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Should the world of Formula One want such a change to happen this year, every single team that is part of the Formula One Teams Association (FOTA) must agr...]]> After the president of the International Automobile Federation (FIA) Jean Todt expressed his willingness to switch back to a 107 percent qualifying rule for the 2011 season of Formula One - while backed by the series' executive Bernie Ecclestone - the new teams made it very clear that they won't vote affirmative for such a change in rules.

Should the world of Formula One want such a change to happen this year, every single team that is part of the Formula One Teams Association (FOTA) must agr... (read more)]]> Mon, 15 Mar 2010 15:17:49 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/lotus-against-107-qualifying-rule-18065.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/lotus-against-107-qualifying-rule-18065.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/f1-world-split-in-half-over-boredom-issues-18059.html
Among the former, we have all the 4 reigning champions that are currently compet...]]> After the first race of the 2010 season, the Formula One paddock seems to have divided into two opposite parts. One the one hand, we have some drivers, team officials and majority of the media that believe the new rules have failed in providing an extra show in the series, on the other hand we have a few drivers, teams and even F1 commentators who believe everybody should be patient before slamming the new rules.

Among the former, we have all the 4 reigning champions that are currently compet... (read more)]]> Mon, 15 Mar 2010 14:39:24 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/f1-world-split-in-half-over-boredom-issues-18059.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/f1-world-split-in-half-over-boredom-issues-18059.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/petrov-frustrated-with-unfortunate-f1-start-18051.html
Talking to the media after the race, the former GP2 Series runner-up made no secret from his frustration, as he was convinced a poin...]]> Although the Bahrain Grand Prix was his first race in Formula One, Russian driver Vitaly Petrov left the Manama track more disappointed and frustrated than ever. The new Renault driver had made a great start in the race and was running on an impressive 11th place at the end of the first lap, before a suspension problem put an end to his first race in the series.

Talking to the media after the race, the former GP2 Series runner-up made no secret from his frustration, as he was convinced a poin... (read more)]]> Mon, 15 Mar 2010 11:55:15 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/petrov-frustrated-with-unfortunate-f1-start-18051.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/petrov-frustrated-with-unfortunate-f1-start-18051.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/red-bull-astonished-by-vettel-s-pace-after-engine-failure-18038.html
Nevertheless, Red Bull's advisor Helmut Marko emphasized the impressive performance managed by Vettel throughout the 49 laps of action, insisting that h...]]> Sebastian Vettel was congratulated by all the staff members of the Red Bull Racing team despite the engine problem that deprived him of a well-deserved win on Sunday. While leading the Sakhir race with a comfortable 3-second lead from Ferrari's Fernando Alonso, his RB6's engine broke down and the German eventually had to settle for 4th place.

Nevertheless, Red Bull's advisor Helmut Marko emphasized the impressive performance managed by Vettel throughout the 49 laps of action, insisting that h... (read more)]]> Mon, 15 Mar 2010 10:42:01 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/red-bull-astonished-by-vettel-s-pace-after-engine-failure-18038.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/red-bull-astonished-by-vettel-s-pace-after-engine-failure-18038.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ferrari-happy-2009-approach-paid-off-18035.html
Team principal Stefano Domenicali was the first to acknowledge the fact that last season was a terrible one, and the only way his team could get back on track would be to focus on the 2010 challenger earlier than the other competitors. However, in order for his masterpiece to be complete, the ...]]> Following their successful start of the season in Bahrain, Ferrari congratulated themselves for making the decision to switch to the development of their Ferrari F10 from the second part of last season.

Team principal Stefano Domenicali was the first to acknowledge the fact that last season was a terrible one, and the only way his team could get back on track would be to focus on the 2010 challenger earlier than the other competitors. However, in order for his masterpiece to be complete, the ... (read more)]]> Mon, 15 Mar 2010 10:22:44 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ferrari-happy-2009-approach-paid-off-18035.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ferrari-happy-2009-approach-paid-off-18035.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mclaren-deny-fia-ban-for-their-rear-diffuser-18032.html
After the Bahrain race, McLaren's team principal and FOTA chairman Martin Whitmarsh insisted that he knows nothing about this story, as Whiting did not tell him anything about a potential illegality of the MP4-25'...]]> Last weekend, after the Bahrain Grand Prix technical inspection conducted by FIA delegate Charlie Whiting, Germany's Auto Motor und Sport revealed that the Brit told McLaren Mercedes to drop the current design of their rear diffuser ahead of the Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park.

After the Bahrain race, McLaren's team principal and FOTA chairman Martin Whitmarsh insisted that he knows nothing about this story, as Whiting did not tell him anything about a potential illegality of the MP4-25'... (read more)]]> Mon, 15 Mar 2010 09:58:44 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mclaren-deny-fia-ban-for-their-rear-diffuser-18032.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mclaren-deny-fia-ban-for-their-rear-diffuser-18032.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ferrari-asks-for-patience-after-boring-bahrain-race-reports-18029.html
Alonso was joined by Michael Schumacher, Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button and Mark Webber - and that was only to name the speaking victims of the boring Bahrain race ...]]> Although everybody, including Fernando Alonso, admitted that the refueling ban and lack of pit stop strategy has made the action in Formula One pretty boring - something that could have been easily noticed in Bahrain - Ferrari's Stefano Domenicali insisted everybody should keep calm until a few races will pass in the 2010 campaign.

