Following this morning's news that Honda will pull out from Formula One with immediate effect and put its operation at its Brackley headquarters up for sale, the Formula One Teams' Association (FOTA) is hoping that the team will be purchased as soon as possible in order to prevent grid sizes falling below the current level of 20 cars.
"The Chairman of FOTA, Luca di Montezemolo, has been informed by the Top Management of the Honda Racing F1 Team of the decision to retire from the FIA Formula One Championship in 2009," read a short statement issued by FOTA.
"FOTA wishes that the technologically advanced expertise of the Team based in Brackley is not dispersed and that the sporting challenge is resumed soon.
"Chairman Montezemolo, interpreting the feeling of all FOTA Members, expressed his greatest appreciation for the professional and human qualities of Ross Brawn, Honda Team Principal, and Nick Fry, Honda Racing F1 Team CEO."
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Honda statement in full
To the shock of the Formula One world, Honda today announced its immediate exit from F1, ending its short stint in the sport as a constructor since its takeover of BAR in 2006. At 14.30 Tokyo time (04.30 GMT), Honda CEO Takeo Fukui made the following statement.
"We, Honda Motor Co., Ltd., have come to the conclusion that we will withdraw from all Formula One activities, making 2008 the last season of participation.
"This difficult decision has been made in light of the quickly deteriorating operating environment facing the global auto industry, brought on by the sub-prime problem in the United States, the deepening credit crisis and the sudden contraction of the world economies.
"Honda must protect its core business activities and secure the long term as widespread uncertainties in the economies around the globe continue to mount. A recovery is expected to take some time.
"Under these circumstances, Honda has taken swift and flexible measures to counter this sudden and expansive weakening of the marketplace in all business areas. However, in recognition of the need to optimize the allocation of management resources, including investment regarding the future, we have decided to withdraw from Formula One participation. We will enter into consultation with the associates of Honda Racing F1 Team and its engine supplier Honda Racing Development regarding the future of the two companies. This will include offering the team for sale.
"In its third era of Formula One activities, Honda has been participating in Formula One races from the 2000 season, initially with BAR, by adopting a new format of jointly developing racing machines.
"Subsequently, in a move to meet the changing environment surrounding Formula One, we switched to running a 100 percent Honda-owned team commencing with the 2006 season.
"Surmounting many challenges, the Honda Team achieved a Grand Prix victory in 2006, enabling Honda to receive overwhelming support from Honda fans around the world that were looking forward to greater success. It, therefore, has been an extremely difficult decision for us to come to this conclusion without having been able to fully meet the expectations of our fans.
"By making the best of what we have learned during these times of economic turmoil, coupled with the spirit of challenge gained through active participation in racing, we intend to continue with our commitment in meeting new challenges.
"Finally, we would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank our fans and all those who have supported Honda's Formula One efforts, including everyone in the world of Formula One.
"Thank you very much."
Takeo Fukui
President and CEO
Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
"We, Honda Motor Co., Ltd., have come to the conclusion that we will withdraw from all Formula One activities, making 2008 the last season of participation.
"This difficult decision has been made in light of the quickly deteriorating operating environment facing the global auto industry, brought on by the sub-prime problem in the United States, the deepening credit crisis and the sudden contraction of the world economies.
"Honda must protect its core business activities and secure the long term as widespread uncertainties in the economies around the globe continue to mount. A recovery is expected to take some time.
"Under these circumstances, Honda has taken swift and flexible measures to counter this sudden and expansive weakening of the marketplace in all business areas. However, in recognition of the need to optimize the allocation of management resources, including investment regarding the future, we have decided to withdraw from Formula One participation. We will enter into consultation with the associates of Honda Racing F1 Team and its engine supplier Honda Racing Development regarding the future of the two companies. This will include offering the team for sale.
"In its third era of Formula One activities, Honda has been participating in Formula One races from the 2000 season, initially with BAR, by adopting a new format of jointly developing racing machines.
"Subsequently, in a move to meet the changing environment surrounding Formula One, we switched to running a 100 percent Honda-owned team commencing with the 2006 season.
"Surmounting many challenges, the Honda Team achieved a Grand Prix victory in 2006, enabling Honda to receive overwhelming support from Honda fans around the world that were looking forward to greater success. It, therefore, has been an extremely difficult decision for us to come to this conclusion without having been able to fully meet the expectations of our fans.
"By making the best of what we have learned during these times of economic turmoil, coupled with the spirit of challenge gained through active participation in racing, we intend to continue with our commitment in meeting new challenges.
"Finally, we would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank our fans and all those who have supported Honda's Formula One efforts, including everyone in the world of Formula One.
"Thank you very much."
Takeo Fukui
President and CEO
Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Honda confirm immediate F1 exit
As expected, at 13.30 Tokyo time today (04.30 GMT), Honda confirmed its immediate withdrawal from Formula One, as it looks to safeguard its long-term future amid the global economic downturn.
Although Honda will take no further part in Formula One, the team will continue to be funded until March 2009, giving the team three months to find a buyer. Should a buyer not be found, the team will be shut down.
"We, Honda Motor Co., Ltd., have come to the conclusion that we will withdraw from all Formula One activities, making 2008 the last season of participation," said Honda's CEO Takeo Fukui. "This difficult decision has been made in light of the quickly deteriorating operating environment facing the global auto industry, brought on by the sub-prime problem in the United States, the deepening credit crisis and the sudden contraction of the world economies."
This morning's news has put further pressure on teams and the governing body to drastically cut costs and rubberstamp the future of the sport, amid fears that the grid could drop to 18 cars, should a buyer not be found for the Honda team.
"Honda must protect its core business activities and secure the long term as widespread uncertainties in the economies around the globe continue to mount. A recovery is expected to take some time.
"Under these circumstances, Honda has taken swift and flexible measures to counter this sudden and expansive weakening of the marketplace in all business areas. However, in recognition of the need to optimize the allocation of management resources, including investment regarding the future, we have decided to withdraw from Formula One participation. We will enter into consultation with the associates of Honda Racing F1 Team and its engine supplier Honda Racing Development regarding the future of the two companies. This will include offering the team for sale.
"Finally, we would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank our fans and all those who have supported Honda's Formula One efforts, including everyone in the world of Formula One."
Although Honda will take no further part in Formula One, the team will continue to be funded until March 2009, giving the team three months to find a buyer. Should a buyer not be found, the team will be shut down.
"We, Honda Motor Co., Ltd., have come to the conclusion that we will withdraw from all Formula One activities, making 2008 the last season of participation," said Honda's CEO Takeo Fukui. "This difficult decision has been made in light of the quickly deteriorating operating environment facing the global auto industry, brought on by the sub-prime problem in the United States, the deepening credit crisis and the sudden contraction of the world economies."
This morning's news has put further pressure on teams and the governing body to drastically cut costs and rubberstamp the future of the sport, amid fears that the grid could drop to 18 cars, should a buyer not be found for the Honda team.
"Honda must protect its core business activities and secure the long term as widespread uncertainties in the economies around the globe continue to mount. A recovery is expected to take some time.
"Under these circumstances, Honda has taken swift and flexible measures to counter this sudden and expansive weakening of the marketplace in all business areas. However, in recognition of the need to optimize the allocation of management resources, including investment regarding the future, we have decided to withdraw from Formula One participation. We will enter into consultation with the associates of Honda Racing F1 Team and its engine supplier Honda Racing Development regarding the future of the two companies. This will include offering the team for sale.
"Finally, we would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank our fans and all those who have supported Honda's Formula One efforts, including everyone in the world of Formula One."
Toyota confirms F1 commitment
Following the shock decision by Honda to pull the plug on its F1 operations today, Toyota have moved to return the sport to a state of calm, amid speculation that more large-scale car manufacturers could follow Honda out of the sport. In a brief statement issued this afternoon, Toyota confirmed its commitment to the sport, having joined as a complete constructor in 2002.
"Toyota is currently committed to succeeding in Formula 1 and to reducing our costs," read the statement. "We are contributing to the FOTA [Formula One Teams' Association] activities which will achieve significant cost reductions whilst maintaining the spirit of the sport."
Various cost-cutting talks have been taking place over the last few days, weeks and months in an attempt to bring the cost of competing in the sport down to a sustainable level, with those talks set to intensify to find a viable solution before the sport is threatened by further pull-outs.
"[We hope FOTA's proposals and activities will be given the widespread support they deserve as they provide the sound, stable base Formula 1 requires at this time," concluded Toyota.
"Toyota is currently committed to succeeding in Formula 1 and to reducing our costs," read the statement. "We are contributing to the FOTA [Formula One Teams' Association] activities which will achieve significant cost reductions whilst maintaining the spirit of the sport."
Various cost-cutting talks have been taking place over the last few days, weeks and months in an attempt to bring the cost of competing in the sport down to a sustainable level, with those talks set to intensify to find a viable solution before the sport is threatened by further pull-outs.
"[We hope FOTA's proposals and activities will be given the widespread support they deserve as they provide the sound, stable base Formula 1 requires at this time," concluded Toyota.
FIA confirm Cosworth as standard engine supplier
The FIA today confirmed that Cosworth has won the single engine supply deal, with the governing body now in exclusive discussions with the independent manufacturer along with Xtrac and Ricardo Transmissions (XR) to supply a complete powertrain to teams from 2010. FIA President Max Mosley confirmed the news to the Formula One Teams' Association in a letter today, just hours after Honda confirmed its immediate withdrawal from the sport.
With a pricetag of just £5.49m (€6.42m) per season, along with an initial payment of £1.68m (€1.97m), the standard engine would be significantly cheaper to independent teams than F1 manufacturers currently charge.
However, under these latest proposals, the FIA is offering the standard engine as an alternative to independent teams, while giving manufacturers the opportunity to continue building their own specification engine, albeit with performance parameters brought in line with the standard unit. Regardless of the teams' options to use a Cosworth-built of self-built unit, all teams will use the standard transmission, as designed and built by XR.
"We have completed the tendering process and are now in exclusive negotiations with Cosworth together with Xtrac and Ricardo Transmissions (XR) to supply a complete Formula One power train starting in 2010," said Mosley in his letter to FOTA and the Team Principals. "The engine will be a current Formula One engine while the transmission will be state-of-the-art Formula One and a joint effort by two companies which already supply transmissions to most of the grid."
The above prices are based on at least four teams taking up the option of the standard engine, meaning the current engine manufacturers will end up supplying only their works teams.
The FIA is also looking to push ahead with its cost-cutting plans, including the standardisation of chassis components, changing the race weekend format to reduce costs and restrictions on R&D. The target for the FIA is to reduce costs to enable teams fund their running on the money received from the commercial rights holder, the FOM, bar the cost of powertrain, drivers and marketing.
Teams intending to use the standard engine F1 engine from 2010 have until close of business on Thursday 11 December to notify the FIA of their plans. Should four teams not sign up to the Cosworth offer, the FIA may still proceed with their plans.
With a pricetag of just £5.49m (€6.42m) per season, along with an initial payment of £1.68m (€1.97m), the standard engine would be significantly cheaper to independent teams than F1 manufacturers currently charge.
However, under these latest proposals, the FIA is offering the standard engine as an alternative to independent teams, while giving manufacturers the opportunity to continue building their own specification engine, albeit with performance parameters brought in line with the standard unit. Regardless of the teams' options to use a Cosworth-built of self-built unit, all teams will use the standard transmission, as designed and built by XR.
"We have completed the tendering process and are now in exclusive negotiations with Cosworth together with Xtrac and Ricardo Transmissions (XR) to supply a complete Formula One power train starting in 2010," said Mosley in his letter to FOTA and the Team Principals. "The engine will be a current Formula One engine while the transmission will be state-of-the-art Formula One and a joint effort by two companies which already supply transmissions to most of the grid."
The above prices are based on at least four teams taking up the option of the standard engine, meaning the current engine manufacturers will end up supplying only their works teams.
The FIA is also looking to push ahead with its cost-cutting plans, including the standardisation of chassis components, changing the race weekend format to reduce costs and restrictions on R&D. The target for the FIA is to reduce costs to enable teams fund their running on the money received from the commercial rights holder, the FOM, bar the cost of powertrain, drivers and marketing.
Teams intending to use the standard engine F1 engine from 2010 have until close of business on Thursday 11 December to notify the FIA of their plans. Should four teams not sign up to the Cosworth offer, the FIA may still proceed with their plans.
Sato secures third Toro Rosso test
Takuma Sato has been recalled for a third Toro Rosso test, his management confirmed on Thursday morning. Having already tested for Toro Rosso in September and October of this year, the Japanese driver will take to the cockpit of the STR3 for two days at the upcoming Jerez test, reigniting his chances for a role within the team next season.
"We obviously see this as a positive step but still nothing is decided for the 2009 racing season," said a short statement.
Teams will test in Jerez from Tuesday 9 December, to Thursday, with Sato due to take to the cockpit on Wednesday and Thursday. Sato is one of five drivers who are reportedly in the frame for a race seat at the team in 2009, with Sébastien Buemi and Sébastien Bourdais being two other strong candidates.
"We obviously see this as a positive step but still nothing is decided for the 2009 racing season," said a short statement.
Teams will test in Jerez from Tuesday 9 December, to Thursday, with Sato due to take to the cockpit on Wednesday and Thursday. Sato is one of five drivers who are reportedly in the frame for a race seat at the team in 2009, with Sébastien Buemi and Sébastien Bourdais being two other strong candidates.
Kovalainen slams McLaren for heavy fuel loads
Heikki Kovalainen believes McLaren's approach to the 2008 season cost him race wins. We reported recently that the Finn, 27, was seeking winter talks with the British team's bosses, after he usually went into the decisive 'Q3' phase of qualifying with a higher fuel load than his teammate Lewis Hamilton.
Now, in a candid interview with the Swiss publication Motorsport Aktuell, Kovalainen has confirmed that some behind-the-scenes goings-on during his first season with McLaren often made "good results impossible". "Only once was I lighter [on fuel] than Lewis," said Kovalainen, referring to qualifying, "and that was at Silverstone, where I was on the pole. In all the other qualifyings I was fuelled more heavily. I was often the heaviest guy in the top six or seven. Obviously this has an effect also in the race," he insisted, pointing out the compromise in track position, tyre wear, and time lost in traffic.
When rumours began gathering pace that Kovalainen's seemingly lacklustre performances this year might threaten his seat for 2009, the Finn said he had no doubt about his position. "The team knew exactly what was taking place," he said. "If I had been at the front more often, then I would have won more frequently. So that's something we have to look at for the coming year," Kovalainen said.
Now, in a candid interview with the Swiss publication Motorsport Aktuell, Kovalainen has confirmed that some behind-the-scenes goings-on during his first season with McLaren often made "good results impossible". "Only once was I lighter [on fuel] than Lewis," said Kovalainen, referring to qualifying, "and that was at Silverstone, where I was on the pole. In all the other qualifyings I was fuelled more heavily. I was often the heaviest guy in the top six or seven. Obviously this has an effect also in the race," he insisted, pointing out the compromise in track position, tyre wear, and time lost in traffic.
When rumours began gathering pace that Kovalainen's seemingly lacklustre performances this year might threaten his seat for 2009, the Finn said he had no doubt about his position. "The team knew exactly what was taking place," he said. "If I had been at the front more often, then I would have won more frequently. So that's something we have to look at for the coming year," Kovalainen said.
Ferrari contract would be a dream - Vettel
Sebastian Vettel has admitted racing in formula one with Ferrari would be "a dream". The German driver, who won September's Italian grand prix from pole, was among the standouts of the 2008 season. After just 26 career grands prix, the 21-year-old is moving up from Toro Rosso to the main Red Bull Racing team in 2009.
Asked by the Spanish newspaper El Pais if he would rather become world champion or achieve a Ferrari contract, he answered: "Be world champion. But, being realistic, you can't do that unless you are in one of the best cars, and Ferrari has shown that it knows how to make them. Of course, it would be a dream to race one of them," Vettel said.
Vettel is known for being among the friendliest competitors in the paddock. But he laughed to El Pais: "If you want to find a good friend in the paddock, bring your dog."
Asked by the Spanish newspaper El Pais if he would rather become world champion or achieve a Ferrari contract, he answered: "Be world champion. But, being realistic, you can't do that unless you are in one of the best cars, and Ferrari has shown that it knows how to make them. Of course, it would be a dream to race one of them," Vettel said.
Vettel is known for being among the friendliest competitors in the paddock. But he laughed to El Pais: "If you want to find a good friend in the paddock, bring your dog."
Barrichello wins Massa kart race in Brazil
Rubens Barrichello, who is fighting to remain in formula one, on Sunday won the charity 'International Challenge of Go-Kart Champs' race. The 2008 Honda driver won the event, organised by Felipe Massa in the southern city of Florianopolis, by beating Lucas di Grassi in race one and finishing the other race in fifth place.
