racing.
May the best team/driver win.

[wayno]

With you 100%! I can't wait to get to the GP. Looking for a good show from Mark (got my Minichamps 1/18 today, WOW!) and Kimi.

[BB]

Originally posted by ferrari fan
This is the beauty with F1; the passion that one feels for a team/driver.
I was and still am very much a Damon Hill fan and before that a Nigel Mansell, Jean Alesi fan.
Since the appearance of Michael Schumacher at FERRARI this has all changed, and who will I go for when he retires?one thing for sure ,not Montoya. Hopefully Webber.
My team always been FERRARI, and it will be till I croak it.
Hopefully we will have a super season with more turns,twists,overtaking and great racing.
May the best team/driver win.

My sentiments excactly.

I have yet to make it to Melbourne for the GP but being there last week, got to walk the whole track and drove around it 4 times. I will get there one day.

[timbo333]

Hey Ferrari Fan where did you hear this....

Minardi has signed an 3th driver in Tommy Coronel, hope they have the cars to run all these paying drivers.

I'm interested as Tom drives for Team Lister at Le Mans. I couldn't find any info on the Minardi or F1 websites about this. He is still listed as a LISTER driver too!

Any info you can share would be appreciated.

Thanks Bert.

Timbo.

[jager]

Minardi has signed an 3th driver in Tommy Coronel, hope they have the cars to run all these paying drivers.

I understand that the teams that can run a 3rd car for Friday practise don't have to run it in their standard livery. This allows pay drivers who bring there own sponsorship to give those sponsors better value for money in terms of signage on the car. In model collecting terms that means the number of potential F1 models from this season onwards has just been increased by 30% - imagine all the potential special liveries Minichamps will be able to release !

[ferrari fan]

As I am from Holland and was involved in Motorsport there as well and a family member runs a large Euro Motorsport team including Formula classes ,I do get sometimes some info while conversing with them.
Tom and his parents live? very close to where I was situated

[ferrari fan]

Well it looks like the rodents are leaving the ship!
Momty to McSlow
Ralf to 'dophine' Renault!
Mark Webber is getting a glow ,so hot is he in the drivers market
So is J. Button!
Jos Verstappen might appear in the Minardi again this year as the title sponsor Willux ,who make porcelein '****ters' will put the squeeze on Paul Stoddart, and as he needs more note$ as to not go down the $hitter$pipe, I for one could well see this happening.
Also Jack Villeneuve could well come into play very soon indeed

Ahhh to have had the first fix, what a pleasure.

[terrine]

hey FF, speaking of the dutch and sanitary systems ever here of a company there called WISA BEHEER?

r/peter

[wayno]

Maybe it's just me, but has global warming started to effect F1 'silly season'? It seems to have started unusually early this year! :D
Will the deal with Ralf really happen? Or is Willi Weber just having a last desperate roll of the dice in an attempt to 'rob' (for that's what it would be for Ralfs services!) Cranky Franky of more money for the inferior Schumacher.
Would Frank really care? Mark Webber would fill one spot admirably and a young fellow by the name of Button would do a pretty good job in the other seat.
I don't think Ralf should go to Renault as I think Alonso would give him more trouble than Montoya. Toyota would be a better destination for him as I feel he could put a lot into that team if he worked hard.

[wayno]

Well the plot thickens. Briatore has admitted talking to Willi Weber in Melbourne but has categorically stated that Ralf joining Renault were never part of the discussion.
Hmmmmmmm, what to make of this? I still think it's a smoke screen to try and get a better deal, the deal will fall over, and Ralf will be driving a Toyota next year.
Now, where did I put my crystal ball.....

[V8SS]

Originally posted by wayno
Well the plot thickens. Briatore has admitted talking to Willi Weber in Melbourne but has categorically stated that Ralf joining Renault were never part of the discussion.
Hmmmmmmm, what to make of this? I still think it's a smoke screen to try and get a better deal, the deal will fall over, and Ralf will be driving a Toyota next year.
Now, where did I put my crystal ball.....

Of course all the rumours over here are that Scott Dixon is in line for a drive or at least a test at Williams next year.

[Elvis]

Originally posted by V8SS
Of course all the rumours over here are that Scott Dixon is in line for a drive or at least a test at Williams next year.

Geez,thats an weird one,our Dixon should go pretty well,hes one quick aussie,maybe our Russell Crowe could be hes manager,one strong Aussie combination hey V8SS:D
With all the money Chip has,he could probably start his own F1 team and then well have double the aussies to cheer for.

