Rossi takes maiden GP2 victory as Leimer is crowned Champion
Alexander Rossi has made GP2 history around the Yas Marina Circuit by becoming the first driver from America to win a race in the Series, whilst Fabio Leimer made history of his own by becoming the first Swiss driver to clinch the coveted Drivers’ Championship. Fellow rival Sam Bird suffered a disastrous race, after stalling on the grid.
Initially the start of the race was delayed after both Gianmarco Raimondo, Nathaniel Berthon and Adrian Quaife-Hobbs stalled on the grid as the five red lights came on. This saw the rest of the field once again circulate the Yas Marina Circuit on a second formation lap, as the three cars in question where wheeled into the pit-lane to start the race. With tensions running high, the five red flights once again illuminated over the grid as pole man Alexander Rossi prepared to sprint into action.
At the start utter mayhem ensued as Championship contender Sam Bird stalled on the grid, with the rest of the field including his main Championship rival Fabio Leimer miraculously avoiding the stranded Russian Time machine. As Sam Bird was wheeled back into the pits to restart his car and take to the track, carnage ensued at Turns 5 and 6 as Jon Lancaster was perilously launched into the air and onto the top of Tom Dillmann’s car. Luckily the front of the Briton’s machine only just missed the head of Tom Dillmann, as the rest of the field strove to avoid the melee.
Sam Bird is disconsolately wheeled back into the pits after stalling at the start.
This incident understandably saw the safety car deployed, which greatly assisted Sam Bird who managed to return to the action after stalling on the grid and not fall a lap down. At the front Jolyon Palmer managed to take the lead ahead of the Caterham of Alexander Rossi, with Championship leader Fabio Leimer a strong 3rd. As the marshals cleared away the stricken cars’ of Jon Lancaster and Tom Dillmann, Stephane Richelmi became the next retirement in his DAMS after returning to the pits. A replay of the Turn 5 incident showed the Monegasque driver also bouncing over the sharp kerbs behind the Lancaster and Dillmann incident, which could well have been a factor in his retirement.
After only a short period of time behind the safety car, the race was resumed with Jolyon Palmer in a dominant lead ahead of Alexander Rossi and Fabio Leimer. Further down the order saw Sam Bird scything his way through the order in a bid to redeem himself after his torrid start. At Turns 8 and 9, the British sensation managed to pass both Nathaniel Berthon and Adrian Quaife-Hobbs, before the first few scheduled pit-stops ensued. After enduring a tough qualifying session in his Rapax, Stefano Coletti’s race failed to improve, as the Monegasque driver lightly collided with the ART Grand Prix of James Calado before pitting a lap later.
On Lap 7 yellow flags began appearing in the first few corners, after bollard was knocked loose and onto the circuit. Luckily it was residing off of the racing line, allowing it to be retrieved without the necessity for a safety car intervention. A lap later Sam Bird returned to the pits for a new set of tyres along with Indonesian star Rio Haryanto, whilst race leader Jolyon Palmer continued to produce fastest laps in the lead of the race. Several laps later the other Championship contender of Fabio Leimer pitted along with Felipe Nasr, Sergio Canamasas and Dani Clos, whilst James Calado’s miserable weekend continued as was heard complaining of no power. A replay indicated that the Briton’s bargeboard had worked its way loose and had become stuck in his air intake.
After making his mandatory pit-stop, Championship leader Fabio Leimer began scything his way through the field with half of the drivers ahead of him still yet to stop. This saw the Swiss sensation breeze around Gianmarco Raimondo, who strove to make his car as wide as possible in his defense. Meanwhile further freneticism ensued further back, as Simon Trummer and Jake Rosenzweig collided at Turns 8 and 9. This saw both drivers come under investigation, with Simon Trummer eventually struck with a drive-thru penalty.
As the final feature race of the season continued, Vittorio Ghirelli became the latest retirement after returning to the pits. Meanwhile out on track Stefano Coletti continued to make minor mistakes, as the 24-year-old lightly tapped the rear of Gianmarco Raimondo’s Trident Racing. After loosing the lead at the start to Jolyon Palmer, Alexander Rossi eventually made his stop on Lap 18. In a bid to overtake the Briton when he made his pit-stop, the Caterham mechanics elected to only change the rear tyres.
Alexander Rossi made GP2 history for America.
This tactic proved sensational, as Jolyon Palmer pitted for his stop a lap later and returned to the track frustratingly behind the bright green Caterham of Alexander Rossi. However, the British driver had super-soft tyres bolted to his Carlin, which would give him a slight advantage for several laps before tyre wear intervened. Although Alexander Rossi was now in a net 1st place after rising ahead of Jolyon Palmer, Marcus Ericsson had in fact assumed the lead as he had yet to make his mandatory stop. Eventually the top three of Marcus Ericsson, Mitch Evans and James Calado all peeled off into the pits several laps later, thus allowing Daniel Abt to lead his first laps of the season.
Eventually the final two drivers of Daniel de Jong and Daniel Abt pitted on Lap 22, which released Alexander Rossi into the lead of the race ahead of the hard-charging Jolyon Palmer. With the race drawing to a climactic conclusion with Fabio Leimer on course to securing the Drivers’ Championship, the safety car was deployed for a second time after Mitch Evans collided with the Caterham of Sergio Canamasas at Turn 21. This saw the reigning GP3 Champion forced into retirement, as the field bunched up with Alexander Rossi still at the front.
As absolute confusion ensued in the Rapax pits as both Stefano Coletti and Simon Trummer pitted together without informing the team, Sam Bird had managed to rise up to 10th and a points-paying position. With Fabio Leimer running in 3rd position, all Bird required was a 7th place finish or higher to keep his Championship hopes alive. At the restart Alexander Rossi catapulted himself into a commanding lead, as Marcus Ericsson brought the Championship tension to breaking-point by overtaking Fabio Leimer for 3rd.