Alonso was joined by Michael Schumacher, Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button and Mark Webber - and that was only to name the speaking victims of the boring Bahrain race ... (read more)]]> Mon, 15 Mar 2010 09:33:51 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ferrari-asks-for-patience-after-boring-bahrain-race-reports-18029.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ferrari-asks-for-patience-after-boring-bahrain-race-reports-18029.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/button-admits-defeat-to-teammate-hamilton-18026.html
When asked about the reports if he looks at the Bahrain GP as a Round 1 win for his teammate, Button answered: If you want to write that, you ca...]]> Jenson Button did not make a hell of a start in his title defense season in Formula One, as the Briton qualified 8th and finished the race 7th in Bahrain. Additionally, his much anticipated fight against teammate Lewis Hamilton never took place, as the 2008 world champion was more than 20 seconds quicker to the finish line than the 30-year old racer.

When asked about the reports if he looks at the Bahrain GP as a Round 1 win for his teammate, Button answered: If you want to write that, you ca... (read more)]]> Mon, 15 Mar 2010 09:10:55 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/button-admits-defeat-to-teammate-hamilton-18026.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/button-admits-defeat-to-teammate-hamilton-18026.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/media-drivers-slam-rules-for-boring-bahrain-gp-18021.html
Needless to say, the refueling ban introduced by the FIA for the 2010 season of Formula One failed to raise the show in the series. As ad...]]> With 4 world champions on the F1 grid in 2010, all of whom are driving top class cars, the season opening Bahrain Grand Prix should have been a true feast for the diehard racing fans from all over the world. What they've got instead was a pretty boring race, with the majority of action - and by action we mean overtaking - happening in the rear of the field.

Needless to say, the refueling ban introduced by the FIA for the 2010 season of Formula One failed to raise the show in the series. As ad... (read more)]]> Mon, 15 Mar 2010 08:17:30 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/media-drivers-slam-rules-for-boring-bahrain-gp-18021.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/media-drivers-slam-rules-for-boring-bahrain-gp-18021.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/f1-considers-second-mandatory-pit-stop-18016.html
After the 107 qualifying rule seems to be preferred by the majority of the deciding factors within the series, it has now emerged that a second mandatory pit stop is being re-examined by...]]> Following the quite boring season opening round of Bahrain Grand Prix last weekend, when all the real action happened in the rear of the pack due to the similar level of performance from the rear-running teams' challengers, the world of Formula One is set on making yet another adjustment to its rules in 2010.

After the 107 qualifying rule seems to be preferred by the majority of the deciding factors within the series, it has now emerged that a second mandatory pit stop is being re-examined by... (read more)]]> Mon, 15 Mar 2010 07:54:15 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/f1-considers-second-mandatory-pit-stop-18016.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/f1-considers-second-mandatory-pit-stop-18016.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/red-bull-problem-was-engine-not-exhaust-18012.html
While leading the race some 2 to 3 seconds from Fernando Alonso, the German driver reported to his team via radio that he is lacking power from his engine. While analyzing the data, his race engineer told him that he's dealing with an exhaust problem that's impossible to resolve during r...]]> Red Bull Racing confirmed that the problem that hit Sebastian Vettel in the second part of the race was caused by the engine, and not the exhaust system, as initially reported by the Milton Keynes based team.

While leading the race some 2 to 3 seconds from Fernando Alonso, the German driver reported to his team via radio that he is lacking power from his engine. While analyzing the data, his race engineer told him that he's dealing with an exhaust problem that's impossible to resolve during r... (read more)]]> Mon, 15 Mar 2010 07:22:47 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/red-bull-problem-was-engine-not-exhaust-18012.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/red-bull-problem-was-engine-not-exhaust-18012.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/alonso-leads-ferrari-1-2-in-bahrain-gp-18010.html
Nevertheless, it was Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel who controlled the race for the entire first half, before an engine problem forced him to drop position after position until f...]]> Ferrari started off their 2010 campaign in Formula One great, taking an incredible 1-2 win in the season opening Bahrain Grand Prix on Sunday. Fernando Alonso won at his very debut with Ferrari, powering to victory ahead of his new teammate Felipe Massa. 2008 world champion Lewis Hamilton finished the race in 3rd place.

Nevertheless, it was Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel who controlled the race for the entire first half, before an engine problem forced him to drop position after position until f... (read more)]]> Sun, 14 Mar 2010 13:41:43 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/alonso-leads-ferrari-1-2-in-bahrain-gp-18010.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/alonso-leads-ferrari-1-2-in-bahrain-gp-18010.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/renault-issues-eur20-million-loan-to-f1-team-18006.html
The report was issued by British publication The Independent, who hinted that Renault's Enstone facility cost an overall EUR38 mill...]]> Renault might have sold their Formula One operations to Luxembourg investment company Genii Capital, but the French manufacturer could in fact regain ownership of their Enstone organization in the near future. And that's because it seems Renault F1's new team owner Gerard Lopez has borrowed some EUR20 million from the French carmaker to sustain his F1 operations.