More seriously though id like to see that happen,2003 IRL Champion,hes won in CART.......hes one quick guy,it will also get the ratings up for the NZ viewers.

[V8SS]

Originally posted by Elvis

More seriously though id like to see that happen,2003 IRL Champion,hes won in CART.......hes one quick guy,it will also get the ratings up for the NZ viewers.

Yeah Elvis, still pretty much a rumour. Read about it here.

http://onesport.nzoom.com/sport_detail/0,1278,2596 90-2-21,00.html

[ferrari fan]

Frank Williams has made a few emotional comments regarding Mony and Dennis, comparing them like 2 Bulls in a Mclaren China shop going head to head for the Tittle of head Bull.
The relationship with Frank and Monty is at an altime low and even Dennis the Mennis has bought into it:D
Brilliant :D
Ther sponsor (Allianz insurance) had an campaign running on trust and honouring your word, must have been seen by all who watched the GP telecast, and this flew straight into the face of the theme of the campaign!
Monty ohh Monty, where will you end up, He has burned his bridges with the Williams team, (very evident in the Pits over the weekend,according to the officials that had to be there) and Dennis will not stand for this sort of nonsence AT ALL!!
The only way out for Williams is dumping this crettin and recruiting an other one, Like Jack Villeneuve, Mark Webber,if the Jaguar keeps breaking he is a free driver,Jos Verstappen and even Pizzonia are an option.
this WILL be exciting to watch the outcome of all this.
All to do with Monty acting like a prima Donna, high on illegal substances, What a boofhead

[wayno]

Pizzonia back in F1? Man you would have to be really desperate as he has already failed once. Villeneuve? Oh god no. I could not stand to have this imbecile back in F1. I think 'belly' Button has ensured we have seen the back of him for good. While we're throwing names about, what about Irvine? He's got as much chance of a Williams drive as these knuckleheads.
If that Jag does keep breaking (very probable when you look at the manufacturer that owns it) at least it will leave Mark free to go to Williams or Renault where his talent will really shine.

[ferrari fan]

Pissonya has as a testdriver for Williams done the same times at the same testtracks as the 2 main drivers, therefore Frank & Co do rate Mark VERY High, as he hosed this man off well and truly!
Pissy could well be given another chance, we just have to wait and see.
Jack has done very well when in the employ of Williams!
The williams is with the Renault the closest to be able to chanlenge FERRARI.
Mark makes the Jaguar look better than it realy is!
Mark Webber is therefor the Keyplayer!!:cool:

[wayno]

Mark is definately the key in this jigsaw. I just wonder if Mr Briatore would like the idea of a Williams move? He might want to keep Mark for Renault? (probably sooner rather than later if Alonso continues to dust up his team mate so easily)

[Elvis]

Originally posted by ferrari fan
The only way out for Williams is dumping this crettin and recruiting an other one, Like Jack Villeneuve, Mark Webber,if the Jaguar keeps breaking he is a free driver,Jos Verstappen and even Pizzonia are an option.

All to do with Monty acting like a prima Donna, high on illegal substances, What a boofhead

I often wonder if anyone believes your Montoya brainwash storys seeing as they are just 'bait' for me as you once put it.
You wanna response,ill give ya one,Montoya has won the worlds greatest Motorace(Indy500)-in his very first attempt.
Won the CART title-very first attempt.
Won a F1 race-rookie season.
Won 1 of F1s most prestigious events-Monaco GP.
All this and you want to sign up Jacques 'who',Antonio 'who' and some dutch guy called Jos(because your dutch)Verstappen-while where re-hiring slow guys,how about Alex bigbank Yoong.
If you happen to buy(and read) F1 racing mag,track down copy May 2001 which on the cover reads=Golden Boy-your looking at F1s new megastar.meet the amazing Montoya.
And copy April 2003 which on the cover reads=World exclusive,inside the cockpit with Montoya-our experts reveal what makes JPM so mega quick.Both fascinating reads.
I tell ya what,if you ever come over,you can have a look at my Montoya collection and ill also let you read both books-just dont dog ear the corners of the pages-i like them in mint condition;)

PS-That dumping comment-you wont have to worry,hes off to duel with the little Kimster next year,i just hope J.P isnt hanging of the rafters like a derranged chimp by seasons end hey FF.

PS part 2-Ralphs also into illegal substances,its called one to many hamburgers and large fries.
Have any more 'bait' left FF,im feeling hungry:)

[HRT 1-2]

Originally posted by lucien
Just a couple of quick points on Villeneuve's career:

- In 1993, he won IndyCar and Indy 500 Rookie of the Year honours.
- In 1995, Indy car world champion and winner of the Indy 500
- In 1996, debuts in F1 and comes second place in the championship
- In 1997, his second season of F1, he won the championship.