Now all Sam Bird required was a 9th place finish, as he lay in 10th position stuck behind the ART Grand Prix of Daniel Abt. As Nathaniel Berthon retired in a plume of smoke after his engine expired, Alexander Rossi crossed the line to take his and America’s maiden victory in the GP2 Series. Despite his jubilation, all eyes were focused on the Racing Engineering of Fabio Leimer and Russian Time of Sam Bird, whose positions remained unchanged as they crossed the line. This meant Fabio Leimer had secured the coveted GP2 title in nail-biting fashion, with Sam Bird 10th and only just unable to make the move for 9th.
On the last lap Stefano Coletti’s incident-filled race continued after he collided with the MP Motorsport of Daniel de Jong, which forced both drivers into retirement. Despite the Championship celebrations down in the Racing Engineering garages, tomorrow’s final sprint race still awaits the GP2 fraternity. Johnny Cecotto has managed to secure the reverse grid pole for Arden International, and will start the race alongside Felipe Nasr.
Results - 29 laps:
Pos Driver Team/Car Time/Gap
1. Alexander Rossi Caterham 1h00m16.414s
2. Jolyon Palmer Carlin +2.130s
3. Marcus Ericsson DAMS +3.075s
4. Fabio Leimer Racing Engineering +4.687s
5. Dani Clos MP +5.218s
6. James Calado ART +6.370s
7. Felipe Nasr Carlin +8.873s
8. Johnny Cecotto Jr Arden +12.142s
9. Daniel Abt ART +13.102s
10. Sam Bird Russian Time +13.568s
11. Adrian Quaife-Hobbs Hilmer +14.852s
12. Sergio Canamasas Caterham +15.896s
13. Simon Trummer Rapax +15.919s
14. Rio Haryanto Addax +19.021s
15. Rene Binder Lazarus +19.229s
16. Julian Leal Racing Engineering +21.039s
17. Gianmarco Raimondo Trident +23.308s
18. Nathanael Berthon Trident +1 lap*
19. Stefano Coletti Rapax +1 lap*
20. Daniel de Jong MP +1 lap*
21. Jake Rosenzweig Addax +3 laps*
*Not running at finish
Retirements:
Mitch Evans Arden 22 laps
Vittorio Ghirelli Lazarus 9 laps
Stephane Richelmi DAMS 1 lap
Tom Dillmann Russian Time 0 laps
Jon Lancaster Hilmer 0 laps
Picture(s) Copyright © Sam Bloxham & Alastair Staley/GP2 Series Media Service
Alice Powell to complete GP3 return with Bamboo Engineering
Alice Powell will complete a return to the GP3 Series with Bamboo Engineering for this weekend’s season finale around Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit. The 20-year-old competed in the category last season for Status Grand Prix, and has competed in the F3 Cup this season.
This weekend will see the inaugural GP3 Series event around the Yas Marina Circuit, which will play host to the season finale as the likes of Facu Regalia and Daniil Kvyat battle at the sharp-end of the Championship standings. Whilst that battle rages on, Alice Powell has been confirmed at Bamboo Engineering, as a replacement for Britain’s Melville McKee who won at Germany earlier in the season. The Briton will join fellow female driver Carmen Jorda in the the outfit this weekend, with the third seat within the team still unconfirmed. Alice Powell is understandably eager to make her return to the Series, and make her first appearance in the new GP3/13 machine.
“I’m really looking forward to racing in Abu Dhabi and to step into a GP3 car again.” Explained Alice Powell, “Obviously the car is very different from what I drove last year and to anything I’ve raced before, so it will take time to get used to the car and tyres. But I can’t wait to get on track and I will give it my best shot.”
Despite making their debut in the GP3 Series this season after purchasing the Atech CRS outfit soon after last year’s season had drawn to a conclusion, the Silverstone-based outfit will this weekend be competing in their final GP3 race weekend after being bought by current GP2 debutants Russian Time. For Alice Powell and her team-mates’, this weekend will all be about striving to impress with an ambition of securing a full-time drive for the 2014 GP3 season.
Picture Copyright © Alastair Staley/GP3 Series Media Service
Webber fastest in final practice as Vettel suffers KERS issue at Japan
Mark Webber has ended the third and final practice session fastest ahead of this weekend’s Japanese Grand Prix, after team-mate and reigning World Champion Sebastian Vettel suffered from a KERS issue. The German driver failed to complete a qualifying simulation run, as Webber ended the session ahead of the Mercedes duo of Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg.
After two incident-filled practice sessions on the Friday, the Formula 1 teams and drivers returned to the Suzuka circuit for the third and final practice session in a bid to finalize their preparations ahead of the all-important qualifying hour. Once again the iconic circuit was dry despite the threat of rain, with slight cloud cover in comparison to yesterday’s glorious sunshine. After heavy incidents during the opening day of the weekend both Sergio Perez and Jules Bianchi entered the session with extensive rebuilds, with the Mexican driver sporting a return to an older chassis.
Esteban Gutierrez was quick to become the first driver to take to the track when the session got underway, and was soon followed out by the likes of Jules Bianchi and Pastor Maldonado, both of whom were understandably eager to make up for lost time after their separate incidents on the Friday. Many drivers elected to complete installation laps during the opening minutes of the session, however the Lotus duo of Kimi Raikkonen and Romain Grosjean continued to produce the opening timed laps of the session. The 2007 World Champion managed to set the initial benchmark with a 01:40.877, before team-mate Romain Grosjean thwarted him with an even quicker 01:36.187 despite cutting the final chicane.
