F1 Rumors, Results, etc 2010

[k1w1taxi]

Seems that Halloween is becoming another April 1 in the US

http://motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=350619&FS=COMMENTARY

Cheers
Lee

[bills]

oooooooo kyle busch!

[wayno]

USF1 are desperate to get an American driver into a car sooner rather than later and Kyle is the name that comes up most often.
May not be as far fetched as you think.

[brchi17]

the lack of Americans able to get a super licence makes this a more and more likely situation, however he'd better not talk to the people STR asked for one for that French rally driver lol!

[wayno]

A few big announcements coming up that will shape a lot of what's happening next year.
The big one will be from Toyota about their plans for next year. I hope they stay and think they will. If they do then Kobayashi will be one of their drivers next year, maybe along with Kovalainen depending if McLaren go with Kimi or Heikki.
Brawn will sell up to 70% of the team to Mercedes and this team will eventually become the official factory team IMO.
Red Bull will stay with renault engines as the gossip seems to suggest that.

[Richard Poole]

It will be interesting if McLaren go their own way with their own engine program. Considering they have their own road car program now I can see McLaren being keen to use the F1 program to push sales, like Ferrari, with their entirely 'Mclaren' team. Promoting McLaren built (and engined) road cars while running another manufacturers engines in the race team would be difficult. Seems this is one of the problems Mercedes have with Mclaren at the moment.

It's good on one hand but does eliminate an income stream by being removing the chance of financial input from a major engine supplier.

I must say the McLaren MP4/12C road car is fast climbing my 'Lotto car' list. Will be interesting to see how it performs when released.

[Richard Poole]

Red Bull will stay with renault engines as the gossip seems to suggest that.

Looks confirmed to me

http://en.f1-live.com/f1/en/headlines/news/detail/091102115313. shtml

[k1w1taxi]

The many problems with Pile, apart from the fact he is ineligible for a super licence would centre most around the lack of race experience in open wheelers at any serious performance level. And despite the lack of success of the IRL?CART?F1 guys that have tried NASCAR that doesn't mean NASCAR drivers are better, just that the skills are so different. Can you imagine Pile trying to draft an F1 car? :D.

For all her shortcomings DAnica would be a far better bet for USF1. Or Sam Hornish.

Cheers
Lee

[PeteWalsh]

http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,26303917-5018892,00.html

Japan's Toyota Motor is to quit Formula One (F1) in a bid to slash costs as the company battles to cope with the fallout from the global recession, the Mainichi Shimbun newspaper has reported.

[malscar]

Still don't understand why they went F1 in the first place when they were getting so much more exposure in the WRC

[wrxwrc]

Toyota joins F1 exodus

http://au.sports.yahoo.com/news/article/-/6433307/toyota-joins-f1-exodus

[bills]

this has nothing to do with 2010 but its disgraceful i was looking on the bbc f1 website and there was an article on the 5 best drives for 2009 i thought webber would be up there for a win at the nurburgring which he had to do a drive through believe it or not it wasnt even mentioned. the bloke who wrote this article should get the sack. I dont give a crap if he is an superstar journalist and dont care if he has won an awrd for the best author.

here is the link
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula _one/8337915.stm

[wayno]

Toyota joins F1 exodus

http://au.sports.yahoo.com/news/article/-/6433307/toyota-joins-f1-exodus

Seems this year was the straw that broke the camels back re lack of results.
IMO Toyota have no-one to blame but themselves. The Japanese have meddled way too much in the running of the team and their choice of drivers over their time in the sport has been poor to say the least.
A superstar driver would have bought much better results and kept the team in the sport from my point of view.

[wayno]

This is big news for the ex BMW team as they now have a spot on the grid. Heidfeld will be wrapt as he will have a guaranteed drive for next year now.

[edy]

This is big news for the ex BMW team as they now have a spot on the grid. Heidfeld will be wrapt as he will have a guaranteed drive for next year now.

does that mean he has to return the car he was gifted!!

i wonder if the qadbak team will buy the BMW engine program now?

i guess mario thiessen will quit BMW and be the team principal. similar to nick fry when prodrive left.

[Richard Poole]

This is big news for the ex BMW team as they now have a spot on the grid. Heidfeld will be wrapt as he will have a guaranteed drive for next year now.

I have been thinking about this. As Toyota have already signed the concord agreement and have been accepted in for next year, would Qadbak be able to enter if Toyota is (in the unlikely event) able to sell the team?

Qadbak was given the guaranteed spot if one of the other teams dropped out but I wonder what the situation would be if Toyota was sold and continued as a different entity next year.

[david5]

Renault to go to ?? Will decide today.

[tonynz]

yep just heard on sport news Renualt are meeting at the moment to decide on future,

[Chev_350]

Renault to go to ?? Will decide today.

but can they? I thought they had to commit until the end of 2012 hence their reduced fine from crash-gate.

[My Element]

what engines are Red Bull going to have?

[wayno]

They are supposedly now locked in with Renault for 2010. I think Renault will stay (but who knows) as the FIA are already looking at legal action against Toyota.
Don't know about their involvement past 2010 though.
This is a very worrying time for f1. I think the economic crisis excuse is just a smoke screen and that a lot of the withdrawls has to do with percieved FIA bias and a crusade against manufacturers.
Ferrari will always be in f1 as it's a core element of their business. I really wonder with all the recent withdrawls what benefit there is for Renault and Mercedes in f1?
If they lose, it will be a massive loss of face, but if they win it will be expected because they are competing against 'privateers'.

[skaifeyfan2]

They are supposedly now locked in with Renault for 2010. I think Renault will stay (but who knows) as the FIA are already looking at legal action against Toyota.
Don't know about their involvement past 2010 though.
This is a very worrying time for f1. I think the economic crisis excuse is just a smoke screen and that a lot of the withdrawls has to do with percieved FIA bias and a crusade against manufacturers.
Ferrari will always be in f1 as it's a core element of their business. I really wonder with all the recent withdrawls what benefit there is for Renault and Mercedes in f1?
If they lose, it will be a massive loss of face, but if they win it will be expected because they are competing against 'privateers'.

Its pretty obvious the men at the top hold grudges ;)

[wayno]

I'm told that the rumours about McLaren looking to become an engine supplier within three years have a lot more substance to them than a lot of people think.
The recent manufacturer losses have got people thinking about the big picture. McLaren is a very healthy business who are looking to become a major high end car maker using their own engines. The ferrari business model appeals to some very smart people at Woking depending on who you talk to.

[wayno]

Look for another 'spygate' type scandal involving Lotus, Force India and Mike Gascoyne.

[singer]

Look for another 'spygate' type scandal involving Lotus, Force India and Mike Gascoyne.