Now I'm not going to sit here and rave about Villeneuve of late, but since you want to judge drivers based on their past achievements, I'd say you're a bit out of line calling him Jacques Who?

Plus should have won his very first GP in Melb only the car let him down but second was still a great result!

[HRT 1-2]

Originally posted by HRT 1-2
Plus should have won his very first GP in Melb only the car let him down but second was still a great result!

Sorry plus pole and fastest lap in that race!

[ferrari fan]

Yer might be hungry but also misinformed as I am AUSTRALIAN and proud of it.
I am of Dutch decent, but do NOT hold a Dutch pasport nor Nationality!
Not only is ELVIS dead , he is also in a very advanced state of decomposing
His Legacy lives on .

[ferrari fan]

The Latest news is that Denis the Menis could be forced to retire and Mercedes is already recruting new candidates to go it allone,i.e. take over the orginasation of which it is 40%+ owner already!!They hired a Personel Hiring company in London.
Montoya will not be needed and the Ralf Schumacher position might be a crucial one
The racing might be predictable ,but not the action of the track!:)
Montoya might have crashed himself without stepping in a car!!
Anger/fustration is NOT a good adviser:rolleyes:

[Elvis]

Originally posted by lucien
Just a couple of quick points on Villeneuve's career:
I'd say you're a bit out of line calling him Jacques Who

Some very good points and statements there Lucien,but i now ask you,what team is the worlds greatest driver in 97 driving for this year and who is (JPM) the 97 runner-up F-3000 driver-driving for this year?The answer,ones not needed(at least for 04) and one is at least in the top 5 drivers in the world at the moment,and on track fears no-one.
Little Sato drove once last year and scored half the points Villeneuve scored all year,not good Jacques,not good at all.Personally i think Villeneuve still has it,but where was it for the last 5 years?
The only one out of line Lucien is Villeneuves right hand grabbing ridiculous amounts of cash,draining the B.A.R bank account and in return getting a driving lesson from cut price Button.
FF-Your slipping a little,the latest JPM comment wasnt as nasty or humerous as they usually are.Little Crettin,Derranged chimp,He,He,He-funny stuff.
V8SS-Thanks,that made for a good read.........Coulthard at Williams??? Strange!

[wayno]

Noticed this has gone all quiet lately. I eagerly await the next round as it's more interesting than the race in Melbourne was! :D

[Elvis]

Originally posted by wayno
Noticed this has gone all quiet lately.
I eagerly await the next round as it's more interesting than the race in Melbourne was!

Its probably so quite because everyones still asleep from the Aus GP!!!
I eagerly await Malaysia as well,just to see were everyone actually stands.........im hoping the Aus GP was just a 1 off,nothing against Ferrari though,but i love Formula One,not Formula Ferrari.
For anyone interested heres some Qualyifying and Race times,

QUALIFYING
M.Schuey>1.24.408,Pole.
JPM) -0.590 sec,behind.
Alonso) -1.291 sec,behind.
Ralph) -1.517 sec,behind.
Kimi) -1.889 sec,behind.

RACE LAPS.
M.Schuey>1.24.125,Fastest lap.
Alonso) 1.25.086. -0.9 sec,behind.
JPM) 1.25.286. -1.1 sec,behind.
Ralph) 1.25.824. -1.7 sec,behind.
Coulthard)1.26.328. -2.2 sec,behind.
Kimi) 1.27.936. -3.8 sec,behind.

[Elvis]

Originally posted by lucien
#1-When BAR decided to pay him that much, they did it with full knowledge of what it would cost them over the years.

#2-I'm sounding like a raving Villeneuve fan I'm sure.

#1-Once again Mr Lucien another great point,and quite true-it takes 2 to Tango so BAR does have to take some of the blame,but maybe BAR thought they were getting a good deal from Jacques and they only found out they werent when Button came to the team for a lot cheaper and beat him fair and square in his first attempt.
Sure,the BAR is not a great car,but it makes you wonder how good it really was if there were 2 buttons driving it from 99 till 03.
Maybe the BAR car doesnt suit Jacques style or something,im not sure but all i know is that if Jacques comes back he better beat his teamate or hell probably be shown the door reall quickly.

#2-Doesnt bother me 1 bit,hes past 5 years have been shocking but before that his carrer has been awesome,not many people have or will achieve what Jacques has done.

[jager]

Its been confirmed that IRL champion Scott Dixon is to test for Williams with a drive at Paul Ricard next week.

