Bleacher Report - Articles by Adam Poole

Ferrari Fail in Budget Cap Appeal

Adam Poole — Wed, 20 May 2009 08:52:03 -0400

News has just been released that that Ferrari's court appeal against the £40 million budget cap regulations for next year has failed.

The regulation proposal by the FIA has prompted the Maranello team to issue several statements outlining their intention to leave the sport should the budget cap be bought in next year. Ferrari fears that the regulations could see the sport enter a two-tier era.

Echoing the Italian teams view on the system, due to be introduced at the start of the 2010 season were ING Renault, Red Bull, and Toyota, who have released similar "quit" statements overthe last two weeks.

Since the release of the statements however, the FIA and Bernie Ecclestone have admitted that they too believe that a two-tier championship is not attractive and have vowed to have all teams racing under the same regulations.

All 10 F1 team bosses are set to meet in Monaco ahead of this weekend's Grand Prix where they will also hold discussions with Mosley.

Commenting today on a leaked F1 entry list for 2010, Ferrari said: "Wirth Research, Lola, USF1, Epsilon Euskadi, RML, Formtech, Campos, iSport: these are the names of the teams, which should compete in the two-tier Formula One wanted by Mosley.

Can a World Championship with teams like them—with due respect—can have the same value as today's Formula One, where Ferrari, the big car manufacturers and teams, who created the history of this sport, compete? Wouldn't it be more appropriate to call it Formula GP3?"

Ferrari, Red Bull, Toyota, and ING Renault are not expected to submit entries to the 2010 championship by the May 29 deadline.

Renault To Leave F1 : Full Team Statement

Adam Poole — Wed, 13 May 2009 09:54:51 -0400

Anglo-French team, ING Renault, have today released a statement outlining their intent to leave Formula One at the end of the 2009 season.

The statement details the team's attitude to recent regulation changes due to be bought in for 2010 - mainly the £40million budget cap.

ING Renault release this statement less than 24 hours after Italian team, Ferrari released an almost identical statement over the same issue.

Statement in Full

The decision of the Federation International de l’Automobile (FIA) to introduce two sets of Formula One technical regulations for the 2010 Formula One season has caused the Renault Group to reconsider its entry in next year’s FIA Formula One World Championship.

There is frustration that FOTA’s constructive proposals, including major cost saving measures to be adopted progressively between 2009 and 2012, which were carefully constructed by FOTA members, have been completely ignored without any form of consultation by the FIA with the teams.

It should be stressed that FOTA has set the same, if not lower, financial objective as the FIA, but Renault strongly believes that this must be introduced through a different procedure agreed by all parties.

Renault also believes that it is paramount that the governance of the sport is coordinated with a spirit of consultation with all parties (FIA, FOM, FOTA) in order to achieve a better balance between the costs and the revenues. Renault is also of the firm view that all entrants in the World Championship must adhere to and operate under the same regulations.

President of the ING Renault F1 Team, Bernard Rey, commented: “Renault has always considered Formula One as the pinnacle of motor sport and the perfect stage to demonstrate technical excellence. We remain committed to the sport, however we cannot be involved in a championship operating with different sets of rules, and if such rules are put into effect, we will be forced to pull out at the end of this season.”

ING Renault F1 Team Managing Director, Flavio Briatore, commented: “Our aim is to reduce costs while maintaining the high standards that make Formula One one of the most prestigious brands on the market. We want to achieve this in a coordinated manner with the regulatory and commercial bodies, and we refuse to accept unilateral governance handed out by the FIA.

If the decisions announced by the World Council on the 29th of April 2009 are not revised, we have no choice but to withdraw from the FIA Formula One World Championship at the end of 2009.”

FIA President Max Mosley's Son Found Dead

Adam Poole — Wed, 06 May 2009 10:02:14 -0400

The F1 Times extends its thoughts and condolences to Max Mosley and his family today as their 39-year-old son, Alexander, was found dead in his Notting Hill (London, U.K.) home on Tuesday.

A Metropolitan Police (Met) spokesman said officers are treating the death as "non-suspicious" and that officers were in the process of informing the family.

"We were called at 16:20 p.m. on Tuesday to reports of a male found dead at a property in W11," police said. "He was pronounced dead at the scene. The man is in his late 30s."

The FIA has issued a statement confirming that it was Mosley's son and offered its condolences. "The FIA extends sincere condolences to the Mosley family on the sad news of the death of Alexander Mosley," the statement read.

FIA Rubber Stamps "Winner Takes All"

Adam Poole — Mon, 04 May 2009 12:28:12 -0400

The controversial Winner Takes All system has been rubber stamped for 2010 by the FIA World Motorsport Council.

The system was first hinted at by Bernie Ecclestone mid-2008 and was immediately slammed by spectators and teams with both arguing that the season could be over by the mid-way point.

The change was voted against by the Formula One Teams Association (FOTA) for this season after Ecclestone pushed for it, but the sporting regulations for next year already feature the new system.

Article 6 of the sporting regulations state that the drivers' title "will be awarded to the driver who has been classified first in the greatest number of races."

Full Details at The F1 Times Site.

The F1 Times Interviews Jake Humphrey

Adam Poole — Sun, 03 May 2009 17:58:28 -0400

The F1 Times got the pleasure of meeting the new face of BBC F1 and we had chance to ask him a few questions that will give our readers an insight to the man that can make or break the BBC's coverage.

Join us as Jake talks about how he got to where he is now and find out what Jake's most memorable F1 moment of all-time is. Who are Jake's all-time heroes of F1. What Jake's favourite circuit on the F1 calendar is and why when he was 8, F1 made him cry.

Firstly Jake, a huge thanks for taking the time out of your busy schedule to answer a few questions for us. It's great to see F1 back on the BBC this year! When you were offered the position of presenting F1
what initially went through your mind?

I was genuinely shocked to be honest. There were so many people being linked with it that I never really thought F1 would come my way.

I have been a fan of F1 going back years but I wasn't sure if that would be enough to land me the gig. Even though I've done the Olympics, the Euro's and Sports Personality I see this sport as the new jewel in BBC Sports crown, there are very few events that generate such interest on a bi-weekly basis and I always thought it might pass me by thanks to the gravity of it.

I did know one thing though and that's if the Beeb bosses did go with me I wouldn't let them down. All my years at CBBC were my equivalent of Lewis' time in GP2, it is the proving ground of live TV and I owe all the Children's BBC bosses a huge amount of gratitude for helping me to progress this far.

I was also keen that if the job came my way I'd work really hard to make people feel like our coverage is very much theirs, like their a part of what we're doing. I try and answer all the emails I get sent and I really enjoy sharing my thoughts on my blog too.

Well, I must say you do a great job at keeping on top of your work-load. Now, obviously we have all seen the raw pace of the Brawn's over the last four races. We have also seen bigger teams such as McLaren, Ferrari and BMW struggling. Do you think any of the afore mentioned teams will pull
back into title contention?

Well it couldn't have worked out better could it! If BMW, Ferrari and McLaren were up there with Brawn, Red Bull and Toyota then we'd all be waiting for one of them to poke their noses in front...how much more exciting to see big names with big budgets attack the front from way back.

Many people think we're already seeing McLaren's effort pay dividends after their 4th place in Bahrain and improved quali speed, and Lewis' performances have really made people sit up and take notice. As for BMW and Ferrari, it seems the balls in their court now. A 2 week break before the European season begins and the paddock will be expecting to see serious improvements...and fast.

Yeah, Ferrari in perticular need to get things sorted as McLaren are obviously making the effort. I gather you must have always been an F1 fan so surely working alongside the likes of DC and Eddie Jordan must be a huge thing for you?

Of course. One of the joys for me is when the races begin and I get to sit with DC and Eddie. Watching a race unfold next to them is incredible. They see things that you or I just wouldn't, and I learn so much more in 2 hours than years watching on my own at home. They've both been fantastic servants to F1 over the years, achieved a great deal and we're so lucky to have them on the BBC.

Indeed, it must be fantastic to sit with such an experienced driver and team-owner for a Grand-Prix - something that any F1 fan would love to do. When you were growing up, following Formula One, who would you say have been your favorite drivers and teams?

Mansell, of course. Ayrton Senna too, and in later years DC and Schumi. I always loved Lotus having come from Norwich, I loved what I called the 'John Player Special' car when I was about 7...I now know it as the 97T. I used to drive an Elise, I've got my eye on the new Lotus Evora, and still to this day I harbour a hope that they'll return to F1. The budget cap might just persuade them to stick their toe in once more! Here's hoping.

We can all hope and as you say, the budget-cap is proving to be quite attractive for new teams. Obviously everyone has their favourite circuit but which one is yours and why?

I love Monaco. For me it represents everything that F1 is. Listening to drivers describing just how close to the barriers you need to be, just how scary it is keeping your foot down through the tunnel, and how important it is to get a good start still makes the hairs on the back of my next stand up. I can't wait to be there.

As you say, it's any F1 fans dream to go to Monaco and we can't wait to see what un-folds there this year but what would you say is your favourite moment in F1 history? Is there a particular lap that stands out?

Adelaide 1986. I think Nigel Mansell was voted Sports Personality of the Year, despite not winning the title...and that was due to the manner in which he lost it. It was a cracking season-long battle between him, Prost and Piquet and all came down to the last race. I'll never forget the moment his rear left tyre gave way and the championship went with it...incredible! I was only 8 or 9 and I think I cried.

I can't say I've seen that lap - to be honest I wasn't even alive then but I will make an effort to watch that at some point. Now, It's every F1 fans dream to meet their F1 hero, in your new role you get to meet everyone, do you still get nervous when it comes to interviewing them or do you see it as "just part of the job?"

Na, when you're live on air there are so many other things to worry about you just get on with it. It's only afterwards that you think...'blimey that was Jackie Stewart, he's one of my heroes!'

Finally Jake, I know it's probably too early to call and you may not want to say, but who do you think will win the championships this year - drivers and constructors?

Brawn are in the box seat aren't they, but I genuinely couldn't call it...we need to see McLaren and Ferrari declare their hands first.

Click here to go to the F1Times Site.

Re-Fuelling and Tyre Heating Illegal from 2010

Adam Poole — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 08:49:12 -0400

The WMSC has today confirmed that in addition to the optional budget cap of £40m that teams will not be allowed to re-fuel or use tyre warming equipment during a race. These changes are designed to cut the costs of transporting fuelling equipment and to encourage engine builders to come up with fuel-saving designs.

The WMSC stated that the amended 2010 Sporting and Technical regulations will be available shortly.

"Refuelling during a race will be forbidden in order to save the costs of transporting refuelling equipment and increase the incentive for engine builders to improve fuel economy (to save weight)," a statement read.

"Tyre blankets will be banned and that the ban on other tyre-heating devices will be maintained."

Re-fuelling during a race was made illegal in 1984 but re-introduced into the sport a decade later.

Optional £40m Budget Cap Introduced for Formula One 2010

Adam Poole — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 08:11:46 -0400

The FIA has announced that a £40 million ($60 million) optional cap will be introduced in 2010, for any competing team.

Earlier this year, Max Mosley, FIA President suggested a £30 million budget cap, but FOTA said this amount was too little to run an F1 team.

The budget, will cover all team expenditure, except certain items, such as engine costs, driver salaries, hospitality, marketing, fines imposed by the FIA, and any other costs in which a team can demonstrate has no influence on the cars performance.