The Lotus duo continued to trade fastest laps at the front during the opening minutes of the session, with Romain Grosjean eventually working his way down to a 01:33.232 despite making yet another mistake through the final chicane and running slightly wide. Max Chilton became the next driver to make a slight mistake through the final chicane, as more drivers gradually began taking to the track to begin their preparations ahead of the qualifying hour. Mark Webber soon rose to the top to bring an end to Romain Grosjean’s reign, with the Australian ace producing a 01:32.722.
As the final practice session the Japanese Grand Prix weekend continued, Nico Hulkenberg was forced to return to the pits with the German complaining of a potentially broken exhaust. The saw the Sauber mechanics begin work on the car to ascertain the issue, as Pastor Maldonado ran extensively wide at Turn 11 and off onto the grass. The Venezuelan driver managed to continue circulating despite his minor error, as Sebastian Vettel returned to the pits with a KERS failure on his RB9.
Meanwhile Romain Grosjean returned to the top for Lotus with a 01:32.707, with the Frenchman clearly improving with each passing minute behind the wheel of his Renault-powered machine. Whilst Lotus continued to take the fight to Red Bull at the top of the timing sheets, Lewis Hamilton ran slightly wide on the exit of Turn 9. This saw the Briton kick up excessive amounts of dirt, and quickly return to the pits for a floor inspection. Minor errors ensued as the session wore on up and down the paddock, as Romain Grosjean ran extensively wide at Turn 1 but was luckily able to avoid the barriers due to the tarmac run-off area.
Adrian Sutil’s qualifying preparations took a blow during the latter stages of the session, as the German lost control of the rear of his Force India on the exit of Turn 14 and spun into the retaining tyre barrier. The incident ripped off the front-wing of the Force India, and lightly damaged the rear-suspension. The stricken machine was efficiently retrieved by the Japanese marshals, as Adrian Sutil observed from the sidelines.
As the final practice session entered its final minutes, many drivers up and down the paddock began switching their attention to qualifying simulations on Pirelli’s P Zero medium tyre compound, with the Lotus duo of Kimi Raikkonen and Romain Grosjean becoming the first to do so. Whilst the track action intensified during the final few minutes, Sebastian Vettel’s session was brought to a premature conclusion as the German’s KERS issues continued to plague his RB9. This forced his ever-efficient mechanics to remove both the exhaust and floor of Vettel’s car just to access the KERS battery in question. This will see the reigning World Champion enter the all-important qualifying hour without running a qualifying simulation on low fuel settings.
Whilst Sebastian Vettel changed out of his racing overalls, team-mate Mark Webber shot to the top of the timings sheets with a 01:32.053 as Romain Grosjean once again ran extensively wide at Turn 1. As many drivers began producing low-fuel laps, F1 rookie Valtteri Bottas was also spotted running wide at Turn 1. During the final minutes of the session, both Nico Rosberg and then Lewis Hamilton rose to 2nd position behind the Red Bull of Mark Webber. However, the Australian sensation managed to end the session fastest overall for Red Bull in what was another intriguing practice session around the Suzuka circuit.
Although Sebastian Vettel will enter the all-important qualifying hour with hardly any low-fuel running in his Renault-powered RB9, the ever-dominant German is still regarded by many as the man to beat ahead of the all-important qualifying hour. With all three practice sessions now complete, the teams and drivers will return to the track later in the day to battle for the coveted pole position for Sunday’s 53-lap race.
Pos Driver Team/Car Time Gap Laps 1. Mark Webber Red Bull-Renault 1m32.053s 17 2. Lewis Hamilton Mercedes 1m32.187s +0.134s 18 3. Nico Rosberg Mercedes 1m32.355s +0.302s 18 4. Romain Grosjean Lotus-Renault 1m32.707s +0.654s 26 5. Fernando Alonso Ferrari 1m32.800s +0.747s 14 6. Felipe Massa Ferrari 1m32.815s +0.762s 14 7. Jenson Button McLaren-Mercedes 1m32.869s +0.816s 17 8. Kimi Raikkonen Lotus-Renault 1m32.946s +0.893s 25 9. Sebastian Vettel Red Bull-Renault 1m33.036s +0.983s 8 10. Nico Hulkenberg Sauber-Ferrari 1m33.076s +1.023s 12 11. Sergio Perez McLaren-Mercedes 1m33.158s +1.105s 15 12. Jean-Eric Vergne Toro Rosso-Ferrari 1m33.260s +1.207s 15 13. Daniel Ricciardo Toro Rosso-Ferrari 1m33.490s +1.437s 16 14. Pastor Maldonado Williams-Renault 1m33.638s +1.585s 17 15. Paul di Resta Force India-Mercedes 1m33.660s +1.607s 19 16. Esteban Gutierrez Sauber-Ferrari 1m33.732s +1.679s 15 17. Valtteri Bottas Williams-Renault 1m33.955s +1.902s 18 18. Adrian Sutil Force India-Mercedes 1m34.773s +2.720s 8 19. Giedo van der Garde Caterham-Renault 1m35.473s +3.420s 20 20. Charles Pic Caterham-Renault 1m35.518s +3.465s 18 21. Max Chilton Marussia-Cosworth 1m35.844s +3.791s 16 22. Jules Bianchi Marussia-Cosworth 1m39.378s +7.325s 20
Picture Copyright © Pirelli
Sebastian Vettel reigns supreme after final practice at Singapore
Sebastian Vettel has ended the third and final practice session of the Singapore Grand Prix fastest overall, continuing his dominance at the front of the grid. The German sensation was closely followed by the Frenchman of Romain Grosjean, with the Mercedes of Nico Rosberg 3rd fastest for the German marque.
After an intriguing opening day to the Singapore Grand Prix weekend, the teams and drivers returned to the Marina Bay Street Circuit late in the afternoon for the third and final practice session to begin finalising their preparations for the weekend ahead. With the sun beginning to set over the glorious street circuit, Esteban Gutierrez, Kimi Raikkonen and Daniel Ricciardo eventually became the first three drivers to take to the track once the session got underway.