Fellow Brazilian di Grassi, also in the running for the Honda race seat next year and having secured pole position, finished the event second overall, just a single point behind 36-year-old Barrichello. "Can we quickly send this tape to Honda?" Barrichello joked to Globo TV. He also complained about 24-year-old di Grassi's driving. "Everybody wants to win this," Barrichello said, "but we can't go around hitting other people on the track, this is a charity event."
Barrichello's former Ferrari teammate Michael Schumacher finished fourth in the first race and retired from the second. Barrichello, also critical of the German's style, said: "It seemed like Schumacher thought he was in a war. Maybe he forgot that he is in Brazil now."
12,000 spectators attended the event, also contested by F1 faces including Luca Badoer and Vitantonio Liuzzi, and former drivers Luciano Burti and Antonio Pizzonia. In the southern region of Brazil, massive flooding and mudslides have cost more than 100 people their lives. Massa, who won race two, donated 50,000 Brazilian Real ($22,000) to the cause. "I am giving 50,000 Real from my pocket, plus a signed suit to be auctioned. It's the least we can do for these people," the Ferrari driver said.
Fellow Brazilian di Grassi, also in the running for the Honda race seat next year and having secured pole position, finished the event second overall, just a single point behind 36-year-old Barrichello. "Can we quickly send this tape to Honda?" Barrichello joked to Globo TV. He also complained about 24-year-old di Grassi's driving. "Everybody wants to win this," Barrichello said, "but we can't go around hitting other people on the track, this is a charity event."
Barrichello's former Ferrari teammate Michael Schumacher finished fourth in the first race and retired from the second. Barrichello, also critical of the German's style, said: "It seemed like Schumacher thought he was in a war. Maybe he forgot that he is in Brazil now."
12,000 spectators attended the event, also contested by F1 faces including Luca Badoer and Vitantonio Liuzzi, and former drivers Luciano Burti and Antonio Pizzonia. In the southern region of Brazil, massive flooding and mudslides have cost more than 100 people their lives. Massa, who won race two, donated 50,000 Brazilian Real ($22,000) to the cause. "I am giving 50,000 Real from my pocket, plus a signed suit to be auctioned. It's the least we can do for these people," the Ferrari driver said.
LG becomes official F1 partner
LG Electronics (LG), a global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, today announced that it has signed an agreement to become a Global Partner of Formula 1™ and a Technology Partner of Formula 1™. As part of this top level association LG acquires exclusive designations and marketing rights as the official Consumer Electronics, Mobile Phone and Data Processor of Formula 1™. The multi-year agreement runs from January 2009.
"Formula One represents the absolute peak of technological innovation and style, which is also our vision for the LG Electronics brand," said Dermot Boden, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of LG Electronics. "We feel the excitement and electricity of F1 is unmatched by any sport, and we feel the same passion and energy here at LG."
"LG is a leader in its field, it pioneers cutting edge technology, delivering innovation and excellence in a stylish package, which is what Formula 1 is about too," said Bernie Ecclestone, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Formula One Group. "We have so much in common, I am very excited to begin our association and look forward to the technology solutions they can bring to us also." As the Official Data Processor of Formula 1™ LG will be identified and credited on the official live timing service at Formula One events and in the associated timing and data TV graphics. They will also enjoy a comprehensive package of premium marketing rights worldwide in association with the Formula 1™ brand.
Boden added, "In today's economic climate, all organizations need to be strategic with their expenditures. Here at LG we can think of no more important investment than our brand. After having carefully researched marketing and sponsorship opportunities, I am confident that this exciting partnership will best highlight and enhance the profiles of both global organizations over the long term."
"Formula One represents the absolute peak of technological innovation and style, which is also our vision for the LG Electronics brand," said Dermot Boden, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of LG Electronics. "We feel the excitement and electricity of F1 is unmatched by any sport, and we feel the same passion and energy here at LG."
"LG is a leader in its field, it pioneers cutting edge technology, delivering innovation and excellence in a stylish package, which is what Formula 1 is about too," said Bernie Ecclestone, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Formula One Group. "We have so much in common, I am very excited to begin our association and look forward to the technology solutions they can bring to us also." As the Official Data Processor of Formula 1™ LG will be identified and credited on the official live timing service at Formula One events and in the associated timing and data TV graphics. They will also enjoy a comprehensive package of premium marketing rights worldwide in association with the Formula 1™ brand.
Boden added, "In today's economic climate, all organizations need to be strategic with their expenditures. Here at LG we can think of no more important investment than our brand. After having carefully researched marketing and sponsorship opportunities, I am confident that this exciting partnership will best highlight and enhance the profiles of both global organizations over the long term."
Ferrari and Renault yet to test KERS
Major formula one teams Ferrari and Renault are yet to track test KERS systems, ahead of the energy-recovery technology's introduction next year. It was believed that 2008 constructors' champions Ferrari had now begun circuit trials of its system, when the F2008K development car featured a conspicuous addition to the top of its right sidepod at last week's Barcelona test. But the German magazine Auto Motor und Sport reveals that the sidepod bump concealed only ballast and a cooling mechanism for a so far absent KERS system. It is suggested that Ferrari may finally get a KERS system, developed in conjunction with Magneti Marelli, up and running at the forthcoming Jerez test.
Renault is also benefitting from the input of Magneti Marelli, a Fiat subsidiary, and will begin KERS testing in January, with the introduction of the 2009 car. The French team's engineering boss Pat Symonds said Renault never intended to build an interim car to accommodate a KERS system.
Renault is also benefitting from the input of Magneti Marelli, a Fiat subsidiary, and will begin KERS testing in January, with the introduction of the 2009 car. The French team's engineering boss Pat Symonds said Renault never intended to build an interim car to accommodate a KERS system.
Santander to switch to Ferrari for 2010
Spanish sponsor Banco Santander will move its backing from McLaren to Ferrari after the 2009 formula one season, the bank's boss Emilio Botin has confirmed. "Santander will be with Ferrari in 2010, yes," he is quoted as saying by the Spanish newspaper Diario AS.
Botin also made clear his desire to reunite the Santander logo with the car driven by Fernando Alonso, after the former double world champion left McLaren at the end of last year. "Alonso is the best driver in the world and we would like to work with him, but that's not something that depends only on us," he insisted.
Ferrari's current race drivers Felipe Massa and Kimi Räikkönen are both contracted to the Italian team for 2009 and 2010.
Botin also made clear his desire to reunite the Santander logo with the car driven by Fernando Alonso, after the former double world champion left McLaren at the end of last year. "Alonso is the best driver in the world and we would like to work with him, but that's not something that depends only on us," he insisted.
Ferrari's current race drivers Felipe Massa and Kimi Räikkönen are both contracted to the Italian team for 2009 and 2010.
BMW to do overtaking tests in Jerez
It is possible the aerodynamic rule changes for 2009 will make overtaking in formula one easier, BMW-Sauber test driver Christian Klien has said. During tests with the German team's heavily modified interim car at Barcelona this week, the Austrian revealed that he noticed the 2009-specification wings make it easier "to drive closer to the rear" of the cars in front.
"Even more important is the air turbulence made by the car in front," he is quoted as saying by motorline.cc. "This should be clearly less [in 2009] because of the smaller rear wing. But since most teams were still using 2008 aerodynamics (in Barcelona), it is still hard to say," he said.
Klien, 25, revealed that at next month's Jerez test, BMW plans to further investigate the effects of the new bodywork on overtaking by staging a mock race between the occupants of two modified F1.08 cars. He also played down his widely reported comments this week that the interim car is the ugliest he has ever seen in formula one.
"I should probably explain that a racing car does not need to be beautiful," Klien said. "If it works and it's fast, it doesn't matter at all how it looks and the driver will love it. Beauty and elegance are pretty important for a road car. In racing, only speed counts."
"Even more important is the air turbulence made by the car in front," he is quoted as saying by motorline.cc. "This should be clearly less [in 2009] because of the smaller rear wing. But since most teams were still using 2008 aerodynamics (in Barcelona), it is still hard to say," he said.
Klien, 25, revealed that at next month's Jerez test, BMW plans to further investigate the effects of the new bodywork on overtaking by staging a mock race between the occupants of two modified F1.08 cars. He also played down his widely reported comments this week that the interim car is the ugliest he has ever seen in formula one.
"I should probably explain that a racing car does not need to be beautiful," Klien said. "If it works and it's fast, it doesn't matter at all how it looks and the driver will love it. Beauty and elegance are pretty important for a road car. In racing, only speed counts."
Berger, Tost and Ascanelli to Force India?
Gerhard Berger could be set for a rapid return to formula one, mere days after it was announced he has pulled his 50 per cent share out of the Toro Rosso team. According to speculation in the German-speaking press, the 49-year-old Austrian, and his countryman and Toro Rosso team boss Franz Tost, have been linked with Force India.
Force India, led by the Indian billionaire Vijay Mallya, recently inked a wide-ranging technical partnership with McLaren-Mercedes, and ousted chiefs Colin Kolles and Mike Gascoyne. The Munich newspaper TZ said Berger, a former McLaren driver, has met several times with F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone in the past few weeks. It is suggested that Berger could bring with him from Toro Rosso, which is likely to be sold or closed down by Red Bull, the highly experienced engineer Giorgio Ascanelli.
The final rumour, meanwhile, is that Berger could become the rising German talent Sebastian Vettel's manager. The pair collaborated closely at Toro Rosso in 2008 and are said keen to remain united. Vettel has previously insisted he does not need a manager, but told TZ: "If the right person comes along, I would not say no."
Force India, led by the Indian billionaire Vijay Mallya, recently inked a wide-ranging technical partnership with McLaren-Mercedes, and ousted chiefs Colin Kolles and Mike Gascoyne. The Munich newspaper TZ said Berger, a former McLaren driver, has met several times with F1 chief executive Bernie Ecclestone in the past few weeks. It is suggested that Berger could bring with him from Toro Rosso, which is likely to be sold or closed down by Red Bull, the highly experienced engineer Giorgio Ascanelli.
The final rumour, meanwhile, is that Berger could become the rising German talent Sebastian Vettel's manager. The pair collaborated closely at Toro Rosso in 2008 and are said keen to remain united. Vettel has previously insisted he does not need a manager, but told TZ: "If the right person comes along, I would not say no."
Nakamoto leaves Honda
Shuhei Nakamoto, Ross Brawn's technical predecessor, has left the Honda F1 team. After becoming senior technical director in 2006, the 51-year-old Japanese is therefore arguably most responsible for the last two Honda single seaters, which in 2007 and 2008 finished the constructors' championship in respectively eighth and ninth positions.
Nakamoto, who lives in England, will now return to the Honda Racing Corporation as vice president, reportedly to focus on the marque's motorcycle racing operations. Initially working on Honda's motorcycle racing programme, Nakamoto joined Honda in 1983.
Nakamoto, who lives in England, will now return to the Honda Racing Corporation as vice president, reportedly to focus on the marque's motorcycle racing operations. Initially working on Honda's motorcycle racing programme, Nakamoto joined Honda in 1983.
FOTA to meet for cost-cutting talks in Geneva
Formula one team bosses have travelled to Geneva, Switzerland, for Thursday's meeting of the FOTA alliance. We previously reported that the sport's ten teams intend to discuss Bernie Ecclestone's proposed 'medals' scoring system for the first time, as well as a possible shake-up for the qualifying format.
More pressing on the agenda, however, is cost-cutting, under the threat that FIA president Max Mosley will impose draconian measures if the teams cannot themselves propose worthwhile money-saving proposals. With Mosley already threatening to proceed with engine standardisation, the pressure is on FOTA to put together a cohesive package before next week's meeting of the FIA's World Motor Sport Council.
"A lot has been defined for 2009, more is to come for 2010 and 2011 to reduce costs and improve the show. These are the leading principles," Ferrari spokesman Luca Colajanni confirmed to The Guardian newspaper.
Believed to be the most radical of the proposals for discussion is a move from 2.4 litre V8 engines for 2011 to fuel-efficient turbo 1.8 litre engines. This specification, using about 30 per cent less fuel than the current engines, could pave the way for a ban on mid-race refuelling.
More pressing on the agenda, however, is cost-cutting, under the threat that FIA president Max Mosley will impose draconian measures if the teams cannot themselves propose worthwhile money-saving proposals. With Mosley already threatening to proceed with engine standardisation, the pressure is on FOTA to put together a cohesive package before next week's meeting of the FIA's World Motor Sport Council.
"A lot has been defined for 2009, more is to come for 2010 and 2011 to reduce costs and improve the show. These are the leading principles," Ferrari spokesman Luca Colajanni confirmed to The Guardian newspaper.
Believed to be the most radical of the proposals for discussion is a move from 2.4 litre V8 engines for 2011 to fuel-efficient turbo 1.8 litre engines. This specification, using about 30 per cent less fuel than the current engines, could pave the way for a ban on mid-race refuelling.
Barcelona to re-lay paddock surface
Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya, home of premier formula one and MotoGP races, is to undergo renovations to its paddock. The works are slated to take place after both 2009 events, with the Spanish grand prix scheduled for May, and MotoGP's Catalan grand prix in mid June, according to Catalunya Radio.
Circuit boss Ramon Praderas said the bulk of the work inside the venue would be on the 40,000 square metres of asphalt otherwise known as the 'paddock'. "We are going to pull up the paddock and make it again," he confirmed, explaining that the task will take two or three months.
Praderas said it will be the first time the paddock has been re-laid, at an estimated cost of $6 million, since the circuit was constructed in 1991.
Circuit boss Ramon Praderas said the bulk of the work inside the venue would be on the 40,000 square metres of asphalt otherwise known as the 'paddock'. "We are going to pull up the paddock and make it again," he confirmed, explaining that the task will take two or three months.
Praderas said it will be the first time the paddock has been re-laid, at an estimated cost of $6 million, since the circuit was constructed in 1991.
New Renault to debut on 20 January
Renault's 2009 car, the R29, will make its test track debut on January 20, team driver Fernando Alonso said at a sponsor event on Tuesday. He also declared at the Madrid charity event, organised by Renault title sponsor ING for UNICEF, that he is scheduled to drive the 2008 car with slick tyres at Jerez on December 10.
Alonso pointed out that the January car, to feature a KERS system for the first time, will be very different to the final configuration that will be taken to Melbourne in late March. "The later you get the car ready, the better," he told reporters. "In fact, the car we will unveil on January 20 will have nothing to do with the car that arrives in the first race."
Alonso pointed out that the January car, to feature a KERS system for the first time, will be very different to the final configuration that will be taken to Melbourne in late March. "The later you get the car ready, the better," he told reporters. "In fact, the car we will unveil on January 20 will have nothing to do with the car that arrives in the first race."
2008 Title Contenders: Robert Kubica
In the second series of our 2008 season review, we take a look back at the 18 rounds from the perspective of the four title contenders - Lewis Hamilton, Felipe Massa, Kimi Räikkönen and Robert Kubica, recounting their steps and looking at where the title was won and lost. The first such driver who's season we look back on is BMW Sauber's Robert Kubica, who ultimately finished fourth in the championship table.
It's difficult to believe that 2008 was only Robert Kubica's second full year in the sport, such has his impact been. It's even more difficult to believe that the Polish driver was in with a fighting chance of winning the drivers' title up until the penultimate round of the season, despite having won just a single race. Over the course of the season however, his consistency was second to none. While Hamilton, Massa and Räikkönen were all falling off the road and dropping points regularly, Kubica's string of strong points finishes kept him in the fight.
After a dreadfully poor pre-season with the F1.08 reliability-wise, few people expected a strong or reliable BMW package for the first race of the season, however, the doubters were to be proved wrong, with both Kubica and Heidfeld performing strongly. Things started off well for Kubica, with him securing his first front-row in second place, albeit with a lighter fuel load. However, his chances of a points finish were robbed when Kazuki Nakajima punted him up the race as the safety car was about to pull in.
However, he made up for his disappointment in spades over the course of the summer, starting off with a strong second place in Malaysia behind Räikkönen. Pole position and third place was the reward from Bahrain, while fourth place in Spain elevated him to fourth in the championship. Another fourth in Turkey and an impressive second place at Monaco saw Robert head to Canada with just six points between him and the championship lead.
But, it was at the Canadian Grand Prix that Kubica's championship challenge would ultimately begin to turn. At the beginning of the season BMW Sauber had set the ambitious goal of winning their first race in 2008, and with the third fastest car in the field, all they needed was for circumstances to fall their way. Those circumstances fell perfectly for them in Canada. Second place on the grid got the ball rolling for Kubica on Saturday, before an out-of-control Lewis Hamilton took out Kubica's main race rivals only 18 laps into the race.
However, even with Hamilton and Räikkönen by the wayside, the race was far from over. Emerging in tenth after his first stop, Kubica found himself behind slower traffic, and losing time to the one-stoppers ahead. Once clear of slower traffic, Kubica put together an impressive qualifying-style stint, which saw him build a sufficient gap to team-mate Heidfeld to emerge comfortably ahead, leading home the first ever BMW 1-2 finish, and their first win. With those ahead of him in the championship failing to score decent points, Kubica jumped into the lead, and seemingly in with a shout of claiming the crown.