The big difference between teams which sign up, and teams which don't will be the technical freedom given to the capped teams. This will include, non-rev limited engines, adjustable rear and front flaps. Not only will technical freedom become a big bonus, but off-season testing will be unlimited, as will wind-tunnel testing.

The FIA has set-up a Costs Commission which will be chaired by an appointed chairman for a term of three years. It will be the WMSC who vote a member into the costs commission.

Accompanying the Chairman, will be two commissioners, one with vast financial knowledge, and the other with high-level experience in motor sport. Perfect for Ron Dennis then, or on second thought's, maybe not.

In a final bid to improve racing, the maximum cars permitted to enter the season has been raised from 24 to 26, allowing three new teams to enter - which is handy when three new teams have shown interest. These being USGPE (formally USF1), Lola and Prodrive.

In another show of support, the FOM will provide free transport for two chassis, and 10,000kg of cargo to each race. Dramatically reducing their costs.

- Story by Ryan Wood from The F1 Times

Toyota Appeal 25-Second Penalty

Adam Poole — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 08:08:13 -0400

New evidence has come to light with regards the 25-second penalty slapped onto Jarno Trulli at the end of the Australian Grand Prix.

The evidence, in video form, has spurred Toyota to appeal against the penalty which saw Trulli drop from third to 12th in the final standings of the first race of the 2009 season.

The video, now removed from YouTube, clearly shows Trulli venturing off-track. This of course led to Lewis Hamilton having to overtake for P3 as he had nowhere to go. Jarno Trulli then claimed the place back when Lewis was instructed by team bosses to slow down or face a penalty.

FIA regulations state that a car must not overtake unless "a car in front slows with an obvious problem"—Trulli went off-track, possibly with a problem, however Hamilton slowing to let Trulli through, is this due to a problem or sportsmanship?

Toyota and Trulli believe that Hamilton had slowed due to mechanical failure, and not just to allow him through—radio communication from McLaren will be required to be submitted to the FIA so that they can sort this one out.

If the appeal is successful it will see Trulli gain his 6 points back and Hamilton, Glock, Alonso, Rosberg and Buemi will all drop a point and Frenchman Sebastian Bourdais will lose his only point.

As pointed out by The F1 Times that if we think back to Spa, 2008. Lewis Hamilton was struck with a 25-second penalty which was then appealed by McLaren, the appeal was dismissed by the FIA as drive-though's, which is what this penalty is whilst the cars are on track, cannot be appealed.

Toyota though, think they have found a loophole which allows them to appeal such a decision.

Further developments in this story will follow.

McLaren vs. Brawn: Let's Sort This Out

Adam Poole — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 06:37:49 -0400

We all know that McLaren need to pull something out of the bag if they expect Lewis Hamilton to successfully defend his world championship this year.

The MP4-24 has the same engine in it as both Brawn GP cars, both running on the Mercedes-Benz FO 108W, yet the difference between the performance of the two constructors is light years apart—surprisingly in Brawn GP's favor.

So, what do we know? We know that Brawn GP have a different style of diffuser to McLaren, but surely this piece of equipment isn't making almost 2 seconds a lap difference between the two.

We also know that McLaren are running the new KERS system giving Lewis and Heikki an extra 80bhp for 6.6seconds every lap—this again should cut the gap between the two cars down, as a statement from McLaren insists that "an optimised KERS package can be expected to deliver a 0.3-0.5s gain per lap."

So both cars have 2.4L, eight cylinder Mercedes engine in them. Both cars have the maximum of 18'000rpm and have a piston bore of 98 degrees with an engine bank angle of 90 degrees and a semi-automatic seven speed gearbox to put this through.

Both cars are running on the same fuel, both are sitting on Bridgestone Potenzas and both weigh the FIA minimum weight of 95kg.

Conclusion? Brawn are better at getting the power from the engine onto the track thus putting their cars over the line before McLaren.

Either this, or Jenson and Rubens are better drivers, or should I say better at dealing with the new aerodynamic regulations, than Lewis and Heikki—I will leave you to draw your own conclusion on that one.

So lets take the cars to pieces and have a look. McLaren are using an inboard torsion bar/damper system operated by pushrod and bell crank with a double wishbone arrangement for both front and rear suspension whereas Brawn are using a torsion spring instead of a bar and damper system.

Could this be allowing the new slick tyres more movement on bumpy parts of the track? Could it be allowing quicker spring back to allow the tyres more time on the track?

McLaren have stuck with Koni as their suspension damper supplier and Brawn GP have taken on Sachs to supply their dampers but the FIA are very strict when it comes to dampers and therefore both dampers should be very close in performance to each other - thus making very little difference.

Electronics are a big part of an F1 car, maybe less-so that the last couple of years, but nonetheless. The MP4-24 uses in-house electronics from "McLaren Electronic Systems" which controls electronics for chassis, engine and data acquisition.

McLaren Electronic Systems also supplies the electronic dashboard, alternator voltage control, sensors, data analysis and telemetry systems. Brawn GP on the other hand after only having days to register their BGP01 stuck to the FIA standard ECU and FIA homologated electronic and electrical system.

Surely the FIA standard system shouldn't work anywhere near aswell as a customized system produced by one of the best automobile electrical manufacturers in the world? Could the electrical systems be be having a bearing on the success' of Brawn? Have McLaren just not managed to make the electrical system work with the new regulations?

The similarities between the cars out-weight the differences and it's because of this that the Woking-based team have a massive headache.

With the development of the MP4-24 and with the new "no on-track testing" regulation bought in by the FIA for 2009 it seems that the majority of the work is going to have to be done in a wind tunnel—which, although highly technical, is never going to be the same as on-track.

Maybe it's something as simple as Lewis, Heikki and the team not having adjusted their favoured setup correctly to incorporate the new aerodynamic regulations, maybe it's the driving style of Lewis and Heikki that doesn't suit the new car—they might have to adjust their style.

All I know is that McLaren have some serious work to do and they need to have it done soon. Hamilton is already predicting that they will fall further behind Brawn GP in Malaysia and that the car won't pick up again until Spain, by which point McLaren could be a speck in Button's wing mirror.

If anyone has any suggestions for McLaren, I think they could use all the help they can get.

Red Bull To Use Double Deck Diffusers: The Height of Hypocrisy

Adam Poole — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 05:01:49 -0400

Red Bull Racing yesterday admitted that they are looking into adding the controversial diffuser to their RB5—the very diffuser that they, alongside Ferrari, lodged a protest against just four days ago.

At present, seven teams, including RBR, are using a single outlet diffuser—basically a modified version of the 2008 diffusers.

However, RAR's team principal, Christian Horner, told the BBC: "We started to look at the concept several weeks ago when we saw the cars run for the first time.

"If the design is fully legal after April 14 then the seven teams will have to explore development in that area. We will accept the decision but would like to have absolute clarity going forward."

Earlier in the week I reported that McLaren had not joined the protest against Brawn GP, Williams, and Toyota, and this remains the case because RBR aren't the only ones getting in on the double-deck diffuser action.

Let's be honest, McLaren need to pull something out of the bag. Should they decide to use a new diffuser, we will see exactly how much difference it makes to a car and whether it does help transfer the power onto the track.

A hearing at the International Court of Appeal regarding the diffusers has been set for April 14, and Red Bull's pursuit of the split-level diffuser rests on that decision.

If the appeal is denied then I can see all the teams following suit, and because McLaren have already admitted to having looked at the new diffusers, they may just get theirs on first.

Bernie Ecclestone Behaves Like a Child Again: “He Started It!”

Adam Poole — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 13:15:07 -0400

Bernie Ecclestone has once again proved how he can stamp his feet like a 12-year-old in a dispute over money that he owed to Renault and McLaren.

I really can’t start to tell you how much I despise this man, he is cocky, arrogant, petulant, and just down-right idiotic in my opinion.

The row started when Ron Dennis and Flavio Briatore approached Ecclestone about some commercial money that he owed the two team bosses. When the F1 boss refused the money Briatore simply stated that unless he got the money he wasn’t prepared to put his cars on the plane and stated, “We’re not going to Melbourne.”

Dennis and Briatore also warned Ecclestone that the rest of FOTA were prepared to follow suit should the billionaire not pay up.

Talking to The Times newspaper, Ecclestone replied, in his usual childish manner and said, “He [Flavio] started it, aided, and abetted by Ron Dennis.”

Bernie then continued to play the “12 year-old school boy” and didn’t want to be beaten and so called the team bosses’ bluff by telling them, “I picked up the phone to our people that handle all the freight to ask them to cancel the aeroplanes. They were saying, ‘all the FOTA-schmota are not going—nobody’s going to go.”

The Times does report that the teams did leave without receiving the money and that both Renault’s and McLaren’s cars were transported to Melbourne as normal.

Personally, I think it’s about time Ecclestone grew up, stop trying to impress his friends, and realise that he’s running a billion dollar business. This is not like running around the school yard trying to get one over on everyone.

For heavens sake, just the way he refers to FOTA as “FOTA-schmota.” FOTA is one of the only good things to come out of F1 in the last couple of years!

Bernie. Grow up!

Formula One Finds All Diffusers To Be Legal

Adam Poole — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 09:45:11 -0400

Well, the results of the protest are in, and the stewards have thrown the protest in the bin and found that the diffusers on all three teams' cars are all legal and conform to regulations set out by the sport's governing body—the FIA.

However, what a start Brawn GP have had in the sport. Ross Brawn has had his name on the side of a car for 20 days, and in this short amount of time the team has produced a car that has already topped the time sheets and managed to get Jenson Button to accept a huge pay cut.

On top of this, today the team was in the firing line for potentially having misinterpreted the regulations regarding the BGP001's diffuser. As a result of this misunderstanding Brawn GP had a protest lodged against them by Ferrari, Red Bull, and Renault. The protest was accepted early this morning and has been reviewed by officials.

Ross Brawn and his team aren't the only ones on the pit lane that faced the protests. Both Toyota, and Williams were in the same boat also regarding their diffusers.

Speaking on behalf of Red Bull, adviser Helmut Marko told the Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport: "It's illegal. We'll make a protest on Thursday if the component isn't modified to conform to the regulations because that diffuser guarantees a five-tenths advantage per lap. Seven teams are certain it's illegal."

In response, Brawn GP's Jenson Button spoke on BBC Radio five live this morning, saying, "We're at the pinnacle of motorsport, and you've got a lot of manufacturers and teams that want to be the best. With the massive rule change that we've had, some people aren't going to like certain things on certain cars."

"They might think they are wrong but as far was we know our car is 100 percent legal. We've just built a very competitive car."

Under FIA rules, however, following this weekend's Grand Prix, the protesting teams are still allowed to appeal the decision after which a court hearing will decide the final stance on the diffuser row. For now, at least, Brawn GP, Toyota, and Williams will surely gain a morale boost on hearing this news.

Interestingly enough, I can confirm that McLaren and its sister team Force India did not lodge protests. It has been heard that McLaren and BMW Sauber have been looking at developing their own double-deck diffuser, while Force India had a similar design up and running in its wind tunnel back in January.

Following the decision by officials, Toyota released a statement that simply said: "[We] studied the wording of the new 2009 regulations in precise detail to ensure that we have interpreted them correctly."

Toyota Chairman Tadashi Yamashina added, "We are pleased with the decision of the race stewards but we prefer not to comment further on the situation."

Brawn GP and Williams have yet to release a statement regarding the allegations but you can bet your bottom dollar that Brawn will have something to say about the whole issue, whether it's in written form or spoken word on live TV.