The trio were quickly followed by the entire field, who once again completed installation laps to begin with. Charles Pic soon became the first driver to produce a timed lap during the early stages of the session, with the Frenchman setting a 01:52.954 as the initial benchmark. The other Caterham of Giedo van der Garde quickly thwarted his team-mate with a 01:52.134, before the Force India of Adrian Sutil stormed to the top with an even quicker 01:51.402. Charles Pic managed to match the German’s pace with an identical lap time, before Giedo van der Garde continued to lower the benchmark with a 01:50.792.
After their initial installation laps more drivers began returning to the Marina Bay Street Circuit, as the Force India duo of Adrian Sutil and then Paul di Resta ended Caterham’s reign with the latter producing a 01:49.572. The Scotsman managed to secure his best result of his career around the illuminated streets last season, with 4th behind Sebastian Vettel, Jenson Button and Fernando Alonso. The times continued to tumble as the session continued, as both Valtteri Bottas, Pastor Maldonado and Daniel Ricciardo all rose to the top with the latter producing a 01:48.001 despite suffering from brake issues earlier in the session.
Whilst preparations for the all-important qualifying hour ensued up and down the paddock, Paul di Resta was lucky to avoid contact with the barrier after a minor spin. Mexican rookie Esteban Gutierrez was also seen struggling as the session progressed, with the Sauber driver extensively locking-up his brakes during the final sector. Meanwhile Nico Rosberg and then Romain Grosjean managed to rise to the top, with the Frenchman producing a 01:46.883 for Lotus. Although the 27-year-old managed to improve, Lewis Hamilton soon asserted his authority over proceedings with a competitive 01:46.514.
Mark Webber soon brought Lewis Hamilton’s reign to an end, with the Australian ace rising to the top after producing a 01:46.220 behind the wheel of his Renault-powered Red Bull. After Mark Webber’s rise to the top the track gradually began to fall silent, as many of the drivers returned to the pits before opting for Pirelli’s super-soft tyre compound. Eventually it was Romain Grosjean who became the first driver to elect for the softer rubber, and was almost instantly joined by the remainder of the field as the qualifying simulations got into full swing.
As the entire field returned to the track sporting Pirelli’s super-soft tyre compound, Romain Grosjean unsurprisingly became the first driver to improve with the Frenchman producing a 01:44.364. However, the 27-year-old’s pace was soon obliterated by reigning World Champion Sebastian Vettel, who set a 01:44.173 to reassert his authority over proceedings at the top for Red Bull. The German ace remained fastest as the session drew to a conclusion, only just ahead of Romain Grosjean who will be striving to repeat his impressive pace in qualifying later in the evening.
Sebastian Vettel has won the last two Singapore Grands Prix, and will unquestionably be aiming to secure his 41st pole position when the paddock reconvenes for the all-important qualifying hour later in the evening around the illuminated Marina Bay Street Circuit.
Pos Driver Team Time Gap Laps 1. Sebastian Vettel Red Bull-Renault 1m44.173s 15 2. Romain Grosjean Lotus-Renault 1m44.364s + 0.191s 16 3. Nico Rosberg Mercedes 1m44.741s + 0.568s 18 4. Mark Webber Red Bull-Renault 1m44.906s + 0.733s 14 5. Lewis Hamilton Mercedes 1m44.921s + 0.748s 14 6. Fernando Alonso Ferrari 1m44.257s + 0.084s 13 7. Sergio Perez McLaren-Mercedes 1m45.500s + 1.327s 12 8. Nico Hulkenberg Sauber-Ferrari 1m45.876s + 1.703s 19 9. Jenson Button McLaren-Mercedes 1m45.890s + 1.717s 13 10. Felipe Massa Ferrari 1m45.935s + 1.762s 13 11. Jean-Eric Vergne Toro Rosso-Ferrari 1m46.084s + 1.911s 15 12. Kimi Raikkonen Lotus-Renault 1m46.147s + 1.974s 13 13. Pastor Maldonado Williams-Renault 1m46.338s + 2.165s 17 14. Daniel Ricciardo Toro Rosso-Ferrari 1m46.358s + 2.185s 16 15. Valtteri Bottas Williams-Renault 1m46.660s + 2.487s 17 16. Paul di Resta Force India-Mercedes 1m46.879s + 2.706s 16 17. Esteban Gutierrez Sauber-Ferrari 1m46.893s + 2.720s 13 18. Adrian Sutil Force India-Mercedes 1m47.249s + 3.076s 19 19. Giedo van der Garde Caterham-Renault 1m48.931s + 4.758s 17 20. Charles Pic Caterham-Renault 1m49.037s + 4.864s 18 21. Jules Bianchi Marussia-Cosworth 1m49.182s + 5.009s 21 22. Max Chilton Marussia-Cosworth 1m49.982s + 5.809s 20
Picture Copyright © Pirelli
Sebastian Vettel Remains On The Pace In Final Practice At Germany
Sebastian Vettel has remained on the pace at the sharp-end of the order after the third and final practice session in preparation for the German Grand Prix, eventually obliterating the opposition to finish ahead of fellow countryman Nico Rosberg and team-mate Mark Webber.
The third and final practice session ahead of the German Grand Prix began in clear weather conditions at the legendary Nurburgring, with many drivers immediately taking to the iconic circuit in a bid to finalize their preparations for the remainder of the weekend. Former team-mates Paul di Resta and Nico Hulkenberg led the field out of the pits as the session got underway, with many drivers electing to complete installation laps. Sergio Perez eventually became the first driver to set a timed lap, with the Mexican sensation producing a 01:34.382.