I wonder, if proven, whether the same penalties will be the same:rolleyes:

[Mr K]

Renault to decide by end of year.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula _one/8345394.stm

F1 'war on car makers - Ferrari
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula _one/8344166.stm

[Richard Poole]

"You will have to be patient," Renault chief executive Carlos Ghosn told reporters on Thursday

"We will make an announcement on our participation in Formula 1 before the end of the year."

In other words "Let's see how much it costs Toyota to break their agreement before we decide if we should do it or not".

[brchi17]

I think you're on the money there Rich, I wonder if Renault leaves if we'll see a return of the Mecachrome engine....???

[Richard Poole]

Ulf from the Scale18 forum brought up a good point which I hadn't thought of. With the engine freeze rules in place, why wouldn't Toyota and BMW simply close the teams down but supply engines for another year to recoup some costs. No more development expenses so all they need to do is make the things and keep them screwed together. Could be a good income stream with no new costs.

[wayno]

I really don't understand why car manufacturers wanted their own teams in the first place. When Williams won a few championships the car was always a Williams/Renault or a Williams/Honda.
Race teams are a money pit for manufacturers (because I believe big car makers just can't run a race team efficiently), but engine supplies give nearly the same ammount of exposure and can generate quite good income.

[onfire]

http://en.f1-live.com/f1/en/headlines/news/detail/091106091155. shtml

big decision there..........:D

[Andrew]

I'm gutted Toyota has left F1 - I have waited years for a win and nothing comes along. Then they pack up and go home. I hope they go back to Le Mans and the WRC.

[david5]

http://en.f1-live.com/f1/en/headlines/news/detail/091106091155. shtml

big decision there..........:D

If he takes a year off, then he should go & do something else, because he is more into money than racing, I wouldn't think it would make much difference to him, I can't see him being short of a bob.

[brchi17]

If he takes a year off, then he should go & do something else, because he is more into money than racing, I wouldn't think it would make much difference to him, I can't see him being short of a bob.

I must admit, if he was to take a year off, I couldn't see him being interested enough to come back

[Andrew]

I must admit, if he was to take a year off, I couldn't see him being interested enough to come back

And if he did come back, do you think he'd be sharp enough after a year's sabbatical not driving a grand prix car?

[k1w1taxi]

Depends how many visits he makes to the ice cream shop. :)

Cheers
Lee

[Richard Poole]

I must admit, if he was to take a year off, I couldn't see him being interested enough to come back

The last Finn that too a sabatical didn't end up coming back either.

[gab73]

If he takes a year off, then he should go & do something else, because he is more into money than racing, I wouldn't think it would make much difference to him, I can't see him being short of a bob.
Personally i don't think it has got to do with money, it's a matter of principal, would you accept a salary cut by x amount by your employer because you earn an income elsewhere.

[david5]

Personally i don't think it has got to do with money, it's a matter of principal, would you accept a salary cut by x amount by your employer because you earn an income elsewhere.

I would to become WC & then stick it to them next year.

[NO.5HDT]

Thats gold Wayno, and right on the mark.

[wayno]

http://i377.photobucket.com/albums/oo213/commandmo dulpilote/Raikkonen_by_vinysimoes.jpg

[wayno]

http://i377.photobucket.com/albums/oo213/commandmo dulpilote/f1-2004-sm-bp-0216.jpg

Man I'm bored!

[Leigh]

Start of a loooong off-season Wayne?

[wayno]

Sure is mate. Hard waiting around work for your next run. :o

[wayno]

great news that Daniel Ricciardo is going to get a RBR f1 test during the December 1-3 'young driver' testing at Jerez. :)

[brchi17]

awesome news, I hope this is the start of a long term releation for the guy which eventuates to another Aussie in F1 :cool:

[k1w1taxi]

http://motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=351783

Ouch!!

Cheers
Lee

[Richard Poole]

Dan's doing very well with his racing. William had the honour of racing against Dan when when he was first starting out in Formula Ford. Didn't you Will ;):D:p

[bills]

http://motorsport.com/news/article.asp?ID=351783

Ouch!!

Cheers
Lee

bloody google. not bad extra 500k

[wayno]

Kimi will drive a McLaren next year. His management have been to the McLaren facility in the last couple of days and had talks with Martin Whitmarsh. Terms have been agreed and a deal will be signed as soon as the last bit of haggling over money is done from what I can gather.

[Bizzy029]

Kimi will drive a McLaren next year. His management have been to the McLaren facility in the last couple of days and had talks with Martin Whitmarsh. Terms have been agreed and a deal will be signed as soon as the last bit of haggling over money is done from what I can gather.

Apparently Button has done te same it would appear.

http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,26348929-5018892,00.html

Nathan.

[wayno]

Jenson will stay at Brawn IMO. He will be able to call the shots there a lot more than he would at McLaren.
Plus I think Lewis would beat him senseless and hurt his f1 'value'.

[bills]

so if button is moving to mclaren where would kimi go? brawn? but where would that leave rosberg? or is rosberg moving to brawn? or maybe both at brawn?

[wayno]

Rosberg is already going to Brawn to take Barrichellos seat. As I said, I think Jenson will stay there for the reasons I've outlined above.

[Bizzy029]

Rosberg is already going to Brawn to take Barrichellos seat. As I said, I think Jenson will stay there for the reasons I've outlined above.

also Jensen would be smart to stay at Brawn considering there is a high chance Merc will take a massive stake in Brawn and McLaren will build there own engines if you can believe the rumours anyways.

[david5]

Maybe Jenson & Kimi went together for a tour. I hope they held hands in the dangerous sections.

[bills]

Maybe Jenson & Kimi went together for a tour. I hope they held hands in the dangerous sections.

LMAO!!!:D:D:D

[wayno]

Good move from Jenson to tour the mcLaren facility. Brawn have taken the bait and are negotiating again.
Also expect jarno Trulli to be announced as a Lotus driver very soon.

[brchi17]

I wonder if Jenson is holding out on a deal knowing that there could be more $$$ to come from Merceedes, if they take a controlling share in Brawn GP...???

[Andrew]

I'd like to see Button at McLaren - then see Lewis give him a towelling.

[wayno]

Interesting to see that the press are carrying big rumours about Mercedes wanting to control the driver line up at Brawn when the buy in is announced. Rosberg and Heidfeld seem to be the chosen ones.
With the cash injection man this team should be quick next year!

[brchi17]

I'd like to see Button at McLaren - then see Lewis give him a towelling.

you'd have to hope he's thinking about this in the back of his mind when choosing a drive wouldn't you......I somehow can't see McLaren making him #1 in the team while Lewis is still driving for them.

What would make me laugh would be if Brawn signed the two Germans and McLaren grab Kimi...:D lmao !!!

[wayno]

Don't laugh Brad, this could very well happen. My sources told me that McLaren are more interested in Kimi than Jenson, but it could be a smoke screen.
The biggest attraction for McLaren with Jenson would be the #1 plate. They would love to take that from the Mercedes 'factory' team as their relationship with their engine supplier is not what it once was (despite words in the press to the contrary).