If you ask me, the teams that lodged the complaint are just being petty and should spend more time on developing a car that can keep up with Brawn GP and less time protesting about something that they could learn from.

Ecclestone and Mosley: Even More Reasons to Have Them Replaced

Adam Poole — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 05:48:10 -0500

Those of you that know me, know that I hate Max Mosley and there is only one person I hate more than Mosley and that is Bernie Ecclestone. In order to vent my true feelings about these two this would have to be a "Restricted 18" site, which it isn't and therefore I will keep this article constructive(ish).

We all know that the grey-haired one has been pushing for medals in the sport for a good few months now and we all have our opinions on this idea—personally I believe it to be about as worthwhile as Bernie buying hair-coloring—yes it would be interesting for a while, but the novelty is going to wear off and it wont be worth it—better the devil you know, stick with the points system—it works!

Anyway, today, Mosley has rubbished the idea, maybe he does have a brain. Mosley has said of the medal idea, "Fiddling around with the points system won’t fix the problem.” The problem he was referring to was the problem of overtaking, or the lack thereof.

Now, as a man of many words, most of them utter garbage, Mosley said this about the new aerodynamic regulations bought in this year, "I’m told it’s the biggest change since 1983 but I’m not sure it will solve the problem.”

Does that sound remotely similar? It does to me, so why has he allowed the aerodynamic changes to go ahead and not the medals? Simple answer is to keep your eyes peeled as I feel the drivers will be sporting medals rather soon.

Now on to my second reason to send hate mail to the pair. Mosley has today admitted that, "The FIA can’t put pressure on Bernie Ecclestone to race in the UK for less than other countries would pay for us to race elsewhere."

These two are obviously having a bit of a disagreement at the minute and both need to grow up and realise that they are running a sport and it's the people who put the money into the sport that matter—not who can shout off to the media first!

Today also marks something of a record—a World Record. Today is the day that Mr. Mosley has finally said something that I agree with. Something that is true. Something that puts him up in my estimation (not much though). He was quoted as saying that Britain was "the home of grand prix racing."

So. Will we keep a race in Britain? Will we get medals instead of points? Will someone please carry these two off to the loony-bin?

We'll have too wait and see what happens I suppose...

F1 2009: Super Fast vs. Super Ugly

Adam Poole — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 14:07:10 -0500

During a time of worldwide economic downturn, it seems that Formula One bosses have decided to not only cut down on spending, but sacrifice the look of the cars just to bring audiences in.

Say what you like about the new aerodynamics on the cars making for a more interesting sport; that has yet to be seen. Who knows whether it will actually make for a better sport? We know what the 2009 cars will look like.

They look like something that teams on "Junkyard Mega Wars" could put together given a few hours. They're that ugly.

Some may say that I'm not a true F1 fan if all I care about is how the cars look, but that is not the only aspect I care about. However, it happens to be a large factor in why I follow the sport.

Nothing delights me more on a weekend than settling down with a cold beer, switching on the old TV, and seeing some fantastic-looking vehicles head down a straightaway at speeds of up to 200 mph with drivers trying to outsmart each other.

In 2009, the only things I'll have to look forward to on a race weekend are the speeds, driver trickery, and, of course, the beer, because I see absolutely nothing even remotely good looking about the new cars. I may as well go on which colors I like best.

I may change my mind once the season starts, but the more pressing question is this: Is it worth making the cars so ugly so the on-track action becomes more exciting?

The MP4-23, the F2008, and all other 2008 cars were probably the best-looking Formula One cars in the sport's history. The 2008 Brazilian Grand Prix was one of the most exciting season finales ever in any sport, and the viewing figures alone support me on that opinion.

The season on a whole had five drivers (six at one point) battling it out to be on top. No one knew who was going to win one race from the next. Finally, with the on-track antics of a certain British World Champion and the inconsistent rulings of a blind and idiotic stewards board, what more action could have been crammed into the season? None.

Give me a final corner championship-winning season finale and a gorgeous-looking MP4-23 over a sly out-braking maneuver any day of the week.

As a concerned fan, I would say that good looking Formula One is truly gone this season—unless, of course, I or Sara are on the track.

Author's Note:
I apologize that this article has been a long time coming, and future pieces also will be scarce, as I am working away from home for weeks at a time. I hope you continue to be constructive in your comments. Kindest regards—Adam.

Bernie Ecclestone: Technicians Should Be at Home Playing On Playstations

Adam Poole — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 02:44:22 -0500

Oh my Lord, he's at it again

We thought Bernie Eccleston couldn’t do worse for himself after the racism row with Lewis Hamilton, and the slow demise of Formula One. However, he managed to out-do himself, and in rather spectacular fashion.

Speaking to Sky News about the Honda demise, Ecclestone took a dig at the teams saying, "The trouble is the teams are basically run by technicians who really should be at home playing with their Play-Stations rather than spending fortunes."

This latest bout of verbal bile comes from Ecclestone after Honda Racing had been forced to withdraw their team from F1, following financial difficulties. An announcement was made this morning.

Many fans, including myself, have questioned how the sport will continue with the recent stresses and strains on the teams and the sport in general to cut the spiraling costs. However, Ecclestone has told the BBC, "F1 is in no bigger crisis than any other company in the world at the moment but the world won't stop, that's for sure."

In my opinion, if Bernie truly believes this then he is more blinkered than I originally thought and maybe, just maybe, is growing senile.

It is true that many companies are struggling with the current financial crisis, no one can doubt this; however, what Bernie fails to recognise is that the sport's main income revenue stream is on the edge of collapsing as well.

Who am I talking about? The answer is: the fans.

It is thought that the Formula One Teams Association (FOTA), who met today, will react badly to the comments made by Ecclestone. Nobody can blame them, but there's little they can actually do.

The simple answer would be a boycott early on in the season; however, with the current team sponsors spending millions of Euros a year to get their name on the side of an F1 car, this wouldn't do the team any favors.

Once again, the teams are in a position where all they can do is sit and take the constant steam of sludge slung upon them by Bernie Ecclestone and Max Mosley.

Keep up the good work, Lads!

Formula One 2009: It's Looking Bleak

Adam Poole — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 10:26:34 -0500

Many people would be forgiven for still being on a high after the excitement of the final laps of last season's Brazillian Grand-Prix and the way in which Lewis Hamilton was crowned the World Drivers' Champion.

However, those of us who have managed to get over that, or at least put it to the back of our minds, will notice that the sport we love is evaporating into thin air right before our eyes.

This isn't going to be an article in which I bash Bernie Ecclestone or Max Mosley; I have already written several of those. Instead, this is going to be a look at the season ahead and a preview of the potential dire straits that our sport is facing.

With Honda expected to release a statement to the media within hours telling us that they have retired from the sport, there are many questions on my mind, and no doubt the minds of the 750 or so employees at Honda Racing.

We were told right up to the final Grand-Prix of last season that Ross Brawn's boys were working on the 2009 project and had given up on last season's car early on. Doubts have now arisen in my mind as to whether there ever was a 2009 car or whether the Honda boys knew that they were up the creek without a paddle.

Another question: why have they had Senna and Di Grassi testing for them? Surely a team that is as professional as Honda wouldn't lead people on—or was this all part of the illusion?

What will Jenson Button do now? Surely there isn't enough time for him to jump from one ride to another and be ready for the start of the season? Well, there might be, but he surely won't feel comfortable doing this.

So, that sees the grid down to nine teams for next year. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe that to be a complete farce and the lowest number of cars on a track in modern day F1 racing.

In addition to Honda retiring, we have also lost Canada, France and probably Germany from the race calendar for next season. This leaves a short 16 race season which includes the brand new Abu Dhabi circuit. Furthermore, China's Grand-Prix is expected to be pulled by 2010.

Now we get to the "ugly" side of things: the cars. Some fans have said they like the new-look F1 cars, some have said they hate them. I have to say I am with the latter group of people on this one.

The cars for 2009, in my opinion, look disgusting. The rear wing is far too high and too short, the slick tyres look appalling and just to add a small novelty, we have nice big yellow stickers on the sides of the cars warning mechanics of "Electrical Hazards."

Excuse me if I'm speaking out of turn here, but surely the people who built the cars are going to know what the hell is inside them—that is like telling a Chef that there is chocolate in his, or her, chocolate brownies!

My final point, and one that I wont be covering in much detail as I have already covered it, is the prospect of the "medal scoring system" being brought in by His Royal Shortness, Bernie Ecclestone, who, by the way, is probably my least favourite person in the World at this moment in time.

Surely a scoring system that has been used for many, many years and is tried and tested is something that we should keep. Fair enough, as Sheiban Shakeri has mentioned in his article, this system may need looking at and changing slightly—but for the love of God, I can't see what is so wrong with it that we need to change it completely.

As I said at the begining of the rant, or article, as I prefer to call it, the 2009 season is looking as though it is in complete tatters. Nine teams, sixteen races, crappy looking cars and a new scoring system. I ask again, where the hell is the sport that I loved going?

Until next time I get on my high-horse I will leave you with this thoughtl last season's Brazillian Grand-Prix was, without doubt, one of the most exciting season climaxes in F1 history with a record-breaking number of viewers in the UK. Can you honestly see this ever happening again?

I, for one, can't!

Fernando Alonso to Quit Over New Engine Regulations

Adam Poole — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 23:31:18 -0500

Former World Champion, Fernando Alonso, has declared that he could walk away from Formula 1 if plans to introduce standard engines go ahead.

The standardisation of Engines has been a major talking point in F1 this year, so we won't dwell on this any more as I have read countless articles about it—and to be honest, it's boring the living hell out of me now—I will reserve judgement on the move until I see it in action.

This, however, isn't the view of Renault's Fernando Alonso. The Spaniard has told the media that is F1's governing body, the FIA, press ahead with the proposals that he will hang up his helmet. Speaking to reporters at a UNICEF charity event, Alonso said that he was appalled by the prospect and that the standard engine rule would drive him away from the sport that he has dedicated his professional life too.

Reuters quoted Alonso as saying, "If they approved that, it would be the last straw. It would be time to think about retirement."

However, it isn't just the standardisation rule that is bugging Alonso-he has said that it is the whole host of recent rule changes that is getting to him. He feels that the FIA are seriously restricting the potential of an F1 car and is holding the sport back.

"In 2005 we had a V10 engine with 1,000 horsepower," he said. "That was what was exciting for the driver, motor racing at the limit. We have gone from the futuristic to cars without grip or electronic aids which look like something from the past."

Now, Alonso is probably my least favourite driver on the grid at the moment, and this is not because of his racing ability, he is a fantastic driver, it is simply because of his attitude to the sport and his egotistical manner to the media. I do have to say though, that I back him fully on what he has been quoted as saying.

I feel the sport got to a peak, in performance at least, around 2005/2006 season and has since had restrictions implemented on it. F1 is a motor-sport, it is supposed to be the fastest track sport in the World, Bernie Ecclestone and his cronies are now turning it into a sport that is won in the FIA headquarters and putting stupid and pathetic new rules and regulations into a sport that doesn't need them.

The sport will die a death with the current governing body. Call me a "fake fan" or a "part-time fan" or whatever you like, but I can honestly see me not even switching the television set on should things continue down the road in which they are going.

We need someone in-charge that can run the sport the way the fans want to see it, the sport has become more technical throughout the years-this was always going to happen, but it has become more boring over the last three to four years also-and this needs to stop.

