After much fanfare and uncertainty, the opening Grand Prix of the season is behind us, with many talking points.
The spectacle seemed ever so slightly subdued, and it may take some time to become accustomed to the dull drone of the turbos again, after twenty-five years of screaming normally-aspirated engines of various descriptions. Similarly, people will have to re-calibrate their minds to accommodate the modus operandi and vagaries of the new cars. On the plus side, there were encouraging signs of competitiveness, despite the impression that Mercedes enjoy a significant advantage out of the blocks. Also, the cars look much less ugly in motion than they do when stationary!
Mercedes do look impressive, and their whole package looks compact and efficient. Nico Rosberg seemed to have plenty in hand, and the onboard footage from his car suggested a user-friendly and sympathetic vehicle, whereas some of the other teams have yet to fully tame and harness their new creations.
The race in Melbourne also represented a renaissance of sorts for McLaren, and it was great to see Ron Dennis much in evidence in the pits, and even on the pitwall. It must have been very satisfying for the team to witness Kevin Magnussen achieve a podium finish on his debut. The young Dane has taken to Formula 1 like a duck to water, impressing in testing as well as during his first taste of "the real thing". His pass of Lewis Hamilton early on exhibited real confidence and flair, and had the mark of real class about it.
After enduring a miserable series of tests, and having an ultimately disappointing race weekend, Red Bull cannot be discounted. Daniel Ricciardo's race display, although ending in disqualification, is a persuasive sign that the reigning champions will be a force to be reckoned with before very long.
Williams might have been hoping for slightly better than what they got from Australia, but it is great to see them back as a major player. Although Felipe Massa was taken out at the start, Valtteri Bottas' comeback drive had real swagger and vigour, and confirmed the promise of both car and driver. As an added bonus, Williams have reintroduced to F1 one of the coolest liveries in racing!
I probably sound like a broken record in my effusive praise of Nico Hulkenberg, but the German once again showed his class at Albert Park, driving consistently and unobtrusively to a solid finish in the points. Any lingering disappointment at not landing a "top" seat will hopefully be assuaged by the knowledge that Force India have adapted to the new era better than most.
It is hard to know what to make of Ferrari at the moment. Their testing form was a touch inconclusive, but they hardly inspired in Melbourne. Fernando Alonso did his formidable best in the race, maybe even flattering the machinery, but there are signs that Kimi Raikkonen is struggling to get to grips with the new technology. The "superteam" may take a while to unleash its full potential.
In a way, the better than expected reliability which was seen in Australia was a disappointment, because it meant that the shake-up in the running order was less pronounced than might have been hoped for. Mercedes might have the edge, but as demonstrated by the gremlins which afflicted Lewis Hamilton, they are as yet far from infallible. I think that we can expect further surprises in the races to come, with interlopers popping up in unexpected positions.
Showing posts with label mercedes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label mercedes. Show all posts
Sunday, 16 March 2014
Sunday, 21 April 2013
2013 Bahrain Grand Prix
A clear and fairly resounding victory for Sebastian Vettel, of the type which we seldom witness in this current era of Grand Prix racing. The margin will have given food for thought for Red Bull's rivals, even if the Sakhir circuit could be tentatively described as a track which suits the Red Bull's characteristics. A marker has definitely been laid down as we enter the European leg of the championship chase.
Although the race for first position lacked genuine tension for the bulk of the contest, much of interest occurred in the chasing pack. Mercedes once again failed to convert promise into genuine success, although in fairness this possibility had been flagged by the pole-sitter Nico Rosberg. His team-mate Lewis Hamilton had a largely anonymous race, even taking into account his grid penalty. The team might not yet be the finished article, but the progress and momentum are in a positive direction.
In terms of competitiveness, Bahrain must have represented a boost of sorts for the McLaren team, but this heartening showing may be overshadowed, in media circles at least, by the friction which developed during the race when Jenson Button and Sergio Perez got a little too close for comfort. It is also tempting to argue however, that in some respects, the fact that the two drivers were in such close proximity to each other is a good sign. Would the team rather have this sort of disagreement to iron out, than see the two vehicles touring around blandly and inoffensively in midfield?
It will be interesting to see whether's Perez's improved form unlocks his undoubted potential, and instill added belief. Team politics may become a headache, but the team must also realise that an on-form and motivated Perez is a major asset. I was also impressed by the young Mexican's mature and constructive remarks after the race, when quizzed about the brush with his team-mate.
If Button imagined that he was the undisputed de facto number one driver in the team, he may be forced to revise his opinion. I cannot honestly see the usually unflappable Jenson becoming unduly rattled by all this, but the psychology will add an important dimension to proceedings.