[Richard Poole]

I don't think it will matter which team Button goes to because either way his team mate will show him up. Give Rosberg a good car and I think he's going to be a force in the 2010 season.

[wayno]

he'll have a good car as Brawn started work on their 2010 challenger just after Turkey. Add the big fund injection about to be announced and I think they'll be rather potent next year.

[William Hall]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/80174

Mercedes takes over Brawn

The Mercedes F1 carMercedes-Benz has announced that it has taken over the Brawn Formula 1 team and re-named it Mercedes Grand Prix after buying a 75.1 per cent stake in the squad.

The German car giant will retain its role as McLaren's engine supplier until at least 2015, but will sell its 40 per cent stake in the squad back to the team over the next two years.
________
THE CIGAR BOSS (http://thecigarboss.com/)

[david5]

Yee har, the silver car looks pretty too. Bet Ron's not happy.

Just a thought, Jenson might miss out yet. LH & KR at Macs, Rosberg & maybe Heidfeld or Glock or Vettel at Merc, as I said, just a thought.

[wayno]

As I said above mate it could happen. The only thing stopping kimi being a McLaren driver now is the money side of things.
The best seat available as far as I know is at Renault as it looks like Glock will go to Manor now because Renault refuse to commit to f1 for the long term..

[Tumbo]

as a NH fan I would LOVE to see him replace Button - especially since he got screwed over for the mclaren seat for kimi - hopefully might actually see him win a race (hell MW did so not that far fetched)

[wayno]

McLaren will be getting a big financial settlement out of this deal which will go straight into their engine development program.
I'm still backing McLaren to go it alone on the engine front, maybe as early as 2011 (despite what's been announced publicly).

[VXfan]

Heidfeld to replace Button?Talk about overated.
Clearly being a World Champion means bugger all these days to team owners.:mad:
And I thought it was just Frank Williams who liked to screw over British World Champs....:(
Still,should please the ever growing number of Button-bashers on here....:rolleyes:

[wayno]

Don't get me wrong, I would be interested to see how Belly would go against Lewis in equal cars. I would be quite prepared to eat my own words if this happened and Jenson came up trumps.
The key in the above statement is equal cars. Lewis has been involved with McLaren since he was 11 and the team has been built around him to such an extent that I think it would be very hard for Jenson to carve his own niche straight away.
Jackie Stewart knocked back an offer to join Lotus in 1965 because Jim Clark was so ingrained with the team that he thought it would be hard for him to get equal treatment. David Coulthard has also expressed regrets about going for the $$$'s when he agreed to join McLaren.
The two drivers styles are also polar opposites and I wonder how McLaren would go trying to create a car they both could be super competitive in.

[david5]

Heidfeld to replace Button?Talk about overated.
Clearly being a World Champion means bugger all these days to team owners.:mad:
And I thought it was just Frank Williams who liked to screw over British World Champs....:(
Still,should please the ever growing number of Button-bashers on here....:rolleyes:

I think Mercedes want an all German team, I think McLaren want the best. If you could pick from LH, KR & JB, who would you pick ?

[Tumbo]

Tony mate, i'm not making any judgments on Button's ability (or whether there is a lack) he clearly is the current WDC and that does mean something, personally though I prefer NH, nothing to do w/ greater ability or anything just that he's a much easier person to like and doesn't go around whinging in the same way JB does - also i'd like to see him finally win a race given that he is a true team player and willing to make necessary sacrifices. No Button bash but more a want NH in a competitive seat lol

[k1w1taxi]

The two drivers styles are also polar opposites and I wonder how McLaren would go trying to create a car they both could be super competitive in.

A long time ago now, but they didn't do so well with Prost and Rosberg. And driving styles don't get much different than those two.

On the MB/Brawn front, part of the news bulletin I heard this morning Mercedes apparently stated something to the effect that buying Brawn meant they could do F1 cheaper than presently. :stunned:

Cheers
Lee

[k1w1taxi]

Tony mate, i'm not making any judgments on Button's ability (or whether there is a lack) he clearly is the current WDC and that does mean something, personally though I prefer NH, nothing to do w/ greater ability or anything just that he's a much easier person to like and doesn't go around whinging in the same way JB does - also i'd like to see him finally win a race given that he is a true team player and willing to make necessary sacrifices. No Button bash but more a want NH in a competitive seat lol

+1

Cheers
Lee

[Chev_350]

The two drivers styles are also polar opposites and I wonder how McLaren would go trying to create a car they both could be super competitive in.

Hamilton is an Oversteer driver (as is Kimi) Button is an Understeer driver. If Button goes to McLaren, it will not go well for him.

[wayno]

Alan Henry from the Guardian in the UK is reporting the Button/McLaren deal done.
This is worth noting as he is very, very well connected with the team and the Guardian is a reputable newspaper not normally given to printing rubbish.
The one saving grace for Jenson could be the ban on re-fuelling for next year as he is a much better manager of tyres than Lewis as he's a lot smoother.

[wazza002]

Alan Henry from the Guardian in the UK is reporting the Button/McLaren deal done.
This is worth noting as he is very, very well connected with the team and the Guardian is a reputable newspaper not normally given to printing rubbish.
The one saving grace for Jenson could be the ban on re-fuelling for next year as he is a much better manager of tyres than Lewis as he's a lot smoother.


So wayno is Lewis staying with vodafone team or moving on to another team to mate :)

[Chev_350]

Wonder where this leaves Kimi, year off drinking?

[domstrama]

:laugh4::laugh4:FINLANDIA VODKA look out!!!
how could we forget this classic:U386HsT-NaA

:toilet:


Wonder where this leaves Kimi, year off drinking?

[wayno]

Kimi said McLaren or nothing so he might have a lot more time for his rallying passion.
Lewis is definately not going anywhere from McLaren.

[gab73]

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/80174

Mercedes takes over Brawn

The Mercedes F1 carMercedes-Benz has announced that it has taken over the Brawn Formula 1 team and re-named it Mercedes Grand Prix after buying a 75.1 per cent stake in the squad.

The German car giant will retain its role as McLaren's engine supplier until at least 2015, but will sell its 40 per cent stake in the squad back to the team over the next two years.

Who would have thought the factory Honda team would become the factory Mercedes team.

[Chev_350]

Timo Glock has signed for Manor.

[bills]

here is the confirmation.

http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2009/11/102 22.html

[david5]

Who would have thought the factory Honda team would become the factory Mercedes team.

I bet Ken Tyrrell is spinning in his grave.

[domstrama]

Montezemolo at the weekend in Valencia
J4gSRCW7-RM

[bills]

LMFAO stupid driver!

[Chev_350]

Pretty much confirmed that Kimi is taking a year off.

[bills]

anyone see on the ch 10 sports report they said that button has signed with mclaren.