After working his way down to a 01:33.684, many other drivers began returning to the Nurburgring to set their own timed laps. This saw Jenson Button momentarily dispose of his team-mate with a 01:32.704, before the Mercedes of Nico Rosberg continued impressing at the top with a 01:31.911. As team-mate Lewis Hamilton made a minor mistake at Turn 2 on his quick lap, the local star proceeded to improve at the top with a 01:31.618.
The 28-year-old continued to improve, before fellow countryman and reigning World Champion Sebastian Vettel asserted his authority over proceedings with a 01:31.294 as team-mate Mark Webber slotted into 2nd position. Meanwhile Pastor Maldonado skipped through the gravel at Turn 7, as the Venezuelan ace continued to struggle behind the wheel of his Renault-powered Williams machine.
After running the majority of the session on Pirelli’s medium tyres, Fernando Alonso became the first driver to switch to the Italian supplier’s softer tyre compound. The Spaniard was quickly followed by team-mate Felipe Massa, as many others began following the Ferrari duo’s trend in the final minutes of the third practice session. The two-time World Champion understandably improved at the top with a 01:30.621, with the assistance of the softer rubber. Felipe Massa slotted into 2nd position, with the Brazilian also managing to improve on the soft tyre compound.
However, the Scuderia’s reign over proceedings was quickly brought to a conclusion, as local driver Nico Rosberg returned Mercedes to the top with a 01:30.193. Lewis Hamilton failed to trouble the top of the timing sheets on the soft tyre, with the Briton still struggling in comparison to team-mate Nico Rosberg. Mark Webber looked on course to dispose of the 28-year-old, after producing the fastest first two sectors. However, a loss of time in the final sector saw the Australian driver only manage 2nd, as team-mate Sebastian Vettel finally took to the circuit on the soft tyre compound.
The local hero simply obliterated the opposition with his first run of the softer compound, producing the fastest time of the entire weekend so far with a 01:29.517. Sebastian Vettel continued to improve through the first sector on his next lap, however the German failed to improve overall as the checkered flag emerged signaling the end of the session. The reigning World Champion ended the session ahead of fellow countryman Nico Rosberg, with team-mate Mark Webber a distant 3rd.
With all three practice sessions now over, the teams and drivers will be frantically crunching the numbers in preparation for qualifying later in the day. Sebastian Vettel looks incredibly strong in his Red Bull, however Nico Rosberg can never be discounted from contention in the ever-improving Mercedes.
Pos Driver Team Time Gap Laps 1. Sebastian Vettel Red Bull-Renault 1m29.517s 19 2. Nico Rosberg Mercedes 1m30.193s +0.676s 19 3. Mark Webber Red Bull-Renault 1m30.211s +0.694s 18 4. Fernando Alonso Ferrari 1m30.621s +1.104s 16 5. Felipe Massa Ferrari 1m30.639s +1.122s 17 6. Kimi Raikkonen Lotus-Renault 1m30.671s +1.154s 19 7. Lewis Hamilton Mercedes 1m30.744s +1.227s 20 8. Romain Grosjean Lotus-Renault 1m30.781s +1.264s 18 9. Nico Hulkenberg Sauber-Ferrari 1m30.966s +1.449s 20 10. Adrian Sutil Force India-Mercedes 1m31.009s +1.492s 18 11. Jenson Button McLaren-Mercedes 1m31.326s +1.809s 22 12. Esteban Gutierrez Sauber-Ferrari 1m31.405s +1.888s 20 13. Paul di Resta Force India-Mercedes 1m31.733s +2.216s 21 14. Jean-Eric Vergne Toro Rosso-Ferrari 1m31.855s +2.338s 18 15. Sergio Perez McLaren-Mercedes 1m31.855s +2.338s 23 16. Daniel Ricciardo Toro Rosso-Ferrari 1m31.898s +2.381s 19 17. Pastor Maldonado Williams-Renault 1m31.969s +2.452s 20 18. Valtteri Bottas Williams-Renault 1m32.036s +2.519s 23 19. Charles Pic Caterham-Renault 1m33.230s +3.713s 19 20. Jules Bianchi Marussia-Cosworth 1m33.470s +3.953s 22 21. Giedo van der Garde Caterham-Renault 1m33.964s +4.447s 21 22. Max Chilton Marussia-Cosworth 1m34.683s +5.166s 20
Picture Copyright © Getty Images
Mark Webber Fastest In Shortened Final Practice Session At Canada
Mark Webber has ended a shortened third and final practice session fastest overall for Red Bull, in drying conditions around Montreal’s Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. The Australian ace produced the time in the dying seconds of the session, and was followed by Adrian Sutil in 2nd and Lewis Hamilton in 3rd.
Once again the teams and drivers were greeted with damp weather conditions around the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve for the start of the third and final practice session, which was frustratingly delayed for 30 minutes due to repairs being carried out on the barriers at Turn 11. This was due to a heavy incident earlier in the day during the Ferrari Challenge support event, and required a lengthy delay as repairs were carried out.
Eventually it was confirmed that the session would begin at 10:30 local time, and would last only for 30 minutes. This led to a hectic final practice session, as the entire field instantly took to the track on both the intermediate and full wet tyres in a bid to finalize their preparations for the weekend ahead. The Caterham duo were the first to take to the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, with Giedo van der Garde in particular setting the initial benchmark with a 01:30.873. The times naturally tumbled drastically as the session progressed, with Esteban Gutierrez and then Sergio Perez rising to the top with the latter producing a 01:27.984.
Adrian Sutil then rose to the top for Force India, before former Canadian Grand Prix winner Jenson Button continued to lower the benchmark with an impressive 01:26.340. Esteban Gutierrez, Nico Hulkenberg and then Valtteri Bottas rose to the top, with the latter producing a 01:25.126 before team-mate Pastor Maldonado disposed of his rookie team-mate. However, Valtteri Bottas immediately bounced back with a 01:24.314.