The Ferrari team was remaining sanguine in the wake of the race, and with good reason. Although fortune was not on their side today, the portents still look very favourable. Before problems intervened, the cars were handily positioned. Once his technical dramas were remedied, Fernando Alonso predictably put up a classy and stout performance, and the Italian marque can look forward to the rest of the reason with optimism and confidence.
Another team still on an upward curve is Lotus, as shown by their occupation of two of the steps on the podium. Perhaps the most significant thing to emerge was the "rebirth" of Romain Grosjean. the man often derided as the enfant terrible of Formula 1. This performance was a reminder of his crisp and incisive drives of 2012, which were of course interspersed with various indiscretions. If Grosjean can "kick on", so to speak, it will have ramifications for his team and his team-mate, and could even conceivably influence the outcome of the championship, with another "wild card" in a competitive machine taking points off the other contenders. Others have successfully recovered from early-career setbacks and stigmas. Let us hope that Grosjean has the strength of character to achieve similar. This podium finish may constitute a launchpad in this regard.
So we now enter the European phase of the campaign. Red Bull, or at least the one conducted by Vettel, may be in the ascendancy, but last season taught us not to take anything for granted!
Although the race for first position lacked genuine tension for the bulk of the contest, much of interest occurred in the chasing pack. Mercedes once again failed to convert promise into genuine success, although in fairness this possibility had been flagged by the pole-sitter Nico Rosberg. His team-mate Lewis Hamilton had a largely anonymous race, even taking into account his grid penalty. The team might not yet be the finished article, but the progress and momentum are in a positive direction.
In terms of competitiveness, Bahrain must have represented a boost of sorts for the McLaren team, but this heartening showing may be overshadowed, in media circles at least, by the friction which developed during the race when Jenson Button and Sergio Perez got a little too close for comfort. It is also tempting to argue however, that in some respects, the fact that the two drivers were in such close proximity to each other is a good sign. Would the team rather have this sort of disagreement to iron out, than see the two vehicles touring around blandly and inoffensively in midfield?
It will be interesting to see whether's Perez's improved form unlocks his undoubted potential, and instill added belief. Team politics may become a headache, but the team must also realise that an on-form and motivated Perez is a major asset. I was also impressed by the young Mexican's mature and constructive remarks after the race, when quizzed about the brush with his team-mate.
If Button imagined that he was the undisputed de facto number one driver in the team, he may be forced to revise his opinion. I cannot honestly see the usually unflappable Jenson becoming unduly rattled by all this, but the psychology will add an important dimension to proceedings.
The Ferrari team was remaining sanguine in the wake of the race, and with good reason. Although fortune was not on their side today, the portents still look very favourable. Before problems intervened, the cars were handily positioned. Once his technical dramas were remedied, Fernando Alonso predictably put up a classy and stout performance, and the Italian marque can look forward to the rest of the reason with optimism and confidence.
Another team still on an upward curve is Lotus, as shown by their occupation of two of the steps on the podium. Perhaps the most significant thing to emerge was the "rebirth" of Romain Grosjean. the man often derided as the enfant terrible of Formula 1. This performance was a reminder of his crisp and incisive drives of 2012, which were of course interspersed with various indiscretions. If Grosjean can "kick on", so to speak, it will have ramifications for his team and his team-mate, and could even conceivably influence the outcome of the championship, with another "wild card" in a competitive machine taking points off the other contenders. Others have successfully recovered from early-career setbacks and stigmas. Let us hope that Grosjean has the strength of character to achieve similar. This podium finish may constitute a launchpad in this regard.
So we now enter the European phase of the campaign. Red Bull, or at least the one conducted by Vettel, may be in the ascendancy, but last season taught us not to take anything for granted!
Thursday, 4 October 2012
Michael Schumacher Retires....Again
The announcement this morning from Michael Schumacher that he was retiring from Formula 1 was not entirely surprising, given recent developments in the driver's market for 2013, and the disappointments which he has endured this season. However, there were some intriguing and revealing morsels of information contained in the announcement itself.
Schumacher appears to have begun to doubt his motivation in recent times, and it was somewhat surprising to hear such a frank and honest assessment of his innermost thoughts and the reasons leading up to the move to quit. It is admirable, and also characteristic, of Schumacher to decide that if he cannot give a project 100% then he will not continue with it.
It was also significant that the German used the word "relief" to describe the emotions which he feels in making this momentous decision. Hinting perhaps that the last three seasons, or at least the latter portions of that period, have been a chore, an ordeal and a time of frustration, even if rewarding from some perspectives on a human level?
Another revealing detail is Schumacher's assertion that the signing by Mercedes of Lewis Hamilton for 2013 aided his decision to "re-retire". We can therefore assume that there was no genuine appetite for pursuing possible opportunities or options with other teams. Is this all consistent with the notion that the 2010 comeback was entirely "a Mercedes thing"?