"A source close to Williams told the BBC that the object of the test was to assess Dixon's potential as the team considers its options for 2005."

[Richard Poole]

Originally posted by lucien
Clearly, the man is (was?) a world class driver, or he would never have been given a contract like that one to begin with. When BAR decided to pay him that much, they did it with full knowledge of what it would cost them over the years, and it was up to them to ensure that they had the car and team up to scratch to take advantage of it.

Wasn't Villeneuve's manager (Craig Pollock) financially involved with the team at the time of the contract signing? Nice way to negotiate when you can sit on both sides of the desk.:p

[ferrari fan]

Never mind all the above , the fact is that Ralf will go to Renault, and they are THE team that have the setup and structure to be the best(of the rest) !
Montoya is off to McLaren , who seem to be in the dolldrums even without him setting a foot in the Castle, never mind when he actualy starts there!
Renault were THE team in Melbourne that deserve the #2 spot in every way and will be the team to beat.
I have just received the pictures back from the fotolab, of the Melbourne GP Pits and paddock area and all the action there,some serious good pics! and a signed Renault hat by the young charger himself:D These Renaults look awsome indeed.
It does not have a adjustable back on it but alas I do not want to wear it ,just goes in the collection.
Pity I am not smart enough to post the pics as they are great and also a fair few of the new team supercars as well

[Elvis]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by ferrari fan
#1-Montoya is off to McLaren , who seem to be in the dolldrums even without him setting a foot in the Castle, never mind when he actualy starts there!

#2-Renault were THE team in Melbourne that deserve the #2 spot in every way and will be the team to beat.
(QUOTE]

#1-He,He,He,your back again,I thought you may have got the huffs and took off,its just not the same without you dear:D
Will be interesting to see how Ralph goes against Alonso
considering Ralphs only beat JPM 1 out of 3 trys and JPMs a stupid little Columbian,whos way to fiery,cracks under pressure easily and has no respect for press conferences and the King-(Nurburging-2003),wouldnt you agree FF!!!!

#2-Dont bet on it will ya;)

[ferrari fan]

Well while you were watching the telly and pestering your parents about a lolly ,some were actualy involved with it and have some real insight based on being there.

Renault WILL be the #2 team, Based on actualy being in the Renault pitarea ,and paddock area for the duration of the Melbourne GP.
Foto's can be furnished if someone can get them on this forum to shut YOU up.
Your admiration of Montoya itself is admirable ,your expressions on this forum are not.
Just my oppinion.

[HRT 1-2]

Originally posted by ferrari fan
Well while you were watching the telly and pestering your parents about a lolly ,some were actualy involved with it and have some real insight based on being there.

Renault WILL be the #2 team, Based on actualy being in the Renault pitarea ,and paddock area for the duration of the Melbourne GP.
Foto's can be furnished if someone can get them on this forum to shut YOU up.
Your admiration of Montoya itself is admirable ,your expressions on this forum are not.
Just my oppinion.

How will a photo prove they're #2?

Have they got a Polarizer:confused:

[ferrari fan]

They are after FERRARI by far the best organised team with the right atmosphere present plus most personel is from the MS Benetton era ,when they were winners, and this leads me to the conclusion that RENAULT is passing the likes of WILLIAMS and McLaren.
Secondly the WILLIAMS team is kaput in as much as no drivers commitment and a nasty atmosphere hanging around.
McLaren suffers from Dennis trying to be the KING of swing and style,at retirment age. His song should be; "GO BABY GO"

[Kiwiracing]

Originally posted by jager
Its been confirmed that IRL champion Scott Dixon is to test for Williams with a drive at Paul Ricard next week.

"A source close to Williams told the BBC that the object of the test was to assess Dixon's potential as the team considers its options for 2005."

This is fantastic news, imagine a Kiwi and a Aussie in F1:D Gee that would get us all going.

Good luck Scott, hope you have a good test.

from: http://www.scottdixon.co.nz/readyupdate/daily.asp? id=60

Indianapolis, IN- Thursday, March 18, 2004 -- Once again, Target Chip Ganassi Racing can proudly acclaim that their knack for recognising and developing the talent of their drivers has caught the eye of a familiar friend. Frank Williams and his BMW WilliamsF1 team has invited 2003 Indy Racing League Champion, Scott Dixon, to a brief test of their FW26 on March 26th, at the Paul Ricard circuit at Le Castellet in the South of France.