Although the track conditions continued to improve, many drivers were unwilling to switch to Pirelli’s P Zero range of tyres as wet patches continued to linger around the circuit. Giedo van der Garde ran extensively wide at Turns 3 and 4, skipping across the grass and narrowly avoiding the tyre barriers. Nico Hulkenberg then rose to the top for Sauber, with the Hinwil-based outfit continuing to search for improvements after a disappointing day yesterday.
Felipe Massa and then Esteban Gutierrez rose to the top, before the entire field switched to Pirelli’s P Zero dry tyres for the final few minutes of the final practice session. Sergio Perez was the first man to do so on the medium tyres, however he soon switch to the super-soft compound as did the entire field. Felipe Massa produced the first fastest dry lap of the session for Ferrari with a 01:22.482, before Kimi Raikkonen, Pastor Maldonado and then Jenson Button continued to lower the benchmark on slick rubber with the latter producing a 01:20.520.
As the checkered flag emerged, the times continued to tumble drastically with Paul di Resta, Sebastian Vettel, Lewis Hamilton, Adrian Sutil and then Mark Webber all rising to the top. However, it was the Australian sensation who eventually ended the session fastest overall for Red Bull, after producing a 01:17.895 in the dying seconds of the session. Although the session ended in drying conditions, uncertainty still surrounds the weather forecast for the all-important qualifying hour later in the afternoon.
Pos Driver Team Time Gap Laps 1. Mark Webber Red Bull-Renault 1m17.895s 7 2. Adrian Sutil Force India-Mercedes 1m18.248s + 0.353s 8 3. Lewis Hamilton Mercedes 1m18.732s + 0.837s 7 4. Fernando Alonso Ferrari 1m18.977s + 1.082s 10 5. Sebastian Vettel Red Bull-Renault 1m19.131s + 1.236s 6 6. Nico Rosberg Mercedes 1m19.457s + 1.562s 7 7. Paul di Resta Force India-Mercedes 1m19.496s + 1.601s 6 8. Felipe Massa Ferrari 1m19.750s + 1.855s 9 9. Jenson Button McLaren-Mercedes 1m19.790s + 1.895s 9 10. Kimi Raikkonen Lotus-Renault 1m20.316s + 2.421s 8 11. Romain Grosjean Lotus-Renault 1m20.596s + 2.701s 9 12. Pastor Maldonado Williams-Renault 1m21.035s + 3.140s 12 13. Daniel Ricciardo Toro Rosso-Ferrari 1m21.364s + 3.469s 7 14. Max Chilton Marussia-Cosworth 1m21.652s + 3.757s 9 15. Nico Hulkenberg Sauber-Ferrari 1m22.021s + 4.126s 14 16. Esteban Gutierrez Sauber-Ferrari 1m22.720s + 4.825s 15 17. Jean-Eric Vergne Toro Rosso-Ferrari 1m23.058s + 5.163s 7 18. Giedo van der Garde Caterham-Renault 1m23.132s + 5.237s 14 19. Sergio Perez McLaren-Mercedes 1m23.309s + 5.414s 8 20. Charles Pic Caterham-Renault 1m23.620s + 5.725s 12 21. Valtteri Bottas Williams-Renault 1m24.317s + 6.422s 12 22. Jules Bianchi Marussia-Cosworth 1m26.195s + 8.300s 9
Picture Copyright © Getty Images
Fernando Alonso Leads The Way After Final Practice At Bahrain
Fernando Alonso has ended the final practice session ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix fastest overall, ahead of the Red Bull duo of Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber. Both Ferrari, Red Bull and Lotus look exceptionally quick this weekend, and any one of the six drivers is more than capable is reaping the rewards come qualifying and the race.
After yesterday’s mixed conditions at the Bahrain International Circuit, the third and final practice session for the Bahrain Grand Prix began in overcast weather conditions as the Marussia of Max Chilton and the Force India of Adrian Sutil became the first drivers to take to the track. As the various drivers completed their installation laps, Felipe Massa was informed that the GPS on his Ferrari was not working.
Despite many drivers completing the traditional installation laps at the beginning of the session, Sauber’s Esteban Gutierrez continued to complete the first timed lap of the session with a 01:42.573. The Mexican driver, who will incur a five-place grid penalty following on from his incident with Adrian Sutil last time out, proceeded to improve upon his time at the top with a 01:39.592. Eventually further drivers opted to return to the Bahrain International Circuit, as the Caterham duo of Giedo van der Garde and then Charles Pic rose to the top. The latter managed to improve upon his time over his team-mate, with Pic setting a 01:35.911.
As the final practice session wore on, more drivers began taking to the 5.412km circuit in a bid to finalize their preparations ahead of qualifying later in the day. Mark Webber managed to rise to the top for Red Bull with a 01:33.875, as Kimi Raikkonen slotted into 2nd position behind the Australian driver. After out-braking himself into Turn 1, Romain Grosjean began to shine in his Lotus as the Frenchman seemed to finally rediscover his form of last season as he stormed to the top of the timing sheets with a 01:33.762.
The former GP2 Champion continued to improve at the top of the timing sheets, in a weekend which could prove imperative for him to display decent pace in comparison to team-mate Kimi Raikkonen who has already secured a race victory this season. However, Grosjean’s reign at the top failed to last for long as the reigning World Champion of Sebastian Vettel finally asserted his authority over proceedings with a 01:33.348 for Red Bull. The German driver won last season’s Bahrain Grand Prix, and will unquestionably be striving to do so again this season.
Fernando Alonso suffered a scare as the final practice session neared its conclusion, as the two-time Champion lost control of his Ferrari through Turn 2 and spun into the retaining gravel trap. Initially it seemed as though the Spaniard had beached his Ferrari, however he soon managed to return to the track and eventually to the pits. Lewis Hamilton, Nico Rosberg and Esteban Gutierrez became the first drivers to opt for Pirelli’s medium tyre compound as the session wore on, before Fernando Alonso did likewise and stormed to the top with a 01:33.247.