So was it a mistake for Schumacher to return to F1? We can all pontificate and speculate, but none of the parties directly involved is likely to admit as such outright in the immediate future.
Concern has been expressed as to whether the less than sparkling results achieved during Michael's second F1 career will in some way tarnish his legacy. My own feeling is that the travails and setbacks experienced during his time with Mercedes will be placed in their right and proper perspective, and that he will be mainly remembered for his years of near hegemony with Ferrari, and his earlier feats with Benetton.
We now await news of what Schumacher intends to do with his time in the future. Some role within the Mercedes structure or, after a period of reflection, some racing activity in other, less exalted categories?
Schumacher appears to have begun to doubt his motivation in recent times, and it was somewhat surprising to hear such a frank and honest assessment of his innermost thoughts and the reasons leading up to the move to quit. It is admirable, and also characteristic, of Schumacher to decide that if he cannot give a project 100% then he will not continue with it.
It was also significant that the German used the word "relief" to describe the emotions which he feels in making this momentous decision. Hinting perhaps that the last three seasons, or at least the latter portions of that period, have been a chore, an ordeal and a time of frustration, even if rewarding from some perspectives on a human level?
Another revealing detail is Schumacher's assertion that the signing by Mercedes of Lewis Hamilton for 2013 aided his decision to "re-retire". We can therefore assume that there was no genuine appetite for pursuing possible opportunities or options with other teams. Is this all consistent with the notion that the 2010 comeback was entirely "a Mercedes thing"?
So was it a mistake for Schumacher to return to F1? We can all pontificate and speculate, but none of the parties directly involved is likely to admit as such outright in the immediate future.
Concern has been expressed as to whether the less than sparkling results achieved during Michael's second F1 career will in some way tarnish his legacy. My own feeling is that the travails and setbacks experienced during his time with Mercedes will be placed in their right and proper perspective, and that he will be mainly remembered for his years of near hegemony with Ferrari, and his earlier feats with Benetton.
We now await news of what Schumacher intends to do with his time in the future. Some role within the Mercedes structure or, after a period of reflection, some racing activity in other, less exalted categories?
Friday, 28 September 2012
Sergio Perez to McLaren
Dovetailing with the announcement that Lewis Hamilton would be joining Mercedes, came the news that Mexico's Sergio Perez would be replacing the Englishman in the McLaren team.
Some have argued that Perez is largely untested and unproven, and there are still a few rough edges to be smoothed out. However, there is persuasive evidence indicating that he is not just a raw youngster being promoted over his head. There have been glimpses, particularly during the 2012 season, of real nous and maturity, things which separate the potentially great from the merely good. These things do not go un-noticed by team managers, however much we may like to denigrate their judgement at times!
It does seem that Perez brings with him some lavish financial backing, and though it is hard to believe that this was anything like a decisive factor, it doesn't exactly hurt either, with the current economic climate ensuring that uncertainty and instability are never too far away, even for an organisation such as McLaren.
The effect on the driver politics at McLaren is also fascinating to speculate upon. It can be argued that the departure of Hamilton, and the signing of Perez, leaves the driving strength at Woking temporarily weakened. It is possible, but not certain, that Perez will take a little time to find his feet, and during that time it may feel like a void has been left by the loss of the outright speed and talent of Hamilton. However, once Perez has acclimatised to life in a front-running team, the driving line-up should be well-balanced, the youthful exuberance and elan of the Mexican complementing the solidity, experience and methodical approach of Jenson Button. In this respect, does Jenson represent some kind of "insurance policy" for McLaren?
So how is Perez likely to fare at McLaren? The odds are that he will flourish given time, but at the same time there are numerous examples of promising drivers who looked like world-beaters in middling teams, but whose careers soon assumed a plateau upon being promoted to a car running at the front. Young drivers in teams such as Sauber are allowed the occasional aberration or off-day, but this is less likely to be tolerated or indulged in a top team. Part of Perez's task will be to bridge that gap.
Much has been made of the cooling of Ferrari's interest in signing Perez to their race team, if indeed there was genuine interest in the first place. Granted, the Ferrari management was reputed to have cast doubt on Perez's suitability on the grounds of experience, but what effect will today's developments have on the careers of both Felipe Massa and, for the sake of argument, Sebastian Vettel? Only time will tell....
Some have argued that Perez is largely untested and unproven, and there are still a few rough edges to be smoothed out. However, there is persuasive evidence indicating that he is not just a raw youngster being promoted over his head. There have been glimpses, particularly during the 2012 season, of real nous and maturity, things which separate the potentially great from the merely good. These things do not go un-noticed by team managers, however much we may like to denigrate their judgement at times!