[wayno]

Just a matter of time before the 'official' announcement. Senna v Prost, Alonso v Hamilton anyone? :D
Promises to be interesting if this pairing comes to pass. One thing for sure is you know McLaren will give them equal equipment. They always have in the past and I can't see this changing.
This is one of the reasons I'm such a fan of the McLaren team.
Can I say that Button is a very underrated driver and I think he will excell in a McLaren. :D:o

[bills]

bbc says button is closing on a deal.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula _one/8363892.stm

[gab73]

[QUOTE=wayno;364547]Just a matter of time before the 'official' announcement. Senna v Prost, Alonso v Hamilton anyone? :D
Promises to be interesting if this pairing comes to pass. One thing for sure is you know McLaren will give them equal equipment. They always have in the past and I can't see this changing.
This is one of the reasons I'm such a fan of the McLaren team.
Can I say that Button is a very underrated driver and I think he will excell in a McLaren. :D:o[/QUOTE
Happy to eat my words if i'm wrong, but i think JB will strugle against LH.

[bills]

this is so sad.

http://www.speedcafe.com.au/2009/11/18/raikkonen-on-the-f1-sidelines-in-2010/

[VXfan]

Can I say that Button is a very underrated driver and I think he will excell in a McLaren. :D:o
You're not fooling anyone! lol:D
I'm rapt at this,what a team.Lewis should have the edge seeing as he is well settled in there plus he is a better driver imho.
Cheers,
Tony.

[brchi17]

A world champ who loves understeer in a car designed for oversteer, this is going to be interesting viewing...

[bills]

it has finally been confirmed.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula _one/8363892.stm

[Rob]

So how does that now change the numbers for 2010.
Button surely will take 1 with him to McLaren, but where
does that leave Merc GP (AKA Brawn)??

Are they considered to be a "new" enterant due to the name change and thus have
higher numbers?? Will RBR still get 3 and 4?? I know it's only a small thing in the
overall scheme of things, but it's still all intriguing.

[malscar]

Are they considered to be a "new" enterant due to the name change and thus have
higher numbers?? Will RBR still get 3 and 4?? I know it's only a small thing in the
overall scheme of things, but it's still all intriguing.

They should be considered a new entrant. If it was just a name change, then nothing would happen, however the owner of the team has changed.

RBR would still get 3/4. Unless of course they sell up.

As to what the Mercs get, not sure as there are a couple of new teams all fighting it out for numbers up in the high teens.

[Chev_350]

Button is going to crash and burn.......just sayin.

[Hey Charger]

Button is going to crash and burn.......just sayin.

I totally agree...he just loaded the gun and is now now aiming it at his head waiting for someone to pull the trigger!!!. All effort will be on Hamilton to win and thats even if Button is just leading the championship...he'll be in this massive shadow that'll he'll probably leave for another team by years end.

Cheers

[stephenhrt]

Next year you can already see it:

Team Germany (Rosberg and Heinfeld)

Team Britannia (Hamilton and Button)

and Team Sooky Pants (Massa and Alonso)

[stephenhrt]

Also i think even though every oen will talk up Hamilton vs Button, the bigger stouch between team mates (like the Senna vs Prost), will be Alonso vs Massa. And we know ferrari dont play fair

[f1webber]

Check out the parody of USF1 that has been posted on youtube.
Very funny stuff :D

http://www.speedcafe.com.au/2009/11/18/usf1-victim-of-youtube-parody-series/

[gab73]

Hamilton will be relieved now that Button's his team mate instead of Kimi.

[VXfan]

Hamilton will be relieved now that Button's his team mate instead of Kimi.
I doubt it.Lewis would kick Kimi's butt any day of the week imho.

[Chev_350]

German racing driver legend Michael Schumacher is rumoured to be in line to race for Mercedes GP in 2010.

Seven-time Formula One world champion Michael Schumacher could make a shock return to the sport in 2010 as a driver for the new Mercedes Grand Prix team.

Mercedes this week bought a 75 per cent stake in the Brawn GP team that won this year's constructors' championship with the German car maker's engines, and the company is openly seeking at least one German racing driver for the rebranded outfit.

Nico Rosberg, Nick Heidfeld and Timo Glock have all been linked with the two seats available, though Mercedes has always rued never having a chance to run Schumacher in the McLaren F1 cars it has powered with much success since 1995.

Schumacher retired from F1 in 2006 but was on the verge of temporarily replacing the injured Felipe Massa in a Ferrari last season, only to be forced to reluctantly abandon the plan due to fitness issues regarding his neck.

The 40-year-old has retained a role with Ferrari since retiring, though it has been reported the Italian marque no longer wants Schumacher as an advisor to its F1 team and instead wants him to only continue helping to develop its road cars.

In response to the speculation, Schumacher's spokeswoman Sabine Kehm told Britain's Autocar that "You never say never in this sport".

Schumacher would be expected to sever his close ties with Ferrari if he were to move to Mercedes, the car maker he drove for in sports cars before making his F1 break in 1991 with the Jordan F1 team.

Mercedes-Benz's move to set up its own team is a welcome one for a sport that has lost three major car makers in the past 12 months. Honda (which became Brawn GP) pulled out at the end of 2008, while BMW and Toyota announced their exits more recently.

Mercedes, which purchased the majority share in Brawn in conjunction with an Abu Dabhi-based investment group, will continue to supply engines to long-time partner McLaren until 2015.

http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/drive/motor-news/schumacher-linked-to-new-mercedes-f1-team-20091119-inm2.html

[david5]

This has been all over the F1 forums since the early hours, however it's now been replaced with Kimi to Mercedes stories, so who knows ?

I'd love to see MS have a go, but I don't know how a 40 yo would stack up against LH. He's on a hiding to nothing I'd reckon.........but if he kicked butt :cool:

[gab73]

I doubt it.Lewis would kick Kimi's butt any day of the week imho.Imho Lewis is overated, regardless i'm sure his happy to have a complying team mate.

[Poita]

....

[rex555]

Looks like Kimi has found another puddle to play in

http://www.wrc.com/jsp/index.jsp?lnk=101&id=6522&desc=Raikkonen+shelves+F1+career+in+favour+of+the+ WRC++

[Chev_350]

Williams have sold a % of the team to some bloke called Christian 'Toto' Wolff. between 10-49%

[bills]

i hope schumacher has signed with mercedez. It would be great to see him back.

http://formula-one.speedtv.com/article/f1-schumi-to-sign-with-mercedes-or-not/

[wayno]

About time we got a new installment of 'The Schumacher's'. :D

[wayno]

Yaaawn! on stand-by at work again!