The report was issued by British publication The Independent, who hinted that Renault's Enstone facility cost an overall EUR38 mill... (read more)]]> Sun, 14 Mar 2010 10:43:18 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/renault-issues-eur20-million-loan-to-f1-team-18006.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/renault-issues-eur20-million-loan-to-f1-team-18006.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/red-bull-accuses-mercedes-for-developing-engine-despite-freeze-18004.html
At least this is how Red Bull's design guru Adrian Newey looks at it, as the Brit insisted that the Germans haven't been too fair in staying out of engine development through the past year.

M...]]> The fact that most teams were looking to secure a deal with German manufacturer Mercedes for the 2010 season of Formula One might have been caused by the fact that the Stuttgart-based carmaker worked heavily on their V8 powerplant amid the engine freeze that was implemented by the FIA in recent years.

At least this is how Red Bull's design guru Adrian Newey looks at it, as the Brit insisted that the Germans haven't been too fair in staying out of engine development through the past year.

M... (read more)]]> Sun, 14 Mar 2010 10:17:33 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/red-bull-accuses-mercedes-for-developing-engine-despite-freeze-18004.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/red-bull-accuses-mercedes-for-developing-engine-despite-freeze-18004.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/massa-changes-engine-for-bahrain-race-18000.html
Although worrying that this kind of problems are starting to show from the very first race of the season for Massa, the good news is that it won't affect his gri...]]> Ferrari's Felipe Massa will enter the 2010 Bahrain Grand Prix with a different engine than he used in the qualifying session on Saturday. According to a press release from Ferrari's website, it seems that some worrying problems on the Ferrari F10's powerplant have led to the Italian mechanics not taking any risks for the Sunday race.

Although worrying that this kind of problems are starting to show from the very first race of the season for Massa, the good news is that it won't affect his gri... (read more)]]> Sun, 14 Mar 2010 09:50:45 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/massa-changes-engine-for-bahrain-race-18000.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/massa-changes-engine-for-bahrain-race-18000.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/fia-bans-mclaren-mp4-25-rear-diffuser-for-australian-gp-17998.html
According to a report from Germany's Auto Motor und Sport, the Woking based team's rear diffuser design has been closely investigated by the FIA and the verdict is not very favorable for McLaren: they n...]]> It seems that all the controversy this season has gathered inside the McLaren Mercedes garage, as another part of the McLaren MP4-25 used by world champions Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button doesn't seem compliant with the current technical book of the International Automobile Federation (FIA).

According to a report from Germany's Auto Motor und Sport, the Woking based team's rear diffuser design has been closely investigated by the FIA and the verdict is not very favorable for McLaren: they n... (read more)]]> Sat, 13 Mar 2010 16:36:47 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/fia-bans-mclaren-mp4-25-rear-diffuser-for-australian-gp-17998.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/fia-bans-mclaren-mp4-25-rear-diffuser-for-australian-gp-17998.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/sebastian-vettel-takes-pole-position-in-bahrain-17996.html
Mercedes GP's best placed driver was Nico Rosberg, in 5th place, ahead of Mark Webber and 7-time world champion Michael Schumacher, Reigning world cham...]]> Sebastian Vettel will start the season opening race of Bahrain Grand Prix from the first spot on the grid, ahead of Ferrari's duo Felipe Massa and Fernando Alonso. These three drivers were actually the only ones in the field to drop under 1:55 seconds in Q3, as McLaren's Lewis Hamilton had to settle for the 4th place more than a second behind.

Mercedes GP's best placed driver was Nico Rosberg, in 5th place, ahead of Mark Webber and 7-time world champion Michael Schumacher, Reigning world cham... (read more)]]> Sat, 13 Mar 2010 12:20:40 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/sebastian-vettel-takes-pole-position-in-bahrain-17996.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/sebastian-vettel-takes-pole-position-in-bahrain-17996.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/todt-considers-the-107-percent-rule-from-2011-17993.html
The 107 percent rule in motorsports states that a driver cannot take part in a race (except under...]]> The new FIA president, Jean Todt has revealed Friday after Formula One's Bahrain practice that he favors the reintroduction of the 107 percent rule. After the closing moments of the first official practice sessions of the 2010 F1 championship it was clear for everyone that this year's newcomers, in terms of both drivers and teams, will struggle to keep the pace with the more experienced runners.

The 107 percent rule in motorsports states that a driver cannot take part in a race (except under... (read more)]]> Sat, 13 Mar 2010 09:38:47 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/todt-considers-the-107-percent-rule-from-2011-17993.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/todt-considers-the-107-percent-rule-from-2011-17993.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/bahrain-friday-drivers-quotes-17988.html
Just to give you a few hints about what happened today, we're going to remind you that Force India's Adrian Sutil and Mercedes' Nico Rosberg topped the first two practice sessions on Friday, that Red Bull's Mark Webber experienced gearbox problems with hi...]]> The first day of action in the 2010 Formula One championship ended a couple of hours ago, and most of the drivers - with the sole exception of HRT F1's Karun Chandhok - got a taste of how racing is going to look like in Bahrain this weekend.