It does seem that Perez brings with him some lavish financial backing, and though it is hard to believe that this was anything like a decisive factor, it doesn't exactly hurt either, with the current economic climate ensuring that uncertainty and instability are never too far away, even for an organisation such as McLaren.
The effect on the driver politics at McLaren is also fascinating to speculate upon. It can be argued that the departure of Hamilton, and the signing of Perez, leaves the driving strength at Woking temporarily weakened. It is possible, but not certain, that Perez will take a little time to find his feet, and during that time it may feel like a void has been left by the loss of the outright speed and talent of Hamilton. However, once Perez has acclimatised to life in a front-running team, the driving line-up should be well-balanced, the youthful exuberance and elan of the Mexican complementing the solidity, experience and methodical approach of Jenson Button. In this respect, does Jenson represent some kind of "insurance policy" for McLaren?
So how is Perez likely to fare at McLaren? The odds are that he will flourish given time, but at the same time there are numerous examples of promising drivers who looked like world-beaters in middling teams, but whose careers soon assumed a plateau upon being promoted to a car running at the front. Young drivers in teams such as Sauber are allowed the occasional aberration or off-day, but this is less likely to be tolerated or indulged in a top team. Part of Perez's task will be to bridge that gap.
Much has been made of the cooling of Ferrari's interest in signing Perez to their race team, if indeed there was genuine interest in the first place. Granted, the Ferrari management was reputed to have cast doubt on Perez's suitability on the grounds of experience, but what effect will today's developments have on the careers of both Felipe Massa and, for the sake of argument, Sebastian Vettel? Only time will tell....
Lewis Hamilton to Mercedes
So, after protracted and sometimes tiresome speculation, it has been announced that Lewis Hamilton will depart McLaren, after signing a three year contract with Mercedes. This has triggered in earnest the annual game of musical chairs in Formula 1.
So, what factors lie behind Hamilton's decision to opt for the Three-Pointed-Star, apart from his longstanding links with the carmaker?
It is tempting to be cynical and attribute it solely to financial incentive, but to me that is a major over-simplification. Mercedes offers resources, potential and facilities. Despite indications that he will nominally have equal status with Nico Rosberg, there is little doubt that everyone, including many in the team itself, will regard Lewis as the number one driver from the outset.
One thing which has perhaps been overlooked is the likely impact of the move on Hamilton himself. A fresh start, a change of scenery and the dawning of new pastures may reinvigorate and re-motivate the driver, freed from the tensions of his latter days at McLaren.
Hamilton may feel that this is a "gamble" worth taking at this stage of his career, if indeed it can be viewed as a gamble. If the Mercedes team can be lifted above its current relative mediocrity and inspired to genuine success, there would be enormous kudos to be reaped, as well as a great feeling of personal and professional satisfaction.
In assessing Hamilton's reasons and motives, many observers are overlooking the fact that he is already a World Champion, with multiple victories under his belt. In addition, he is still young enough to re-establish himself with other teams should his stay at Mercedes go awry or prove less than fruitful. The age issue may also have persuaded him that it is worth "sacrificing" one or two relatively lean or fallow years for the prospect of long-term success. The looming regulation changes may also have played on his mind, although the "reshuffling" properties of those changes are probably over-estimated.
The arrival of Hamilton will needless to say have major repercussions for the Mercedes team itself. The jury is still very much out on the outfit in its post-2009 guise, the win in China this year notwithstanding. There are still inconsistencies and weaknesses to be resolved and addressed.
I think it is less a case of Hamilton inspiring a revival or breakthrough through his own actions or pro-active measures, than his arrival heightening the commercial and political ante generally, and forcing the organisation to get its act together, and make necessary changes. The era of drivers carrying teams through their own personality or charisma may well have passed with Michael Schumacher's exit from Ferrari.
Whatever the theories concerning Hamilton's move, it has certainly added considerable spice to the driver market, and the prospects for the 2013 season!
So, what factors lie behind Hamilton's decision to opt for the Three-Pointed-Star, apart from his longstanding links with the carmaker?
It is tempting to be cynical and attribute it solely to financial incentive, but to me that is a major over-simplification. Mercedes offers resources, potential and facilities. Despite indications that he will nominally have equal status with Nico Rosberg, there is little doubt that everyone, including many in the team itself, will regard Lewis as the number one driver from the outset.
One thing which has perhaps been overlooked is the likely impact of the move on Hamilton himself. A fresh start, a change of scenery and the dawning of new pastures may reinvigorate and re-motivate the driver, freed from the tensions of his latter days at McLaren.
Hamilton may feel that this is a "gamble" worth taking at this stage of his career, if indeed it can be viewed as a gamble. If the Mercedes team can be lifted above its current relative mediocrity and inspired to genuine success, there would be enormous kudos to be reaped, as well as a great feeling of personal and professional satisfaction.