[wayno]

http://i377.photobucket.com/albums/oo213/commandmo dulpilote/kimi-raikkonens-drink-supply.jpg

[wazza002]

Wayno do you think they like a drink or two mate LoL :D:D:D

[wayno]

http://kuvaton.com/kuvei/michelin.jpg

Had to laugh looking at the advertising board. :D

[wayno]

I will miss the rich vein of humour that was Kimi in f1! :(

http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq69/redlight91/ y1pGfvWrcEUfCM1r-FbWV6v9_n7YmWQxNc2.jpg

[fordmad17]

There a cracker Wanyo Very funny lol

[edy]

I will miss the rich vein of humour that was Kimi in f1! :(

http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq69/redlight91/ y1pGfvWrcEUfCM1r-FbWV6v9_n7YmWQxNc2.jpg

well, if F1 was based on a personality contest, Kimi would have been dropped a long time ago...

Love the 'Laughing attempt' pic

[bills]

it has been confirmed the that nico rosberg will race for Mercedes next season.

http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2009/11/102 36.html

[NO.5HDT]

Love the DeCrasheris one!

[wayno]

Lotus and Manor have had their FOTA memberships approved so now every team on the grid is signed up for 2010.

[k1w1taxi]

BMW cancel sale to Qadback
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/formula_1/a rticle6935528.ece

Cheers
Lee

[brchi17]

further to your post Lee, there is talk that Sauber has bought out BMW's share of the team on the provision that they are given permission to race in the 2010 season, meaning if the team can race it will under the Sauber GP name, otherwise the operation will be wound up.

Also, early rumors online this morning suggest that Montreal has been locked in for the next 5 years thanks to a last minute deal between the local government and the angry little man.

[wayno]

Jaques Villeneuve was spied having lunch with a Lotus executive just a few miles away from the Lotus headquarters in Norfolk earlier this week.

[Designer]

http://kuvaton.com/kuvei/michelin.jpg

Had to laugh looking at the advertising board. :D

When Alfa Romeo were still in F1....:(
I which they still were.

[brchi17]

Sauber have now been given approval to race, so the grid should now be 26 cars...also the rumors are persisting of a Renault buy-out by a number of 3rd parities so that they can withdraw from the sport without being in breach of the Concorde agreement (like Toyota currently is!)

[wayno]

Kimi has completed his move to Citroen in a Red Bull backed junior team car.

[GSXR1]

Surprised it hasn't been already mentioned that young Perth driver Daniel Ricciardo topped the timesheets at the conclusion of the three-day Rookie test held at Jerez over the last few days, ending up nearly a second and a half quicker than the next fastest driver - and now tipped to be Red Bull's reserve driver for 2010.

[k1w1taxi]

Silverstone back on Yay!

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/formula_1/a rticle6946697.ece

Cheers
Lee

[wayno]

About time this deal was done. The British GP should never have left there in the first place.
And I'm with you Chris about the young drivers test not being mentioned here. Lack of pc access is my main excuse but it was a truly great result from our next f1 driver.

[Andrew]

About time this deal was done. The British GP should never have left there in the first place.
And I'm with you Chris about the young drivers test not being mentioned here. Lack of pc access is my main excuse but it was a truly great result from our next f1 driver.

Could he take over Webber's seat at Red Bull in, say, 2011?

[brchi17]

Could he take over Webber's seat at Red Bull in, say, 2011?

It's hard not to think that it's a real possibility, however I wonder if it's a little early for Daniel, you'd have to think they'd like him to run GP2 first....

[Richard Poole]

Could he take over Webber's seat at Red Bull in, say, 2011?

Got to think that Kimi is well in line for this.

[Andrew]

Got to think that Kimi is well in line for this.

As long as he doesn't price himself out of the market like he did this year.

[wayno]

Daniel has some very good people around him and will not be thrown into f1 until he is good and ready.
Getting into f1 in a bad car just for the sake of being in the sport can ruin a drivers creer.

[Andrew]

Daniel has some very good people around him and will not be thrown into f1 until he is good and ready.
Getting into f1 in a bad car just for the sake of being in the sport can ruin a drivers creer.

It didn't help David Brabham.

[k1w1taxi]

Daniel has some very good people around him and will not be thrown into f1 until he is good and ready.
Getting into f1 in a bad car just for the sake of being in the sport can ruin a drivers creer.

Yeah just ask Piquet Jnr <snigger snigger>

Cheers
Lee

[wayno]

USF1 reveal sneak pics of their new challenger.

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs022.snc1/2559_79206126336_79200036336_21611 64_3314020_n.jpg

[brchi17]

nice one Wayno, I wonder how the youtube boys will explain this one :D LMAO !!!

[group C]

It didn't help David Brabham.

or Webber!!!!

[bills]

this is good to that f1 will be one 1hd for another 5 years but i would like to see a full season coverage of the sprint cup instead of nationwide.

http://www.speedcafe.com.au/2009/12/09/new-five-year-f1-tv-deal-on-one/

[Bizzy029]

but i would like to see a full season coverage of the sprint cup



thats what Fox Sports is for.. =]=]=]

[Tumbo]

no word at prodrive about the speculation regarding renault buyout - i did try guys :p

[wayno]

The talk is getting very loud though mate.

[minh427]

USF1 reveal sneak pics of their new challenger.

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs022.snc1/2559_79206126336_79200036336_21611 64_3314020_n.jpg

Is that the twin towers on the rear wing?

[David S.]

Is that the twin towers on the rear wing?

Yep.. looks like it :S

[Pug205]

I can't believe that USGP think they will get away with that body design. It is clearly a rip off of this years Ferrari!! Afterall that Spygate mess you think these teams would learn. At least paint it another colour then red to help disguise it :rolleyes:

Not too smart to show it this early either, you watch all the teams copy and test their front wing assembly before March. Talk about shooting yourself in the foot.

Hope the FIA throw the book at them :mad:

[Chev_350]

I can't believe that USGP think they will get away with that body design. It is clearly a rip off of this years Ferrari!! Afterall that Spygate mess you think these teams would learn. At least paint it another colour then red to help disguise it :rolleyes:

Not too smart to show it this early either, you watch all the teams copy and test their front wing assembly before March. Talk about shooting yourself in the foot.

Hope the FIA throw the book at them :mad:

serious?...

[rex555]

no word at prodrive about the speculation regarding renault buyout - i did try guys :p

So you did get to Banbury. Anything worth seeing there?

[wayno]

serious?...

I very, very seriously doubt it. :stunned:

[Kashmir]

serious?...

Pug is always serious, except when he says he's disappointed when a Holden wins, then he's joking:p

[Pug205]

Still smarting over me twisting your words this week hey Kashmir? :D

[Kashmir]

Still smarting over me twisting your words this week hey Kashmir? :D

Lol.