Where is the sport that I used to love? Where is the sport which was won on the track? Where is the sport that required technical foresight and precise pit-stops? I'll tell you where it is. It's in the past, and whilst Max Mosley and Bernie Ecclestone call the shots, this is exactly where it will stay.

Sorry about the news bite at the start—this was required to give the story basis.

Revamp For Rugby Super League Playoffs: Team to Pick Opponent

Adam Poole — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:29:10 -0500

In an unexpected move by the Rugby League Governing Body, the RFL, the new eight-team playoff format introduced for 2009 will see one team choose their opponent when they get into week three of the play-off's.

A press release was released by the RFL last night and was embargoed until 00.01 this morning, I managed to get my hands on this release and below is a snippet of this along with some quotes from RFL boss, Nigel Wood.

From the 2009 season onwards, the engage Super League Championship, now expanded from 12 teams to 14 franchised teams, will be decided by an exciting new playoff format involving the top eight teams in the competition. The format will also feature an innovative new element which sees one team given the opportunity to choose its next opponent.

The playoff stage of the competition will now be played over a four week period and will climax with the Grand Final at Old Trafford. The format is being introduced following consultation and discussion with the 14 member clubs in engage Super League and will bring tremendous added excitement and interest to both the regular season and the final decisive phase of the competition.

The engage Super League playoffs will see all eight teams involved in the four matches which take place in the opening week. The League Leaders will face the fourth place team, second will play third, fifth will play eighth, and sixth will face seventh. The two matches involving the top four teams will be known as Qualifying Playoffs and the winners of these games will progress directly to the third week of the series.

The losers in these two games will have another chance in the second week when they face the winners of the week one Elimination Playoffs which involve the other four teams (the losers of these games will clearly take no further part). In week three, the winners of the two Qualifying Playoffs will play the winners from week two.

Significantly, the winning team from week one with the highest League placing will be allowed to select their opponents at this stage, thus adding a further element to this phase of the competition.

All the games in week three will be sudden death semi-finals with both winners progressing to the Grand Final at Old Trafford and both losers eliminated.

Commenting on the new format, the RFLs Chief Executive Nigel Wood said, "This new eight team engage Super League playoff series is a tremendous development for the sport and the competition. It will create great drama and bring an added dimension to what is already the most exciting period in the season.

"The increase in playoff places will also add more interest to the regular season by giving more matches added significance as clubs battle through the weekly rounds to give themselves a shot at the title."

My question to Mr. Wood would have to be: "Why are you allowing a team to choose their opponents?" Surely this creates an unfair bias to the competition?

There has been mixed reaction to the news with many rugby fans left wondering "why?"

Further developments on this topic are set to be released over the next month, and we will bring them too you as and when they are released.

Bernie Ecclestone: It's Time To Go!

Adam Poole — Sun, 30 Nov 2008 03:49:16 -0500

I don't usually call for sports bosses' heads to roll, but I think it's about time that Mr. Ecclestone did something for the sport he "loves" and tendered his resignation before Formula One becomes one of the biggest farces in today's world of sport.

Now, I have taken a break from Bleacher but feel that in the current time of crisis within the sport my comeback should be made—and should be made with an article that covers something I feel strongly about.

I expect some criticism on this article, but before this, I expect to get my point across.

Divorce and Public Image

The public image of Bernie Ecclestone has come under scrutiny more than ever recently, with the highly-publicised divorce of his wife, Slavica Ecclestone.

The divorce will see Bernie's £2.4billion net worth hit the courts sometime next year. The divorce was announced on 20 November by Mrs. Ecclestone's PR executive—Bernie was said to be shocked and surprised at the news.

Experts are saying that Slavica could be in for a record breaking settlement as many of her husband’s assets are in her name.

My first point would be this. A man going through a surprise divorce, and potentially a very costly one at that, after 24 years of marriage won't have his head in the game, I don't care what anyone says.

Medals? Are you drunk?

Although I feel the sub-heading says it all, I will fill you in as to why I think Bernie's latest idea needs to be nipped in the bud before it even takes off.

The scoring system in F1 has been around for years, it has produced some fantastic wins and some fantastic finales—the latest of which is the 2008 Brazilian Grand-Prix, this went right down to the wire and the Drivers Championship was only won in the final few corners of the race.

Now, you throw medals into the equation and you could end up with the Championship over half way through the season. We all know that at least one of the top teams struggle for the start of a season, but really pick up the pace towards the end.

If Ferrari or McLaren pick up the lion's share of the medals in the first half of the season because the rival team is struggling, it's pretty much game over.

My opinion on this matter is simple. If it's not broken, don't fix it. The points system works, it generates high-tension season endings, even if the FIA do have to make up some rules to ensure this, and the biggest point of all—it works—if medals are bought into F1, as Mr. Ecclestone is suggesting, then I will be loathed to even tune into the sport which, at one point in time, I loved.

Racist Comments in 2008

Although this has now been cleared up, many can't help but think that this episode could have been sorted out without so much publicity—publicity that made Bernie look more stupid than we all know he is.

Surely, the sensible thing to do would have been to keep the mis-understandings out of the media and make a few calls. Yes, I agree that the boss of F1 should speak to the media, but there are certain topics that you just don't mention unless asked- oh Bernie, did you forget that?

Age

Bernie is 78 years old. OK, so I'm not going to say that every 78 year old should be tucked up in bed in a nursing home, that would be wrong. But surely, at his time of life, Ecclestone should be stepping down.

It has been proven scientifically that humans perception of everyday incidents changes as we get older, and it has also been proven that our brains start to faulter and make mistakes after the age of 70. This is just a sad fact of life.

Surely then, at 78 years of age, the last thing the brain can deal with is running a multi-billion-dollar estate—especially when the vast majority of this estate is linked to one of the most technically advanced sports in the world—my grandma doesn't even know how to turn a desktop PC on and she's only 67-years old.

Technology changes and advances at the speed of light. How can someone who is only four-years away from the average life-expectancy of a UK male continue to comprehend such technology?

Formula One without Bernie

Well they always say, "The grass is greener," and in this case I believe this to be true.

Whether Bernie knows that he is coming to the end of his time in sport and is therefore making some changes to satisfy his own curiosity or whether he genuinely thinks that the changes he is making will benefit the sport.

Either way, I will tell you, from a fans point of view, that the changes being made at the moment are going to kill the sport that Ecclestone has put so many years of work into, and so many millions of dollars.

Bernie, retire now, enjoy what money you have left in your estate and let the sport go on at a time where it is still admired, do it before you destroy so many years of work and before you destroy the sport that so many people love.

This is my first article in a long time, so please go easy on me...

B/R F1 Community: F1 Times, Takeover Required

Adam Poole — Sun, 16 Nov 2008 06:12:53 -0500

Due to personal circumstances I am having to take some time away from Bleacher Report and therefore cannot donate my time to "The Formula One Times" any longer.

It has become more and more difficult to release the time required to put this together over the last week, and unfortunately I will no longer be able to spend enough time on this project—my activity on Bleacher Report has to die in order for me to complete my work load.

In my time on Bleacher I have met a load of really cool people and have loads of people to thank. I'd like to take this chance to thank everyone in the F1 community for your support and especially: Michael, Paul, Sara, Ryan, Daniel Chalmers, Jeff Gorman, Mike, Mark, and Alex Diamond.

Anyone wishing to take the F1 times on as a project, please leave me a note below and I will contact you regarding an e-mail address to which I will forward the account details for "The Formula One Times."

Once again, a huge thank you to everyone!

B/R F1 Community: The Future of "The Formula One Times"

Adam Poole — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 08:09:24 -0500

Due to personal commitments, Paul Heffernan is no longer able to contribute to "The Formula One Times."

But don't worry! I am still raring to get this thing off the ground and make it bigger than ever. Obviously, I have a few things to iron out with it, but I wanted to check whether my efforts would be a waste of time of not first.

Please comment below if you would like me to continue producing The Times, and on the other hand, also let me know if you think I should call it a day.

If we continue with The Times, please note that from next Monday, all publications will be made from my personal account and not the "Formula One Times" account. It gets annoying juggling the two.

Sorry to mess you guys around...

Keep the Times? Stop the Press? You decide... I didn't want to make this a one-man decision...

F1 in the Spotlight: The Battle of the British Champions, Hill Vs. Hamilton

Adam Poole — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 05:57:52 -0500

"F1 In the Spotlight" is a new idea I have had. Every month, I will look at an event from F1 history and compare it with the on-goings in today's F1 world. This month, with the success of Lewis Hamilton, I feel it only correct to compare his alongside a fellow Brit.

The World Drivers Championship was last won by a British driver way back in 1996, the driver, Damon Hill, the team, Williams, the engine was of Renault origin. Let's take a quick time warp back to 1996 and have a look at the way Damon Hill won his championship...

Damon Hill: World Drivers Champion 1996

Damon Hill came into motor racing at a relatively late age. He started racing motorcycles at 23 but didn't get in a Formula One car until 1992, when he was 32 years of age.

Hill became test driver at the highly successful Williams team in 1992, but following the retirement of Nigel Mansell, he was promoted, which would see him start the 1993 season as a member of the race team, he then went on to secure his first of 22 race wins at that year's Hungarian Grand-Prix.

Hill spent four seasons with Williams and went on to win the Driver's Championship in his final season with them, in 1996.

Hill's championship-winning season wasn't what you would call "the most clean-cut" of seasons. He sported four retirements, including one at his home race at Silverstone. However, when the reliability was there, the Williams was by far the quickest car in the paddock and never qualified off the front row of the grid.

Although battling with reliability issues, Hill did go on to secure 10 podium positions, with eight of these seeing him on the top step. Hill clinched the Championship title in the final race of the season but did finish with a 19-point lead over teammate Jacques Villeneuve, who was forced to retire in the final round.

The title success in 1996 made Damon Hill the only driver to be the son of a former World Champion, the title also earned him his second BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award, making him one of only three people to receive the award twice, Nigel Mansell (1992 World Drivers' Champion) being one and Boxer Henry Cooper being the other.

Following his success in 1996, Williams and Hill parted ways and Hill moved to Arrows for the 1997 season: a team that had never won a race in its 20-year history and had only scored a single point in the previous season. Needless to say, Hill's title defence was awry, and he left Arrows at the end of the season.

Hill joined Jordan for the final two seasons of his career. Although the "yellow cars" were no serious competitor for either of the two titles, Hill did manage to secure his first points of the season in style as he crossed the line in first on a rain-soaked Belgian track.

The final year of Hill's racing career was nothing to speak of; he suffered man problems with the car and couldn't get to grips with the new four-groove tyres that had been introduced at the start of the 1999 season. Damon's final race finished drastically, as he spun off the track in Japan and then continued on to drive his Jordan into the pits and retired a perfectly healthy car.

Lewis Hamilton: World Drivers Champion 2008

Unlike Damon Hill, Lewis started his Formula One career at the relatively early age of 22. However, just like Hill had done 11 years previous, Hamilton started his career with one of the top teams in the sport, Vodafone McLaren Mercedes.

Hamilton's first season in F1 was one that ended in heartbreak, as his title hopes got shut down as his gearbox failed for 32s in the Championship decider of Brazil 2007. Although the season ended poorly for Hamilton, he did show signs of World Championship quality and gave Britain a lot of hope in a season that included 12 podium finishes including four top-step appearances.