Max Chilton’s morning preparations were brought to a premature conclusion, as the Briton’s MR-02 machine suffered a KERS cooling issue. Fernando Alonso’s benchmark at the front remained unbeaten as the checkered flag emerged signaling the end of the session, with Sebastian Vettel running exceedingly wide at Turn 13 after bumping along the kerbs. Lewis Hamilton also had an eventful end to the final practice session, after his left-rear suspension collapsed on his in-lap. Luckily the Briton was able to maintain control his car, however his mechanics will now begin working upon the car to prepare it for qualifying.
Lotus, Ferrari and Red Bull still look like the most likely teams to secure pole later today, with Kimi Raikkonen, Fernando Alonso and Sebastian Vettel the three drivers in particular who look to be at one with their respective machines. However, qualifying can always spark surprises, especially with the current Pirelli tyres.
Pos Driver Team/Car Time Gap Laps 1. Fernando Alonso Ferrari 1m33.247s 12 2. Sebastian Vettel Red Bull-Renault 1m33.348s + 0.101s 15 3. Mark Webber Red Bull-Renault 1m33.380s + 0.133s 19 4. Kimi Raikkonen Lotus-Renault 1m33.446s + 0.199s 21 5. Lewis Hamilton Mercedes 1m33.455s + 0.208s 19 6. Romain Grosjean Lotus-Renault 1m33.464s + 0.217s 19 7. Adrian Sutil Force India-Mercedes 1m33.596s + 0.349s 17 8. Paul di Resta Force India-Mercedes 1m33.700s + 0.453s 15 9. Nico Rosberg Mercedes 1m33.764s + 0.517s 19 10. Nico Hulkenberg Sauber-Ferrari 1m33.922s + 0.675s 17 11. Felipe Massa Ferrari 1m33.949s + 0.702s 20 12. Jenson Button McLaren-Mercedes 1m34.117s + 0.870s 17 13. Sergio Perez McLaren-Mercedes 1m34.282s + 1.035s 18 14. Daniel Ricciardo Toro Rosso-Ferrari 1m34.577s + 1.330s 16 15. Valtteri Bottas Williams-Renault 1m34.611s + 1.364s 17 16. Jean-Eric Vergne Toro Rosso-Ferrari 1m34.678s + 1.431s 16 17. Pastor Maldonado Williams-Renault 1m34.833s + 1.586s 17 18. Charles Pic Caterham-Renault 1m35.816s + 2.569s 16 19. Jules Bianchi Marussia-Cosworth 1m36.731s + 3.484s 17 20. Giedo van der Garde Caterham-Renault 1m36.939s + 3.692s 16 21. Max Chilton Marussia-Cosworth 1m37.630s + 4.383s 7 22. Esteban Gutierrez Sauber-Ferrari 1m39.592s + 6.345s 28
Picture Copyright © Getty Images
Sebastian Vettel Fastest After Final Practice At Malaysia
Reigning World Champion Sebastian Vettel has ended the final practice session for the Malaysian Grand Prix fastest overall, ahead of the Mercedes of Lewis Hamilton. Adrian Sutil impressed many to finish 3rd, as Force India continue to thwart their rivals. The tyres once again were the major factor of the session, which remained dry.
The third and final practice session of the weekend began in scorching weather conditions, as Jules Bianchi became the first of many drivers to instantly take to the track once the session began. Despite the majority of the field only completing one installation lap, Mark Webber was one of the few who decided to continue circulating early on as the Australian driver set the first timed lap of the day with a 01:44.486. However, with Red Bull carrying out their belated race simulation work, that time was instantly thwarted by the Caterham duo.
With the Malaysian Grand Prix an extremely important race for Caterham, it was unsurprising to see the duo of Charles Pic and Giedo van der Garde trade fastest times at the top of the timing sheets early on. Giedo van der Garde finally worked his way down to a 01:40.900, before the Lotus of Kimi Raikkonen stormed to the top with a 01:38.474. Nico Rosberg was quick to displace the 2007 World Champion at the top, before the Force India of Adrian Sutil continued his impressive return to the sport with 01:37.933 to rise to the top.
The Marussia duo of Max Chilton and Jules Bianchi became the first two drivers to switch to the medium tyre compound, as Lewis Hamilton asserted his authority over proceedings with a 01:37.527. Nico Rosberg returned to the top as the session progressed with a 01:36.949, as Jenson Button slotted into 2nd position for McLaren. Lewis Hamilton was quick to return to the top for Mercedes, however, as the teams and drivers continued their preparations for the all-important qualifying hour.
As the session entered its closing stages, many drivers returned to the Sepang International Circuit to complete their final runs of the session. Sebastian Vettel managed to rise to the top for Red Bull with a 01:36.435, however uncertainty still surrounded the Pirelli tyres ahead of the qualifying session. Sergio Perez utterly destroyed his front tyres after an almighty lock-up during the final minutes, as McLaren continued to struggle within the midfield.
With Pirelli’s hard and medium tyre compounds still keeping everyone guessing within the Formula 1 paddock, many are still unsure who will reap the rewards during the all-important qualifying hour later in the day. Rain still remains a threat at the Sepang International Circuit, as the drivers and teams now crunch the numbers prior to qualifying.