[Tumbo]

So you did get to Banbury. Anything worth seeing there?

ummm yeh plenty - the aston martin program, the heritage centre (T14 SRT droooool) and the tour guide knew her stuff, oh yeh DRs personal dbs - just a shame nothing more about the renault deal could be said

[domstrama]

About Time!!! just like MotoGp Points System

FIA suggests new points system


Formula 1 governing body the FIA has suggested that the top ten finishers should be awarded World Championship points as the field increases in size next season. The proposal would see race winners collect 25 points as opposed to 10 and a margin of 5 between the leading two positions.
<DIV class=advert>

[domstrama]

Formula 1 governing body the FIA has suggested that the top ten finishers should be awarded World Championship points as the field increases in size next season. The proposal would see race winners collect 25 points as opposed to 10 and a margin of 5 between the leading two positions.
<DIV class=advert>

[david5]

I would not like to see this. In the past when grids were as big as next season, the points were only awarded down to sixth. It just cheapens the value of finishing in the points.

[k1w1taxi]

Can't be any cheaper than collecting a point for 8th in a 20 car field. Glad to see enough of a points gap return to make it worth serious thought about passing the leader again.

But where are the medals? :D

Cheers
Lee

[bills]

I dont mind it actually because there are more cars next year.

http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2009/12/102 79.html

[gab73]

I would not like to see this. In the past when grids were as big as next season, the points were only awarded down to sixth. It just cheapens the value of finishing in the points.

Totally agree.

[wayno]

All it does is throw points down lower and cheapens the kudos of earning them IMO.

1st 25 points.
2nd 20 points.

Difference 20%

1st 10 points.
2nd 08 points.

Difference 20%

Not going to encourage many more passes for the lead is it?

[brchi17]

I would not like to see this. In the past when grids were as big as next season, the points were only awarded down to sixth. It just cheapens the value of finishing in the points.

Exactly right, bringing in this system in my mind takes a lot of the prestige out of earning a World Championship point, it's bad enough they added 7th & 8th a few years ago, this top ten is ridiculous....

[spolyhronidis]

it's similar to the final 8 system in AFL/NRL finals. you are rewarding mediocrity.

[fordmad17]

Just heard on the radio about some big annoucement about Micheal Schmacher coming up shortly

[bills]

i reckon theres a chance that he might return.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/andrewbenson/2009/12/sc humacher_returning_looking_i.html

[brchi17]

I really hope Michael stays in retirement as in my mind he's got more to lose than he has to win, by returning....I guess that as his current Ferrari contract is up for renewal everyone is trying to cover all bases...also interesting to note that his contract with Shell is not yet over, so if he does drive for a team, they will need to change their lube supplier

[Tumbo]

so if he does drive for a team, they will need to change their lube supplier

that's what she said........sorry brad even in england i couldn't help myself :p

[bills]

has schumacher signed a deal with mercedez?

http://formula-one.speedtv.com/article/f1-has-schumi-agreed-to-mercedes-deal/

[VXfan]

I hope Schuey does make a comeback if only so I can see Lewis,Jensen and Mark shove it right up him...:p
U've had ur day 'der scheizer',give it a rest mate.

[k1w1taxi]

Exactly right, bringing in this system in my mind takes a lot of the prestige out of earning a World Championship point, it's bad enough they added 7th & 8th a few years ago, this top ten is ridiculous....

Some us us are old enough to remember when F1 was a big enough show to require Pre Qualifying just to get into qualifying. And they deemed it sufficient to only pay out (points) to 6th place. Don't recall anyone saying that was to far up the field or any of the wannabe teams complaining because they didn't get any points.

Cheers
Lee

[wayno]

Jarno Trulli and Heiki Kovalainen look set to be announced as the drivers for Lotus in the next day or so.

[david5]

I hope Schuey does make a comeback if only so I can see Lewis,Jensen and Mark shove it right up him...:p
U've had ur day 'der scheizer',give it a rest mate.

But won't it stir them up if they don't.

[skaifeyfan2]

But won't it stir them up if they don't.

I know who I'd have every day of the week between those 4. ;)

[bills]

Nick fry has dropped the biggest hint yet that schumacher could return.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/motorsport/formula _one/8414026.stm

[brchi17]

Car #'s for 2010 season
1. Jenson Button – Vodafone McLaren Mercedes – McLaren-Mercedes
2. Lewis Hamilton – Vodafone McLaren Mercedes – McLaren-Mercedes
3. Nico Rosberg – Brawn GP Formula One Team – Brawn Mercedes Benz
4. TBA – Brawn GP Formula One Team – Brawn Mercedes Benz
5. Sebastian Vettel – Red Bull Racing – Red Bull Racing Renault
6. Mark Webber – Red Bull Racing – Red Bull Racing Renault
7. Felipe Massa – Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro – Ferrari
8. Fernando Alonso – Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro – Ferrari
9. Rubens Barrichello – AT&T Williams – Williams-Cosworth
10. Nico Hulkenberg – AT&T Williams – Williams-Cosworth
11. Robert Kubica – Renault F1 Team – Renault
12. TBA - Renault F1 Team – Renault
14. Adrian Sutil – Force India F1 Team – Force India Mercedes
15. Tonio Liuzzi – Force India F1 Team – Force India Mercedes
16. Sebastien Buemi – Scuderia Toro Rosso – STR-Ferrari
17. TBA – Scuderia Toro Rosso – STR-Ferrari
18. TBA – Lotus F1 Racing – Lotus Cosworth
19. TBA – Lotus F1 Racing – Lotus Cosworth
20. TBA – Campos Meta 1 – Campos Dallara
21. Bruno Senna – Campos Meta 1 – Campos Dallara
22. TBA – USF1 Team – USF1 Cosworth
23. TBA – USF1 Team – USF1 Cosworth
24. Timo Glock – Virgin Racing – Virgin Cosworth
25. TBA – Virgin Racing – Virgin Cosworth

I'm not sure who this TBA driver is, but they must be talented to have all those drives :D !!!

[Tumbo]

lotus will be hekki and jarno (both were confirmed according to news broadcasts in the UK before I left)

[wayno]

Kovalainen and Trulli for Lotus, DiGrassi with Glock at Virgin.

[Richard Poole]

Kobayashi has been confirmed at Sauber next year. Good to see. He seems to be far more promising than the last few Japanes drivers to come through.

[DJRTOM18]

Great to see that size field in F1 again, Looks like an open championship too

[wayno]

It will be very interesting to see what happens with Kubica as he can get out of his contract due to the renault sale if he wants to.
Could he become a late factor in the Mercedes puzzle?

[bills]

Mcconville has been dumped from one hd's f1 coverage i reckon thats a bit harsh his replacement is going to be craig baird.

http://www.speedcafe.com.au/2009/12/18/mcconville-dumped-off-tens-f1-coverage/

[wayno]

Baird? The guy is a serious clown. Are we really that hard up for a decent host here in Australia?

[El Cheapo]

What's wrong with Bairdo?

Maybe C7 will pick up Macca. Would be nice.

[skaifeyfan2]

Baird? The guy is a serious clown. Are we really that hard up for a decent host here in Australia?

Agreed. Only takes reading any of the stuff he's wrote in books to realise this.

[tonynz]

Baird? The guy is a serious clown. Are we really that hard up for a decent host here in Australia?