Then before Target Chip Ganassi Racings bid for the crown in 88th running of the Indy 500 in the month of May, Dixon will return to Europe to undertake a three day test in early April at the Circuit de Catalunya, Barcelona, where he will work alongside drivers Ralf Schumacher, Marc Gene and Antonio Pizzonia.


"Scott is clearly very talented, and it will be fascinating to see how he performs in a Formula One car." said BMW WilliamsF1 Team Principal, Frank Williams. "We are grateful to Chip Ganassi for sanctioning this test, it of course reflects on our close and long standing co-operation with an organization that I hold in the highest regard."


Target Chip Ganassi Racing and WilliamsF1 have had a long and strong relationship that has seen talented drivers like Alex Zanardi and Juan Montoya move to Formula One following a string of successful Championships with Target Chip Ganassi Racing (1997-98-99) including Montoya's Indy 500 win in 2000.


"We have always had a good working relationship with Frank and both teams have reaped the benefits of an arsenal of remarkably talented drivers over the years as a result." said Target Chip Ganassi Racing owner Chip Ganassi. "This is a good opportunity for Scott to test his mettle in an F1 car and we have always encouraged our drivers to live up to new challenges and strive to be the best."


In keeping with Target Chip Ganassi Racings tradition of excellence, following his 2003 IndyCar Series Championship, Scott Dixon will get his chance to properly test with the BMW WilliamsF1 Team before what he hopes will be a successful run at the 2004 Indy 500 this May.


"I'm very excited about heading to Paul Ricard at the end of next week for my first taste of a Formula One car, although the real test will be in April." said Scott Dixon of his first F1 test with Williams. "Frank Williams and Chip Ganassi have both been very supportive of this test and are giving me every chance to prove myself. In the meantime, my focus will be on defending Target Chip Ganassi Racings Championship this season and on the Indy 500 in just over a month from now. With all these opportunities ahead of me, I will do my best to take advantage of them."

Cheers
Kiwiracing

[Elvis]

Yes,I saw you on the tele-you were pestering the Renault boys,pretending to be a big nob in the pits,with your VIP card flapping around,looking to buy something so you can do the usual boasting routine on here and feel important,having more money then me doesnt mean your better then me.Hopefully ill go to the GP next year to see the mighty Destroyer in the new silver arrows colours and then i might know what its like to sip the wine,talk some bull,look important and hop into the F50 at the end of a great day.
And for the record,i never said Renault wont be #2,i simply said dont bet on it,which means theyll have to get past Montoya,Kimster and hopefully BAR.
People getting told to shutup on a DISCUSSION forum?? Sipped to much bubly?
The latest Hotwheels Ferrari is out-999 Schuey points,looks a bit of alright,what do you think??

[wayno]

Bugger the wine and the snooty atmosphere. Sit out the back like we do and drink a sh**load of beer!

[HRT 1-2]

Originally posted by wayno
Bugger the wine and the snooty atmosphere. Sit out the back like we do and drink a sh**load of beer!

That's my religion Wayno:D

[ferrari fan]

Well,Well, now it appears that Ralf will go to Toyota Corrola F1,He will have more chance in my rallycar;) then in one of the factory,at the moment.
Also Scott Dixy boy is in negotiations with them, I know who I would chooce, and it ain't the Bridgemate from Germany.
Williams is r00ted as far as I am concerned,sadly, as the more cars are realy at the front with the drivers willing to go the extra distance the better.
Mcslow is not in the picture at all so it is up to Renault and our Golden Champion Mark Webber, to manhandle the FORD/Jag onto the podium.
Bye the way;I predict an upset winnersfield in this dessertracing round, without even champagne :rolleyes:
Airfilters are needed to keep the donk healty, so a fair few retirements predicted, and if Minardi do run the filters and just do their rounds they might bre the last one's finnishing FIRST, to collect the point$

[BB]

Lets hope their Security is up to scratch too. Bahrain is a bit close to the trouble in Iraq for my liking.

[HRT 1-2]

It was a good one on RPM with Ralf talking about pushing Monty off the track, nice bit of agro. Coulthards response sitting next to him was a classic too:D

http://f1.racing-live.com/en/headlines/news/detail/040318130326.sht ml]Coulthard (http://f1.racing-live.com/en/index.html?[url) and Ralf FIA Thursday press conference[/URL]

[wayno]

It seems that McLaren have now 'given up' on the troublesome 19 and are focusing all their attention on the 19B which is looking to debut in Germany.
Apparently the car is more different than the 19 was from the unraced 18. Time will tell, but they've got to do something.
Conspiracy theory-Is Mercedes trying to run the team down to get rid of Ron and get full control of the operation at a bargain price?