In assessing Hamilton's reasons and motives, many observers are overlooking the fact that he is already a World Champion, with multiple victories under his belt. In addition, he is still young enough to re-establish himself with other teams should his stay at Mercedes go awry or prove less than fruitful. The age issue may also have persuaded him that it is worth "sacrificing" one or two relatively lean or fallow years for the prospect of long-term success. The looming regulation changes may also have played on his mind, although the "reshuffling" properties of those changes are probably over-estimated.
The arrival of Hamilton will needless to say have major repercussions for the Mercedes team itself. The jury is still very much out on the outfit in its post-2009 guise, the win in China this year notwithstanding. There are still inconsistencies and weaknesses to be resolved and addressed.
I think it is less a case of Hamilton inspiring a revival or breakthrough through his own actions or pro-active measures, than his arrival heightening the commercial and political ante generally, and forcing the organisation to get its act together, and make necessary changes. The era of drivers carrying teams through their own personality or charisma may well have passed with Michael Schumacher's exit from Ferrari.
Whatever the theories concerning Hamilton's move, it has certainly added considerable spice to the driver market, and the prospects for the 2013 season!
Sunday, 15 April 2012
Chinese Grand Prix 2012 - Review
Another absorbing and unpredictable Formula 1 race, and this time we have a new winner, which is always a healthy sign.
Looking back, whatever doubts which may have inhabited Nico Rosberg's mind prior to the race were largely dispelled by his confident and clean get-away from the starting grid. Thereafter, making allowances for pit-stops, he had the measure of his rivals, once strategies had unravelled.
The emotion and relief amongst the Mercedes personnel at the finish was palpable, notably from Norbert Haug and Ross Brawn. I am delighted for Haug in particular; he has always occurred to me as one of F1's good guys.
While the weather conditions in Shanghai did not exactly hinder Mercedes in their endeavours, at least some of the questions about the car's earlier shortcomings appear to have been answered, and Michael Schumacher alluded to this when interviewed after retiring from the race.
The failure of Schumacher to finish will have been the one blemish on the day for the Silver Arrows. Since his comeback, I am probably guilty of over-analysing Michael's words and body language, searching for signs of a mellowing or a weakening of resolve. To be fair, these things are extremely difficult to discern, because for much of his career he has been diplomatic and sanguine, being loyal and protective to team members, publicly at least. His qualities as a team player were in evidence today, with what seemed to be genuine pleasure at Rosberg's victory. The seven-times champion probably in turn senses that the team has turned a corner, and that he will be a beneficiary.
If we disregard the relatively serene Rosberg, this was quite a freakish, fluctuating race, which had a faintly surreal air to it throughout. The battle for the other points positions in the latter stages resembled a Formula Ford thrash rather than a Grand Prix, but I have heard few complaints! My head was hurting at times watching, as I tried to make sense of the constantly shifting fortunes and permutations. It goes without saying that tyres were the major contributory factor in determining the nature of the contest, but the generally unpredictable pattern of Formula 1,2012-style, also had a role in all this.
Because of the volatile nature of the race, I am loath to make too many concrete judgements on individuals teams. The margins were so slender that even one minor misjudgement could have what must have seemed disproportionate consequences. The teams and drivers may have to become accustomed to this becoming more the norm in this "new age" F1. Frustrating for them, entertaining for neutral observers....
McLaren are first and second in the driver's standings, and lead the constructor's championship. However, they may come away from Shanghai feeling that the waters have been progressively muddied since Melbourne. Their advantage was admittedly slim even then, but matters are becoming even more complicated, and the spectre of Mercedes must now concern them more. Jenson Button must have felt that this race was tailor made for his unruffled, mechanically sympathetic style, but even allowing for his botched final pit-stop, he had no real answer to Rosberg.
As for Lewis Hamilton, has he arrived at a satisfactory balance?. This season may well put a premium on consistency and accumulation of points, and he has been on the podium at all three races thus far. At the same time, the close and frenetic competition this season will help to satisfy his racer's instincts. His demeanour after the race hinted at some contentment and optimism, but not complacency.
Sebastian Vettel salvaged something from what on Saturday, and even in the early stages of the race itself, threatened to become an embarrassing and dispiriting state of affairs. Even so, circumstance and the odd slice of luck may have played their part. Still not wholly convincing.
I was impressed with Mark Webber today. He never stopped trying, withstood one particularly disconcerting moment, and his persistence and perseverance were rewarded at the end. Above all, he never stopped racing. He was also very gracious afterwards when praising Rosberg and Mercedes for their win.
Assessing Ferrari's day is an onerous task. Both drivers seemed to try hard, and in some respects the cards did not fall for them, although admittedly Alonso made a late mistake which cost him places. The final results marginally exaggerate how bad a day they actually had.