How is Baird a serious clown???

[fordmad17]

I liked Cam on the F1 coverage and he seems to know his stuff

[Andrew]

Kobayashi has been confirmed at Sauber next year. Good to see. He seems to be far more promising than the last few Japanes drivers to come through.

Geez, talk about Toyota shooting themselves in the foot with this one. They support a young talent all the way through the Toyota young driver program (Ryan Briscoe also went through it) and he finally shows he could match it in the top grade and they bloody withdraw from the sport! I am still extremely unhappy about them doing this.

[malscar]

But Andrew, at least you won't be missing out on any models of their cars.:p

You could say the same about Honda jumping ship and the very next year the team wins the driver's championship.

[Andrew]

But Andrew, at least you won't be missing out on any models of their cars.:p

You could say the same about Honda jumping ship and the very next year the team wins the driver's championship.

Except with the exception of Webber, I couldn't give a $%#!@ about F1 now I have no team. I'll watch it to see how he goes but that's it. I don't have a reason to support it, and as the WRC is still pretty poor in terms of teams and manufacturers (thank you Mr Mosley) I can't turn there either. I'll just have to go back to watching old c.1990-1992 ATCC and c.1995-2000 WRC tapes.....

[wayno]

How is Baird a serious clown???

Well what's he done to qualify him to do the job? I would rather see a serious f1 person with real knowledge host the telecast than someone who couldn't even cut it in V8 Supercar.

[Designer]

Except with the exception of Webber, I couldn't give a $%#!@ about F1 now I have no team. I'll watch it to see how he goes but that's it. I don't have a reason to support it, and as the WRC is still pretty poor in terms of teams and manufacturers (thank you Mr Mosley) I can't turn there either. I'll just have to go back to watching old c.1990-1992 ATCC and c.1995-2000 WRC tapes.....

World Superbikes and Moto GP.
They well might be your savior. ;)

[Andrew]

World Superbikes and Moto GP.
They well might be your savior. ;)

Pete, after picking up Tourist trophy, I must admit to more interest in bike-related motorsport....

http://forums.biante.com.au/showthread.php?t=14185

[tonynz]

That does not make him a clown wayno, I guess we know who the real clown is .

[wayno]

That does not make him a clown wayno, I guess we know who the real clown is .

Obviously, how dare I rag on one of your precious kiwis. :rolleyes:
Wouldn't someone like James Courtney be a better choice? He's personable enough, actually has had some experience driving these things and in my opinion was very, very unlucky to miss out on an f1 drive.
Baird is a no-body who couldn't cut it in the top tier here despite numerous chances in good machinery.

[Tumbo]

have to agree w/ wayne in terms of a waste of a good commentators spot - i'm not a fan of what Cam brought to the chair and personally feel he did little more than an adequate job, Bairdo can't do any better so a waste of time replacement really

[El Cheapo]

Obviously, how dare I rag on one of your precious kiwis. :rolleyes:

I doubt tonynz's defending him purely because he's a kiwi. I think that's a silly comment..as is the nobody reference.

Baird won more races than 95% of the rest of the Motorsport racing community in 2009 and has something like 22 NZ championship titles. Just because he didn't 'cut it' in the V8 category (strangely HRT see something in him....funny ain't it) it doesn't make him a bad driver. V8's aren't the one and only racing category in Australasia.

I suppose since all the categories he won in are in NZ, they're somehow less relevant. Somehow.

[wayno]

No they're not, but seriously, how does that qualify him to host an f1 coverage?
It's about as relevant as if they decided to get Troy Bayliss to host the coverage.

[El Cheapo]

Nah it doesn't. Although I was more trying to prove he's not a nobody.. :o:rolleyes::laugh4:

We don't know what, if anything, happened with McConville behind the scenes for them to want to get rid of him. But who else is lying around for them to hire?

Bairdo's commentated for them before and they'd probably rank him higher since he's a driver. So I guess them choosing him is logical to them? Rusty's 'the voice' and Baird is the supposed 'driving expert'. Like Matty White and Crompton when it used to be just them in the box.

[wayno]

Must admit I would rather see someone who's been involved in the sport (driving, team management, engineering, etc) with a real understanding of f1 than a driver with no real relevant experience as such.
But that's just me. Maybe channel 10 can get Ian Thorpe to co-host their AFL coverage as well. :rolleyes::D

[david5]

Craig won the NZ Formula Pacific Championship 3 years in a row. Wings & slicks openwheelers gives him a pretty good insight I would,ve thought.

[PeteWalsh]

Wayno I was going to offer you a shovel to dig the hole a little deeper but you seem to be doing just fine as is... :p

[Tumbo]

I'm backing Wayne - NZ Pacific Championship does NOT = F1

[El Cheapo]

Who in Aus is there that's ex-F1 they could hire? AJ? Ummm...?

[Tumbo]

Courtney was an F1 tester as already mentioned

[El Cheapo]

He'd have conflicting V8 events to attend though wouldn't he? I'm not all too familiar of the F1 dates in relation to the Supercars lol.

[tonynz]

Bairdo drove a F5000 three weeks ago at Ruapuna, you should have seen the smile on his face,

[skaifeyfan2]

I doubt tonynz's defending him purely because he's a kiwi. I think that's a silly comment..as is the nobody reference.

Baird won more races than 95% of the rest of the Motorsport racing community in 2009 and has something like 22 NZ championship titles. Just because he didn't 'cut it' in the V8 category (strangely HRT see something in him....funny ain't it) it doesn't make him a bad driver. V8's aren't the one and only racing category in Australasia.

I suppose since all the categories he won in are in NZ, they're somehow less relevant. Somehow.


HRT also employed Paul Dumbrell Matt, don't forget :p

[wayno]

He'd have conflicting V8 events to attend though wouldn't he? I'm not all too familiar of the F1 dates in relation to the Supercars lol.

Craig races a lot of cars and I'm sure he would have conflicting dates as well. Conflicting dates with McConville was something 10 worked around in the past.

[spolyhronidis]

Must admit I would rather see someone who's been involved in the sport (driving, team management, engineering, etc) with a real understanding of f1 than a driver with no real relevant experience as such.
But that's just me. Maybe channel 10 can get Ian Thorpe to co-host their AFL coverage as well. :rolleyes::D
well, Luke Darcy does host the netball, so there's no reason why Ian couldn't commentate on the F1's.

[El Cheapo]

HRT also employed Paul Dumbrell Matt, don't forget :p

But but but....I thought he was your man-crush...? :confused:

[El Cheapo]

Craig races a lot of cars and I'm sure he would have conflicting dates as well. Conflicting dates with McConville was something 10 worked around in the past.

Whoops forgot Macca actually drove a Supercar... :o

[malscar]

He'd have conflicting V8 events to attend though wouldn't he? I'm not all too familiar of the F1 dates in relation to the Supercars lol.