[ferrari fan]

Well ;what goes arround ,will come arround , as this is how Dennis got hold of the team many moons ago,
Good riddance the the prince of style &no substance.
"You are the weakest link,... Goodbye!!:D

[biante13515]

Originally posted by timbo333
Hey Ferrari Fan where did you hear this....



I'm interested as Tom drives for Team Lister at Le Mans. I couldn't find any info on the Minardi or F1 websites about this. He is still listed as a LISTER driver too!

Any info you can share would be appreciated.

Thanks Bert.

Timbo.


I JUST LIKE YOUR SIG, COULDN'T BELIEVE IT WHEN I SAW IT !!!! GO OWLS !!!!!!!! BRING BACK DAVID HURST AND CHRIS BART-WILLIAMS !!!!!

[timbo333]

Cheers biante13515. Are you a supporter as well?

Bring back anyone who can score some &^%$*&+ goals please.

Anyway we are going off topic. Sorry guys.


Cheers,

Timbo.

[wayno]

Any Melbournites that are interested, the Charles Dickens in Collins street in the city will be showing qualifying live at about 9pm Sat night. Can't wait!

[SWRT]

BMW Williams 2005-
car #3-Mark Webber
car #4-Scott Dixon
An Aussie and a Kiwi, that would be a dream team, and the first Aus/NZ combo in F1 since Brabham/Hulme in 67/68.

[wayno]

It now seems that some journos are tracing the source of the rumours about Ralfs big money Toyota deal and, surprise, surprise, they are all GERMAN!
I think the dud Schumacher is fast running out of options and will find himself out of F1 next year if he doesn't re-think his price.

[wayno]

Guys I'm sorry to keep dragging this up, but I find silly season starting this early enthralling (more so than the on-track action anyway).
Autosport ran a poll on their web site and Villeneuve was picked by voters as preffered driver at Williams next year with 57% of the vote :confused: . Webber was next at 15%.
I can't believe that result. Williams have dropped hints that the guy was a pain in the a*** in '97 and 'belly' Button made him look like a goose last year.
The rumours of the Villeneuve test seem to have gone cold too. For the moment anyway!

[toad]

I just saw Mark Webber interviewed live on CNN. It was very interesting. I picked up a few things based on his comments and body language;

1. Jaguar are not happy with Klien performance.
2. He will join another team for 05. Probably Williams.
3. He thinks Williams/McLaren have seriously dropped the ball this year.
4. He questions Ford's commitment to F1

IMHO

Steve

[ferrari fan]

Joz "The Bozz" will be back in a Jordan this season, the rumour has it that it will be the one after Monaco!
Do not be supprised to even see him in the car at the Monaco GP either, as this is the F1 sponsors recruitment meeting place of the year, when a LOT of deals will be done ,again.
Montoya has done a lot of damage in the Williams sponsor department and it is very much more difficult for them to hang on to their excisting arrangements, Frank is NOT happy.

[wayno]

Another element in all this - isn't Kimi out of contract at the end of this year?

[wayno]

According to Autosport Williams insiders have issued a list of four divers on the teams 'hit list'. Webber is right at the top, with Coulthard, Fisicella or Villeneuve the choices to partner him.
The next choices would be the likes of Gene, Pizzonia and Dixon.

[wayno]

Announced last night Dixon has signed what's believed to be a two year extension to his Ganassi contract so I suppose that takes one name out of the mix.

[V8SS]

Originally posted by wayno
Announced last night Dixon has signed what's believed to be a two year extension to his Ganassi contract so I suppose that takes one name out of the mix.

According to the news over here, he has an out clause in case he gets an F1 offer. He is due to test with Williams again soon.

[toad]

I saw this on the web last night

"Scott Dixon had dreams of moving from the Indy Racing League and becoming a star in Formula 1. Earlier this year the New Zealand driver had two tests with the BMW Williams team but it is fairly clear that the relationship did not gel and our sources say that there was no chance for Dixon with Williams."

[timbo333]

Management changes at Williams......

Patrick Head has moved up?? or across to be Director of Engineering.

33 year old Aussie Sam Michael is now Technical Director at Williams. Well done Aussie.....

Full story at www.f1.com




Cheers,


Timbo.