Of the others, Lotus, Sauber and Williams maintained the favourable impression which they have made in the early races. It was heartening to see both Williams entries well inside the points, with the drivers being impressively assertive, Maldonado building on his reputation as a man not to be trifled with! Sauber were slightly unlucky, although some impetuosity on the part of their drivers may have contributed to this. For Lotus, Romain Grosjean had a chance to exhibit some of his flair.
The pulsating late tussle behind the leader may be the thing which lingers most in the memory from the 2012 Chinese Grand Prix. It is noticeable how much the drivers themselves are enjoying this season's racing, this being reflected in post-race comments today from Button and Hamilton, amongst others. Some competitors are coping with these new conditions better than others...
When we assess Formula 1 in 2012, the plot thickens....
Looking back, whatever doubts which may have inhabited Nico Rosberg's mind prior to the race were largely dispelled by his confident and clean get-away from the starting grid. Thereafter, making allowances for pit-stops, he had the measure of his rivals, once strategies had unravelled.
The emotion and relief amongst the Mercedes personnel at the finish was palpable, notably from Norbert Haug and Ross Brawn. I am delighted for Haug in particular; he has always occurred to me as one of F1's good guys.
While the weather conditions in Shanghai did not exactly hinder Mercedes in their endeavours, at least some of the questions about the car's earlier shortcomings appear to have been answered, and Michael Schumacher alluded to this when interviewed after retiring from the race.
The failure of Schumacher to finish will have been the one blemish on the day for the Silver Arrows. Since his comeback, I am probably guilty of over-analysing Michael's words and body language, searching for signs of a mellowing or a weakening of resolve. To be fair, these things are extremely difficult to discern, because for much of his career he has been diplomatic and sanguine, being loyal and protective to team members, publicly at least. His qualities as a team player were in evidence today, with what seemed to be genuine pleasure at Rosberg's victory. The seven-times champion probably in turn senses that the team has turned a corner, and that he will be a beneficiary.
If we disregard the relatively serene Rosberg, this was quite a freakish, fluctuating race, which had a faintly surreal air to it throughout. The battle for the other points positions in the latter stages resembled a Formula Ford thrash rather than a Grand Prix, but I have heard few complaints! My head was hurting at times watching, as I tried to make sense of the constantly shifting fortunes and permutations. It goes without saying that tyres were the major contributory factor in determining the nature of the contest, but the generally unpredictable pattern of Formula 1,2012-style, also had a role in all this.
Because of the volatile nature of the race, I am loath to make too many concrete judgements on individuals teams. The margins were so slender that even one minor misjudgement could have what must have seemed disproportionate consequences. The teams and drivers may have to become accustomed to this becoming more the norm in this "new age" F1. Frustrating for them, entertaining for neutral observers....
McLaren are first and second in the driver's standings, and lead the constructor's championship. However, they may come away from Shanghai feeling that the waters have been progressively muddied since Melbourne. Their advantage was admittedly slim even then, but matters are becoming even more complicated, and the spectre of Mercedes must now concern them more. Jenson Button must have felt that this race was tailor made for his unruffled, mechanically sympathetic style, but even allowing for his botched final pit-stop, he had no real answer to Rosberg.
As for Lewis Hamilton, has he arrived at a satisfactory balance?. This season may well put a premium on consistency and accumulation of points, and he has been on the podium at all three races thus far. At the same time, the close and frenetic competition this season will help to satisfy his racer's instincts. His demeanour after the race hinted at some contentment and optimism, but not complacency.
Sebastian Vettel salvaged something from what on Saturday, and even in the early stages of the race itself, threatened to become an embarrassing and dispiriting state of affairs. Even so, circumstance and the odd slice of luck may have played their part. Still not wholly convincing.
I was impressed with Mark Webber today. He never stopped trying, withstood one particularly disconcerting moment, and his persistence and perseverance were rewarded at the end. Above all, he never stopped racing. He was also very gracious afterwards when praising Rosberg and Mercedes for their win.
Assessing Ferrari's day is an onerous task. Both drivers seemed to try hard, and in some respects the cards did not fall for them, although admittedly Alonso made a late mistake which cost him places. The final results marginally exaggerate how bad a day they actually had.
Of the others, Lotus, Sauber and Williams maintained the favourable impression which they have made in the early races. It was heartening to see both Williams entries well inside the points, with the drivers being impressively assertive, Maldonado building on his reputation as a man not to be trifled with! Sauber were slightly unlucky, although some impetuosity on the part of their drivers may have contributed to this. For Lotus, Romain Grosjean had a chance to exhibit some of his flair.