Same as Cam did this year. Why do we require to two clowns sitting in the studio anyway. Just take the direct feed from the F1 like we did years ago.

[edy]

how about we bring back darryl eastlake! ;)

[El Cheapo]

how about we bring back darryl eastlake! ;)

No.

:laugh4:

NZ gets a direct feed......lucky us I guess :p

[wayno]

I would dearly love to get the entire BBC feed. I watch the race on 10 but then download the BBC coverage later.

[david5]

I'm backing Wayne - NZ Pacific Championship does NOT = F1

Didn't say it did, but it gives Craig Baird some open wheeler experience to call on.

[Robert Murphy]

What about a commentry dream team of J Courtney and C Atkinson to be crash analysts?:D;)

[VXfan]

Who in Aus is there that's ex-F1 they could hire? AJ? Ummm...?
How about Larry Perkins?At least he'll say what he thinks!:D

[david5]

How about Larry Perkins?At least he'll say what he thinks!:D

They'd have to beep every seond word.:p

[wayno]

Looks like Turkey will be the next race to go if rumours are to be believed. Bernie has reportedly doubled the asking fee as a way of forcing Turkey off the calendar as the race only sold 36,000 three day tickets last year.
Pity as I don't mind the circuit itself.

[domstrama]

Secret test planned for Schumacher?



According to the latest rumours the Mercedes Grand Prix team and Michael Schumacher are planning a top secret test in the Middle East as a final test for the German before announcing his comeback in Formula 1.
<DIV class=advert>

[brchi17]

Looks like Turkey will be the next race to go if rumours are to be believed. Bernie has reportedly doubled the asking fee as a way of forcing Turkey off the calendar as the race only sold 36,000 three day tickets last year.
Pity as I don't mind the circuit itself.

If this isn't another example of why Bernie should go, then I don't know what is......1st they take the GP to a non-GP nation and then after a couple of years jack up the appearance fee, I can see the people of Istanbul flicking F1 because of this which would be a great shame as it's such a cracker of a circuit...:(

[bills]

If this isn't another example of why Bernie should go, then I don't know what is......1st they take the GP to a non-GP nation and then after a couple of years jack up the appearance fee, I can see the people of Istanbul flicking F1 because of this which would be a great shame as it's such a cracker of a circuit...:(

agree.

[k1w1taxi]

Not 2010, but Bernie signs up ANOTHER Freakin Street Circuit.

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/motoring/news/article.cf m?c_id=9&objectid=10616750

I am seriously starting to think that Politicians need to be urged to ban these god awful blights on our sport.

Cheers
Lee

[bills]

theres gonna be to many freaken street races in formula 1!

[lukey73]

Cant be any worse than another Herman Tilke design permenant circuit. Just shows that it really is more business than anything else these days.

[wayno]

Not 2010, but Bernie signs up ANOTHER Freakin Street Circuit.

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/motoring/news/article.cf m?c_id=9&objectid=10616750

I am seriously starting to think that Politicians need to be urged to ban these god awful blights on our sport.

Cheers
Lee

'sigh' :(
I just don't know what to say. I suppose we'll have to wait and see what we're offered as a track, but after Singapore and that Spanish abomination i don't have much hope for another street circuit.

[k1w1taxi]

Cant be any worse than another Herman Tilke design permenant circuit. Just shows that it really is more business than anything else these days.

Rather than more street circuits and Tilke snore zones I reckon this is where they should take F1.
https://www.focusedevents.com/images/pics/algarve_ international.jpg

6XWky2-lAkY
unQaTUEL6b8

Cheers
Lee

[ratster70]

Cant be any worse than another Herman Tilke design permenant circuit. Just shows that it really is more business than anything else these days.


Unfortunately Lukey its the way all sports are going its all about money now and less and less about the sport:rolleyes:

[wayno]

Petronas sign-up with mercedes.

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/80631

Interesting if Michael still has a contract as previously mentioned.......

[brchi17]

Petronas sign-up with mercedes.

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/80631

Interesting if Michael still has a contract as previously mentioned.......

I wonder if this a sign saying Michael is not longer a driving option....:confused:

[Chev_350]

confused, how would this effect Michael?

[brchi17]

confused, how would this effect Michael?

because he currently has a long, long term massive personal relationship with Shell ;)

[Richard Poole]

Was that with him directly or with him through Ferrari?

[brchi17]

My understanding was that he had a personal arrangement with Shell (remember he's always got shell logo's on his racesuits as well as that German bank), however you do raise a good point there Rich

[William Hall]

Its my understanding that Shell own the livery of the Ferrari, in other words they write Ferrari a massive cheque each year, then Shell resell that space back to the likes of Marlboro etc....
________
NEXIUM LAWSUITS (http://www.classactionsettlements.org/lawsuit/nex ium/)

[david5]

http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/motorsport/formula _one/8427552.stm

or is he ???

Hope so.

[bills]

according to the age he is back!! wohhoooo!!!

http://news.theage.com.au/breaking-news-sport/schumacher-signs-f1-deal-with-mercedes-20091223-lc7s.html

[ratster70]

Ummm just hope he can pass the medical this time :rolleyes:

[Pug205]

Hmmm returning and risk messing with your legacy is always a dangerous thing and not something I usually agree with but should bring abit more excitement to the season.

Wonder if things are not running well, the desperation will kick in and the dirty tactics start :rolleyes:

[SDK]

All in all good for the sport though. MS well aware of the risks & task ahead of himself. A fat paycheck regardless of a result & will be great to watch it all unfold in 2010.
Hope we can see MS in some wheel to wheel racing with the Red cars, a dream for the F1 stakeholders.

[daggy]

Fingers crossed its all true. Ill be going to melbourne for sure now just to see him race.
And it means another car to add to my schumacher collection. Yay!

[wayno]

Still no official announcement but seems it's a 1 year deal.
I think Michael will do ok. Yeah he's older, but the cars are nowhere near the beasts they were in the V-10 era.

[brchi17]

Still no official announcement but seems it's a 1 year deal......

I wonder if after this 1 year if it will allow Mercedes a real crack at Vettel as I seem to recall he was out of contract at seasons' end.....

[wayno]

Coulb be Brad.
Michael has nothing to lose. If he wins the title people will say the current drivers are rubbish, but if he loses they will say the current drivers only beat Michael past his best. :rolleyes:
I hope he gets spanked but suspect he has too much talent for that. I just hope Rosberg doesn't have to be his 'lap-dog' like every teammate of the past. :rolleyes:

[Chev_350]

Its my understanding that Shell own the livery of the Ferrari, in other words they write Ferrari a massive cheque each year, then Shell resell that space back to the likes of Marlboro etc....

otherway around, Marlboro owns the whole car, sells on to other sponsors.

[onfire]

after reading the website
http://www.michael-schumacher.de/?page=news&story_id=90298&lang=uk

looks like a 3yr deal ,
maybe 1 yr race 2yr support??