Also, in similar circumstances to Hill, Lewis didn't have the most clean-cut of seasons on the road to the title, with a retirement in Canada and finishes of 10th or lower in three races, including the Grand-Prix at Bahrain, France, and Japan.

The 2008 season couldn't have started better for the young Brit, as he finished first in Australia. After his win, things turned sour for a couple races when he finished fifth in Malaysia, after long battles with Mark Webber and Jarno Trulli and a penalty in qualifying for impeding Nick Heidfeld saw him start the race in ninth.

Bahrain, the third race of the season, saw things get even worse for Hamilton, as an accident in practice saw him on a spare chassis and an accident involving Fernando Alonso saw him finish 13th.

Spain, Turkey, and Monaco saw him visit all three steps on the podium finishing third, second, and first, respectively.

Canada was another dull moment for the Stevenage-born driver, as he crashed into the back of Kimi Raikkonen as the Finn was waiting for the red light to go green at the end of the pit lane, Hamilton was forced to retire for only the second time in his career and Hamilton suffered a 10-place grid drop for the next race in France.

Hamilton managed to win the race at a rain-soaked Silverstone, something he described as "a dream come true." He was elated at winning his home Grand-Prix after only managing third in the previous season.

Hamilton went on to win the Grand-Prix at Germany and later, China. Bad judgement and driver error in Japan saw the soon-to-be World Champion finish the race in 12th.

Hamilton licked his wounds and went on to win the next Grand-Prix in China by a healthy 15 seconds over his only Championship rival, Ferrari's Felipe Massa.

Lewis went into the final race of the season with a seven point lead over Massa, a race at Massa's home circuit of Brazil. Massa went on to win the race from pole, which meant that Hamilton had to finish the race no lower than fifth position.

In a nail-biting final three laps, Hamilton was passed by Sebastian Vettel, which saw the Brit back in sixth, but a poor decision by Toyota and Timo Glock saw the German on dry tyres on a wet track and on the final lap, Glock's lap time had dropped by 15s, allowing Vettel and Hamilton (both on wet Bridgestones) to pass him, allowing Hamilton to go on and claim the championship.

Hamilton is now in a multi-million pound contract that will see him with McLaren until the end of 2012; however, Lewis has stated he would like to spend the remainder of his F1 career with the Woking-based team.

In Closing...

Both drivers had a rocky road on the way to their respective Championships, but if we compare the race results of Damon Hill and Lewis Hamilton, there couldn't be two Championship winning seasons with so many differences.

As mentioned above, Damon Hill retired four times, Lewis Hamilton, just the once. Race wins, Damon Hill managed to stand on the top-step of the podium eight times, Lewis Hamilton only managed it five times. Lewis Hamilton finished the 2008 Bahrain Grand-Prix in 13th, the French Grand-Prix in 10th, and the Japanese Grand-Prix in 12th, whereas Damon Hill didn't finish below fifth throughout the entire 1996 season.

So although both drivers are British and both are World Champions, their road to the title couldn't have been more different.

If you enjoyed this, let me know, so I can start researching for the next installment.

Biomimicry in Formula One: Driving For a Greener Future

Adam Poole — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 21:42:20 -0500

What? I hear you cry! Well, I first had this concept dumped on me by our community leader, Saraswathi Sirigina, a few weeks back, and refrained from writing anything until I had read into what Biomimcry actually was. I will now attempt to explain, not only what it is, but how F1 could use it to possibly make the sport a little "greener."

Some of you may remember an article I wrote with some eye-popping statistics relating to the fuel consumption in F1 cars as opposed to a standard family saloon. As I mentioned in this article, I'm not a "naturalist" nor indeed am I a member of any "save the World" organisations.

It is just that this sort of thing really does fascinate me.To put this simply, I have the same concept as British comedian Jimmy Carr when he explains, “I drive everywhere at twice the speed to get there quicker” and spend less time in a car.

So, what is biomimicry?

Simply put, it is using aspects of nature and designing products using a similar chemical buildup or design. For example, engineers have found a way of keeping buildings cool, simply by studying how termites build their mounds.

The scientists, engineers, and product designers promoting this idea call themselves “bioneers,” and their growing field is dubbed “biomimicry,” which literally means, “to imitate life.” It is all about sustainability. Who said we have to completely reinvent the wheel when all it needs is a small adjustment to make it eco-friendly?

How do we implement this into F1?

Well, I have racked my brain over this matter for a while and have come up with a few ways biomimicry could be implemented into a sport that is widely renowned as the "most technical sport in the World."

Hopefully, by the end of this article, you might have a few ideas of your own. Please, don't get me wrong, some of the ideas in this article could be far too advanced to bring into the sport. I'm not a scientist, I'm just inquisitive.

F1 Tyres: What could we do?

Astonishingly, in the UK, over 48 million tyres were scrapped in 2004, and around a quarter of these were dumped in a landfill. However, since July 2006, used whole or shredded tyres can no longer be sent to landfills across England and Wales. As a result, more tyres will have to be recycled or reused.

Realistically, what are tyres used for in F1? Gripping the track. Without grip, the car wouldn't move and certainly wouldn't be able to corner. To implement Biomimicry into tyres is quite simple on paper.

All you have to do is think of an animal that can walk upside down or on vertical surfaces. In this idea, I am going to use a spider: those creepy crawling things that most women scream at.

The spider creates a web that is a very sticky substance, this allows the spider to catch its prey, but also allows it to travel around, from a high platform to a lower platform, for example.

To implement this into F1 tyres, scientists and tyre manufacturers would have to find the chemical make-up of the web and mass produce this product. Then they would find a way for it to be solidified and shaped.

The only downside to this would be, there would have to be some sort of heat resistant substance added. Those of you, like me, who have ever set light to a spider's web will know, it burns quickly!

Now please don’t get me wrong. I am not stating that we should now start building tyres from spider webs. I am simply suggesting that if we could find the chemical make-up of the web, produce a durable product from it, we could add this into the mould when producing tyres thus reducing the amount of rubber used, resulting in a lesser impact on the environment.

Fuel: The big problem?

Now, I’m not about to start suggesting that we should run F1 cars on electric and use solar power to produce the electricity.

I’m going to try and find a “proper” way of dealing with the fuel problem, or attempt to just make the fuel that F1 use a little more eco-friendly.

Although there are some differences between ordinary fuel (gasoline) that we put in our own cars, and the fuel they use in F1, the basic make-up is exactly the same.

Formula One fuel can only contain compounds that are found in commercial gasoline, in contrast to alcohol-based fuels used in American open-wheel racing. Blends are tuned for maximum performance in given weather conditions or different circuits.

As for fuel in F1, what about using refined Vegetable oil? Vegetable oil can be used as feedstock for an oil refinery. There it can be transformed into fuel by hydro-cracking (which breaks big molecules into smaller ones using hydrogen) or hydrogenation (which adds hydrogen to molecules).

These methods can produce gasoline, diesel, and propane. Now obviously, the refining would have to be done in such a way that the density of the fuel remains to its current standards to allow performance to continue.

An alternative to Vegetable oil refinery is Ethanol fuel. Ethanol fuel is ethanol (ethyl alcohol), the same type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages.

It can be used as a fuel, mainly as a bio-fuel alternative to gasoline, and is already widely used to power cars in Brazil. It is easy to manufacture and the product can be made from very common crops such as sugar cane and corn. This is a renewable resource.

Although these ideas would work in practice, it would take a lot of research and redesign to come up with something that would work as well as the current fuel used, but it would work. There is no doubt about that.

Braking: Is it a Problem?

Believe it or not, even braking in F1 damages the environment, from the heat created when in use, to the disposal of the carbon to carbon disks. I’m going to concentrate on the heat generated during breaking, which ultimately wears the disks down and results in new disks being used, thus resulting in the disposal of the brakes.

The Australian Western Red Kangaroo lives in the Western desert of Australia, one of the hottest places on earth. The way the “roo” keeps cool in the blazing heat is a simple, yet very effective method. When the Kangaroo gets too hot, it covers itself in its own saliva (spit) which allows it to keep cool, even at midday when the heat is at its peak.

To use this in F1, Scientists would have to find the chemical make-up of the saliva and integrate it into the carbon disks so that the disks could cool themselves down, thus reducing the heat and improving the lifetime of the disks.

This would result in fewer disks having to be disposed of and would also reduce the amount having to be produced in fuel-consuming factories.

Again, this is not a tried and tested idea; it is simply an idea of using nature to inspire eco-friendly manufacture and usage of non-renewable products: biomimicry.

In conclusion

There are ways nature can assist us in cutting down on the amount of waste we produce and the amount of non-renewable energy that we use. The above mentioned suggestions are just the tip of the iceberg and may not work.

However, something along the lines of the procedures above may work, and with people looking at new ways to “go green,” surely it is about time that something was done to reduce the overall effect that Formula One has on the planet.

F1 is an amazing sport to watch and if we all knew, in the back of our minds, that it was also eco-friendly, maybe we could enjoy the sport even more than we do already.

For the final time, I am going to say, I’m not a scientist, I don’t know if the ideas above would work, but hopefully, the article has got some of you thinking and if that is the case, then the article has been a success.

Hopefully, if I have written an article that is worth reading then I am a happy bunny.

Thoughts anyone?

Formula One Times: 7th November - BREAKING NEWS: Force India Split from Ferrari

Adam Poole — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 23:23:45 -0500

BREAKING NEWS: Force India Split from Ferrari

Force India have confirmed that they won't be in partnership with Ferrari from 2009. Ferrari has agreed an early termination of it's contract with the team. Force India is now expected to seal a deal with Mercedes for the 2009 season, at least.

“The Force India Formula One Team today announces that it has ended its contract with Ferrari,” read a team statement.

"The agreement signed in 2007 also provided for a supply of engines in 2009, but will now terminate ahead of schedule at the request of Force India.

“Force India wishes to thank Ferrari for its much appreciated and valued support to date, which has always been carried out at the highest level; technically and professionally and within an excellent relationship,” the statement said.

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Right, this is the last time that The Formula One Times is to be set in this format. We are starting our new format on Monday under the screen name of "The Formula One Times." We'd like to suggest that you add The Formula One Times to your fans so that you don't miss our daily news.

Bernie Ecclestone Called to Resign after Hamilton Comments

Bernie Ecclestone has hit out after the reaction to his recent comments involving Lewis Hamilton that were received as jokes rather than examples of "real" racism.

The F1 boss' comments to BBC Radio 5 Live were immediately rejected by Hamilton. The comments suggested the abuse suffered by Lewis was a "joke." Ecclestone was quoted as saying "I don't think it was anything to do with racism. There were a few people in Spain and that was probably beginning as a joke rather than anything abusive."

These comments sparked outrage in Great Britain, including from anti-racism campaigner and former Chelsea defender, Paul Elliot, who believes the 78-year-old Ecclestone "should resign" as a result.

The billionaire businessman responded "I was the one who pulled the grand prix out of South Africa (after 1985) in support of Nelson Mandela because of bloody apartheid, before these people knew anything about racism."

Since the outrage, Bernie has recoiled and described the racists as "cowards" and said that the racist website, which has now been closed, was "disgusting."

"We won't put up with that in Formula One," Ecclestone told British newspaper, The Mirror. "They are cowards. They are nothing, they are nobodies."

The FIA did not want to wallow on the latest act of racism, explaining that the sport's governing body "has consistently made its position clear" on the issue of racism.