[wayno]

Who needs to watch Home and Away, this is the best 'soapie' going around at the moment!
Flavio Briatore has said in an interview this week that despite his win in Monaco Jarno is not safe yet at Renault. The team evidently will not be deciding it's driver line-up until July and Flav has said he will not even begin talks with Jarno until June.
Is Flav trying to keep Jarno motivated? At first I thought so, but Jarno's management deal with Flav is up at the end of the year, like his Renault contract.
Could the serial supermodel dater be eyeing off the second Renault seat for a certain young Aussie? Or is he just trying to drive Webber's price up for cranky Frank?
Bit of both I think, but I can't wait for the next installment in this saga!

[toad]

Absolutely, the next few months are going to be great.

I can't wait to see where Coulthard goes. Maybe Montoya will get out of his McLaren contract and Coulthard will stay? I will also be very interested to see what Toyota does with it drivers and who takes the second seat at Williams. Is Barachello a confirmed stayer at Ferrari?
And of course Webber finally confirming the Williams deal.

I can't wait for it all to unfold.

[grumpy1]

The driver line up at Williams next year will be Mark Webber and one of the following Mark Gene,J Villinerve,A.Davidson or N.Hiedfeild.

The Grumpy1

P.S. Look for an announcement from Williams Re: Webber in June.

[wayno]

Originally posted by toad
Absolutely, the next few months are going to be great.

I can't wait to see where Coulthard goes. Maybe Montoya will get out of his McLaren contract and Coulthard will stay? I will also be very interested to see what Toyota does with it drivers and who takes the second seat at Williams. Is Barachello a confirmed stayer at Ferrari?
And of course Webber finally confirming the Williams deal.

I can't wait for it all to unfold.
I don't think Montoya will get out of going to McLaren. He came out last night in an interview and said he had faith in the team and is looking forward to working with them.
The latest seems to be that Davidson is being seriously looked at by Williams now. After his superb efforts in the third BAR this year he definately deserves a drive.
When asked about this David Richards said he "would be churlish" to stand in the kids way if a drive panned out for him.

[berkut76]

From what I've heard, Jaguar is eyeing an "experienced driver" for next season. Rumors have it, that Coulthard will be that driver. So, I think the Webber will bolt from this Ford outfit next season. Hopefully to Williams and with a long term deal.

Regards,

Sergey

[wayno]

The Coulthard to Jag deal makes sense. Where the rest end up who knows! Kimi was fastest in the second session earlier today in Germany so hopefully things are on the improve.
As I said earlier, his contract is up at the end of this season and I feel we could hear his name mentioned a lot more if the McLaren performance doesn't make a big leap forward.

[toad]

I have been reading that Ralf may end up staying at Williams after all as he gets on much better with Sam Michael then he does Patrick Head

And especially if he lowers his price

[wayno]

Well, it seems now that Toyota have thrown their hat into the ring in a bid to get the services of Mark Webber. It's been reported that they have been meeting with Flavio Briatore in the last week or so.
I don't like the sound of this. Toyota are as useless as Jaguar at the moment and I really feel this would be a dangerous move. You can only be reffered to as a 'rising talent' in F1 for so long. If you don't secure a decent drive within that time you slip through the cracks and vanish into the F1 wilderness.
Look back on F1 history, it has happened to some very good drivers.

[ferrari fan]

It has now been confirmed; Ralf Schumacher has signed a 3 year deal with Toyota!
With Montoya also leaving to McLaren, what is left of the 2004 season of the Williams team?
Now the only real competition can only come from BAR and Renault!
Ahh well the next few weeks and months will be a hoot! the silly season has well and truly begun.











see Jack coming through the field!

[ferrari fan]

Well the big rumour is that the deal is done and Mark has apperantly signed with Williams, although Trully's silly going to sleep on the last lap, might give Mark a second option to go to Renault.
Flav was having a fit after the french GP and the negotiations are in a inpass with this David Coultard performalike.
Both should retire and punt taxi's arround.
Even Jos Verstappen is back in the picture, even though he has an ankle injury.
Bring on the best passer in the F1 nex to M.S.
Jack Villeneuve might go straight from his fathers old Ferrari's Race car into the Williams of Ralf, he is strongly tipped as the Williams driver to partner Mark, and this is a point not lost on Mark, hence the wavering between Alonso/Webber & Villeneuve/Webber combination.
Who will punt arround the Handgrenade Jag? my tip is Jozz the Bozz. :D

[wayno]

Heard the same thing about Flavio, but apparently everyone has got over it. Will be interesting to see when the announcements are going to be made. Any chance from Williams this week-end?

[HRT 1-2]

Originally posted by wayno
Heard the same thing about Flavio, but apparently everyone has got over it. Will be interesting to see when the announcements are going to be made. Any chance from Williams this week-end?

Home GP, as gooda place as any!