Unfortunately for him though, with BMW's goal of a race victory now secured, focus at the team's Hinwil factory switched to the 2009 season, and its raft of aerodynamic regulation changes. In hindsight, with both a drivers' and constructors' championship at stake, the decision could have robbed the team of additional glory.
In France, Kubica battled through a tough race to claim another four points in fifth, before recording his second retirement of the year when he spun off in the torrential rain at Silverstone, robbing him of the chance to retake the championship lead. In both Germany and Hungary, the BMW again failed to perform with Kubica scooping just three more points.
Once back on form in Valencia however, Kubica again showed his strength, and was only beaten to the flag by Massa and Hamilton, finishing on the podium for the fifth time. Sixth place in Belgium was to be followed by another podium finish in Italy, coming from eighth in the opening stages to third at the end. In Singapore two weeks later, circumstances that fell so nicely for him in Canada in June seemed to turn against him, as he was forced to pit under the safety car and incur a 10-second stop-go penalty. Thanks to that, a probable sixth place disappeared, and he took the flag in 11th, now a full 20 points behind the championship leader.
Although things took a turn for the better in Japan, where Kubica led the first stint of the race, before dropping behind Alonso where he stayed to take second, it proved to be a false dawn. At the final two races in China and Brazil, Kubica suffered a loss of grip in his BMW in qualifying, meaning he qualified outside the top ten on both occasions. A valiant drive to sixth in China wasn't enough to keep him in the championship hunt. Things went further downhill for him in Brazil, when eleventh place meant he slipped behind Kimi Räikkönen in the standings, dropping him to fourth place, 23 points behind world champion Lewis Hamilton.
Since breaking into the sport in 2006, few people have dared to question Kubica's talent, and after performing so strongly yet again this year, it's only a matter of time before he becomes world champion. With BMW having invested time and resources in their 2009 project since mid-2008, Kubica's maiden title glory may be sooner than expected, but should BMW not deliver, there will be no dearth of teams knocking on Kubica's door, Ferrari included.
It's difficult to believe that 2008 was only Robert Kubica's second full year in the sport, such has his impact been. It's even more difficult to believe that the Polish driver was in with a fighting chance of winning the drivers' title up until the penultimate round of the season, despite having won just a single race. Over the course of the season however, his consistency was second to none. While Hamilton, Massa and Räikkönen were all falling off the road and dropping points regularly, Kubica's string of strong points finishes kept him in the fight.
After a dreadfully poor pre-season with the F1.08 reliability-wise, few people expected a strong or reliable BMW package for the first race of the season, however, the doubters were to be proved wrong, with both Kubica and Heidfeld performing strongly. Things started off well for Kubica, with him securing his first front-row in second place, albeit with a lighter fuel load. However, his chances of a points finish were robbed when Kazuki Nakajima punted him up the race as the safety car was about to pull in.
However, he made up for his disappointment in spades over the course of the summer, starting off with a strong second place in Malaysia behind Räikkönen. Pole position and third place was the reward from Bahrain, while fourth place in Spain elevated him to fourth in the championship. Another fourth in Turkey and an impressive second place at Monaco saw Robert head to Canada with just six points between him and the championship lead.
But, it was at the Canadian Grand Prix that Kubica's championship challenge would ultimately begin to turn. At the beginning of the season BMW Sauber had set the ambitious goal of winning their first race in 2008, and with the third fastest car in the field, all they needed was for circumstances to fall their way. Those circumstances fell perfectly for them in Canada. Second place on the grid got the ball rolling for Kubica on Saturday, before an out-of-control Lewis Hamilton took out Kubica's main race rivals only 18 laps into the race.
However, even with Hamilton and Räikkönen by the wayside, the race was far from over. Emerging in tenth after his first stop, Kubica found himself behind slower traffic, and losing time to the one-stoppers ahead. Once clear of slower traffic, Kubica put together an impressive qualifying-style stint, which saw him build a sufficient gap to team-mate Heidfeld to emerge comfortably ahead, leading home the first ever BMW 1-2 finish, and their first win. With those ahead of him in the championship failing to score decent points, Kubica jumped into the lead, and seemingly in with a shout of claiming the crown.
Unfortunately for him though, with BMW's goal of a race victory now secured, focus at the team's Hinwil factory switched to the 2009 season, and its raft of aerodynamic regulation changes. In hindsight, with both a drivers' and constructors' championship at stake, the decision could have robbed the team of additional glory.
In France, Kubica battled through a tough race to claim another four points in fifth, before recording his second retirement of the year when he spun off in the torrential rain at Silverstone, robbing him of the chance to retake the championship lead. In both Germany and Hungary, the BMW again failed to perform with Kubica scooping just three more points.
Once back on form in Valencia however, Kubica again showed his strength, and was only beaten to the flag by Massa and Hamilton, finishing on the podium for the fifth time. Sixth place in Belgium was to be followed by another podium finish in Italy, coming from eighth in the opening stages to third at the end. In Singapore two weeks later, circumstances that fell so nicely for him in Canada in June seemed to turn against him, as he was forced to pit under the safety car and incur a 10-second stop-go penalty. Thanks to that, a probable sixth place disappeared, and he took the flag in 11th, now a full 20 points behind the championship leader.
Although things took a turn for the better in Japan, where Kubica led the first stint of the race, before dropping behind Alonso where he stayed to take second, it proved to be a false dawn. At the final two races in China and Brazil, Kubica suffered a loss of grip in his BMW in qualifying, meaning he qualified outside the top ten on both occasions. A valiant drive to sixth in China wasn't enough to keep him in the championship hunt. Things went further downhill for him in Brazil, when eleventh place meant he slipped behind Kimi Räikkönen in the standings, dropping him to fourth place, 23 points behind world champion Lewis Hamilton.
Since breaking into the sport in 2006, few people have dared to question Kubica's talent, and after performing so strongly yet again this year, it's only a matter of time before he becomes world champion. With BMW having invested time and resources in their 2009 project since mid-2008, Kubica's maiden title glory may be sooner than expected, but should BMW not deliver, there will be no dearth of teams knocking on Kubica's door, Ferrari included.
McLaren to launch MP4-24 on 16 Jan
McLaren will launch its 2009 car on 16 January, the British formula one team has confirmed. Wearing the number 1 for 2008 world champion Lewis Hamilton, the Mercedes-powered single seater is to be designated MP4-24. The launch will take place at McLaren's Technology Centre in Woking (UK).
Briatore wouldn't sign Rossi for F1
Renault boss Flavio Briatore says he would not offer Valentino Rossi a formula one race seat. "I would not give him a car," fellow Italian Briatore confirmed to the newspaper Il Riformista.
Rossi, 29, flirted seriously with a switch from MotoGP to F1 with Ferrari a few years ago. Recently, after another Ferrari test to celebrate his latest title, he left the door open to racing in formula one after he retires from motorcycles, perhaps in 2011.
Briatore said: "He belongs to the world of bikes. There, he is without an equal, and some say that without him MotoGP would not be half of what it is." Briatore, however, confessed that Rossi's flamboyant personality would be "very good" for formula one. "He appeals to everyone, as a rock star does."
Rossi, 29, flirted seriously with a switch from MotoGP to F1 with Ferrari a few years ago. Recently, after another Ferrari test to celebrate his latest title, he left the door open to racing in formula one after he retires from motorcycles, perhaps in 2011.
Briatore said: "He belongs to the world of bikes. There, he is without an equal, and some say that without him MotoGP would not be half of what it is." Briatore, however, confessed that Rossi's flamboyant personality would be "very good" for formula one. "He appeals to everyone, as a rock star does."
McLaren drivers prepare for winter training
Engineers from the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes are busily preparing for the 2009 season in Woking, Brixworth and Stuttgart. Meanwhile, the test team has been readying two cars for December outings to Jerez, Spain, and the new Autodromo Internacional do Algarve circuit in Portugal.
Elsewhere, Lewis Hamilton, Heikki Kovalainen, Pedro de la Rosa and Gary Paffett are preparing for an outing of a different kind; limbering up for a five-day pre-season training camp at the Kuortane Sports Institute in western Finland.
The human performance partner of Vodafone McLaren Mercedes, Kourtane has helped train some of the world's top athletes, including Finland's Olympic hopefuls, for more than 40 years. The training camp also acts as a useful team-building exercise, with mechanics and engineers joining the drivers for group exercises and tests at the Kuortane campus.
Lewis Hamilton:
"Travelling to Finland for our winter training camp is one of the best weeks of the year for me; it feels like you're miles from anywhere and totally cut off from the outside world. It allows me to focus solely on my training, which is great.
"It's certainly not an easy week: Finland in the winter is cold and icy and we're pushed hard for day after day. We spend the first part of the week doing tests to monitor our core strength and flexibility and spend the rest of the time building on specific exercises that will help us once we're back in the car.
"After Brazil, it's good to get a proper rest because it's the one time of the year when you can relax your training a little. But Finland is when it all starts again in earnest. Brazil already seems a long time ago and I'm now focusing 100 per cent on 2009. I had my seat-fitting at MTC earlier this month and while the plan at the moment is to start testing in January, I'm really keen to get going.
"After Finland, I'm looking forward to a couple of big events in the UK. I'll be attending the Autosport Awards, the Race of Champions and the BBC Sports Personality of the Year event. They're all fantastic events and they give me a lot of energy because I get to spend time with some of my peers in a relaxed environment and also to meet the British fans, who are always fantastic.
"Before Christmas, I plan to take a holiday and return fresh and positive to kickstart our winter test programme with the MP4-24. I've already had a close look at the new car and the engineers have explained the philosophy behind it and just how different things will be next year.
"I've been watching testing with a lot of interest, I think the new cars will make next year's championship wide open and I'm really looking forward to tackling the new regulations."
Heikki Kovalainen:
"The end of the season is a very important time for me; it's the best time of the year to properly rest and recharge before everything begins again. That's why it's so important for your fitness. It's vital to start the year with very good core fitness because it's difficult to train as much as you'd like during the season. That means the basic fitness level you reach over the winter is what keeps you going for much of the year.
"That's why our training camp in Seinajoki is so important: it's just for the team and there are no distractions. It's a hard schedule; up early, and training all day - often outside in the cold - but it's always fun. Of course, it helps that it's in my home country of Finland, which makes it especially relaxing and rewarding for me.
"For me, the 2009 season started as soon as I got home from Brazil. I spent two days at the McLaren Technology Centre having my seat-fitting in the 2009 chassis - which already looks like a very promising car for next year, I went to Stars & Cars in Stuttgart, then I went on a short holiday.
"After the training camp, I'm really looking forward to getting back in the car after a month out of the cockpit. I'm testing in Jerez and Portimao later this month and then preparing over Christmas for my first taste of the MP4-24.
"For me, 2009 can't start soon enough and I'm really looking forward to beginning I'm really looking to getting back in the car and understanding how the new regulations will affect the drivers. I can't wait to get started."
Elsewhere, Lewis Hamilton, Heikki Kovalainen, Pedro de la Rosa and Gary Paffett are preparing for an outing of a different kind; limbering up for a five-day pre-season training camp at the Kuortane Sports Institute in western Finland.
The human performance partner of Vodafone McLaren Mercedes, Kourtane has helped train some of the world's top athletes, including Finland's Olympic hopefuls, for more than 40 years. The training camp also acts as a useful team-building exercise, with mechanics and engineers joining the drivers for group exercises and tests at the Kuortane campus.
Lewis Hamilton:
"Travelling to Finland for our winter training camp is one of the best weeks of the year for me; it feels like you're miles from anywhere and totally cut off from the outside world. It allows me to focus solely on my training, which is great.
"It's certainly not an easy week: Finland in the winter is cold and icy and we're pushed hard for day after day. We spend the first part of the week doing tests to monitor our core strength and flexibility and spend the rest of the time building on specific exercises that will help us once we're back in the car.
"After Brazil, it's good to get a proper rest because it's the one time of the year when you can relax your training a little. But Finland is when it all starts again in earnest. Brazil already seems a long time ago and I'm now focusing 100 per cent on 2009. I had my seat-fitting at MTC earlier this month and while the plan at the moment is to start testing in January, I'm really keen to get going.
"After Finland, I'm looking forward to a couple of big events in the UK. I'll be attending the Autosport Awards, the Race of Champions and the BBC Sports Personality of the Year event. They're all fantastic events and they give me a lot of energy because I get to spend time with some of my peers in a relaxed environment and also to meet the British fans, who are always fantastic.
"Before Christmas, I plan to take a holiday and return fresh and positive to kickstart our winter test programme with the MP4-24. I've already had a close look at the new car and the engineers have explained the philosophy behind it and just how different things will be next year.
"I've been watching testing with a lot of interest, I think the new cars will make next year's championship wide open and I'm really looking forward to tackling the new regulations."
Heikki Kovalainen:
"The end of the season is a very important time for me; it's the best time of the year to properly rest and recharge before everything begins again. That's why it's so important for your fitness. It's vital to start the year with very good core fitness because it's difficult to train as much as you'd like during the season. That means the basic fitness level you reach over the winter is what keeps you going for much of the year.
"That's why our training camp in Seinajoki is so important: it's just for the team and there are no distractions. It's a hard schedule; up early, and training all day - often outside in the cold - but it's always fun. Of course, it helps that it's in my home country of Finland, which makes it especially relaxing and rewarding for me.
"For me, the 2009 season started as soon as I got home from Brazil. I spent two days at the McLaren Technology Centre having my seat-fitting in the 2009 chassis - which already looks like a very promising car for next year, I went to Stars & Cars in Stuttgart, then I went on a short holiday.
"After the training camp, I'm really looking forward to getting back in the car after a month out of the cockpit. I'm testing in Jerez and Portimao later this month and then preparing over Christmas for my first taste of the MP4-24.
"For me, 2009 can't start soon enough and I'm really looking forward to beginning I'm really looking to getting back in the car and understanding how the new regulations will affect the drivers. I can't wait to get started."
F1 in Germany in doubt beyond 2010
Hockenheim is unlikely to be able to host the German grand prix in 2010 or beyond, the circuit's boss Karl-Josef Schmidt has been quoted as saying. He told Sunday's Der Tagesspiegel newspaper that the loss-making event will cease to be organised unless the state Baden-Wuerttemberg government pledges financial support. "Without grants from the state there will be no more formula one in Hockenheim," said Schmidt. Earlier this year, a spokesman for the state's ministry of economic affairs said it is "not the task" of the public to fund events at the Hockenheimring. It is understood the position has not changed.
The Nurburgring, which alternates the hosting of Germany's annual race date with Hockenheim, is scheduled to stage the 2009 event. Nurburgring general manager Walter Kafitz responded to the news about Hockenheim by saying the circuit is not in a position to host the grand prix every year. "We can not afford that," he told Deutsche Presse-Agentur dpa, admitting that - like Hockenheim - the Nurburgring also loses a single-digit million dollar sum per grand prix.
Schmidt warned: "Formula one will disappear not just from Hockenheim but from Germany as a whole. Then it will only be run in Arab countries."
The Nurburgring, which alternates the hosting of Germany's annual race date with Hockenheim, is scheduled to stage the 2009 event. Nurburgring general manager Walter Kafitz responded to the news about Hockenheim by saying the circuit is not in a position to host the grand prix every year. "We can not afford that," he told Deutsche Presse-Agentur dpa, admitting that - like Hockenheim - the Nurburgring also loses a single-digit million dollar sum per grand prix.
Schmidt warned: "Formula one will disappear not just from Hockenheim but from Germany as a whole. Then it will only be run in Arab countries."
100,000 watch Renault roadshow in Sao Paulo
After Johannesburg, Kiev, Lisbon and most recently New Delhi, the ING Renault F1 Team visited Sao Paulo, Brazil at the weekend to demonstrate its cars in the final Roadshow of the team's 2008 programme.
After several weeks of preparation in close collaboration with Renault Brazil, the ING Renault F1 Team travelled to the Brazilian city of Sao Paulo at the weekend for a special demonstration with recently confirmed 2009 race driver, Nelson Piquet. The event was a first for Renault in Brazil and for the residents of Sao Paulo who are more used to following F1 at the Interlagos circuit on the outskirts of the city. There was therefore a big turnout of fans who were keen to watch this exciting spectacle.
In all more than 100,000 people came along to enjoy Nelson's demonstration of the R27 in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The display included donuts and burnouts, much to the delight of the fans.
The 1.1km track was especially designed for the event in Sao Paulo's Ibirapuera Park. Nelson also drove onto the Pedro Alvares Cabral Avenue, which brought his R27 out in front of the Das Bandeiras monument.
At the end of the demonstration, Nelson Piquet commented: "I'm really happy to have been able to do this demonstration here in Brazil. The atmosphere was very special and I hope that my compatriots enjoyed the event as much as I did. These Roadshows give a rare chance for fans that follow the sport to see and hear an F1 up close."