Lewis Hamilton: I don't see Racism as a Joke

We are all aware that Lewis Hamilton has had a rough time with it when it comes to racism, with racist attacks during last year's on-track practice in Spain and in more recent times, online.

Earlier in the week, F1 boss, Bernie Ecclestone, released a statement saying "I think that’s all nonsense. In Spain, people were supporting [Fernando] Alonso, and in Sao Paulo they were supporting Felipe [Massa]. I don’t think it is anything to do with racism," on BBC Radio 5 live.

Talking to Reuters, Hamilton was quoted to say, "I don't particularly look at it as a joke. It's something that's happened but it's in the past and you've got to look forward."

NASCAR is Missing the F1 Factor

Just moments after winning the Dickies 500 at Texas Motor Speedway last Sunday, Carl Edwards mentioned how "cool" it was to see Lewis Hamilton win the Formula One championship on the final lap at Brazil.

Edwards has hopes of pulling off a similar feat in the Chase for the Sprint Cup. However, this looks unlikely with only two races left and Jimmie Johnson leading by 106 points. NASCAR is urging for Edwards to at least make a race of it. Blowouts aren't good for television ratings or attendance.

Formula One hasn't had that problem the last few seasons. Championships have come down to the very end, even without a playoff format. When asked how he felt about this, F1 boss, Bernie Ecclestone told ITV "It makes it a bit more exciting."

Honda to Test di Grassi, Barichello Still Doesn't have a Drive

Lucas di Grassi, GP2 star and current Renault test driver, is the second youngest driver to be handed a testing opportunity by Honda Racing later this month as the Brackley squad considers its options for next season.

Honda announced earlier in the week that Bruno Senna, nephew of the late Ayrton Senna, would be testing at the Circuit de Catalunya. Now, it seems that he will be joined by di Grassi.

Meanwhile, nothing has been confirmed with Rubens Barrichello. Rubens still hasn't had a seat confirmed at Honda; it is looking more and more likely that he will not be racing next season. If anything changes, we will of course report this.

F1 Fans to be Shocked by 2009 Cars

Alfonso Martinez, head of the Spanish arm of the technology consulting firm Altran, a company working on Renault's 2009 car, said there are to be "shocking" changes made to F1 cars over the winter.

Next year's changes will include slick tyres and KERS and will see flip-ups and winglets become a thing of the past. The cars are also set to have a larger front wing and a taller, but smaller, rear wing.

Speaking about the impact of the new bodywork rules, Martinez told the Spanish sports daily Marca "The shock is going to be tremendous when these cars are seen."

The aim of the changes, amongst other things, is to encourage overtaking. But, Martinez is not sure the changes will have the desired effect, "There continues to be a lot of dirty air in the (car's) wake, although less than before."

Wings for Life Support

We have received the "go ahead" to support the Wings for Life charity from B/R's Managing Editor, Ryan Alberti, but must await for the "all clear" from Zander, Bleacher's Community Director.

Wings of Life have been informed and as long as everything goes smoothly over the next few days, we should be able to support the charity by the middle of next week.

Special Thanks

A special thanks go to the readers of "The Times," on behalf of Paul Heffernan and myself. We hope you will join us in our new format from Monday. As I said, we'd like to suggest that you add The Formula One Times to your fans to keep up with all the goings on in the F1 World.

Weekend Times

The Formula One Times is a Monday-Friday piece, so we won't be with you over this weekend as we prepare to kick-off the new style Times, however, if something BIG happens we will bring you story in a "BREAKING NEWS" article so always keep your eye's open for them.

See you Monday!

Formula One Times: 6th November: Change in F1 Timetable and F1 in the Air?

Adam Poole — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 23:15:04 -0500

Welcome to the penultimate F1 times of this format. From Monday, the F1 Times will see a makeover and a growth spurt. From Monday, the F1 times will see four authors combine to make one "super-times." Make sure you check this out from Monday; you won't want to miss it!

F1 in the Air from 2010

A slightly different approach to F1 will see a leg of the Red Bull Air Race fly high over Singapore on a "track in the sky."

Race organizers, currently in talks with Singapore tourism officials, said the prospect of Singapore hosting one round of the eight-leg world championships "looks very promising."

Mr. Stefan Lehrmayer, director of international relations and acquisitions at the Austrian-based organizer Red Bull Air Race GmbH, told The Straits Times "We are looking for a perfect backdrop to frame the race, as well as ensuring that planes fly safely."

F1 Time Table sees some Major Changes

Over the last 48 hours, the FIA has made changes to the F1 Calendar for 2009. The Chinese race will now be on April 19th—the third round of next season. The revised 2009 calendar looks like this.

March 29   Australia
April 5    Malaysia
April 19   China
April 26   Bahrain
May   10   Spain
May   24   Monaco
June 7    Turkey
June 21   Great Britain
July 12 Germany
July 26   Hungary
Aug. 23   Europe (Valencia)
Aug. 30   Belgium
Sept. 13   Italy
Sept. 27   Singapore
Oct. 4   Japan
Oct. 18 Brazil
Nov. 1   Abu Dhabi

Thanks to ITV for the calendar.

Ham-Majesty Sends Her Regards

Lewis Hamilton, the 2008 Drivers Champion, has received special recognition in the form of a telegram from Queen Elizabeth II. The message was passed to Lewis when he returned to McLaren's technology in Woking on Wednesday. The telegram read as follows.

"I am delighted that you have succeeded in winning the Formula 1 world championship to become the youngest ever champion. I send you my warmest congratulations on your remarkable and historic achievement."

Along with the telegram from the Queen, a crowd of 1,000 McLaren employees were in Woking to welcome the Champion back home. In an exclusive interview with McLaren, Hamilton joked about receiving an extension to his holiday and for a pay rise for everyone at McLaren.

Hamilton Wedding Rumors

There are some rumors doing the rounds at the moment regarding Lewis Hamilton and his girlfriend, Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger. The couple, who have been dating since last year, were spotted out and Nicole was wearing an expensive looking ring on her engagement finger. The Formula One times can reveal that the rumors are just that—rumors.

Besides the ring, other indications of wedding bells came after Scherzinger, 30, released a video on YouTube congratulating her man in which she said "I'm so excited. I feel like I'm on top of the world right now. Why? Because I want to congratulate my boyfriend Lewis Hamilton for being the official Formula One World Champion."

"Congratulations baby, I love you, I love you, I love you."

FIA to Make Decisions "More Transparent."

From next season, any decisions made by race stewards will be backed up with video footage and an explanation as to what influenced their decision.

The FIA have made this move after several complaints of un-fair treatment over the 2008 season. The 2009 season will see video footage that influenced the officials' decision but was not broadcast on television published on the FIA and FOM sites.

Stirling Moss: "Hamilton's Win is Great for F1"

British racing legend, Sir Stirling Moss, believes Lewis Hamilton's World Championship win will help to change the face of Formula 1 and will help bring a new audience to the sport.

"Frankly, he's a racer and what color he is doesn't really matter," Moss told BBC Radio Five Live. "He drove to win the thing, he's an exciting man to watch, and I think he's a tremendous ambassador for our sport. He does bring a whole new thing to the sport."

Finally a Note from "Times HQ"

I am currently in talks with the "big dogs" at B/R about launching a campaign for the "Wings for Life" charity, as seen on David Coulthard's car at Brazil.

If all goes well and the campaign is approved, future editions of the "Formula One Times" will feature a graphical link which will allow readers to donate to the charity that supports people with Spinal Cord injuries. Many people involved in F1 support this charity including David Coulthard, Max Mosely, and Gerhard Berger.

Formula One Times: 5th November UPDATE- ALONSO AT RENAULT & DENNIS TO STEP DOWN

Adam Poole — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 22:08:52 -0500

UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE

BREAKING NEWS: Alonso & Piquet to Stay at Renault

Renault have just announced that two-time World Champion, Fernando Alonso, and current team-mate, Nelson Piquet Jr will stay at Renault for the 2009 season.

"We are happy to confirm both Fernando and Nelson for next season," said team boss Flavio Briatore. "This gives the ING Renault F1 Team one of the most exciting driver pairings with the perfect blend of youth and experience.

Alonso has been secured for a further two seasons whilst Piquet has secured a one year extension, with a possible extra year at the end of 2009.

Alonso told the media, "I have decided to stay with the ING Renault F1 team because, as I have often repeated this season, they have always been my first choice and I feel very happy and comfortable with them."

Piquet was happy with the news and said, "Although I have had a tough year, I have learned a lot from my rookie season and I will aim to put that experience to good use next season," he said. "I want to thank the team for their support this year and for the trust they have shown in me for the future."

UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE

Ron Dennis to Change Role Within McLaren

Lewis Hamiltons mentor and McLaren team boss, Ron Dennis, has suggested that his role within Formula 1 will change from next season.

"My role will broaden in some aspects and reduce in others," the team principal told a press conference in Brazil. "I have believed passionately in the need for a Grand Prix team to diversify and it is not by accident that McLaren is a group of companies, we do intend to try to match the success of Ferrari and to do that we cannot just be a Grand Prix team."

Fans are urged not be concerned that Hamilton will be disadvantaged by the absence of Dennis from the pit-wall from next season as the McLaren boss has groomed his likely successor, Martin Whitmarsh- Martin has long had a comfortable relationship with Hamilton. On top of that, Dennis is much too fond of Formula One to wish to spend any lengthy period of time away from it.

UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE - UPDATE

Formula One Wants to Return Races to North America by 2010

The FIA are in discussions about taking F1 back across the pond by 2010 after the race was dropped from the 2009 calendar.

The 2009 Canadian Grand Prix was removed after a contractual dispute between even organizers and the FIA. An event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway dropped off this year's calendar after eight years.

Speaking to the media, Honda CEO, Nick Fry, believes that this would be a positive step forward, "It's a vital market not only for the car manufacturers but also for many of the sponsors, A quick return to North America would be positive for Formula One.''

Could the sudden rush to get an American Grand-Prix back on the calendar be down to the fact that the FIA have managed to lose us two races from the 2009 season, Canada and France. Panic setting in Mr. Mosely?

The final word is that the event would be held "near one of the country's biggest cities."

Anthony Hamilton: Racist Taunts Hurt

The Father of Lewis Hamilton has admitted that racial taunts towards his son really do hurt and at one point forced him to reconsider whether they should continue in the sport.

“I am Lewis’s dad and my first duty is to be protective of my family,” he told the Daily Mail . “Sometimes you wonder whether it is worth staying in Formula One, even when it has been your dream for so long. When people behave as they do by talking against Lewis it hurts, and nobody wants that for people they love and care about.”

The World Drivers Champion has received many racial attacks this year after his heated feuds with Spaniard, Fernando Alonso. The attacks started in testing, back in February when a group of Spaniards started hurling racial abuse towards Hamilton at the Circuit de Catalunya . My article explains more.

BMW to Reveal New Car on January 20th

BMW have today confirmed that they will track test their 2009 car for the first time in Valencia on January 20. BMW have stated that they believe that the new car will allow them to put in a full-blown challenge for the World Championship next year, and even be ahead of Ferrari and McLaren at the start of the season.

Reports on the teams Official Website state, “The roll-out of the BMW Sauber F1.09 has been scheduled for 20th January at Valencia. Afterwards, we will conduct three further tests before the 2009 season kicks off in Melbourne on 29th March—some weeks later than was the case in recent years."

When asked how the car would line up against the big dogs, Ferrari and McLaren, the BMW spokesperson said, “The challenges are big but we will stick to our ambitious goal: in 2009, we want to be one of the teams battling it out for the title.”