[Mclaren]

Frank williams desision to not resign RS at the amount he was asking for is and indication of what he thinks he is worth(not alot). On so many occasions Ralf has run from a dogfight on the track against his brother and i am sure that aspect plus his poor consistency is the reason he will struggle to find a decaent seat. He could very well go to Toyota but with there form of late he might as well go to Minardi. None of the the top teams would have him ie FERRARI Mclaren Renault BAR etc Because they know there are quite a number of drivers who are faster more consistent less moody and don't hide from the truth!. And that truth is this- He's at chicken and won't look at him self objectivly to improve his driving its always someone elses fault for his consistant under achieving. The Schmacher name has carried him long enough an know we are seeing his true colours. He's a man who does not face adversary very well. Like his bother like all great dreiver they find a way to win in a poor car But when RS does not have the equipment an he is struggling he sulks like a insulant child. He's not have the driver of most on the grid he lacks heart and soul and he should be ashamed of himself!.

[Gan88]

I've heard Ralf called many things, but never have I heard him described as an insulation material.

[ferrari fan]

Originally posted by Mclaren
Frank williams desision to not resign RS at the amount he was asking for is and indication of what he thinks he is worth(not alot). On so many occasions Ralf has run from a dogfight on the track against his brother and i am sure that aspect plus his poor consistency is the reason he will struggle to find a decaent seat. He could very well go to Toyota but with there form of late he might as well go to Minardi. None of the the top teams would have him ie FERRARI Mclaren Renault BAR etc Because they know there are quite a number of drivers who are faster more consistent less moody and don't hide from the truth!. And that truth is this- He's at chicken and won't look at him self objectivly to improve his driving its always someone elses fault for his consistant under achieving. The Schmacher name has carried him long enough an know we are seeing his true colours. He's a man who does not face adversary very well. Like his bother like all great dreiver they find a way to win in a poor car But when RS does not have the equipment an he is struggling he sulks like a insulant child. He's not have the driver of most on the grid he lacks heart and soul and he should be ashamed of himself!.

He HAS been signed by TOYOTA for 3 years!
Wonder when you will get the call to become part of their team?
$h!t and Clay have one thing in common; it is sticky and brown, plus there is plenty of it. ;)

[Mclaren]

Ferrari fan i to Believe it or not love ferrari. And the truth be told we all know that MS is the greatest driver of his era. I do not dislike MS but i am a bit annoyed about some of the desisions at Ferrari. As far as RS I'm sticking to the fact that he's not close to his brother in talent, and he's not worth the money he is was askind for- Fw was right to put his foot down.

[wayno]

Silly season is now well and truly in full swing. It seems the latest rumour is that Nick Heidfeld could test a Williams as early as Friday in a bid to replace Marc Gene for the German GP at what used to be Hockenheim.
It seems most people are still putting Mark Webber at Williams next year, but the Renault dramas could be a little bigger than we are giving them credit for.
Evidently Trulli has decided he's worth more money but Renault don't want to pay. The latest whisper has Trulli going to Toyota next year to partner the inferior Schumacher now that their bid for the services of Mark Webber has failed.
This could leave Giancarlo Fisichella in the running for a ride at Renault or Williams, as his Sauber contract can be ended if he gets an offer from a top team.

[berkut76]

Here is what I've read in the Russian Sports Daily, Marc Gene is definitely out of consideration for a seat in Williams. However, the most peculiar bit of news is that according to the Russians, Mikka Hakkinen is considering returning to F1 if the seat in Williams will be offered to him. If that's true, than I would definitely like to see Hakkinen / Webber line-up in Williams next year.

Regards,

Sergey

[toad]

I have read Heidfield is a very strong chance for a Williams drive next year

[ferrari fan]

I believe that it is going to be Jack Villeneuve.

[wayno]

I think it all boils down to we don't have a clue! I love it and have heard the Hakkinen rumours, but am sceptical. The Fisichella one has merit I feel as he has been superb this year.
Looking forward to it all being sorted out.
I love it!!!!!

[wayno]

Pizzonia will get his chance this week-end in Germany in the Williams. Frank Williams has critisised Eddie Jordan for wanting too much compensation for the services of Heidfeld. I feel sorry for Nick as I rate him very highly as a driver and I feel that EJ has torpedoed what very well could have been his last chance to land a competitive F1 seat.

[wayno]

Seems Heidfeld is still in the running for a seat at Williams next year (hooray), with Fisichella going to Renault. Trulli seems to have really shot himself in the foot by overestimating his value and then by letting Reubens past on the last corner in France.
Hopefully the jigsaw will fall into place very soon.