Just to give you a few hints about what happened today, we're going to remind you that Force India's Adrian Sutil and Mercedes' Nico Rosberg topped the first two practice sessions on Friday, that Red Bull's Mark Webber experienced gearbox problems with hi... (read more)]]> Fri, 12 Mar 2010 14:48:42 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/bahrain-friday-drivers-quotes-17988.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/bahrain-friday-drivers-quotes-17988.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/nico-rosberg-tops-second-practice-in-bahrain-17980.html
Following the first half an hour, Rosberg's time was not to be challenged by anyone, as it was the same German driver who im...]]> The second practice session on Friday lacked the action from the opening outing on the Sakhir International Circuit this morning, as most of the competitors focused on long stints to simulate race conditions. Under the circumstances, it was Mercedes GP's Nico Rosberg who topped the timing reports in the afternoon, after setting an early pace only 20 minutes into the P2.

Following the first half an hour, Rosberg's time was not to be challenged by anyone, as it was the same German driver who im... (read more)]]> Fri, 12 Mar 2010 13:46:25 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/nico-rosberg-tops-second-practice-in-bahrain-17980.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/nico-rosberg-tops-second-practice-in-bahrain-17980.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/barrichello-wants-to-become-world-champion-in-2010-17973.html
While quite close to doing so last year, with the title winning Brawn GP team, Barrichello insisted that his goal hasn't changed for the 2010 campaign either.

Going into my 18th season I fee...]]> Another Formula One season has gotten under way this weekend and Rubens Barrichello doesn't seem to change the way he looks at the sport. Most of you might remember that the majority of the recent F1 seasons started with the Brazilian veteran telling the media that he wants to become world champion.

While quite close to doing so last year, with the title winning Brawn GP team, Barrichello insisted that his goal hasn't changed for the 2010 campaign either.

Going into my 18th season I fee... (read more)]]> Fri, 12 Mar 2010 11:53:16 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/barrichello-wants-to-become-world-champion-in-2010-17973.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/barrichello-wants-to-become-world-champion-in-2010-17973.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/briatore-rules-out-f1-football-returns-17968.html
I exclude it 100%. I still have affection for F1 even if it would have been better to have left at the end of 2006 when (Fernando) Alonso won his second title, said Briatore, according to ES...]]> We're not sure what Flavio Briatore's plans for the future are, but what we can bet on is that the 59-year old Italian will never return to Formula One in the future. And that's because the Italian himself admitted it when recently asked if he is considering an F1 comeback as a team manager or even owner.

I exclude it 100%. I still have affection for F1 even if it would have been better to have left at the end of 2006 when (Fernando) Alonso won his second title, said Briatore, according to ES... (read more)]]> Fri, 12 Mar 2010 11:16:04 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/briatore-rules-out-f1-football-returns-17968.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/briatore-rules-out-f1-football-returns-17968.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ron-dennis-present-in-the-mclaren-garage-in-bahrain-17960.html
Last year, following the multitude of scandals his team was involved in during recent seasons - culminating with the ...]]> Former McLaren Mercedes F1 Team boss Ron Dennis decided to keep his word and came to Bahrain to join his team at the start of a brand new campaign in Formula One. As revealed a few months ago, Dennis plans to visit his former F1 team a few more times this season, being that his long-time friend Max Mosley is no longer president of the International Automobile Federation (FIA).

Last year, following the multitude of scandals his team was involved in during recent seasons - culminating with the ... (read more)]]> Fri, 12 Mar 2010 10:22:33 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ron-dennis-present-in-the-mclaren-garage-in-bahrain-17960.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ron-dennis-present-in-the-mclaren-garage-in-bahrain-17960.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ecclestone-blames-us-f1-for-ruining-stefan-gp-s-entry-17959.html
Additionally, the FIA decided to keep US F1 out of the s...]]> Bernie Ecclestone was a fan of the newly established Stefan GP team from the get go, as the Formula One supremo constantly lobbied for the Serbian outfit throughout the media in recent months. However, when the World Motor Sport Council (WMSC) met a couple of weeks ago, they decided not to hand Zoran Setfanovic's team an entry into the 2010 championship, despite the fact that they had already shipped their cars and equipment to Bahrain.

Additionally, the FIA decided to keep US F1 out of the s... (read more)]]> Fri, 12 Mar 2010 10:01:57 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ecclestone-blames-us-f1-for-ruining-stefan-gp-s-entry-17959.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ecclestone-blames-us-f1-for-ruining-stefan-gp-s-entry-17959.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/alain-prost-to-supervise-bahrain-stewards-17956.html
As part of the new policy implemented by the International Automobile Federation (FIA), the Formula One drivers will have a representative watching over their interest in the stewards bo...]]> Former 4-time Formula One champion Alain Prost will be part of the stewards' panel for the season opening Bahrain Grand Prix this weekend. The Frenchman will therefore watch closely the decision-making process within the panel in case a racing incident will arise during the Saturday qualifying or Sunday race.