Montezemolo: Formula One Needs a New Points System

Ferrari boss, Luca di Montezemolo, has told the Italian press that he believes that the sport needs a new points system, and should he ever take charge, it would be the first thing he would change.

The bitter Italian told La Stampa, " Massa won six races (in 2008), Hamilton five, but the Englishman is the champion." This comment comes despite an official statement in which he says that Hamilton's title win was "well deserved."

Under pre-2003 scoring system, Massa would have claimed the title. In 2002 and before, Grand-Prix winners received 10 points compared with six points for second. Today, the winner's margin is just two points.

Bourdais Keeps him "Fingers Crossed" for Second Season in F1

Sebastien Bourdais has said this week that he will keep his "fingers crossed" that he can extend his contract for a further year—an extension that would see the Frenchman with Toro Rosso throughout 2009.

"You could conclude that it was a bad season; indeed, if I were to start again, instead of seeking a radical solution to my problems, I would concentrate on smaller things," Bourdais said. "I hope to know more very soon and have my fingers crossed for good news. I really want to continue."

Lead Pussycat Declares Her Love for Lewis

Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger, the girlfriend of Lewis Hamilton, has publicly declared her love for the champion. The couple who started dating late on in the 2007 season, have had a lot to celebrate over the last year- the "Dolls" have released a chart topping album, "Doll Domination," and of course the title win by Hamilton.

The 30-year-old singer joined the Hamilton family in Sao Paulo for the Brazilian Grand Prix to watch her "toy boy" clinch the World Championship title. As a gesture of thanks for his girlfriend's support, Lewis has stated that he will join the Pussycat Dolls on their upcoming tour.

On a personal note, "get in there Lew' she's hot."

Ecclestone: Give Lewis the Recognition he Deserves

F1 boss, Bernie Ecclestone, has claimed that the Drivers Champion is still battling accusations of being arrogant- something that Michael Shumacher also fought on his way to his seven World-titles.

"Lewis has achieved an awful lot and it would be bloody difficult for any of us to be the same as him," said the F1 supremo. "I think he comes over as a bit over-confident but don't forget they said the same about Michael. He has to be careful what he says and how he presents himself, otherwise there are no fears."

Ecclestone has stated that he believes Lewis could attract a new audience to the already growing fan-base of Formula One and calls this the "Tiger Woods effect," after Tiger almost doubled the audience of professional golf.

As I say, keep an eye out for the announcement from Renault today as they reveal whether Fernando Alonso will be with them next year. But, for now, I just wanted to say a massive congratulations to Barack Obama on his Presidential success—this from a UK citizen.

Timo Glock Not a Good Spokesman for Toyota (Humor)

Adam Poole — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 02:07:00 -0500

Toyota has expressed their concern over driver Timo Glock. The German driver struggled with the final lap of the Brazilian Grand Prix after not pitting to change tires as the rain started to fall. As a result, Lewis Hamilton was able to pass Glock on the final corner, earning himself the World Drivers Championship 2008.

Since the incident, Toyota has toyed with ideas of changing their advertising slogan. The latest idea is below believed to air on November 5th in Britain. The Brazilian advert will differ slightly.

Lewis Hamilton was only too happy to endorse the product. Timo, on the other hand, stated "Well I was passed by three or four cars on the last lap."

Image design Copyrighted 2008, Adam Poole. All company logos are copyrighted to their respective owners.

Formula One Times: 4th November...Irvine: Hamilton Should Drive For Ferrari

Adam Poole — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 23:10:39 -0500

A massive thanks to those of you that supported me yesterday as Formula One Times saw a change of hands for a short time. I appreciate all your feedback and hope you will continue to instruct me on ways I can improve F1 Times until Paul returns.

BREAKING NEWS: Irvine Urges Ferrari switch for Hamilton

Eddie Irvine, the runner-up of the 1999 World Championship, has urged Lewis Hamilton to consider a move to Ferrari at some point in the future.

The retired 42-year-old drove for the British-based Jordan team in 1995 and then accepted an offer to be Michael Schumacher's teammate over with Ferrari

"He may win a couple more (titles) with McLaren and he's loyal to Ron Dennis but he's got to move to Ferrari at some point," Irvine told Virgin Media. "Having been there, I've seen what it's like and it's a different situation to being with any other team."

In the wake of his first World Championship title, experts are predicting that the Swiss resident may have doubled his salary for the 2009 season.

Record Audience for Hamilon's Title Win

A peak of 13.1 million people tuned in to see Lewis Hamilton claim the Championship title on Sunday. British ITV, who will hand over to the BBC next year, reported the record-breaking figure yesterday.

ITV gave-up the rights to show F1 in the UK this year after twelve years of service to the sport. The only pro for this move, in my opinion, is that there will be no commercial breaks from next season.

Hamilton: Number One Will Be the Coolest Thing Ever

In addition to winning the title, there is another status that will be bestowed upon Hamilton next season: something he has long craved. “I have to admit it feels great, and I don’t have to have number 22 on my car any more," said Hamilton. “I can have number one, and that’s the coolest thing ever.”

“Every now and then there is this thought that keeps popping into my mind, ‘Wow! You’re World Champion’,” smiled Hamilton.

Toro Rosso Still an Option for Senna

Despite confirming yesterday that he will be testing for Honda for 2009, Bruno Senna has admitted that has not closed the door completely on Scuderia Toro Rosso. Indeed, Brazilian newspaper Fohla has reported that Toro Rosso, co-owned by Gerhard Berger, a former teammate of Senna's late uncle, has offered the 25-year old a contract worth $14 million.

"The possibilities [of being in F1] are healthy and solid, although much will rest on the outcome of the tests," Senna admitted, "For now, nothing is signed, and a lot will depend on external factors which will affect the decisions that we will have to take."

Hat-Trick Hamilton Can Drive Dream Car

Lewis Hamilton revealed yesterday that he has a bet on with team boss, Ron Dennis, that will see him drive a Limited Edition McLaren F1 LM road car if he can bag three World Championships with the Woking-based team.

There was only ever 64 McLaren F1's produced, and five of these are limited edition, with Hamilton just two Championships off securing the number one of the five—currently inside the Woking office of McLaren.

Hamilton told British newspaper, The Sun, "Every time I walk past it, I gaze at it. It's probably the most expensive, the most beautiful car in the whole world—and that's the one I want."

Kimi Raikkonen: 2008 is Behind Me. Next Season is a Different Story

Kimi Raikkonen has vowed that next year will not be a repeat of this year. The Finn who has had a dismal season has vowed to come out fighting in 2009 as he now faces the dual threat of new champion Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari team-mate Felipe Massa. Raikkonen, admitted that 2008 had not been the best of title defences, but also insisted that everyone would start with a clean slate next March.

"I lost [the championship] this year, so well done to Hamilton, he deserves it in the end," the Finn said, "He got the most points from this year, so I don't feel bad."

Schumacher: Hamilton Win was Fate.

Seven-time World Champion, Michael Schumacher, has stated that Hamilton winning the title on Sunday was fate, but warned that Massa will be hot on his tail again next season.

Speaking on his Official website, Schumacher said, "I have never seen anything like this, not as a racer and not as a spectator—you can probably only say it was fate. What a finale. But Felipe can leave that race with his head up. He will for sure attack again next year."

Keep your eyes peeled over the next 24-hours as we will reveal whether Fernando Alonso will be keeping his seat at Renault, or whether the Spaniard has signed with another team. We expect this news late on tonight!

Formula One Times: 3rd November...Drivers' Championship Aftermath

Adam Poole — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 01:12:49 -0500

A temporary change in author for the Formula One Times today as regular, Paul Heffernan, takes a short vacation from Bleacher and leaves me, Adam Poole, in charge of his baby.

Brazil Championship: The Way it was Won

In what can only be described as the most exciting and emotional Grand-Prix of the 2008 season, millions watched as Lewis Hamilton went on to become the youngest ever World Drivers Championship as Felipe Massa's hopes were killed.

The Championship wasn't won until the final corner of the race when Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton passed P4 man, Timo Glock, putting Hamilton into the crucial fifth place he needed to win the title.

Glock was the only one of the front-runners not to pit when it started raining within the last seven laps of the race, the Toyota struggled with traction, but with a 15 second lead over Vettel and Hamilton, Massa thought he was home and dry with Hamilton languishing down in sixth, one place below where he needed to finish to take the title back to Stevenage.

Amid rumours that Glock slowed to allow Hamilton to get past, and ultimately win the Driver's Championship, the Toyota driver told the media, “I was fighting as hard as I could but it was so difficult to just keep the car on the track and I lost positions right at the end of the lap."

"They both [Hamilton and Massa] did a really great job all year and in the end it was a dramatic finale. I think it's exactly what the fans want to see—maybe the Brazilian fans are not on my side any more but I tried my best and drove my race, and in the end I can't change it," the German continued on to say.

Championship Aftermath

Lewis Hamilton and the McLaren team are reported to have left the Interlagos circuit under police protection.

The whole team were booked to stay in a Sao Paulo hotel for the final night of the race weekend, but due to concerns over security following the Brit's championship win, it is believed that the whole team, including mechanics and technicians, were flown out of town for the night before expecting to fly back to London in the early hours of Tuesday morning.

No Ride for Fernando Announced

It was believed that Renault would announce the extension of Fernando Alonso's contract yesterday—the contract would see the Spaniard at Renault for a further year. However, amid all the fuss over the Drivers Championship win, no such announcement was made.

Alonso, who finished yesterday's race in second after fighting hard all the way through, has been reported by Spanish media to have already signed the contract and is just waiting for the right moment to announce it. It is also reported that Fernando signed the contract after the "failure of an approach" by BMW. Alonso has also stated that there was "no chance" he would be joining Ferrari for 2009.

Senna Name Back in F1

Honda have officially announced that Ayrton Senna's nephew, Bruno, will have a place as their test driver for the 2009 season next week. It was believed that Senna was also in talks with Toro Rosso, the team co-owned by his late uncle Ayrton Senna's former McLaren teammate Gerhard Berger, but Senna seemed to be in favor of the Honda option.

Team Principal Ross Brawn told the press, "We are delighted to provide Bruno with the opportunity to test for us later this month as we continue to explore all the driver options available to us for next season."

Barrichello Has No Drive for 2009

Rubens Barrichello looks set to have a long wait before he finds out if Honda require him for next season. Honda have confirmed plans to evaluate Bruno Senna for the second race seat next year after taking the late Ayrton Senna's nephew on as their test driver.

It is reported that Rubens will have to wait until the end of the month before any decisions are made. Nick Fry, Honda Racing Team Principal, has said, "I think it is important that we bring some fresh blood into F1. There are some good guys out there and we want to try them out."

Dennis Not Going Anywhere

Many have said that McLaren CEO, Ron Dennis, would step down now that McLaren have their first World Championship since 1999, but the 61-year-old denies these claims and insists he isn't making any decisions regarding retirement.

In the wake of last year's Spy Scandal it was believed that Dennis would cede his Woking-based outfit to Cheif Executive, Martin Whitmarsh, as soon as the team secured one more championship. Speaking to the media, Dennis said, "I love Formula One. I've not given any thought to anything other than winning a World Championship." It is now believed that Dennis will stay with McLaren through a further two years at least.

A Final Mention to Felipe Massa

In the wake of the first British Champion since 1996, many will have forgotten Felipe Massa. The Brazilian did everything he had to do on Sunday, he won the race and right at the last second, he lost the Driver's Championship.