The pulsating late tussle behind the leader may be the thing which lingers most in the memory from the 2012 Chinese Grand Prix. It is noticeable how much the drivers themselves are enjoying this season's racing, this being reflected in post-race comments today from Button and Hamilton, amongst others. Some competitors are coping with these new conditions better than others...
When we assess Formula 1 in 2012, the plot thickens....
Saturday, 14 April 2012
Chinese Grand Prix Qualifying
Not totally unexpected, in view of some of the trends in practice and qualifying thus far in 2012, but great to see Nico Rosberg on pole position for the first time in his Formula 1 career. The traditionalists will also be purring, as this was the first F1 pole for Mercedes as a team entity since the Fangio/Moss days of 1955.
I'm tempted to say that the qualifying sessions in Shanghai have produced a win-win situation for the watching billions. A new pole-sitter, close times and some fancied runners for various reasons further back on the grid than they are accustomed to being.
Some people might view this as a "topsy-turvy" grid, but it is not, really. Mercedes have been there or thereabouts in testing, practice and qualifying, so it was only going to take a minor shift in conditions,circumstances or luck for them to achieve today's outcome. The other "surprising" grid positions are also not totally out of kilter with what has already been seen or predicted so far this year.
The main talking point, other than Rosberg's pole, will undoubtedly be Sebastian Vettel's failure to make the top ten. Funnily enough, I was thinking of saying something to the effect that the recent criticism and scrutiny of Vettel has been premature and misguided. The German will clearly not be thrilled to be where he is on the grid, but even now I'm not reading too much into it. Just one of those things! It is more instructive to look at times, and any mitigating circumstances, rather than pure positions.
Going back to Mercedes, the onboard shots with Rosberg suggested a very stable, responsive and easy-to-drive car, but of course doubts linger about their capacity to maintain a consistent race performance, partly because of their tyre-wear "issues". One also wonders whether Nico's entry into the limelight might galvanise Michael Schumacher into an assertive and aggressive race performance tomorrow?
It remains to be seen whether McLaren, for all their prowess in race trim, will be hampered by their grid positions. On balance, I think not, because of the nature of the track, and the uncertainties surrounding the cars in front of them.
The Sauber and Lotus performances in qualifying have ceased to be surprising or unusual. Consistent top ten positions should now be the norm for these two teams. Kimi Raikkonen's times today have gone slightly unheralded, because of the feats of others, but his position is more proof that he never really "went away", and belongs on the rarefied air near the front of the grid.
What is very noticeable this season is how guarded and equivocal team personnel and drivers are being in their comments post-qualifying and pre-race, eschewing bold predictions or bravado. They all realise just how competitive and fluid the current F1 landscape is, and few people are able to foresee future events with any degree of certainty. This can only be a good thing!
I'm tempted to say that the qualifying sessions in Shanghai have produced a win-win situation for the watching billions. A new pole-sitter, close times and some fancied runners for various reasons further back on the grid than they are accustomed to being.
Some people might view this as a "topsy-turvy" grid, but it is not, really. Mercedes have been there or thereabouts in testing, practice and qualifying, so it was only going to take a minor shift in conditions,circumstances or luck for them to achieve today's outcome. The other "surprising" grid positions are also not totally out of kilter with what has already been seen or predicted so far this year.
The main talking point, other than Rosberg's pole, will undoubtedly be Sebastian Vettel's failure to make the top ten. Funnily enough, I was thinking of saying something to the effect that the recent criticism and scrutiny of Vettel has been premature and misguided. The German will clearly not be thrilled to be where he is on the grid, but even now I'm not reading too much into it. Just one of those things! It is more instructive to look at times, and any mitigating circumstances, rather than pure positions.
Going back to Mercedes, the onboard shots with Rosberg suggested a very stable, responsive and easy-to-drive car, but of course doubts linger about their capacity to maintain a consistent race performance, partly because of their tyre-wear "issues". One also wonders whether Nico's entry into the limelight might galvanise Michael Schumacher into an assertive and aggressive race performance tomorrow?
It remains to be seen whether McLaren, for all their prowess in race trim, will be hampered by their grid positions. On balance, I think not, because of the nature of the track, and the uncertainties surrounding the cars in front of them.
The Sauber and Lotus performances in qualifying have ceased to be surprising or unusual. Consistent top ten positions should now be the norm for these two teams. Kimi Raikkonen's times today have gone slightly unheralded, because of the feats of others, but his position is more proof that he never really "went away", and belongs on the rarefied air near the front of the grid.
What is very noticeable this season is how guarded and equivocal team personnel and drivers are being in their comments post-qualifying and pre-race, eschewing bold predictions or bravado. They all realise just how competitive and fluid the current F1 landscape is, and few people are able to foresee future events with any degree of certainty. This can only be a good thing!