As part of the new policy implemented by the International Automobile Federation (FIA), the Formula One drivers will have a representative watching over their interest in the stewards bo... (read more)]]> Fri, 12 Mar 2010 09:40:05 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/alain-prost-to-supervise-bahrain-stewards-17956.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/alain-prost-to-supervise-bahrain-stewards-17956.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/adrian-sutil-tops-morning-practice-in-bahrain-17954.html
The first half of the session was dominated by the guys at McLaren Mercedes, who took their highly controversial MP4-25 to the top of the timing reports just before the half hour m...]]> The first practice session of the 2010 Formula One season has ended, and the first blow came from Force India Mercedes' driver Adrian Sutil. The German surprised everyone by setting the fastest time in P1, managing to end the first one and a half hour of action some 0.138 seconds ahead of Ferrari's Fernando Alonso.

The first half of the session was dominated by the guys at McLaren Mercedes, who took their highly controversial MP4-25 to the top of the timing reports just before the half hour m... (read more)]]> Fri, 12 Mar 2010 09:21:39 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/adrian-sutil-tops-morning-practice-in-bahrain-17954.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/adrian-sutil-tops-morning-practice-in-bahrain-17954.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/hp-becomes-official-partner-of-renault-f1-team-17950.html
As part of the agreement, Renault F1 Team will gain access to HP technology in order to further boost on-track performance,...]]> Renault has finally secured an official partner for the 2010 and 2011 Formula One seasons. After several sponsors left the boat last year as a consequence of the crash-gate in which the French manufacturer was involved, the new Genii Capital-controlled outfit managed to get back in business by signing a 2-year major sponsorship agreement with global technology leader HP.

As part of the agreement, Renault F1 Team will gain access to HP technology in order to further boost on-track performance,... (read more)]]> Fri, 12 Mar 2010 08:53:17 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/hp-becomes-official-partner-of-renault-f1-team-17950.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/hp-becomes-official-partner-of-renault-f1-team-17950.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/renault-could-launch-knee-gate-protest-17947.html
Earlier this week, we had presented to you some aerodynamic features that the Woking based team implemented on their MP4-25 during the latest test in Barcelona, that adds some 6 m...]]> Although Red Bull Racing and Ferrari don't seem to care too much whether McLaren's aerodynamic tricks are given the all clear by the FIA or not - the ruling body ruled them as legal after the Thursday scrutinizing process in Bahrain - it seems the danger of a what could be called a knee-gate is to come from Renault.

Earlier this week, we had presented to you some aerodynamic features that the Woking based team implemented on their MP4-25 during the latest test in Barcelona, that adds some 6 m... (read more)]]> Fri, 12 Mar 2010 08:29:17 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/renault-could-launch-knee-gate-protest-17947.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/renault-could-launch-knee-gate-protest-17947.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mclaren-convinced-rivals-will-copy-mclaren-s-aero-devices-17945.html
People will look at what we have got on our car and I would imagine that most teams are now looking for how they would implement such a system, said Whitmarsh, according to Autosport.

Earlier this week, it has emerged that the...]]> Following the International Automobile Federation (FIA) approving McLaren's aerodynamic features implemented on the MP4-25 during the course of Thursday, the Woking based team's boss Martin Whitmarsh is convinced that the rival team will copy them in the near future.

People will look at what we have got on our car and I would imagine that most teams are now looking for how they would implement such a system, said Whitmarsh, according to Autosport.

Earlier this week, it has emerged that the... (read more)]]> Fri, 12 Mar 2010 08:04:51 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mclaren-convinced-rivals-will-copy-mclaren-s-aero-devices-17945.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mclaren-convinced-rivals-will-copy-mclaren-s-aero-devices-17945.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/fia-clears-mclaren-s-rear-wing-for-bahrain-race-17932.html
The device was initially supposed to be checked out by the FIA technical delegate Charlie Whiting last Friday, but a delayed flight from Brazil messed with his plans for the entire weekend. Therefore, the investigation of McLaren MP4-25's rear ...]]> McLaren Mercedes can leave their alternative bodywork in the garage for the season opening Bahrain Grand Prix this weekend, as it has emerged that the International Automobile Federation (FIA) approved their controversial rear wing design for the race.

The device was initially supposed to be checked out by the FIA technical delegate Charlie Whiting last Friday, but a delayed flight from Brazil messed with his plans for the entire weekend. Therefore, the investigation of McLaren MP4-25's rear ... (read more)]]> Thu, 11 Mar 2010 14:06:03 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/fia-clears-mclaren-s-rear-wing-for-bahrain-race-17932.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/fia-clears-mclaren-s-rear-wing-for-bahrain-race-17932.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/button-brawn-clinch-laureus-awards-17922.html
Following Honda's exit from the world of Formula One at the end of 2008, the Brackley based team remained without funds for the 200...]]> Although one can hardly believe this, a 30-year old racer was named the Breakthrough Sportsman of the Year during this year's Laureus Awards. Obviously, we're talking about the reigning Formula One champion Jenson Button, who last year clinched his first title in career despite being uncertain of his F1 seat until a few weeks before the start of the championship.