After several weeks of preparation in close collaboration with Renault Brazil, the ING Renault F1 Team travelled to the Brazilian city of Sao Paulo at the weekend for a special demonstration with recently confirmed 2009 race driver, Nelson Piquet. The event was a first for Renault in Brazil and for the residents of Sao Paulo who are more used to following F1 at the Interlagos circuit on the outskirts of the city. There was therefore a big turnout of fans who were keen to watch this exciting spectacle.
In all more than 100,000 people came along to enjoy Nelson's demonstration of the R27 in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The display included donuts and burnouts, much to the delight of the fans.
The 1.1km track was especially designed for the event in Sao Paulo's Ibirapuera Park. Nelson also drove onto the Pedro Alvares Cabral Avenue, which brought his R27 out in front of the Das Bandeiras monument.
At the end of the demonstration, Nelson Piquet commented: "I'm really happy to have been able to do this demonstration here in Brazil. The atmosphere was very special and I hope that my compatriots enjoyed the event as much as I did. These Roadshows give a rare chance for fans that follow the sport to see and hear an F1 up close."
FOTA to discuss medals system this week
Formula one teams will discuss Bernie Ecclestone's 'medals' scoring system for the first time this week, according to BMW-Sauber chief Mario Theissen. The German said Ecclestone, who insists the new system will be in place for 2009 having achieved the support of the teams, had been premature in his declarations.
"[This week] will be the first time this topic has been discussed by the teams at all," he told reporters at BMW's end of season party in Munich, referring to the forthcoming meeting of the FOTA alliance.
Theissen said there is a chance the proposal will be supported, but indicated there are arguments "for and against" its merits. More likely to gain the support of teams is a shake-up for the qualifying system, including a possible point for pole position.
"[This week] will be the first time this topic has been discussed by the teams at all," he told reporters at BMW's end of season party in Munich, referring to the forthcoming meeting of the FOTA alliance.
Theissen said there is a chance the proposal will be supported, but indicated there are arguments "for and against" its merits. More likely to gain the support of teams is a shake-up for the qualifying system, including a possible point for pole position.
Bahrain and Abu Dhabi announce partnership
Teams from the Middle East's two Formula One motor racing circuits met on Thursday to formalise a joint working agreement. A delegation from the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), lead by its Chairman Zayed R. Alzayani, was hosted at the Yas Marina Circuit by a delegation lead by the Chairman of Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management (ADMM), Khaldoon Al Mubarak.
The agreement reached will see the two organisations work together to identify and harness opportunities stemming from the presence of two of the world's leading motor racing circuits being present in the region. With the two tracks hosting rounds of the FIA Formula One World Championship in the region in 2009 and beyond, both ADMM and BIC foresee opportunities to harness resulting administrative, sporting and business synergies.
The 2009 FIA Formula One World Championship calendar includes 17 races with the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix on April 26th and the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix scheduled for November 1st.
Speaking during the meeting of the two organisations, Alzayani and Al Mubarak outlined the opportunities that exist for the Kingdom of Bahrain and the UAE as the region embarks on a new era for motorsport and its development in the Gulf.
Both BIC and ADMM have long term agreements - that run to the end of the next decade - with the FIA Formula One World Championship. These contracts are seen as a foundation for Grand Prix racing and the development of motorsport in general. They build on the awareness and heritage that the Bahrain International Circuit has established in the past five years.
The BIC has overseen the development of a stronger foothold for motorsport in the Middle East and a resulting sustainable long term future. As part of the joint working agreement both circuits will explore shared marketing, promotional and sporting administration initiatives that focus on generating increased derived business and tourism together with interest in motorsport in general.
Prior to the announcement members of the Bahrain International Circuit delegation toured the site of the new Yas Marina Circuit motorsport complex. Commenting on his first visit to the island Alzayani said, "The images of the circuit that I have seen do not do justice to the enormity of the project. This is an extremely impressive facility, one that underlines the burgeoning growth and importance of motorsport and its associated business to the Middle East. I would like to take this opportunity to compliment HH the Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on his vision and congratulate him, his team and the people of Abu Dhabi on the construction of such an awe inspiring facility."
The working agreement between the BIC and ADMM allows for joint initiatives that can produce significant benefits for the region as the two circuits build sporting awareness and create a greater fan base for Formula One and motorsport in general.
"The Bahrain International Circuit has transformed international understanding of what our region might contribute to motorsport on a global level. It stands as a testament to the foresight of His Highness the Crown Prince Shaikh Salman bin Hamad. Formula One is a global product that is enjoyed by hundreds of millions of spectators and enthusiasts and we are delighted to be able to contribute to, and help build upon, the incredible momentum that the Bahrain International Circuit has established for motor sport," said Khaldoon Al Mubarak.
"We see many advantages in creating joint promotional activities around our two circuits and the Grands Prix that they host," said Zayed R. Alzayani. "With Bahrain at the beginning of the year and Abu Dhabi staging the season finale there are many projects on which we can work to attract more spectators, corporate clients and sponsors to the region's two races. Additionally, as we grow the interest of the sport, there are many advantages of working together which will allow us to sustainably expand and strengthen motorsport in the region by attracting international championships to the region for double-header events that harness the excellence of both circuits."
It was agreed that the management teams of the BIC and ADMM will meet regularly to share knowledge and explore and develop initiatives during the build-up to both of their respective F1 races.
In closing Khaldoon Al Mubarak commented, "We are extremely pleased to have received our colleagues from Bahrain International Circuit today and are delighted with the openness and support that we have received from the BIC team. We very much look forward to the benefits that this partnership will bring to the future of both of our organisations and as a result motorsport in the region."
The agreement reached will see the two organisations work together to identify and harness opportunities stemming from the presence of two of the world's leading motor racing circuits being present in the region. With the two tracks hosting rounds of the FIA Formula One World Championship in the region in 2009 and beyond, both ADMM and BIC foresee opportunities to harness resulting administrative, sporting and business synergies.
The 2009 FIA Formula One World Championship calendar includes 17 races with the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix on April 26th and the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix scheduled for November 1st.
Speaking during the meeting of the two organisations, Alzayani and Al Mubarak outlined the opportunities that exist for the Kingdom of Bahrain and the UAE as the region embarks on a new era for motorsport and its development in the Gulf.
Both BIC and ADMM have long term agreements - that run to the end of the next decade - with the FIA Formula One World Championship. These contracts are seen as a foundation for Grand Prix racing and the development of motorsport in general. They build on the awareness and heritage that the Bahrain International Circuit has established in the past five years.
The BIC has overseen the development of a stronger foothold for motorsport in the Middle East and a resulting sustainable long term future. As part of the joint working agreement both circuits will explore shared marketing, promotional and sporting administration initiatives that focus on generating increased derived business and tourism together with interest in motorsport in general.
Prior to the announcement members of the Bahrain International Circuit delegation toured the site of the new Yas Marina Circuit motorsport complex. Commenting on his first visit to the island Alzayani said, "The images of the circuit that I have seen do not do justice to the enormity of the project. This is an extremely impressive facility, one that underlines the burgeoning growth and importance of motorsport and its associated business to the Middle East. I would like to take this opportunity to compliment HH the Crown Prince Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on his vision and congratulate him, his team and the people of Abu Dhabi on the construction of such an awe inspiring facility."
The working agreement between the BIC and ADMM allows for joint initiatives that can produce significant benefits for the region as the two circuits build sporting awareness and create a greater fan base for Formula One and motorsport in general.
"The Bahrain International Circuit has transformed international understanding of what our region might contribute to motorsport on a global level. It stands as a testament to the foresight of His Highness the Crown Prince Shaikh Salman bin Hamad. Formula One is a global product that is enjoyed by hundreds of millions of spectators and enthusiasts and we are delighted to be able to contribute to, and help build upon, the incredible momentum that the Bahrain International Circuit has established for motor sport," said Khaldoon Al Mubarak.
"We see many advantages in creating joint promotional activities around our two circuits and the Grands Prix that they host," said Zayed R. Alzayani. "With Bahrain at the beginning of the year and Abu Dhabi staging the season finale there are many projects on which we can work to attract more spectators, corporate clients and sponsors to the region's two races. Additionally, as we grow the interest of the sport, there are many advantages of working together which will allow us to sustainably expand and strengthen motorsport in the region by attracting international championships to the region for double-header events that harness the excellence of both circuits."
It was agreed that the management teams of the BIC and ADMM will meet regularly to share knowledge and explore and develop initiatives during the build-up to both of their respective F1 races.
In closing Khaldoon Al Mubarak commented, "We are extremely pleased to have received our colleagues from Bahrain International Circuit today and are delighted with the openness and support that we have received from the BIC team. We very much look forward to the benefits that this partnership will bring to the future of both of our organisations and as a result motorsport in the region."
Alonso not retiring before third title
Former double world champion Fernando Alonso is sure he will not retire until he adds a third title to his tally. "I'm more or less convinced about not leaving F1 without becoming world champion again," the Renault driver told the Spanish radio network Cadena SER.
Alonso, 27, won the drivers' titles with the French team in 2005 and 2006, but last year endured a miserable season with McLaren, and in 2008 struggled for most of the season with an uncompetitive Renault. And although hopeful for the R29, he refuses to rule out a future with F1's most famous team, Ferrari. Asked about his unrelenting link with Maranello, Alonso said coyly: "A quick answer to that question would not be the right answer."
He is scheduled to test at Jerez next month, and then get at the wheel of the 2009 car late in January. "Tomorrow I'm going to get my seat fitted for the new car, which takes half a day."
Alonso also took the opportunity to once again play down his rivalry with Lewis Hamilton, which is billed as the bitterest in the paddock. "It's not as bad as it is made out in England and in Spain," he insisted. "I congratulated him for becoming champion, as I did with Kimi as well. I told him to enjoy it, he said thanks, that's it," added Alonso.
Alonso, 27, won the drivers' titles with the French team in 2005 and 2006, but last year endured a miserable season with McLaren, and in 2008 struggled for most of the season with an uncompetitive Renault. And although hopeful for the R29, he refuses to rule out a future with F1's most famous team, Ferrari. Asked about his unrelenting link with Maranello, Alonso said coyly: "A quick answer to that question would not be the right answer."
He is scheduled to test at Jerez next month, and then get at the wheel of the 2009 car late in January. "Tomorrow I'm going to get my seat fitted for the new car, which takes half a day."
Alonso also took the opportunity to once again play down his rivalry with Lewis Hamilton, which is billed as the bitterest in the paddock. "It's not as bad as it is made out in England and in Spain," he insisted. "I congratulated him for becoming champion, as I did with Kimi as well. I told him to enjoy it, he said thanks, that's it," added Alonso.
Barrichello confirms Toro Rosso interest
Rubens Barrichello has confirmed that Toro Rosso is one of his options to remain on the formula one grid in 2009. The veteran Brazilian is hoping to be retained by Honda, who at the recent Barcelona test did not call up Barrichello but instead evaluated the young GP2 drivers Bruno Senna and Lucas di Grassi.
With his seat in clear jeopardy, it emerged that Toro Rosso, the Ferrari powered sister Red Bull team, might be an option for the 36-year-old former Ferrari driver. According to the German website sport1.de, he confirmed his links with the Faenza based squad.
Along with his hopes of staying at Honda, Barrichello is quoted as saying: "That is what is motivating me at the moment. I love what I do and I still have a lot of energy," he added.
With his seat in clear jeopardy, it emerged that Toro Rosso, the Ferrari powered sister Red Bull team, might be an option for the 36-year-old former Ferrari driver. According to the German website sport1.de, he confirmed his links with the Faenza based squad.
Along with his hopes of staying at Honda, Barrichello is quoted as saying: "That is what is motivating me at the moment. I love what I do and I still have a lot of energy," he added.
Italian F3 drivers impress at Ferrari test
The top three finishers in this year's Italian F3 series this week made their formula one test debuts at Ferrari's local Fiorano circuit. In a joint initiative of the Maranello based team and the Italian governing body ACI-CSAI, Mirko Bortolotti, Edoardo Piscopo and Salvatore Cicatelli all got turns at the wheel of the constructors' championship-winning F2008 on Wednesday. F3 champion Bortolotti, who is just 18, achieved the extraordinary feat of beating the fully competitive benchmark lap time - just over 59 seconds - set by regular Ferrari test driver Andrea Bertolini.
"I was able to get comfortable very quickly," he told La Gazzetta dello Sport, "because this car keeps giving you confidence. At the end I captured the record, so it could not have gone better," he added.
Piscopo's best lap was a 1.00.3, while Cicatelli's best was a 1.01.2 after 33 laps.
"I was able to get comfortable very quickly," he told La Gazzetta dello Sport, "because this car keeps giving you confidence. At the end I captured the record, so it could not have gone better," he added.
Piscopo's best lap was a 1.00.3, while Cicatelli's best was a 1.01.2 after 33 laps.
Red Bull wants to sell Toro Rosso - Berger
Former co-owner Gerhard Berger has confirmed reports that he abandoned the Toro Rosso project because Red Bull wants to sell the team. Red Bull, previously with half-ownership of the Faenza based team, announced this week that it has taken over the other 50 per cent stake, controlled since 1996 by the former grand prix winner Berger.
The Austrian told the Tiroler newspaper that he started thinking about pulling out "when Didi [Mateschitz] said that because of the changes in regulations he wanted to sell". "I would have gladly continued with Toro Rosso, but I could not finance it by myself," Berger added.
He said that without Red Bull's support, Toro Rosso would revert to its Minardi-like days of mere survival rather than competing with the other teams. "The conditions in order to make the next step are no longer there, and it has never been my style just to be here [in F1] for the sake of it," said Berger.
The Austrian told the Tiroler newspaper that he started thinking about pulling out "when Didi [Mateschitz] said that because of the changes in regulations he wanted to sell". "I would have gladly continued with Toro Rosso, but I could not finance it by myself," Berger added.
He said that without Red Bull's support, Toro Rosso would revert to its Minardi-like days of mere survival rather than competing with the other teams. "The conditions in order to make the next step are no longer there, and it has never been my style just to be here [in F1] for the sake of it," said Berger.
Medal system unlikely to be introduced - report
Bernie Ecclestone's plan to install an Olympics-style 'medals' scoring system for formula one in 2009 may not be approved, British newspapers report. After former team owner Eddie Jordan slammed the idea as "nonsense", the London newspaper The Times said it "is likely to be rejected by the FIA".
F1 chief executive Ecclestone, 78, insists that the teams fully support the proposal, but it must first be approved by the FIA at a forthcoming meeting of the World Motor Sport Council. The Times said the FIA "is not expected" to support the scheme, and even if a green light is shown, "it would not be implemented" until 2010.
An unnamed 'team insider', meanwhile, told The Guardian that the concept "has certainly not been agreed by all the teams". The Daily Telegraph said Ecclestone's proposal "may not even be formally on the agenda" for the FIA meeting.
F1 chief executive Ecclestone, 78, insists that the teams fully support the proposal, but it must first be approved by the FIA at a forthcoming meeting of the World Motor Sport Council. The Times said the FIA "is not expected" to support the scheme, and even if a green light is shown, "it would not be implemented" until 2010.
An unnamed 'team insider', meanwhile, told The Guardian that the concept "has certainly not been agreed by all the teams". The Daily Telegraph said Ecclestone's proposal "may not even be formally on the agenda" for the FIA meeting.
Jordan slams medal scoring system
Former team owner Eddie Jordan has slammed Bernie Ecclestone's proposal to introduce an Olympic Games-style 'medals' scoring system for formula one. During a press conference in London on Wednesday, F1 chief executive Ecclestone reiterated his plan, revealing that the teams are also fully supportive.
But Jordan, who sold his Silverstone based team at the end of 2004, told the BBC: "I think [the proposals] are a nonsense. I can't possibly believe he's thinking straight, especially on this one. His focus must be on cost-cutting and nothing else. The rest is just dressing it up."
Jordan disagrees completely that scrapping the current points system, expanded from the top six finishers to the top eight some years ago, is a good idea. "I was one of the team principals who advocated the points should go down to eighth place because one point is as important to those teams as a win is to McLaren and Ferrari," he said. "He is tinkering with something on which he has lost the understanding. He thinks only wins matter. There has not been enough thought put into this and for him to say that it comes with the full approval of all the teams -- I'm sorry, I just don't believe it."
But Jordan, who sold his Silverstone based team at the end of 2004, told the BBC: "I think [the proposals] are a nonsense. I can't possibly believe he's thinking straight, especially on this one. His focus must be on cost-cutting and nothing else. The rest is just dressing it up."
Jordan disagrees completely that scrapping the current points system, expanded from the top six finishers to the top eight some years ago, is a good idea. "I was one of the team principals who advocated the points should go down to eighth place because one point is as important to those teams as a win is to McLaren and Ferrari," he said. "He is tinkering with something on which he has lost the understanding. He thinks only wins matter. There has not been enough thought put into this and for him to say that it comes with the full approval of all the teams -- I'm sorry, I just don't believe it."