Sunday, 16 October 2011
Korean Grand Prix 2011 - Reflections
It has occurred to me that I haven't blogged much recently about modern Formula 1. Time to put that right, as we digest this morning's Korean Grand Prix.
In the end it was quite a comfortable win for Sebastian Vettel, even if this was not really reflected in the distance by which he triumphed. Following the early stages, Lewis Hamilton and others could never quite sustain a meaningful and concerted challenge.
The race tightened up as a competitive spectacle from around half-distance onwards, with the main entertainment being provided by Hamilton and Mark Webber. Much has been said and written about the Englishman's current mindset, but his racing instincts were still very much in evidence during his wheel to wheel dicing with the Red Bull driver. Throughout the race, one got the impression that he was trying very hard.
In the context of the Hamilton/Webber tussle, the BBC's David Coulthard made reference to the legendary Villeneuve/Arnoux battle at the French Grand Prix in 1979. A slight exaggeration, I thought, although it was nice to have events at Dijon mentioned!
At several points in the race, Fernando Alonso's driving seemed to be a touch ragged and untidy, perhaps indicating frustration or impatience. This was also alluded to in the BBC TV commentary, with the inference that he is not altogether happy with Ferrari's progress.
Alonso was also heard to say "I give up" to his engineer late in the race. The Spaniard has subsequently clarified the remark, insisting that motivation is not a problem, and I prefer to reserve judgement on these matters. It is interesting to note, however, that questions marks are being raised about the state of mind of two of F1's most talented drivers, Hamilton and Alonso. An interesting sub-plot in the remaining races?
A few people have remarked how phlegmatic Michael Schumacher seemed to be in the aftermath of his collision with Vitaly Petrov, for which the Russian was clearly at fault. In Michael's heyday, he would certainly have been more vocal, but today I could not even detect any cryptic expression of anger in his remarks. Maybe he is mellowing with age?
Staying with matters Mercedes, Nico Rosberg had one of his strongest races for a while, before fading slightly. It is difficult to gauge Rosberg's current standing because of the reservations being expressed about Schumacher. I hope that he does not begin to go stale. F1 history is full of cases of talented drivers reaching a plateau, and being overtaken in the pecking order by newer, fresher candidates.
Talking of "comingmen", Jaime Alguersuari drove a combative and composed race for STR. It is possible that one or more of the top seats could become vacant in the next 18 months or so, and his name is sure to be mentioned if he continues his upward curve.
Even though the two world titles have been decided, there is still plenty to mull over!
In the end it was quite a comfortable win for Sebastian Vettel, even if this was not really reflected in the distance by which he triumphed. Following the early stages, Lewis Hamilton and others could never quite sustain a meaningful and concerted challenge.
The race tightened up as a competitive spectacle from around half-distance onwards, with the main entertainment being provided by Hamilton and Mark Webber. Much has been said and written about the Englishman's current mindset, but his racing instincts were still very much in evidence during his wheel to wheel dicing with the Red Bull driver. Throughout the race, one got the impression that he was trying very hard.
In the context of the Hamilton/Webber tussle, the BBC's David Coulthard made reference to the legendary Villeneuve/Arnoux battle at the French Grand Prix in 1979. A slight exaggeration, I thought, although it was nice to have events at Dijon mentioned!
At several points in the race, Fernando Alonso's driving seemed to be a touch ragged and untidy, perhaps indicating frustration or impatience. This was also alluded to in the BBC TV commentary, with the inference that he is not altogether happy with Ferrari's progress.
Alonso was also heard to say "I give up" to his engineer late in the race. The Spaniard has subsequently clarified the remark, insisting that motivation is not a problem, and I prefer to reserve judgement on these matters. It is interesting to note, however, that questions marks are being raised about the state of mind of two of F1's most talented drivers, Hamilton and Alonso. An interesting sub-plot in the remaining races?
A few people have remarked how phlegmatic Michael Schumacher seemed to be in the aftermath of his collision with Vitaly Petrov, for which the Russian was clearly at fault. In Michael's heyday, he would certainly have been more vocal, but today I could not even detect any cryptic expression of anger in his remarks. Maybe he is mellowing with age?
Staying with matters Mercedes, Nico Rosberg had one of his strongest races for a while, before fading slightly. It is difficult to gauge Rosberg's current standing because of the reservations being expressed about Schumacher. I hope that he does not begin to go stale. F1 history is full of cases of talented drivers reaching a plateau, and being overtaken in the pecking order by newer, fresher candidates.
Talking of "comingmen", Jaime Alguersuari drove a combative and composed race for STR. It is possible that one or more of the top seats could become vacant in the next 18 months or so, and his name is sure to be mentioned if he continues his upward curve.
Even though the two world titles have been decided, there is still plenty to mull over!
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