Following Honda's exit from the world of Formula One at the end of 2008, the Brackley based team remained without funds for the 200... (read more)]]> Thu, 11 Mar 2010 11:28:58 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/button-brawn-clinch-laureus-awards-17922.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/button-brawn-clinch-laureus-awards-17922.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/senna-says-respect-can-solve-safety-issues-17917.html
Coming to Bahrain without a single mile of testing, Campos Grand Prix will get to debut their 2010 single-seater during the Friday practice sessions. That will raise several safety issues during the practice sessions, qualifying and even race - as warned by Felipe Massa and Jenson Bu...]]> Brazilian driver Bruno Senna insisted that he has no problem with the criticism showed by several F1 drivers and teams regarding the slower pace the new teams will show during the early stages of the 2010 season.

Coming to Bahrain without a single mile of testing, Campos Grand Prix will get to debut their 2010 single-seater during the Friday practice sessions. That will raise several safety issues during the practice sessions, qualifying and even race - as warned by Felipe Massa and Jenson Bu... (read more)]]> Thu, 11 Mar 2010 10:58:53 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/senna-says-respect-can-solve-safety-issues-17917.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/senna-says-respect-can-solve-safety-issues-17917.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/villeneuve-joins-bbc-commentary-box-for-bahrain-gp-17913.html
According to a report from the British website Autosport, the 1997 Formula One champion will join David Croft and former Honda driver Anthony Davidson in the commentary team for BBC's Radi...]]> Jacques Villeneuve may not have secured a Formula One racing spot for the 2010 season, but that doesn't mean he won't be present in Bahrain for the season opening round this weekend. It seems the Canadian driver will exchange the cockpit seat with the commentary box for British broadcaster BBC this weekend.

According to a report from the British website Autosport, the 1997 Formula One champion will join David Croft and former Honda driver Anthony Davidson in the commentary team for BBC's Radi... (read more)]]> Thu, 11 Mar 2010 10:25:40 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/villeneuve-joins-bbc-commentary-box-for-bahrain-gp-17913.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/villeneuve-joins-bbc-commentary-box-for-bahrain-gp-17913.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/italy-to-have-2-formula-one-races-in-2013-17902.html
The news about setting up a city race through the streets of Rome have circulated in the media through the duration of last season, with several reports suggesting that F1 supremo ...]]> The 2013 Rome GP will not affect in any way the presence of Monza on the scene of the Great Circus. This was made very clear by the very mayor of the Italian capital Gianni Alemanno, who insisted that he will find a way to make a deal with the Monza officials in order to have two Italian races in the 2013 calendar.

The news about setting up a city race through the streets of Rome have circulated in the media through the duration of last season, with several reports suggesting that F1 supremo ... (read more)]]> Thu, 11 Mar 2010 09:01:54 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/italy-to-have-2-formula-one-races-in-2013-17902.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/italy-to-have-2-formula-one-races-in-2013-17902.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ecclestone-admits-new-teams-suffer-financially-17898.html
As most of you might remember from last summer, the new teams were given the go-ahead to prepare themselves for t...]]> The fact that all the new teams - Virgin, Lotus and HRT F1 - have been granted an entry into the 2010 Formula One Championship under budget cap expectations is starting to show. The cars they have managed to develop over the winter are clearly not as competitive as initially expected, and that's mainly because the outfits had little money to pour into their development programmes.

As most of you might remember from last summer, the new teams were given the go-ahead to prepare themselves for t... (read more)]]> Thu, 11 Mar 2010 08:38:21 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ecclestone-admits-new-teams-suffer-financially-17898.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/ecclestone-admits-new-teams-suffer-financially-17898.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/renault-f1-signs-agreement-with-mov-it-17893.html
We weren't given the full details of the new agreement, but we believe it will extend for the duration of the upcoming season only, with the company's logo due to be painted on the nose of the Renault R30 starting...]]> Only a couple of days before the start of the new season, Renault F1 Team received another boost (financially speaking) by signing a new partner. We're talking about German company MOV'IT, a worldwide player in high-performance brake systems for sports, racing and security vehicles.

We weren't given the full details of the new agreement, but we believe it will extend for the duration of the upcoming season only, with the company's logo due to be painted on the nose of the Renault R30 starting... (read more)]]> Thu, 11 Mar 2010 07:58:09 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/renault-f1-signs-agreement-with-mov-it-17893.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/renault-f1-signs-agreement-with-mov-it-17893.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/schumacher-uncomfortable-with-understeering-w01-17889.html
Nico (Rosberg) has felt a little better in the car (than Schumacher) in his test days, said Brawn in recent days, echoing the comments of Schumacher's long-time manager Wi...]]> Michael Schumacher is yet to get comfortable with the Mercedes W01, despite the 7 or 8 days of testing during the month of February. According to both the team's boss Ross Brawn and Schumacher's little brother Ralf, it seems that Nico Rosberg finds it more natural to drive the 2010 challenger than the 7-time world champion.

Nico (Rosberg) has felt a little better in the car (than Schumacher) in his test days, said Brawn in recent days, echoing the comments of Schumacher's long-time manager Wi... (read more)]]> Thu, 11 Mar 2010 07:30:37 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/schumacher-uncomfortable-with-understeering-w01-17889.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/schumacher-uncomfortable-with-understeering-w01-17889.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/massa-expects-best-f1-start-in-career-17872.html
As Fernando Alonso wasn't with Ferrari last year wh...]]> To say that Ferrari had a miserable start of a season in 2009 would be an understatement. The Scuderia scored its first points in the championship at the end of Round 4, in Bahrain, which is where the 2010 season gets off later this week. However, as compared to last year, all the people at Maranello are expecting a complete turnaround of last season's form, aiming to power the Prancing Horse to the top of the classification from the get go.