Toyota confirm TF109 launch date
Toyota has today confirmed that its 2009 challenger, the TF109, will be unveiled to the public on Thursday, 15 January 2009, however the Japanese manufacturer will not be holding an official launch ceremony like recent years. In a statement released today, the team said that images of the car would become available to the media over the Internet, as would other interviews and features.
Toyota's decision comes in light of recent cost-cutting discussions between teams and the FIA, with most teams this year expected to shy away from an official launch ceremony.
The first time the TF109 will be seen in public will be at the new Algarve Motor Park in Portugal, where the team will conduct a three-day test starting on 20 January.
Toyota's decision comes in light of recent cost-cutting discussions between teams and the FIA, with most teams this year expected to shy away from an official launch ceremony.
The first time the TF109 will be seen in public will be at the new Algarve Motor Park in Portugal, where the team will conduct a three-day test starting on 20 January.
De la Rosa not expecting big changes in 2009
Pedro de la Rosa has warned formula one fans not to expect next year's regulations to dramatically alter the on-track action. The introduction of slick tyres, KERS-powered 'boost' buttons and radically altered aerodynamics have all been slated to improve the likelihood of overtaking.
"It is true that racing [other cars] will be somewhat easier, they are good changes, but they are not going to transform formula one," the Spaniard, who is McLaren's chief test and reserve driver, is quoted as saying by Marca. "The cars are staying wide and the aerodynamic characteristics will still be obstacles to overtaking," de la Rosa added. "This is never going to be like MotoGP, and people should understand that."
"It is true that racing [other cars] will be somewhat easier, they are good changes, but they are not going to transform formula one," the Spaniard, who is McLaren's chief test and reserve driver, is quoted as saying by Marca. "The cars are staying wide and the aerodynamic characteristics will still be obstacles to overtaking," de la Rosa added. "This is never going to be like MotoGP, and people should understand that."
Red Bull now 100% owner of Toro Rosso
Red Bull has regained 100% control of junior team Toro Rosso after it bought out the remaining 50% share in the team from Gerhard Berger. The Austrian former Formula One driver has had joint ownership of the team since its inception in 2006, and played a key role in the team's rise to success, culminating in their first victory at the Italian Grand Prix this year.
When Red Bull bought Minardi at the end of 2005, rebranding the team to 'Scuderia Toro Rosso', Berger was appointed to help the team grow and develop fully, following their poorer days as Minardi. With the reconstruction now complete, Red Bull has resumed 100% ownership.
In a statement issued by Red Bull this evening, the company's owner Dietrich Mateschitz was quick to thank Berger for his efforts over the past three years. "I'm very grateful to Gerhard for his enormous input. Together we have made Toro Rosso a team which, from 2008 onwards, will regularly qualify for the top ten and collect championship points."
In 2008, Toro Rosso, despite running on a sizeably smaller budget that its parent team, staged a mid-to-late season spurt to pull clear of the Red Bull works team by the end of the year, finishing the season in sixth place in the constructors' championship. In the final nine races, the team scored points seven times, including a victory at Monza and a fourth place at the final race of the season in Brazil.
"I am very happy that I can support Dietrich - who has committed himself to Formula 1 with so much dedication - with the reorganisation of the team and in this process to make use of my knowledge so effectively," said Gerhard Berger. Over the first three years of the partnership, Red Bull has been the sole funder of the team, while Berger focused on the sporting side, putting his race-winning experience to good use. "A 100% financing of a joint project by one partner can only make sense, to my mind, at an initial stage. This stage is over now. That's why Red Bull will take over the shares again."
"Red Bull will now run Toro Rosso alone on this basis, as well as remaining a partner of Berger Logistik," added Mateschitz.
The team's future was cast in doubt earlier this year when Mateschitz announced that his 50% stake in the team was up for sale. Added to that the ongoing commotion about customer cars, and the outlook for STR looked bleak. However, following their victory in Monza, and a shift of opinion regarding customer cars, Toro Rosso is back in safe hands with its future seemingly secure, although they are yet to announce their 2009 driver line-up.
The new agreement is subject to approval by competition authorities.
When Red Bull bought Minardi at the end of 2005, rebranding the team to 'Scuderia Toro Rosso', Berger was appointed to help the team grow and develop fully, following their poorer days as Minardi. With the reconstruction now complete, Red Bull has resumed 100% ownership.
In a statement issued by Red Bull this evening, the company's owner Dietrich Mateschitz was quick to thank Berger for his efforts over the past three years. "I'm very grateful to Gerhard for his enormous input. Together we have made Toro Rosso a team which, from 2008 onwards, will regularly qualify for the top ten and collect championship points."
In 2008, Toro Rosso, despite running on a sizeably smaller budget that its parent team, staged a mid-to-late season spurt to pull clear of the Red Bull works team by the end of the year, finishing the season in sixth place in the constructors' championship. In the final nine races, the team scored points seven times, including a victory at Monza and a fourth place at the final race of the season in Brazil.
"I am very happy that I can support Dietrich - who has committed himself to Formula 1 with so much dedication - with the reorganisation of the team and in this process to make use of my knowledge so effectively," said Gerhard Berger. Over the first three years of the partnership, Red Bull has been the sole funder of the team, while Berger focused on the sporting side, putting his race-winning experience to good use. "A 100% financing of a joint project by one partner can only make sense, to my mind, at an initial stage. This stage is over now. That's why Red Bull will take over the shares again."
"Red Bull will now run Toro Rosso alone on this basis, as well as remaining a partner of Berger Logistik," added Mateschitz.
The team's future was cast in doubt earlier this year when Mateschitz announced that his 50% stake in the team was up for sale. Added to that the ongoing commotion about customer cars, and the outlook for STR looked bleak. However, following their victory in Monza, and a shift of opinion regarding customer cars, Toro Rosso is back in safe hands with its future seemingly secure, although they are yet to announce their 2009 driver line-up.
The new agreement is subject to approval by competition authorities.
BBC confirms commentary team
David Coulthard will turn to television punditry for his first year of formula one race retirement in 2009. The British broadcaster BBC on Monday confirmed that the Scot, who drove in F1 for Williams, McLaren, and most recently Red Bull, will support the presentation of the sport next year as an expert pundit. "My passion for the sport is still very much alive, and therefore I was delighted to be given the opportunity to share my views and experiences through the BBC's coverage of F1," he said.
Also in a punditry role will be the former grand prix team owner Eddie Jordan, as F1's British television rights switch for the first time in more than a decade from ITV. Veteran of 158 grands prix, and more than 180 more as a commentator, Martin Brundle, will call the races alongside Jonathan Legard.
In a statement, the BBC also said legendary F1 commentator Murray Walker will have a "regular presence" on the BBC website.
The BBC's rights deal is for five years.
Also in a punditry role will be the former grand prix team owner Eddie Jordan, as F1's British television rights switch for the first time in more than a decade from ITV. Veteran of 158 grands prix, and more than 180 more as a commentator, Martin Brundle, will call the races alongside Jonathan Legard.
In a statement, the BBC also said legendary F1 commentator Murray Walker will have a "regular presence" on the BBC website.
The BBC's rights deal is for five years.
2008 Championship: How it unfolded
After the dramas of 2007, few would believe that 2008 would come close to its predecessor in terms of excitement, but once again the season finale proved to be a nail-biting encounter with the championship fight going down to the final corner of the final lap of the final race of the season when Lewis Hamilton nicked the crown by a single point. We now take a look back at the extraordinary events of the first half of the 2008 season, and track the progress of the four men who were in contention for the championship up until the final rounds: Lewis Hamilton, Felipe Massa, Kimi Räikkönen and Robert Kubica.
R1. Australia (16 March):
A perfect start to the championship for Hamilton sees him secure a comfortable victory, once team-mate Heikki Kovalainen was taken out of contention by a late-race safety car, while all other eventual title contenders had poor races. Felipe Massa put himself out of contention for a podium when he spun off at the first corner of the race, before an engine failure scuppered his chances for points at the mid-way point. Team-mate Räikkönen was handicapped by a fuel pump problem in qualifying, putting him back to 15th on the grid, before an error in trying to overtake Kovalainen put him to the back of the field half-way through the race. He looked set for seventh before a second Ferrari engine failure put him out of the race, although he still picked up a point thanks to Barrichello's disqualification. Robert Kubica wasn't so lucky, having retiring from the race with 11 laps to go after being hit from behind by Kazuki Nakajima, picking up no points.
Points: Hamilton: 10, Räikkönen: 1, Kubica: 0, Massa: 0
R2. Malaysia (23 March):
A dominant performance by Kimi Räikkönen sees him secure an easy victory over second-placed Robert Kubica, once team-mate Massa had spun himself out of second place on lap 31. Kimi waited until the first round of pitstops to overtake polesitter Massa, going one lap longer on fuel to leapfrog the Brazilian. For the second race running, Massa spun off the track, this time his race ending in the gravel, while BMW's Robert Kubica picked up the extra points for second after a lonely race from fourth on the grid. Hamilton meanwhile had a difficult race to fifth, first after being penalised five grid positions for blocking Heidfeld in qualifying, and then when a slow pitstop cost him two more positions.
Points: Hamilton: 14, Räikkönen: 11, Kubica: 8, Massa: 0
R3. Bahrain (6 April):
A faultless performance by Ferrari saw them secure their first 1-2 of the season, with Massa driving strongly from second on the grid to a 3-second win. Räikkönen was hounded by pole-sitter Robert Kubica near the end of the race, with the Pole taking advantage of a long middle stint to close in on the Finn, having earlier lost second place to him on the third lap. Lewis Hamilton meanwhile had a torrid race, first by dropping through the field after a botched start from third, before then running into former team-mate Fernando Alonso on lap 2, forcing an unscheduled pitstop. The Briton eventually finished 13th, and lost the championship lead to Räikkönen.
Points: Räikkönen: 19, Hamilton: 14, Kubica: 14, Massa: 10
R4. Spain (27 April):
A back-to-back one-two finish for Ferrari, with Räikkönen this time leading a tight contest between the Scuderias. Despite the safety car period following Kovalainen's accident cutting their lead, Räikkönen and Massa cruised home, albeit followed closely in third and fourth by Hamilton and Kubica respectively. Räikkönen opened up a healthy nine-point lead in the championship.
Points: Räikkönen: 29, Hamilton: 20, Kubica: 19, Massa: 18
R5. Turkey (11 May):
Massa secures his third successive Turkish GP win, driving untroubled from pole. A inspiring drive by Lewis Hamilton saw him take second on a three-stop strategy, which included a pass on the heavy-fuelled Massa on lap 24. Räikkönen missed out on second, finishing just half a second behind the Briton, while fourth went to Robert Kubica, after dropping behind the leaders following a strong first stint.
Points: Räikkönen: 35, Massa: 28, Hamilton: 28, Kubica: 24
R6. Monaco (25 May):
The first wet race of many this year went to Lewis Hamilton, despite the Briton hitting a barrier on lap 6, forcing an early unscheduled stop. A safety car soon after negated the lead built up by Felipe Massa, putting Hamilton right back into contention, and once his second stop came around the time had come to switch to dry weather tyres. Before a second safety car period began, the McLaren man had built a lead in excess of 30 seconds from Kubica and Massa. Felipe had looked like a solid bet for the win but fell behind Kubica in the end after the team was slow to switch to dry weather tyres. Räikkönen meanwhile finished outside the points after losing control of his F2008 under braking and hitting Force India's Adrian Sutil. He had to stop for a new wing, dropping him from fifth.
Points: Hamilton: 38, Räikkönen: 35, Massa: 34, Kubica: 32
R7. Canada (8 June):
A schoolboy error by Lewis Hamilton in the pitlane of Montreal saw him run into the back of the Kimi Räikkönen, as the Finn waited patiently for a green light at the end of the pitlane. The crash handed Robert Kubica his chance for a maiden win, with the Pole eventually taking it by 15 seconds ahead of team-mate Heidfeld, a result which also gave him the drivers' championship lead. Massa finished down in fifth after a fuel rig problem at his first stop put him out of contention for a top four finish. A post-race stewards investigation duly handed Hamilton a 10-place grid penalty for the French Grand Prix.
Points: Kubica: 42, Hamilton: 38, Massa: 38, Räikkönen: 35
R8. France (22 June):
With Hamilton starting down the field with his grid penalty, Ferrari cruised to another comfortable 1-2, but not without the dramas. Räikkönen looked set for the win only for an exhaust pipe to work loose mid-way through the race, ultimately handing the 10 points to Massa, with the Finn finishing almost 20 seconds behind. A short shower of rain during the final 15 laps wasn't enough to disrupt the result. Robert Kubica finished in fifth after a tough race, while Lewis Hamilton finished outside the points again after being given a drive-through penalty for straight-lining a chicane to aid a pass on Vettel. Massa takes the drivers' championship lead for the first time in his career.
Points: Massa: 48, Kubica: 46, Räikkönen: 43, Hamilton: 38
R9. Britain 9 (6 July):
Just like Massa had done in Bahrain, Lewis Hamilton responded to the criticism by winning in style. Intermittent rain gave Hamilton the perfect opportunity to exploit his knowledge of the track, and after fending off the challenge of Räikkönen in the opening stint, he cruised home over a minute clear of Heidfeld in second. Räikkönen finished down the order in 4th, after a decision to stay on worn intermediate tyres lost the Finn almost a minute and a half as the rain returned. Kubica failed to score for only the second time of the year after spinning off in the heavy rain, while Massa limped him in 13th after spinning five times in a Ferrari wholly ill-suited for the rain. A three-way points tie is the result after a topsy-turvy opening half of the year.
R1. Australia (16 March):
A perfect start to the championship for Hamilton sees him secure a comfortable victory, once team-mate Heikki Kovalainen was taken out of contention by a late-race safety car, while all other eventual title contenders had poor races. Felipe Massa put himself out of contention for a podium when he spun off at the first corner of the race, before an engine failure scuppered his chances for points at the mid-way point. Team-mate Räikkönen was handicapped by a fuel pump problem in qualifying, putting him back to 15th on the grid, before an error in trying to overtake Kovalainen put him to the back of the field half-way through the race. He looked set for seventh before a second Ferrari engine failure put him out of the race, although he still picked up a point thanks to Barrichello's disqualification. Robert Kubica wasn't so lucky, having retiring from the race with 11 laps to go after being hit from behind by Kazuki Nakajima, picking up no points.
Points: Hamilton: 10, Räikkönen: 1, Kubica: 0, Massa: 0
R2. Malaysia (23 March):
A dominant performance by Kimi Räikkönen sees him secure an easy victory over second-placed Robert Kubica, once team-mate Massa had spun himself out of second place on lap 31. Kimi waited until the first round of pitstops to overtake polesitter Massa, going one lap longer on fuel to leapfrog the Brazilian. For the second race running, Massa spun off the track, this time his race ending in the gravel, while BMW's Robert Kubica picked up the extra points for second after a lonely race from fourth on the grid. Hamilton meanwhile had a difficult race to fifth, first after being penalised five grid positions for blocking Heidfeld in qualifying, and then when a slow pitstop cost him two more positions.
Points: Hamilton: 14, Räikkönen: 11, Kubica: 8, Massa: 0
R3. Bahrain (6 April):
A faultless performance by Ferrari saw them secure their first 1-2 of the season, with Massa driving strongly from second on the grid to a 3-second win. Räikkönen was hounded by pole-sitter Robert Kubica near the end of the race, with the Pole taking advantage of a long middle stint to close in on the Finn, having earlier lost second place to him on the third lap. Lewis Hamilton meanwhile had a torrid race, first by dropping through the field after a botched start from third, before then running into former team-mate Fernando Alonso on lap 2, forcing an unscheduled pitstop. The Briton eventually finished 13th, and lost the championship lead to Räikkönen.
Points: Räikkönen: 19, Hamilton: 14, Kubica: 14, Massa: 10
R4. Spain (27 April):
A back-to-back one-two finish for Ferrari, with Räikkönen this time leading a tight contest between the Scuderias. Despite the safety car period following Kovalainen's accident cutting their lead, Räikkönen and Massa cruised home, albeit followed closely in third and fourth by Hamilton and Kubica respectively. Räikkönen opened up a healthy nine-point lead in the championship.
Points: Räikkönen: 29, Hamilton: 20, Kubica: 19, Massa: 18
R5. Turkey (11 May):
Massa secures his third successive Turkish GP win, driving untroubled from pole. A inspiring drive by Lewis Hamilton saw him take second on a three-stop strategy, which included a pass on the heavy-fuelled Massa on lap 24. Räikkönen missed out on second, finishing just half a second behind the Briton, while fourth went to Robert Kubica, after dropping behind the leaders following a strong first stint.