Massa, although obviously upset, managed to deal with this like a real gentleman and in a very sportsman-like manner. All due respect to Massa for the decorum and spirit he showed, and more respect for his driving this year—he never let Hamilton get away!

Formula One Times...Author Mix-Up?!

At this moment in time, it is unclear when Paul Heffernan will return to writing the "Times," but in the mean time, anything that you think I can add to the articles, please post as a note on my profile. Also, if you believe I can make something better, again, let me know.

For now...Ciao!

Lewis Hamilton Secures Championship in Final Corner Bid: Full Report

Adam Poole — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 08:17:30 -0500

Lewis Hamilton has today become the youngest ever World Drivers Champion in a nail-biting final corner pass. Massa had all but won the championship when Hamilton caught and passed a struggling Timo Glock in the final corner of the Brazilian Grand-Prix.

At 23 years, 10 months and 26 days old, Lewis Hamilton has become the youngest ever champion in an emotion-filled final race of the 2008 season.

It looked as though all hopes were lost with just three laps remaining as Sebastian Vettel caught and passed Lewis Hamilton to take fifth place, the lowest that Hamilton could finish in to win the title.

However, with a wet finish to the race and Timo Glock the only one of the front runners to stay on "Dry" Bridgestones, Hamilton managed to catch and pass Glock in the final turn of Interlagos and secure his championship spot—one that comes in his second year of Formula One racing.

Please join me now as I attempt to break down the race...

The initial start time of the Grand-Prix was delayed by 10 minutes as it started to pour with rain in Sao Paulo, last minute changes to tyres as all teams deciding on the Intermediate rubber for the start.

The race is go, go, go but into turn one retiring driver, David Coulthard was spun by Rosberg and he took Piquet off the track with him as the pair hit the pit wall, as a result the safety car is deployed, sadly, David Coulthard's 15 year career is over in a cloud of spray.

Lap five and the safety car pulls into the pits and we are once again racing in Brazil, a heated tussle between Kovalainen and Alonso sees the Finn pass the Spaniard, but the Renault driver retakes the place after forcing Heikki wide into turn three.

As we head into lap eight of the 71 lap race, Massa leads from Trulli, Raikkonen is third but is catching the front two. We see Nico Rosberg pit on this lap, he opts for the harder dry tyres with a slight wing adjustment, the rain stopped only three laps ago, good move or bad move?

Lap nine see's a flurry of pits in the forms of Bourdais, Glock, Sutil, and Nakajima all of these drivers opting to take the dry rubber, and as lap nine comes to a close the top five runner are yet to change their tires and are still running on intermediate wet Bridgestones.

It's another two laps before we see race leader, Felipe Massa, go through the pit lane speed limiter followed by Kovalainen and Nick Heidfeld, all of these change to the dry tires and take on around twenty laps of fuel. Hamilton takes a short 7.5s stop and gets some hard dry rubber.

Lap thirteen and Hamilton manages to pass Trulli in a superb move into turn one, Trulli almost loses his car into the pit wall and as a result, Bourdais and team mate, Timo Glock manage to pass him aswell.

Sebastian Vettel heads into lap 16 less than a second behind race leader, Felipe Massa, he isn't giving the Ferrari any room for error and as we hit turn one on lap eighteen Hamilton manages to edge just one place closer to Massa as he passes Fisichella and takes fourth position with Massa leading, Vettel second, and Raikkonen around six seconds ahead.

A tussle between Jarno Trulli and Sebastian Bourdais into turn one leaves the Frenchman off the track, Trulli just didn't leave him anywhere to go—to be honest, one that the stewards should be looking into.

Vettel is on fire and takes Massa's lead down to just 0.6s as we head into lap 22 and Glock is closing on Hamilton, who seems to be struggling with pace, or is he just fueled heavy?

After an impressive start from Kovalainen, with the lengthy pit after a right-rear tire didn't want to come off, we see him take P9 from Heidfeld—nowhere near good enough for McLaren to challenge Ferrari for the constructors title.

As we head into lap 28, Kovalainen takes eighth place from Trulli and coming down the start/finish straight the McLaren is clearly quicker than the Force India car and he darts past Fisichella to take seventh.

An unexpected early stop from Sebastian Vettel sees Spaniard, Fernando Alonso challenging Massa for the top-spot—but can the Renault match the Ferrari on this circuit, times show that he is matching but not managing to be quicker at this point.

Glock pits on lap thirty-seven, a long stop suggests that he is fuelled until the end and he rejoins the circuit behind Rosberg and takes 14th place.

Massa makes his second stop of the afternoon on lap 38 and Alonso takes the lead. A 9.4s stop from the Brazilian championship contender will just about see him to the end as far as fuel is concerned, you must remember that in the early stint of the race that the cars aren't pushing as hard because of the wet circuit, this cuts fuel consumption down as they were lapping at around six seconds a lap slower than they would on a dry track.

Lap fourty see's race leader, Fernando Alonso, pit and we see McLaren ready in the lane ready to welcome Hamilton just a lap later—an 8.9s stop suggests he may go to the end as well. The championship leader rejoins the race in sixth with two of the front runners still to pit, Kovalainen and Raikkonen.

A busy pit lane as we head into 43. Rosberg, Kovalainen, Heidfeld, and Raikkonen all take to the garages and all look to fuel until the end of the race, around the nine second mark—a clean stop from all.

Lap 50 and Hamilton hits some traffic, Fisichella moves out of the way and as he does not only does Hamilton get past, but Robert Kubica puts in a sly move to take position.

Second place man, Sebastian Vettel goes in for what we believe is his final pit of the session on lap 52, all the front-runners are now fueled to the end of the race, and now the championship comes down to driver skill and the pace of the car.

From lap 54 and Vettel is closing in quickly on Hamilton, surely Hamilton won't bother fighting with the Toro Rosso, he doesn't need too, he will still be in fifth and will still secure the championship even if the German does go past.

The first indications of more rain hit the drivers eardrums on lap 58, just what the front-runners, especially Hamilton, didn't want to hear. This just adds more pressure onto the 23 year old McLaren Driver's shoulders.

Rain is inevitable as drivers are warned to pit as soon as they feel rain on their visors, the call Hamilton didn't want to hear has come, and it has bought Sebastian Vettel with it- right up the McLarens engine.

On lap 64, just seven laps from the end and the rain comes, it starts of light but as we head into lap 65, the pit lane begins to get busy as Fisichella pits followed by Heidfeld, Barrichello and Rosberg.

The front runners don't show any sign of changing their tires until the rain really starts to come down and on laps 67, with just four laps remaining, second place man, Fernando Alonso, and third place man, Kimi Raikkonen take to the pits to once again put on some Intermediate Bridgestones.

Hamilton, now madly defending against Vettel gives in also, and is followed down the pit lane by the 21 year old German.

Just a lap later and race leader, Felipe Massa, gets a change of rubber to finish the race with a very quick change and Massa heads back onto the track still in P1, surely he has won the race now?

Crucially, both Toyota's haven't stopped and with Glock as a front-runner could this prove crucial? Can Glock keep his Toyota between the white lines and avoid the walls?

As we get just three laps from the end, Hamilton is still in fifth, and the title is almost his, all Massa can do at this moment is hope that some kind of technical failure falls onto Hamilton's MP4-23 or he makes a mistake.

On lap 69, Vettel shows Hamilton that he isn't there to help him as he passes the Brit, Hamilton has to take this place back otherwise his Championship is gone—his heart must be racing faster than his McLaren at the moment. The move happened as Robert Kubica slowed the McLaren driver to un-lap himself—he is entitled to do this if his BMW is riding quicker.

As we head into the final lap, Massa is currently going to be crowned champion, Lewis cannot win the championship in sixth position, a count-back of finishing positions throughout the season indicates both drivers have finished first the same amount of times, but Massa has finished second on more occasions.

Massa crosses the line in first, Ferrari believe they have the championship and start celebrating as they know Hamilton is in sixth, Fernando Alonso crosses the line in second, Hamilton must pass a slowing Glock before the line to win the title!

The final corner is upon the 23 year old Stevenage-born driver and he can see the gearbox of Glock. The Toyota spins a little as it fights for traction, Vettel and Hamilton pass the German, Hamilton is in fifth. They cross the line and Hamilton becomes the 2008 World Driver's Champion. Britain gets its first Champion in 12 years.

Massa, well, his world has just come tumbling down on top of him, if Glock's Toyota had held on for another eight seconds, he would have been Champion.

Hamilton becomes the youngest ever Formula One World Drivers Champion, Ferrari take the Constructor's Championship and I have no nails left!

Post Race Reation: Lewis Hamilton

Speaking on the topic of his Championship win, Hamilton said, "I don’t think it has hit home yet, I just had the most intense race of my life and my heart is still racing, I’m just so thankful for the opportunity the team gave me. Huge respect to McLaren and Mercedes-Benz for giving me a wonderful opportunity, for everyone involved with Vodafone McLaren Mercedes and my family who came here and supported me and people back home as well, without them I wouldn’t be doing this.

"Felipe did an amazing job today, congratulations for his win and for challenging me all year but it’s great to be on top."

When asked how he felt on the final few laps Hamilton told the press, "My heart was about to explode, just like yours. I don’t know how I kept my cool and I was very fortunate especially on the last lap and you know, this has been my dream."

The final few corners of the race were extremely dramatic, and Lewis looked to be struggling with pace.

"I had a problem with my tyres, they were beginning to grain, there was nothing I could do, I was just trying to keep my car on the track. My heart was in my mouth and I was trying to get back in front of him. Fortunately, there was the opportunity to get back in front of Glock and I did what I had to do. We came, we saw and we did what we needed to do. "

"Just before I got to him [Glock], they said you have to get past Glock. I was trying my hardest to get to Vettel but he was just as quick as me—if not quicker. It was one of the toughest races of my life—if not the toughest. "

Describing his feeling when he crossed the finish line, Hamilton said, "I didn’t know [I'd got the championship], I was shouting—‘do I have it? do I have it?’ As I came into turn one they told me—I was ecstatic, just ecstatic. "

In a final word before Lewis had to sit down and try to take in what had happened, the 2008 WDC thanked his team and explained what it was like to be the Champion, "I am speechless, I am struggling to say anything. I’m just thankful and proud of the team and everyone around me. I am so thankful I could return the favour. It is the dream, this is the dream. This is the dream for other kids and other families. Thank you. "

Final Standings at the End of the Brazilian Grand-Prix

1. MASSA Ferrari

2. ALONSO Renault +13.2s

3. RAIKKONEN Ferrari +16.2s

4. VETTEL Toro Rosso +38.0s

5. HAMILTON McLaren +38.9s

6. GLOCK Toyota +44.3s

7. KOVALAINEN McLaren +55.0s

8. TRULLI Toyota +68.4s

9. WEBBER Red Bull +79.6s

10. HEIDFELD BMW +1 lap

11. KUBICA BMW + 1 lap

12. ROSBERG Williams + 1 lap

13. BUTTON Honda + 1 lap

14. BOURDAIS Toro Rosso +1 lap

15. BARRICHELLO Honda +1 lap

16. SUTIL Force India +2 laps

17. NAKAJIMA Williams +2 laps

18. FISICHELLA Force India +2 laps

R. PIQUET Renault +71 laps

R. COULTHARD Red Bull +71 laps

Final Standings, thanks to ITV