As Fernando Alonso wasn't with Ferrari last year wh... (read more)]]> Wed, 10 Mar 2010 11:48:42 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/massa-expects-best-f1-start-in-career-17872.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/massa-expects-best-f1-start-in-career-17872.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/jordan-no-chance-for-schumacher-to-take-8th-title-17864.html
If I was his father I would have said to him, 'Son, why? Why?!' Seven times a world champion - he must be out of his mind! In l...]]> BBC pundit Eddie Jordan - formerly a team owner inside the Formula One Championship - said that Michael Schumacher must be out of his mind to return to the sport that turned him into a 7-time world champion. Speaking his mind about Schumacher's chances of making a difference in the 2010 championship, Jordan believes the German made a terrible mistake returning in F1.

If I was his father I would have said to him, 'Son, why? Why?!' Seven times a world champion - he must be out of his mind! In l... (read more)]]> Wed, 10 Mar 2010 10:56:22 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/jordan-no-chance-for-schumacher-to-take-8th-title-17864.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/jordan-no-chance-for-schumacher-to-take-8th-title-17864.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/webber-denies-new-f1-kids-are-real-men-17860.html
You don't look at these guys and think 'they are real men'. They are talented, no question, but there is less in common, said We...]]> Following some recent statements issued by Mark Webber ahead of the upcoming Formula One season, one could assume that there is a bit of tension between the two Red Bull Racing drivers - the Aussie and Sebastian Vettel. The 33-year old racer yesterday spoke openly about the younger talents that make it into F1, revealing that he doesn't quite consider them real men.

You don't look at these guys and think 'they are real men'. They are talented, no question, but there is less in common, said We... (read more)]]> Wed, 10 Mar 2010 10:19:35 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/webber-denies-new-f1-kids-are-real-men-17860.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/webber-denies-new-f1-kids-are-real-men-17860.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/sauber-f1-without-sponsor-in-bahrain-17855.html
Consequently, the well-designed Sauber C29 cars - as showed in one of our recent reports - will show up on ...]]> Although hoping to secure a major sponsor for the 2010 Formula One championship - that gets off from as early as this weekend - Peter Sauber will bring his team to Bahrain without an official backer. While some teams have recently announced new title sponsors for the 2010 season, Sauber F1 Team is yet to find a company willing to pour some money into their account for at least one year.

Consequently, the well-designed Sauber C29 cars - as showed in one of our recent reports - will show up on ... (read more)]]> Wed, 10 Mar 2010 09:54:57 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/sauber-f1-without-sponsor-in-bahrain-17855.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/sauber-f1-without-sponsor-in-bahrain-17855.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/2011-french-grand-prix-close-to-impossible-17852.html
Nicolas Deschaux, the president of the country's motor racing sanctionin...]]> Although some have hoped that, with the investment of Jean Todt as new president of the International Automobile Federation, France will finally have a shot of getting their Formula One Grand Prix back, the recent reports from the country points to the exact opposite direction. It seems nobody in France - we mean the people who actually have the power to do something about it - actually wants F1 to return to the country.

Nicolas Deschaux, the president of the country's motor racing sanctionin... (read more)]]> Wed, 10 Mar 2010 09:32:53 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/2011-french-grand-prix-close-to-impossible-17852.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/2011-french-grand-prix-close-to-impossible-17852.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/vettel-will-not-hire-new-manager-for-2010-17848.html
Ever since he was signed by BMW a few years back, the 22-year old German did not benefit from the advice of a more experienced person to handle his contractual situations or renegotiate his salary. He did i...]]> While constantly praised by Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone for his maturity, racing talent and great image within the fans worldwide - and the compliments could continue - Sebastian Vettel is still conducting his F1 business on his own. Meaning he has no manager to look out for him.

Ever since he was signed by BMW a few years back, the 22-year old German did not benefit from the advice of a more experienced person to handle his contractual situations or renegotiate his salary. He did i... (read more)]]> Wed, 10 Mar 2010 09:05:24 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/vettel-will-not-hire-new-manager-for-2010-17848.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/vettel-will-not-hire-new-manager-for-2010-17848.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/red-bull-also-slams-dangerous-new-teams-17846.html
Instead, it seems Red Bull Racing are also backing the Italian manufacturer in their criticism, although not as violent. Talking ab...]]> While McLaren Mercedes' managing director Jonathan Neale is supporting the new teams in Formula One but is still warning the FIA to keep a close watch on their development through the 2010 season, some other team principals feel differently about this particular topic. Ferrari's stand on it is all too known, so we're not going to focus on them for the time being.