Points: Räikkönen: 35, Massa: 28, Hamilton: 28, Kubica: 24
R6. Monaco (25 May):
The first wet race of many this year went to Lewis Hamilton, despite the Briton hitting a barrier on lap 6, forcing an early unscheduled stop. A safety car soon after negated the lead built up by Felipe Massa, putting Hamilton right back into contention, and once his second stop came around the time had come to switch to dry weather tyres. Before a second safety car period began, the McLaren man had built a lead in excess of 30 seconds from Kubica and Massa. Felipe had looked like a solid bet for the win but fell behind Kubica in the end after the team was slow to switch to dry weather tyres. Räikkönen meanwhile finished outside the points after losing control of his F2008 under braking and hitting Force India's Adrian Sutil. He had to stop for a new wing, dropping him from fifth.
Points: Hamilton: 38, Räikkönen: 35, Massa: 34, Kubica: 32
R7. Canada (8 June):
A schoolboy error by Lewis Hamilton in the pitlane of Montreal saw him run into the back of the Kimi Räikkönen, as the Finn waited patiently for a green light at the end of the pitlane. The crash handed Robert Kubica his chance for a maiden win, with the Pole eventually taking it by 15 seconds ahead of team-mate Heidfeld, a result which also gave him the drivers' championship lead. Massa finished down in fifth after a fuel rig problem at his first stop put him out of contention for a top four finish. A post-race stewards investigation duly handed Hamilton a 10-place grid penalty for the French Grand Prix.
Points: Kubica: 42, Hamilton: 38, Massa: 38, Räikkönen: 35
R8. France (22 June):
With Hamilton starting down the field with his grid penalty, Ferrari cruised to another comfortable 1-2, but not without the dramas. Räikkönen looked set for the win only for an exhaust pipe to work loose mid-way through the race, ultimately handing the 10 points to Massa, with the Finn finishing almost 20 seconds behind. A short shower of rain during the final 15 laps wasn't enough to disrupt the result. Robert Kubica finished in fifth after a tough race, while Lewis Hamilton finished outside the points again after being given a drive-through penalty for straight-lining a chicane to aid a pass on Vettel. Massa takes the drivers' championship lead for the first time in his career.
Points: Massa: 48, Kubica: 46, Räikkönen: 43, Hamilton: 38
R9. Britain 9 (6 July):
Just like Massa had done in Bahrain, Lewis Hamilton responded to the criticism by winning in style. Intermittent rain gave Hamilton the perfect opportunity to exploit his knowledge of the track, and after fending off the challenge of Räikkönen in the opening stint, he cruised home over a minute clear of Heidfeld in second. Räikkönen finished down the order in 4th, after a decision to stay on worn intermediate tyres lost the Finn almost a minute and a half as the rain returned. Kubica failed to score for only the second time of the year after spinning off in the heavy rain, while Massa limped him in 13th after spinning five times in a Ferrari wholly ill-suited for the rain. A three-way points tie is the result after a topsy-turvy opening half of the year.
Points: Hamilton: 48, Massa: 48, Räikkönen: 48, Kubica: 46
R10. Germany (20 July):
Hamilton took his first back-to-back win of the season by winning in Mercedes' home ground, overcoming an almost disastrous decision by McLaren management to keep the Briton on-track as others pitted behind the safety car. And, after being let through by team-mate Kovalainen, Lewis on fresh tyres was easily able to pass the helpless Massa and Piquet within ten laps from the finish. Despite struggling massively with tyre grip, and brake problems latterly in the race, Massa finished a solid third, with Kimi Räikkönen suffering somewhat more than his team-mate to take sixth. Robert Kubica fared little better in 7th, having lost places to both Kovalainen and Räikkönen on-track.
Points: Hamilton: 58, Massa: 54, Räikkönen: 51, Kubica: 48
R11. Hungary (3 August):
Most certainly the best overtaking manoeuvre of the season followed by one of the greatest race drives of the year ended in nothing for Felipe Massa after yet another Ferrari engine failure sidelined the Brazilian just three laps from the finish. A sensational start from third on the grid saw him make an audacious pass on Hamilton around the outside into turn one, and looked set for a solid win, even before Hamilton punctured a tyre which dropped him four places. Kovalainen duly won his first race, with Räikkönen third. Hamilton eventually finished down in fifth, while Kubica struggled with oversteer to finish just 8th. Massa's win would have put him in a clear championship lead, but instead found himself eight points adrift.
Points: Hamilton: 62, Räikkönen: 57, Massa: 54, Kubica: 49
R12. Europe (24 August):
Another sheer class performance by Felipe Massa this time sees him take a comfortable victory, over five seconds clear of Hamilton in second. The Brazilian led throughout, bar during the pitstops, after securing a comfortable pole on the Saturday, with Hamilton showing no response on the Valencia streets. Another solid drive by Kubica saw him take third, while Kimi Räikkönen had a dismal end to the race, when he first lost a place by leaving his pit box too early, and then by retiring with an engine failure 12 laps from home. He had been set for a sixth-place finish.
Points: Hamilton: 70, Massa: 64, Räikkönen: 57, Kubica: 55
R13. Belgium (7 September):
The infamous Belgian Grand Prix saw Massa take a controversial win, only after Lewis Hamilton had been handed a 25-second penalty for gaining an advantage by cutting a chicane two laps from the end of the race. Hamilton led the first lap from pole, but a spin on lap 2 let Räikkönen through to lead, until a late rain shower threw the advantage back in McLaren favour. With the MP4-23 coping better in the slippery conditions, Hamilton visibly gained an advantage by jumping the final-corner chicane, before overtaking Kimi at the following corner. Massa cruised to second, before being promoted to victory by the post-race stewards' enquiry. A McLaren appeal to the penalty was also thrown out by the Court of Appeal. Kubica, meanwhile, finished sixth after a race spent battling with the Toro Rossos.
Points: Hamilton: 76, Massa: 74, Kubica: 58, Räikkönen: 57
R14. Italy (14 September):
A victory for Sebastian Vettel meant there was only one place on the podium for the title contenders, with Robert Kubica finishing third in his BMW. A strange error to fit intermediate tyres at the wrong time during qualifying saw Hamilton qualify down in 15th, but managed to climb through the field to seventh, just a place behind Massa who struggled again with the Ferrari's wet-weather handling. Räikkönen, who had also qualified poorly, finished in ninth after also struggling with the car's handling.
Points: Hamilton: 78, Massa: 77, Kubica: 64, Räikkönen: 57
R15. Singapore (28 September):
Undoubtedly the best qualifying lap of the year saw Felipe Massa take pole position by a margin of six tenths, despite carrying similar a fuel-load to second-placed man Lewis Hamilton. After leading comfortably in the opening stint, Massa's race was all but ended by an error in the first pitstop, putting him to the back of the field, before finishing 13th. Lewis Hamilton took a conservative third, the only title contender to score. Kubica finished down in 11th, while Räikkönen crashed out on lap 58 while chasing Glock for fourth.
Points: Hamilton: 84, Massa: 77, Kubica: 64, Räikkönen: 57
R16. Japan (12 October):
The year's second controversial Grand Prix saw Fernando Alonso win from Kubica, who just about kept his championship hopes alive. The race was characterised by another schoolboy Hamilton error, when he locked his brakes and ran all the front-runners off the road at the first corner, copping a drive-through penalty. While trying to recover ground, the Briton collided with Massa, an incident for which Massa was given a drive-through. In the end, the Brazilian picked up two points, while Räikkönen's third place wasn't enough to keep him in the championship hunt.
Points: Hamilton: 84, Massa: 79, Kubica: 72, Räikkönen: 63
R17. China (19 October):
Hamilton took his fifth win of the season after a near-perfect drive from pole position. In the dullest race of the year, Hamilton was followed home by Massa in second, only after he was let through by team-mate Räikkönen in the closing stages, with the Finn finishing third. Sixth place for Robert Kubica meant the championship was now officially a two-horse race, with Massa trailing Hamilton by seven.
Points: Hamilton: 94, Massa: 87, Kubica: 75, Räikkönen: 69
R18. Brazil (2 November):
Despite coming to Brazil with new parts on the car, McLaren took the high-risk strategy of racing for the championship, with Hamilton needing only fifth place to secure his first title. After qualifying fourth, Hamilton kept position on the damp track at the start, and everything looked on-course for the title until a late rain shower just five laps from the end. Hamilton duly pitted for wet tyres, while Toyota's Glock stayed out. With just three laps to go, Hamilton was overtaken by Vettel, but in a stroke of luck was able to pass Glock at the final corner of the race, securing him the title by the skin of his teeth. Yet another Massa masterclass went unrewarded, as he sauntered to a dominant victory, while Räikkönen finished third to take third in the championship.
Points: Hamilton: 98, Massa: 97, Räikkönen: 75, Kubica: 75
Q+A: Key BMW Sauber personnel
In a Formula One season full of surprises, the BMW Sauber F1 Team was a model of consistency. As if setting out to reinforce the popular stereotypes of German thoroughness and Swiss precision, the young team swept through 2008 without a single technical retirement and notched up by far the most race laps and fastest pit stops of any team.
The BMW Sauber F1.08 racers were not only reliable, they also proved their mettle in performance terms. The highlights of the season were the one-two finish in Canada when Robert Kubica took the chequered flag ahead of team-mate Nick Heidfeld a year after crashing heavily at the Montreal track, Kubica's pole position in Bahrain and two fastest race laps courtesy of Heidfeld (Malaysia and Germany). Together, the BMW Sauber F1 Team drivers collected eleven podium trophies in what was the team's third season on the grid - up from two in 2007.
Here, BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen, Technical Director Willy Rampf, Robert Kubica and Nick Heidfeld look back on 2008.
Mario Theissen gave a positive verdict on the season: "We are proud of our successful season and we have once again achieved our exacting goals. We set out to turn the two- horse race at the top of the standings into a three-way battle and to record our first victory. We reached this target much earlier than expected and even managed to do so with a one-two finish."
Q: After the first three races of the season, the team was leading the World Championship, while Robert Kubica's win in Canada put him top of the drivers' standings. Should the season have worked out rather better in the end?
MT: It wasn't a question of what should have happened, but what we wanted to be the case. These magnificent achievements so early in the season naturally whetted the appetite for more. Although it didn't take us long to reach our goals, there was no let-up from anybody in the team. We continued to bring new and further stages of technical developments into the car in the second half of the season, but unfortunately they didn't produce the performance gains we expected. Our pace of development was fine, but the results were not up to scratch and our rivals opened up a gap over us during the course of the season. We will learn from this for 2009, when we will be looking to be up there battling for the title.
Q: Were you happy with the performances of your drivers in 2008?
MT: All in all, yes - otherwise neither would be driving for us in 2009. However, Robert and Nick had very contrasting years. Robert shook off the memory of 2007, was hugely motivated for the job in hand and threw himself into his work with his new race engineer. Robert was in top form and if the F1.08 was not quick enough he took it as a personal affront. The working relationship was therefore not always easy, but his unreserved determination to achieve success commands respect.
For Nick the season was very different. It took too long for the seriousness of the situation to be recognised and the causes of his problems above all in qualifying to be systematically addressed. When you've got so many years of experience, you can maybe tell yourself after one or two unsuccessful outings that these were just blips and everything will be alright again the next time around, but that was not the case. It was only with intensive work that we got to grips with the problem. What stood out about both Robert and Nick was their extremely low error count on the track. In this respect, nobody else on the grid comes close to our two drivers - and for that I take my hat off to them.
Q: What are your expectations for 2009?
MT: Formula One is set to experience the most significant rule changes in its history. Wide-reaching controls on aerodynamics systems will see the cars looking totally different in 2009, treadless tyres (slicks) will be brought back and the totally new KERS technology introduced. This may bring about shifts in the balance of power. This extremely challenging scenario does not alter our goal of fighting for the World Championship title in 2009.
Willy Rampf gives his assessment of the BMW Sauber F1.08: "This car was something very special. It was not purely a further development; we opted for a very aggressive approach for the F1.08. This was very important given the goals for the season we had set ourselves, but clearly not without risk. Indeed, at the roll-out the car was still far from its full potential. What followed was a very tough, but also incredibly productive time for us - and by the start of the season we had the car very much on track. In Melbourne Robert was only a hair's breadth away from taking pole position."
Q: What was your reaction to the one-two finish in Canada?
WR: You just can't put it into words. When no other car and no other drivers are better than your two, you have reached your goal. And that applies not only to me, but to the whole team. You mustn't forget that many of the people in the team gave everything over a number of years for the independent Sauber team - without any prospect of getting right to the top on their own merits - and have been part of the BMW Sauber F1 Team from its launch. The one-two in Montreal had a big impact on us all, and not only on the Sunday - it had a sustained effect.
Q: Was it not possible to build on this success and step up another gear over the remainder of the season?
WR: Of course, this success raised expectations both within the team and from the outside. We developed several new parts which produced good results in the wind tunnel. When it came to their performance on the track, however, they did not deliver what they promised. Added to which, the optimum set-up window of the F1.08 was very small. It was not easy to adjust the individual parameters to stay within this window all the time. This was a learning experience, which we will utilise again for the 2009 season.
Q: As for 2009: how will technical responsibility be apportioned?
WR: I have responsibility for the F1.09 concept and, as Technical Coordinator, will also be at the helm for the team's race activities in 2009. The development process and construction of the new car is overseen by Managing Director Walter Riedl, who will continue to head up operations at the Hinwil plant and project management across both locations in 2009. It was important for me to cut down on my workload - this was a personal decision following a long time working flat-out.
Q: Robert Kubica, how would you assess your second full season in F1?
Robert Kubica: The 2008 season was very long and extremely hard - probably the toughest of my career. Unfortunately, we didn't manage to sustain our pace of development through the second half of the season. But we have made a big leap forward over 2007. We had no technical retirements and were in there fighting for the title almost until the end of the season. The team have done a wonderful job and we can be proud of our season, I don't like to give myself too much praise, but I think I drove really well. I was almost always fast and able to show my potential. However, I'm a person who always wants to win and for me second place is the first loser.
Q: What were the highs and lows of 2008?
RK: I can think of various great moments, especially over the first half of the season - my podium in Malaysia, pole position in Bahrain and, of course, my first race victory in Canada. I'm also very proud of my performance at Fuji. That was probably my strongest race of the year. The most frustrating weekend, on the other hand, was the first of the season in Melbourne: I'd had a very disappointing season in 2007 and my race was going really well until Kazuki Nakajima ran into me.
Q: Nick Heidfeld, how would you sum up the 2008 season?
Nick Heidfeld: So-so, with an upwards curve towards the end of the season. It is always my aim to get the maximum from the car and I didn't manage to do that through the middle part of the season - in qualifying in particular. The positive thing is that I came through this difficult period by analysing the situation, rather than stubbornly ploughing on. Highlights included the race at Spa - when my decision to change onto wet-weather tyres two laps from the finish paid off - and five passing manoeuvres over the course of the season in which I overtook two cars in the same move. And, of course, four second places aren't bad going either.
Q: How do you expect the reintroduction of slick tyres will affect the racing in 2009? Will they help you to exploit the full potential of the tyres in qualifying?
NH: We'll find out in due course if slicks suit my driving style specifically, but I believe they will do and I definitely think it's important that we get them back in Formula One! Slicks are simply part of F1, both for the sport as a spectacle and as far as driveability is concerned. Anything else is just a joke. In combination with the significant reduction in the cars' downforce levels, slicks will hopefully also result in more overtaking.
The BMW Sauber F1.08 racers were not only reliable, they also proved their mettle in performance terms. The highlights of the season were the one-two finish in Canada when Robert Kubica took the chequered flag ahead of team-mate Nick Heidfeld a year after crashing heavily at the Montreal track, Kubica's pole position in Bahrain and two fastest race laps courtesy of Heidfeld (Malaysia and Germany). Together, the BMW Sauber F1 Team drivers collected eleven podium trophies in what was the team's third season on the grid - up from two in 2007.
Here, BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen, Technical Director Willy Rampf, Robert Kubica and Nick Heidfeld look back on 2008.
Mario Theissen gave a positive verdict on the season: "We are proud of our successful season and we have once again achieved our exacting goals. We set out to turn the two- horse race at the top of the standings into a three-way battle and to record our first victory. We reached this target much earlier than expected and even managed to do so with a one-two finish."
Q: After the first three races of the season, the team was leading the World Championship, while Robert Kubica's win in Canada put him top of the drivers' standings. Should the season have worked out rather better in the end?
MT: It wasn't a question of what should have happened, but what we wanted to be the case. These magnificent achievements so early in the season naturally whetted the appetite for more. Although it didn't take us long to reach our goals, there was no let-up from anybody in the team. We continued to bring new and further stages of technical developments into the car in the second half of the season, but unfortunately they didn't produce the performance gains we expected. Our pace of development was fine, but the results were not up to scratch and our rivals opened up a gap over us during the course of the season. We will learn from this for 2009, when we will be looking to be up there battling for the title.
Q: Were you happy with the performances of your drivers in 2008?
MT: All in all, yes - otherwise neither would be driving for us in 2009. However, Robert and Nick had very contrasting years. Robert shook off the memory of 2007, was hugely motivated for the job in hand and threw himself into his work with his new race engineer. Robert was in top form and if the F1.08 was not quick enough he took it as a personal affront. The working relationship was therefore not always easy, but his unreserved determination to achieve success commands respect.