Pos Driver Team Time Gap Laps 1. Sebastian Vettel Red Bull-Renault 1m36.435 20 2. Lewis Hamilton Mercedes 1m36.568s + 0.133s 17 3. Adrian Sutil Force India-Mercedes 1m36.588s + 0.153s 19 4. Mark Webber Red Bull-Renault 1m36.613s + 0.178s 20 5. Kimi Raikkonen Lotus-Renault 1m36.806s + 0.371s 19 6. Paul di Resta Force India-Mercedes 1m36.807s + 0.372s 18 7. Jenson Button McLaren-Mercedes 1m36.822s + 0.387s 16 8. Felipe Massa Ferrari 1m36.946s + 0.511s 14 9. Nico Rosberg Mercedes 1m36.949s + 0.514s 24 10. Fernando Alonso Ferrari 1m37.302s + 0.867s 14 11. Pastor Maldonado Williams-Renault 1m37.359s + 0.924s 11 12. Sergio Perez McLaren-Mercedes 1m37.538s + 1.103s 12 13. Nico Hulkenberg Sauber-Ferrari 1m37.6$5s + 1.250s 23 14. Romain Grosjean Lotus Renault 1m37.690s + 1.255s 14 15. Valtteri Bottas Williams-Renault 1m37.936s + 1.501s 16 16. Esteban Gutierrez Sauber-Ferrari 1m38.294s + 1.859s 17 17. Jean-Eric Vergne Toro Rosso-Ferrari 1m38.376s + 1.941s 16 18. Daniel Ricciardo Toro Rosso-Ferrari 1m38.425s + 1.990s 15 19. Charles Pic Caterham-Renault 1m38.995s + 2.560s 18 20. Jules Bianchi Marussia-Cosworth 1m39.717s + 3.282s 21 21. Giedo van der Garde Caterham-Renault 1m40.209s + 3.774s 18 22. Max Chilton Marussia-Cosworth 1m40.495s + 4.060s 18
Picture Copyright © Getty Images
Sergio Perez Preparing For Final Race With Sauber At Brazil
Sergio Perez is preparing for his final race as a Sauber driver at this weekend’s Brazilian Grand Prix, before the Mexican star moves to McLaren next season to replace the Mercedes-bound Lewis Hamilton for 2013. Perez has enjoyed his most competitive season so far in F1 this year, and aims to end his time with Sauber on a high.
With Lewis Hamilton set to leave McLaren for Mercedes next season, the Woking-based outfit have signed Sergio Perez as his replacement. Despite mixed opinions throughout the paddock on the team’s decision to sign such a young and relatively inexperienced driver, both Perez and McLaren remain confident of a successful and prosperous partnership.
Sergio Perez has finished on the podium three times so far this season, however he has endured a recent run of uncompetitive results proceedings his announcement with McLaren for 2013. Since the Singapore Grand Prix back in September, Perez has failed to finish within the points and has retired from two of the last five races. However, the 22-year-old Mexican remains confident he can end the season in positive fashion at the Brazilian Grand Prix.
“The Brazilian Grand Prix will be the last race of a very long season that has seen a lot of ups and downs, and it will be a very special event for me as it is the last race I will drive for my team of Sauber before I leave.” Explained Sergio Perez, “It is a great team and I want to thank everybody for everything they have done for me over the last two years. I am sure it will be very emotional for me in Interlagos. The best way to say thank you, of course, would be a great result and to beat the team in front of us. This is my target. I believe and I hope our car should be good enough there for a strong top ten position.”
With both Sauber and Mercedes failing to score any points at the United States Grand Prix last time out, the gap between the two teams in the Constructors’ Championship remains at 12 points. The Hinwil-based outfit are adamant they can catch Mercedes for fifth in the Championship, with a double-points finish this weekend at Sao Paulo.
Picture Copyright © Sauber Motorsport AG
Fernando Alonso Urges Ferrari To Improve For Final Three Races
Fernando Alonso has urged Ferrari to improve for the final few races of the season, as he remains optimistic of Championship success despite Red Bull and Sebastian Vettel’s dominance of late. The Spaniard was positive after the Indian Grand Prix with his result, but believes improvements need to be made within the team for the next few races.
When asked whether or not the Spaniard holds any hope of winning the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Fernando Alonso was quick to emphasize the importance of introducing new upgrades to the car. Although the Spaniard finished the race 2nd, it was Ferrari’s qualifying performance which really hindered his chances of victory this weekend. Fernando Alonso is hopeful that he can improve in qualifying next weekend, thereby increasing his chances of victory during the race.
“I think we need to bring some new parts to Abu Dhabi, hopefully improve a little bit more then competitiveness of the car, try to be a little bit closer to Red Bulls on Saturday and hopefully on Sunday as well.” Explained Fernando Alonso, “Obviously three races remaining; Championship is the main target so we need to recover some points and will be nice to finish in front of Sebastian in Abu Dhabi, whatever the position it is. And if we can win the race it will be even better – but for that we need to make a step forward. At the moment we are not able to win.”
Despite Fernando Alonso urging his team to introduce updates for the next three races, the Spaniard felt encouraged with his performance during the Indian Grand Prix. After starting from 5th place, behind both McLaren’s, the two-time World Champion was able to quickly dispose of the duo and focus his attention on eventually catching and overtaking Mark Webber for 2nd.
“Yes, I think it’s good news for us, seeing that we could fight Red Bull in the race.” Enthused Fernando Alonso, when asked whether or not he was pleased with his performance. “More or less we knew this. In qualifying we are not close enough to fight for pole position but in the race normally things improve for us. Today was another example but it was perfect for the strategy from the team: very good start, very good top speed and tyre management.”
In Abu Dhabi’s three years on the Formula 1 calendar, Fernando Alonso has yet to take victory. Sebastian Vettel took the first two victories in 2009 and 2010, before Lewis Hamilton stormed to victory last season amid Vettel’s rare retirement at the start of the race. Fernando Alonso will be hoping he can change this stat next weekend, as he strives to remain in contention for the World Drivers’ Championship.
Picture Copyright © Getty Images
F1 News 24/7
Andy's GP Blog 