Instead, it seems Red Bull Racing are also backing the Italian manufacturer in their criticism, although not as violent. Talking ab... (read more)]]> Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:47:12 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/red-bull-also-slams-dangerous-new-teams-17846.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/red-bull-also-slams-dangerous-new-teams-17846.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/heidfeld-red-bull-clearly-the-best-car-17840.html
The Red Bull is clearly the best car. It's almost frigh...]]> Again with the predictions for the 2010 Formula One opener in Bahrain! Although several drivers have agreed that Ferrari has the edge over their rivals in terms of car performance this season, Mercedes GP's test/reserve driver Nick Heidfeld strongly objected it this week. Only a few days until the official start of the new campaign, there isn't a doubt in Heidfeld's mind that Red Bull Racing is the best prepared team of the leading pack.

The Red Bull is clearly the best car. It's almost frigh... (read more)]]> Wed, 10 Mar 2010 08:20:39 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/heidfeld-red-bull-clearly-the-best-car-17840.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/heidfeld-red-bull-clearly-the-best-car-17840.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mclaren-supports-new-teams-in-f1-17836.html
Although admitting that some problems may arise regarding the Hispania Racing F1 Team's programme for the 2010 season - they ha...]]> Although several drivers and one manufacturer - obviously, we're talking about Ferrari - have publicly expressed their discontent over how the new teams have behaved in recent testing, not to talk about the fact that HRT F1 is yet to do a single mile of testing with their 2010 challenger, McLaren Mercedes once again position themselves on the other side of the fence.

Although admitting that some problems may arise regarding the Hispania Racing F1 Team's programme for the 2010 season - they ha... (read more)]]> Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:52:44 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mclaren-supports-new-teams-in-f1-17836.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mclaren-supports-new-teams-in-f1-17836.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mclaren-brings-alternative-bodywork-to-bahrain-due-to-illegality-claims-17832.html
Additionally, the guys at Auto Motor und Sport spotted an air inlet on the left side of the upper bodywork - present on the MP4-25 during the latest te...]]> McLaren Mercedes have prepared for the worst ahead of this weekend's Bahrain Grand Prix, as it has emerged that the Woking based team has taken an alternative bodywork for the race. As most of you know by now, some worries were raised about the design of McLaren MP4-25's rear wing - Red Bull and Ferrari asked the FIA to look into its legality.

Additionally, the guys at Auto Motor und Sport spotted an air inlet on the left side of the upper bodywork - present on the MP4-25 during the latest te... (read more)]]> Wed, 10 Mar 2010 07:23:45 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mclaren-brings-alternative-bodywork-to-bahrain-due-to-illegality-claims-17832.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/mclaren-brings-alternative-bodywork-to-bahrain-due-to-illegality-claims-17832.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/paffett-will-be-mclaren-reserve-for-the-first-4-gps-17820.html
Until 2010, it was Spanish driver Pedro de la Rosa who took care of the testing and reserve business at Woking, but he le...]]> McLaren Mercedes seem to have solved their reserve driver issues ahead of the new season, appointing Gary Paffett to be the team's 3rd racer for the first 4 rounds of the 2010 season. Therefore, the solution found by the Woking based team is only temporary, as it means the Brit will only attend the Bahrain, Australia, Malaysia and China grands prix from the McLaren garage.

Until 2010, it was Spanish driver Pedro de la Rosa who took care of the testing and reserve business at Woking, but he le... (read more)]]> Tue, 9 Mar 2010 14:20:21 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/paffett-will-be-mclaren-reserve-for-the-first-4-gps-17820.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/paffett-will-be-mclaren-reserve-for-the-first-4-gps-17820.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/tire-management-to-make-sauber-stronger-in-2010-17817.html
According to Hirohide Hamashima, Bridgestone's director of motorsport tire developmen...]]> The latest discoveries showed by Japanese tire manufacturer Bridgestone suggests that there may be more to Sauber's C29 challenger than meets the eye. Although they don't benefit from tons of aerodynamic developments as compared to the leading pack of teams - Ferrari, Red Bull, McLaren and Mercedes - the thing that seems to make the car a competitive one is its ability to preserve the condition of its tires.

According to Hirohide Hamashima, Bridgestone's director of motorsport tire developmen... (read more)]]> Tue, 9 Mar 2010 13:54:00 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/tire-management-to-make-sauber-stronger-in-2010-17817.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/tire-management-to-make-sauber-stronger-in-2010-17817.html#comments autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/schumacher-admitted-merc-hasn-t-laid-all-their-cards-yet-17808.html
The car has not been completely at the level of other teams' cars at ...]]> Michael Schumacher revealed that, while not expecting any race wins in the early stages of the 2010 Formula One championship, the level of performance of his team's W01 model is likely to surpass his rivals' expectations in Bahrain. Previewing this weekend's race on his official website, the 41-year old racer admitted that Mercedes GP kept some of its developments out of the media's reach during the February testing season.

The car has not been completely at the level of other teams' cars at ... (read more)]]> Tue, 9 Mar 2010 11:48:19 GMT F1 - autoevolution http://www.autoevolution.com/news/schumacher-admitted-merc-hasn-t-laid-all-their-cards-yet-17808.html F1 http://www.autoevolution.com/news/schumacher-admitted-merc-hasn-t-laid-all-their-cards-yet-17808.html#comments autoevolution