For Nick the season was very different. It took too long for the seriousness of the situation to be recognised and the causes of his problems above all in qualifying to be systematically addressed. When you've got so many years of experience, you can maybe tell yourself after one or two unsuccessful outings that these were just blips and everything will be alright again the next time around, but that was not the case. It was only with intensive work that we got to grips with the problem. What stood out about both Robert and Nick was their extremely low error count on the track. In this respect, nobody else on the grid comes close to our two drivers - and for that I take my hat off to them.
Q: What are your expectations for 2009?
MT: Formula One is set to experience the most significant rule changes in its history. Wide-reaching controls on aerodynamics systems will see the cars looking totally different in 2009, treadless tyres (slicks) will be brought back and the totally new KERS technology introduced. This may bring about shifts in the balance of power. This extremely challenging scenario does not alter our goal of fighting for the World Championship title in 2009.
Willy Rampf gives his assessment of the BMW Sauber F1.08: "This car was something very special. It was not purely a further development; we opted for a very aggressive approach for the F1.08. This was very important given the goals for the season we had set ourselves, but clearly not without risk. Indeed, at the roll-out the car was still far from its full potential. What followed was a very tough, but also incredibly productive time for us - and by the start of the season we had the car very much on track. In Melbourne Robert was only a hair's breadth away from taking pole position."
Q: What was your reaction to the one-two finish in Canada?
WR: You just can't put it into words. When no other car and no other drivers are better than your two, you have reached your goal. And that applies not only to me, but to the whole team. You mustn't forget that many of the people in the team gave everything over a number of years for the independent Sauber team - without any prospect of getting right to the top on their own merits - and have been part of the BMW Sauber F1 Team from its launch. The one-two in Montreal had a big impact on us all, and not only on the Sunday - it had a sustained effect.
Q: Was it not possible to build on this success and step up another gear over the remainder of the season?
WR: Of course, this success raised expectations both within the team and from the outside. We developed several new parts which produced good results in the wind tunnel. When it came to their performance on the track, however, they did not deliver what they promised. Added to which, the optimum set-up window of the F1.08 was very small. It was not easy to adjust the individual parameters to stay within this window all the time. This was a learning experience, which we will utilise again for the 2009 season.
Q: As for 2009: how will technical responsibility be apportioned?
WR: I have responsibility for the F1.09 concept and, as Technical Coordinator, will also be at the helm for the team's race activities in 2009. The development process and construction of the new car is overseen by Managing Director Walter Riedl, who will continue to head up operations at the Hinwil plant and project management across both locations in 2009. It was important for me to cut down on my workload - this was a personal decision following a long time working flat-out.
Q: Robert Kubica, how would you assess your second full season in F1?
Robert Kubica: The 2008 season was very long and extremely hard - probably the toughest of my career. Unfortunately, we didn't manage to sustain our pace of development through the second half of the season. But we have made a big leap forward over 2007. We had no technical retirements and were in there fighting for the title almost until the end of the season. The team have done a wonderful job and we can be proud of our season, I don't like to give myself too much praise, but I think I drove really well. I was almost always fast and able to show my potential. However, I'm a person who always wants to win and for me second place is the first loser.
Q: What were the highs and lows of 2008?
RK: I can think of various great moments, especially over the first half of the season - my podium in Malaysia, pole position in Bahrain and, of course, my first race victory in Canada. I'm also very proud of my performance at Fuji. That was probably my strongest race of the year. The most frustrating weekend, on the other hand, was the first of the season in Melbourne: I'd had a very disappointing season in 2007 and my race was going really well until Kazuki Nakajima ran into me.
Q: Nick Heidfeld, how would you sum up the 2008 season?
Nick Heidfeld: So-so, with an upwards curve towards the end of the season. It is always my aim to get the maximum from the car and I didn't manage to do that through the middle part of the season - in qualifying in particular. The positive thing is that I came through this difficult period by analysing the situation, rather than stubbornly ploughing on. Highlights included the race at Spa - when my decision to change onto wet-weather tyres two laps from the finish paid off - and five passing manoeuvres over the course of the season in which I overtook two cars in the same move. And, of course, four second places aren't bad going either.
Q: How do you expect the reintroduction of slick tyres will affect the racing in 2009? Will they help you to exploit the full potential of the tyres in qualifying?
NH: We'll find out in due course if slicks suit my driving style specifically, but I believe they will do and I definitely think it's important that we get them back in Formula One! Slicks are simply part of F1, both for the sport as a spectacle and as far as driveability is concerned. Anything else is just a joke. In combination with the significant reduction in the cars' downforce levels, slicks will hopefully also result in more overtaking.
FIA confirm revised 2009 calendar
Following World Motor Sport Council meeting in Paris, a revised 2009 F1 calendar was released, taking into account the recent departure of the French Grand Prix from the list, but failing to include the Canadian Grand Prix, which was controversially removed from the schedule in October. With no French Grand Prix, the Chinese Grand Prix has now been moved to the third race of the season, just a week prior to the Bahrain Grand Prix which has been delayed by a week to 26 April.
The Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka in October has also been changed, and will not take place week earlier on 4 October, making it a double-header with the Singapore Grand Prix, which takes place on 27 September as the sport's only night race for a second year running. The Brazilian and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix have both been put back by a fortnight, meaning the season will now conclude on 1 November, rather than the initial date of 15 November, with the inaugural Abu Dhabi GP remaining as the season finale.
Today's announcement retains the four-week summer break between the Hungarian and European Grands Prix, while shortening the gap between the Bahrain and Spanish Grands Prix to just a fortnight, traditionally a time for major car upgrades as teams return from the first fly-away races.
It was also confirmed that Singapore will be the only night race of 2009, despite rumours suggesting that the Japanese Grand Prix on its return to Suzuka could be run under lights. The Australian and Malaysian Grands Prix will start at 17.00 local time, in an attempt to better accommodate the European timezone, while Singapore will start at 20.00 local time, and Japan at 15.00 local time.
The 2009 Formula One calendar in full:
29 Mar: Australia
05 Apr: Malaysia
19 Apr: China
26 Apr: Bahrain
10 May: Spain
24 May: Monaco
07 Jun: Turkey
21 Jun: Great Britain
12 Jul: Germany (Nurburg)
26 Jul: Hungary
23 Aug: Europe (Valencia)
30 Aug: Belgium
13 Sep: Italy
27 Sep: Singapore
04 Oct: Japan (Suzuka)
18 Oct: Brazil
01 Nov: Abu Dhabi
The Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka in October has also been changed, and will not take place week earlier on 4 October, making it a double-header with the Singapore Grand Prix, which takes place on 27 September as the sport's only night race for a second year running. The Brazilian and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix have both been put back by a fortnight, meaning the season will now conclude on 1 November, rather than the initial date of 15 November, with the inaugural Abu Dhabi GP remaining as the season finale.
Today's announcement retains the four-week summer break between the Hungarian and European Grands Prix, while shortening the gap between the Bahrain and Spanish Grands Prix to just a fortnight, traditionally a time for major car upgrades as teams return from the first fly-away races.
It was also confirmed that Singapore will be the only night race of 2009, despite rumours suggesting that the Japanese Grand Prix on its return to Suzuka could be run under lights. The Australian and Malaysian Grands Prix will start at 17.00 local time, in an attempt to better accommodate the European timezone, while Singapore will start at 20.00 local time, and Japan at 15.00 local time.
The 2009 Formula One calendar in full:
29 Mar: Australia
05 Apr: Malaysia
19 Apr: China
26 Apr: Bahrain
10 May: Spain
24 May: Monaco
07 Jun: Turkey
21 Jun: Great Britain
12 Jul: Germany (Nurburg)
26 Jul: Hungary
23 Aug: Europe (Valencia)
30 Aug: Belgium
13 Sep: Italy
27 Sep: Singapore
04 Oct: Japan (Suzuka)
18 Oct: Brazil
01 Nov: Abu Dhabi
Three-race engines for 2009
At the FIA World Motor Sport Council meeting in Paris today, it was agreed to extend the term of long life engines from two to three races from 2009. The news comes following a landmark agreement between the FIA and the Formula One Teams' Association on cost cuts, which is likely to mean a continuation of the current engine regime, without he introduction of a standard engine.
Currently, under the two-race engine rule, the V8 units can cover over 1200 km, which will be extended to approximately 1800 km for 2009. With engines now running reliably, with few failures over the course of a season, it was agreed to extend the life of engines to three races in order to save costs.
A race weekend will continue to consist of Saturday and Sunday, with Friday practice running being completed on a separate engine.
FIA announce stewarding changes for 2009
The FIA today announced a sizeable overhaul to the F1 stewarding system for 2009, following a season of controversial title-deciding penalties handed out at Grands Prix. The stewards attracted the criticism of the press following numerous penalties handed down to eventual champion Lewis Hamilton, and although calls for a change in the system were dismissed at the time, the FIA's World Motor Sport Council confirmed alterations for next year.
The biggest change to the procedure will see the FIA publish a written explanation to the stewards' decision on the FIA website, while also making additional video evidence, which was not aired on the international feed, available to the public via the FIA website and Formula1.com. A similar protocol was followed following the penalties handed down to Hamilton, Massa and Bourdais at this year's Japanese Grand Prix, when video footage of the respective incidents was posted on the official F1 website.
As regards the stewards themselves, the FIA confirmed that the current regime consisting of two international stewards and one national steward will continue for 2009, but with minor alterations. Primarily, any national steward who is officiating for the first time will have to 'observe' at least one Grand Prix prior to their event. The FIA also revealed that a short CV of all three stewards will be available on the FIA website prior to each race.
In the press release issued this afternoon, it was confirmed that former drivers are not excluded from before stewards at Grands Prix, so long as they have obtained the appropriate experience at national events, as is the requirement for all stewards.
The FIA will undoubtedly hope that today's news will reignite confidence in the stewarding system, which was at the centre of so much criticism during 2008. Although decisions are unlikely to alter as a result of the changes announced today, people will now have a greater insight into stewards' decisions.
FIA WMSC press release in full:
"During the 2008 season a review took place of the stewarding arrangements in F1. The current panel of stewards consists of two international stewards and one national steward, all of whom must be eligible for the FIA's super licence. For 2009, the following updates will be made:
1. Any national steward participating who is officiating for the first time will be required to 'observe' a minimum of one Grand Prix prior to their event.
2. At five Grands Prix in 2009, a number of trainee Stewards, nominated by their ASN and selected by the FIA, will be invited to attend. 3. Before each Grand Prix, a short CV of each steward will be posted on the FIA website. 4. With the benefit of a new replay system available to the stewards, all incidents will be investigated and appropriate action taken during the race, unless it is essential to seek further evidence afterwards. 5. Following the race, a short written explanation of steward's decisions will be published on the FIA website. This will supplement the formal steward's decision which largely defines the breach of the rules. 6. Where appropriate, additional film evidence that the public may not have seen but which was reviewed by the stewards, will be made available on both the FIA and FOM websites. Note: No former driver is excluded from seeking their ASN national stewarding licence and then, as with all of the existing stewards, if they gain the necessary level of experience in stewarding events at a national, regional and international level the FIA can consider them for a steward's super licence."
The biggest change to the procedure will see the FIA publish a written explanation to the stewards' decision on the FIA website, while also making additional video evidence, which was not aired on the international feed, available to the public via the FIA website and Formula1.com. A similar protocol was followed following the penalties handed down to Hamilton, Massa and Bourdais at this year's Japanese Grand Prix, when video footage of the respective incidents was posted on the official F1 website.
As regards the stewards themselves, the FIA confirmed that the current regime consisting of two international stewards and one national steward will continue for 2009, but with minor alterations. Primarily, any national steward who is officiating for the first time will have to 'observe' at least one Grand Prix prior to their event. The FIA also revealed that a short CV of all three stewards will be available on the FIA website prior to each race.
In the press release issued this afternoon, it was confirmed that former drivers are not excluded from before stewards at Grands Prix, so long as they have obtained the appropriate experience at national events, as is the requirement for all stewards.
The FIA will undoubtedly hope that today's news will reignite confidence in the stewarding system, which was at the centre of so much criticism during 2008. Although decisions are unlikely to alter as a result of the changes announced today, people will now have a greater insight into stewards' decisions.
FIA WMSC press release in full:
"During the 2008 season a review took place of the stewarding arrangements in F1. The current panel of stewards consists of two international stewards and one national steward, all of whom must be eligible for the FIA's super licence. For 2009, the following updates will be made:
1. Any national steward participating who is officiating for the first time will be required to 'observe' a minimum of one Grand Prix prior to their event.
2. At five Grands Prix in 2009, a number of trainee Stewards, nominated by their ASN and selected by the FIA, will be invited to attend. 3. Before each Grand Prix, a short CV of each steward will be posted on the FIA website. 4. With the benefit of a new replay system available to the stewards, all incidents will be investigated and appropriate action taken during the race, unless it is essential to seek further evidence afterwards. 5. Following the race, a short written explanation of steward's decisions will be published on the FIA website. This will supplement the formal steward's decision which largely defines the breach of the rules. 6. Where appropriate, additional film evidence that the public may not have seen but which was reviewed by the stewards, will be made available on both the FIA and FOM websites. Note: No former driver is excluded from seeking their ASN national stewarding licence and then, as with all of the existing stewards, if they gain the necessary level of experience in stewarding events at a national, regional and international level the FIA can consider them for a steward's super licence."
Di Montezemolo happy with constructors' title
Despite the disappointment of losing the Drivers' World Championship at the final corner of the race in Brazil on Sunday, Ferrari President Luca di Montezemolo was pleased to reach the milestone of the marque's 16th Constructors' championship, and an eighth in ten years. Speaking following the dramatic race yesterday, di Montezemolo focused on the positives of 2008.
"Ferrari's winning its 16th Constructors' World title since its foundation is an important milestone not only because it is the fruit of the work put in by the team and the drivers throughout the entire Championship, but also because we will once again be able to put the World Champion symbol on our Grand Tourers," began the Italian. "Winning for the eighth time in 10 years - a feat unequalled at world level in any other team sport - proves beyond a shadow of a doubt what an extraordinary group we are."
Luca paid tribute to the Ferrari team for their efforts over the course of the season, and for securing the constructors' championship, despite numerous changes of the past few seasons. 2008 also marked Stefano Domenicali's first year as Team Principal. "We won thanks to a team that has undergone many profound changes over the last two years, changes that have brought on many young people from inside the Company. There were mistakes and difficult times but we responded to both by remaining united and refusing to give in. For that I thank GES Director Stefano Domenicali and his entire team of collaborators."
On the drivers' side of things, di Montezemolo was quick to offer his thoughts to Massa, having seen the drivers' championship slide away seconds after crossing the finish line. The Italian also praised his maturity and sportsmanship. "We have two great drivers in Felipe and Kimi also, and they deserve all our compliments for a job well done. Felipe in particular is in my thoughts as he crossed the finish line yesterday as world champion only to see the title slip through his fingers a few seconds later. I can only imagine how painful that moment must have been for him. However, I would like to give him my very special compliments, not only for dominating the running out there on the track in front of his fans, proving he is worthy indeed of the world title, but also for his maturity and sportsmanship off the track. He's a great champion and a great man."
In conclusion, Di Montezemolo also congratulated F1's newest and youngest world champion, believing that the title was well deserved, however slim the margin of victory. "Lastly, I would like to send my congratulations to Lewis Hamilton, the youngest ever world champion in the history of Formula 1. He was a very powerful rival indeed and his win, close though it was, was well deserved. He'll have the number 1 on his car next season, but he can rest assured of one thing: we'll be doing our very best to put it back on a Ferrari."
"In all my years in Formula 1, I haven't seen such an incredibly exciting finish to a championship," said Luca. "I always said that we'd be fighting until the last corner of the last Grand Prix and that's exactly what happened at the end of a brilliantly tense competition."
"Ferrari's winning its 16th Constructors' World title since its foundation is an important milestone not only because it is the fruit of the work put in by the team and the drivers throughout the entire Championship, but also because we will once again be able to put the World Champion symbol on our Grand Tourers," began the Italian. "Winning for the eighth time in 10 years - a feat unequalled at world level in any other team sport - proves beyond a shadow of a doubt what an extraordinary group we are."
Luca paid tribute to the Ferrari team for their efforts over the course of the season, and for securing the constructors' championship, despite numerous changes of the past few seasons. 2008 also marked Stefano Domenicali's first year as Team Principal. "We won thanks to a team that has undergone many profound changes over the last two years, changes that have brought on many young people from inside the Company. There were mistakes and difficult times but we responded to both by remaining united and refusing to give in. For that I thank GES Director Stefano Domenicali and his entire team of collaborators."
On the drivers' side of things, di Montezemolo was quick to offer his thoughts to Massa, having seen the drivers' championship slide away seconds after crossing the finish line. The Italian also praised his maturity and sportsmanship. "We have two great drivers in Felipe and Kimi also, and they deserve all our compliments for a job well done. Felipe in particular is in my thoughts as he crossed the finish line yesterday as world champion only to see the title slip through his fingers a few seconds later. I can only imagine how painful that moment must have been for him. However, I would like to give him my very special compliments, not only for dominating the running out there on the track in front of his fans, proving he is worthy indeed of the world title, but also for his maturity and sportsmanship off the track. He's a great champion and a great man."
In conclusion, Di Montezemolo also congratulated F1's newest and youngest world champion, believing that the title was well deserved, however slim the margin of victory. "Lastly, I would like to send my congratulations to Lewis Hamilton, the youngest ever world champion in the history of Formula 1. He was a very powerful rival indeed and his win, close though it was, was well deserved. He'll have the number 1 on his car next season, but he can rest assured of one thing: we'll be doing our very best to put it back on a Ferrari."
"In all my years in Formula 1, I haven't seen such an incredibly exciting finish to a championship," said Luca. "I always said that we'd be fighting until the last corner of the last Grand Prix and that's exactly what happened at the end of a brilliantly tense competition."
Domanicali proud of Ferrari effort
Ferrari's team principal Stefano Domenicali showed the true soul of Ferrari when he spoke after Felipe Massa won the Brazilian Grand Prix and clinched the Constructors' championship, but 18 seconds later lost the Drivers' series to Lewis Hamilton.
Domenicali was passionate, generous, admiring, complimentary, humble, philosophical and understanding. And like the racer that he is, he appreciated the extraordinary finale that came down to an amazing last few last seconds. "It is impossible to say that that isn't true. It was an incredible end to the season and once again I think we have to be proud of what we have done. There is no reason for us to look back and say, what if, what if. With what ifs you can build the world.
"The only thing I can say is that we are extremely happy with the achievement we have done today on the Constructors' championship. In eight of the last 10 years we were champions. It is something only Ferrari has done so I am very proud of the team, and all of the guys - here and those at home. For us it is a great achievement."
Domenicali went onto pay tribute to the maturing driver who is Felipe Massa, who so nearly won the Drivers' championship. "I am very happy also for Felipe. He did an incredible season - no one in the beginning could have said something like that.
"This year Felipe did two races that will remain in the history of his growing career. One was Hungary, where unfortunately we had a problem but he was really fantastic. And there was today. Great maturity and I am very proud to have Felipe in our team, because that is the way that we should look ahead for our future. You know, we are still very hot after the end of racing, but you can be sure that after a couple of days we will be fully committed for next season. For Felipe to lose the championship by one point, as it was last time but the other way around, I know it can hurt.
"I saw in him a great serenity inside because he did the maximum. That was really a great day today."
Domenicali continued. "I think that Felipe has matured a lot. He is really a great driver. Now he's done a lot of pole positions, so on the single lap he is already on the top. And he has grown significantly in performance lap by lap, and the consistency of that. And also today in the mixed conditions, with the pressure where you don't know where you are going then it shows a lot. So I think within these kind of races, you can see how he will go ahead. From this victory lost you can be strong inside and that will be the case for him."
There were a few seconds when Felipe Massa was World Champion after crossing the line, and some of the team were celebrating before Lewis got past Glock. Did Stefano believe Felipe had won the title? Ever the realist, Domenicali replied "to be honest, I knew in that moment you can be too emotional and not rational. So I had a document checking off what happens if scenarios. So I was checking, okay first, second, third, fourth - still champion. And then I saw Lewis fifth, I said okay it is not done."
What about the outgoing World Champion, Kimi Räikkönen? "I think for sure this year was a difficult year for him. But he is happy because we won together as a team. And he is looking forward to starting again, because for sure this is not the one that he knows. I already said that a lot of people were talking last season about Valentino Rossi being finished this year, and he has actually done a lot. So I am expecting the same kind of approach in 2009."
Domenicali also reported that he had been in touch with Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo. "Yes, he was very proud, very, very proud of the team. We have a briefing soon and I will have a speech with all the guys, and he is very close to Felipe. He said that for him he is a champion - not only for himself, but also for us."
Ferrari had won one championship but lost the other. Would Domenicali have preferred it to be the other way around? "No. I think to be honest, I am very proud of what we achieved. I am very proud of what we achieved."
Domenicali was also complimentary of Lewis Hamilton. "I went there to congratulate him because in sport that is the way it has to be. I went there, I did my job. I think it is correct. At the end of the day he won by one point and it means that he was better by one point. He is a World Champion, he lost last year by one point and next season we will see."
Domenicali was asked if the season and the finale had been good for Formula One, and replied philosophically. "I believe that it is very important for the future of F1 to be constructive when we have to be constructive, and to fight just on the track where we have to fight on the track in a sporting way. I think that is a very important step for the future. We are looking ahead for many important things from the regulation point of view, so that is the way it should be in my point of view."
Finally there was a positive point to be taken from negatives, said Domenicali. "I think that, as always, with the what ifs you win every time. We have to take the negative points of this year in order to improve and to change the things that didn't go well. But in a very cool way, rational.
"But I would like to stress one point that I am very proud of. That is the fact that all the people who are part of this team share the same values, the same passion, the same philosophy. They are all honest people and are all proud to work for this great team. I have the honour and the privilege to be their boss." There speaks a leader.
Domenicali was passionate, generous, admiring, complimentary, humble, philosophical and understanding. And like the racer that he is, he appreciated the extraordinary finale that came down to an amazing last few last seconds. "It is impossible to say that that isn't true. It was an incredible end to the season and once again I think we have to be proud of what we have done. There is no reason for us to look back and say, what if, what if. With what ifs you can build the world.
"The only thing I can say is that we are extremely happy with the achievement we have done today on the Constructors' championship. In eight of the last 10 years we were champions. It is something only Ferrari has done so I am very proud of the team, and all of the guys - here and those at home. For us it is a great achievement."
Domenicali went onto pay tribute to the maturing driver who is Felipe Massa, who so nearly won the Drivers' championship. "I am very happy also for Felipe. He did an incredible season - no one in the beginning could have said something like that.
"This year Felipe did two races that will remain in the history of his growing career. One was Hungary, where unfortunately we had a problem but he was really fantastic. And there was today. Great maturity and I am very proud to have Felipe in our team, because that is the way that we should look ahead for our future. You know, we are still very hot after the end of racing, but you can be sure that after a couple of days we will be fully committed for next season. For Felipe to lose the championship by one point, as it was last time but the other way around, I know it can hurt.
"I saw in him a great serenity inside because he did the maximum. That was really a great day today."
Domenicali continued. "I think that Felipe has matured a lot. He is really a great driver. Now he's done a lot of pole positions, so on the single lap he is already on the top. And he has grown significantly in performance lap by lap, and the consistency of that. And also today in the mixed conditions, with the pressure where you don't know where you are going then it shows a lot. So I think within these kind of races, you can see how he will go ahead. From this victory lost you can be strong inside and that will be the case for him."
There were a few seconds when Felipe Massa was World Champion after crossing the line, and some of the team were celebrating before Lewis got past Glock. Did Stefano believe Felipe had won the title? Ever the realist, Domenicali replied "to be honest, I knew in that moment you can be too emotional and not rational. So I had a document checking off what happens if scenarios. So I was checking, okay first, second, third, fourth - still champion. And then I saw Lewis fifth, I said okay it is not done."
What about the outgoing World Champion, Kimi Räikkönen? "I think for sure this year was a difficult year for him. But he is happy because we won together as a team. And he is looking forward to starting again, because for sure this is not the one that he knows. I already said that a lot of people were talking last season about Valentino Rossi being finished this year, and he has actually done a lot. So I am expecting the same kind of approach in 2009."
Domenicali also reported that he had been in touch with Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo. "Yes, he was very proud, very, very proud of the team. We have a briefing soon and I will have a speech with all the guys, and he is very close to Felipe. He said that for him he is a champion - not only for himself, but also for us."
Ferrari had won one championship but lost the other. Would Domenicali have preferred it to be the other way around? "No. I think to be honest, I am very proud of what we achieved. I am very proud of what we achieved."
Domenicali was also complimentary of Lewis Hamilton. "I went there to congratulate him because in sport that is the way it has to be. I went there, I did my job. I think it is correct. At the end of the day he won by one point and it means that he was better by one point. He is a World Champion, he lost last year by one point and next season we will see."
Domenicali was asked if the season and the finale had been good for Formula One, and replied philosophically. "I believe that it is very important for the future of F1 to be constructive when we have to be constructive, and to fight just on the track where we have to fight on the track in a sporting way. I think that is a very important step for the future. We are looking ahead for many important things from the regulation point of view, so that is the way it should be in my point of view."
Finally there was a positive point to be taken from negatives, said Domenicali. "I think that, as always, with the what ifs you win every time. We have to take the negative points of this year in order to improve and to change the things that didn't go well. But in a very cool way, rational.
"But I would like to stress one point that I am very proud of. That is the fact that all the people who are part of this team share the same values, the same passion, the same philosophy. They are all honest people and are all proud to work for this great team. I have the honour and the privilege to be their boss." There speaks a leader.
Toyota to start without KERS in 2009
Toyota team president John Howett has confirmed reports the Japanese squad will probably commence the 2009 season without a KERS system. After a FOTA alliance meeting voted down a proposal to delay the new technology until 2010, McLaren boss Ron Dennis suggested to the media that "one team" planned to race in Melbourne next March without a KERS system anyway.
"It is very unlikely that at the first race we will have a safe and reliable KERS that will add performance benefits," Howett said at Interlagos. "I am not saying that after some time it won't, but there are some pretty big issues."
He also seemed to scold Dennis for tipping off the press about Toyota's plans after a confidential meeting. "I do resent that people have mentioned that. It was a genuine meeting of absolute confidence," Howett said.
"It is very unlikely that at the first race we will have a safe and reliable KERS that will add performance benefits," Howett said at Interlagos. "I am not saying that after some time it won't, but there are some pretty big issues."
He also seemed to scold Dennis for tipping off the press about Toyota's plans after a confidential meeting. "I do resent that people have mentioned that. It was a genuine meeting of absolute confidence," Howett said.
The 2009 grid as it stands
The 2008 Formula One season comes to a close this weekend in Sao Paulo, Brazil, with a grid identical to that of the first race of the season in Australia, without Super Aguri, the first time in the history of the sport such consistency has been observed. With just over five months to go until the inaugural race of 2009, the grid is quickly being filled, with 14 of the 20 seats currently confirmed. We now take a look at the grid for next year, and who will be racing where.
Ferrari
In spite of speculation to the contrary, Kimi Räikkönen is scheduled to race for a third season with Ferrari next year, having signed a contract extension to stay there until 2010. He will be alongside Felipe Massa again, who also stays at Ferrari until 2010.
McLaren-Mercedes
Both Lewis Hamilton and Heikki Kovalainen are said to be on long-term contracts at McLaren, meaning they will be racing alongside each other again in 2009.
BMW Sauber-BMW
BMW confirmed at the beginning of the month that both Robert Kubica and Nick Heidfeld would be retained for another year, after intense speculation that Nick Heidfeld's seat was in jeopardy. The German has struggled in qualifying this year, but the absence of a suitable replacement meant he kept his seat alongside Kubica.
Renault
Fernando Alonso has confirmed his presence at Renault for 2009 and 2010, while the identity of his team-mate is much less certain. Although Nelson Piquet has been performing well of late, his poor early- to mid-season form may force Renault officials to look elsewhere, while GP2 driver Lucas Di Grassi looks most likely to step in should Piquet be dropped. Di Grassi has been travelling to all F1 races recently, and is seemingly being groomed for the role of race driver, although it's uncertain whether the team will take a chance with a third rookie in three years, following on from Kovalainen and Piquet.
Toyota
Like the top three teams, Toyota will field an unchanged line-up for 2009, featuring Jarno Trulli and Timo Glock. While Trulli has been performing strongly all year, Glock has recovered from a relatively substandard start to the season, and is now regularly challenging his team-mate.
Toro Rosso-Ferrari
With Sebastian Vettel departing for Red Bull after Brazil, Toro Rosso are in search of a new driver. With Sébastien Bourdais likely to be retained, although not yet confirmed, the team's second seat is open to a number of applicants. Takuma Sato and Sébastien Buemi tested for the team at the final in-season test last month, but GP2 runner-up Bruno Senna and others are said to have a chance. But, it's speculated that Sébastien Buemi could get the nod, thanks to his strong connections with Red Bull.
Red Bull-Renault
Red Bull is the only team in the pitlane to have confirmed a driver change for 2009, with German sensation Sebastian Vettel penned into replace the retiring David Coulthard. Mark Webber stays on for his third year at the team.
Williams-Toyota
As confirmed earlier this year, Nico Rosberg will stay with the team for 2009, while team-mate Kazuki Nakajima has also secured his seat at the team for the coming season, having been confirmed at the very start of the month.
Honda
Uncertainty continues to surround Honda's future for 2009, as the Japanese side have officially quit f1 following the global turmoil. with speculation of various 'buyers' from across the globe interested in the team it looks like Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello will stay on for their fourth season together. The only spanner in the works could be Bruno Senna, who is rumoured to be in the running for a role at the team next year. A year's testing is the most likely outcome for the Brazilian youngster however.
Force India-Ferrari
Finally to Force India, who's line-up is also said to be remaining unchanged for next year. Although team owner Vijay Mallya confirmed that Adrian Sutil and Giancarlo Fisichella would stay on-board for 2009, the partnership with McLaren however still might see the team taking Scottish DTM runner-up Paul Di Resta as a race driver, a move which could cost either Sutil or Fisichella his seat. The teamnow enjoys Mercedes engines and McLaren technical support, akin to the relationship between Toro Rosso and Red Bull.
Ferrari
In spite of speculation to the contrary, Kimi Räikkönen is scheduled to race for a third season with Ferrari next year, having signed a contract extension to stay there until 2010. He will be alongside Felipe Massa again, who also stays at Ferrari until 2010.
McLaren-Mercedes
Both Lewis Hamilton and Heikki Kovalainen are said to be on long-term contracts at McLaren, meaning they will be racing alongside each other again in 2009.
BMW Sauber-BMW
BMW confirmed at the beginning of the month that both Robert Kubica and Nick Heidfeld would be retained for another year, after intense speculation that Nick Heidfeld's seat was in jeopardy. The German has struggled in qualifying this year, but the absence of a suitable replacement meant he kept his seat alongside Kubica.
Renault
Fernando Alonso has confirmed his presence at Renault for 2009 and 2010, while the identity of his team-mate is much less certain. Although Nelson Piquet has been performing well of late, his poor early- to mid-season form may force Renault officials to look elsewhere, while GP2 driver Lucas Di Grassi looks most likely to step in should Piquet be dropped. Di Grassi has been travelling to all F1 races recently, and is seemingly being groomed for the role of race driver, although it's uncertain whether the team will take a chance with a third rookie in three years, following on from Kovalainen and Piquet.
Toyota
Like the top three teams, Toyota will field an unchanged line-up for 2009, featuring Jarno Trulli and Timo Glock. While Trulli has been performing strongly all year, Glock has recovered from a relatively substandard start to the season, and is now regularly challenging his team-mate.
Toro Rosso-Ferrari
With Sebastian Vettel departing for Red Bull after Brazil, Toro Rosso are in search of a new driver. With Sébastien Bourdais likely to be retained, although not yet confirmed, the team's second seat is open to a number of applicants. Takuma Sato and Sébastien Buemi tested for the team at the final in-season test last month, but GP2 runner-up Bruno Senna and others are said to have a chance. But, it's speculated that Sébastien Buemi could get the nod, thanks to his strong connections with Red Bull.
Red Bull-Renault
Red Bull is the only team in the pitlane to have confirmed a driver change for 2009, with German sensation Sebastian Vettel penned into replace the retiring David Coulthard. Mark Webber stays on for his third year at the team.
Williams-Toyota
As confirmed earlier this year, Nico Rosberg will stay with the team for 2009, while team-mate Kazuki Nakajima has also secured his seat at the team for the coming season, having been confirmed at the very start of the month.
Honda
Uncertainty continues to surround Honda's future for 2009, as the Japanese side have officially quit f1 following the global turmoil. with speculation of various 'buyers' from across the globe interested in the team it looks like Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello will stay on for their fourth season together. The only spanner in the works could be Bruno Senna, who is rumoured to be in the running for a role at the team next year. A year's testing is the most likely outcome for the Brazilian youngster however.
Force India-Ferrari
Finally to Force India, who's line-up is also said to be remaining unchanged for next year. Although team owner Vijay Mallya confirmed that Adrian Sutil and Giancarlo Fisichella would stay on-board for 2009, the partnership with McLaren however still might see the team taking Scottish DTM runner-up Paul Di Resta as a race driver, a move which could cost either Sutil or Fisichella his seat. The teamnow enjoys Mercedes engines and McLaren technical support, akin to the relationship between Toro Rosso and Red Bull.
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