Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[When F1 2009 won't do, try the $191K Cruden Hexatech simulator]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/24/when-f1-2009-wont-do-try-the-191k-cruden-hexatech-simulator/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/24/when-f1-2009-wont-do-try-the-191k-cruden-hexatech-simulator/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/24/when-f1-2009-wont-do-try-the-191k-cruden-hexatech-simulator/#commentsFiled under: , ,



We give thumbs up to Cruden's reason for building a $191,500 F1 simulator: "Snooker rooms, swimming pools, gyms and cinemas have been done." So there. If you're over waiting for Codemasters to release F1 2009 on a real platform, or waiting for GT5 to ever show up and you have enough money to buy an SLS AMG and several weeks of track time, the Hexatech is waiting for you.

The fully-suspended system can be tailored to provide feedback based on the chassis setup, wheelbase and track, tire and suspension settings, drive train (engine, gearbox, differentials), aero loading, aero draft (slip streaming), steering, brakes and driver aids such as traction control, ABS, and more. It even has seat belt tensioners. And it isn't just for F1: the sim does NASCAR, WRC, and 24-Hour racing, too. Three 42-inch screens, or a projector and a room with at least a 10-foot ceiling will keep you in the action.

If you want one but you don't have that kind of dosh, there's still time to make a wish and be extra nice before Santa makes his final decision. Or you could ask Ferrari if you can borrow theirs...

[Source: F1 Fanatic]

When F1 2009 won't do, try the $191K Cruden Hexatech simulator originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crudencruden hexatechCrudenHexatechf1f1 simulatorF1Simulatorformula 1formula 1 simulatorformula oneformula one simulatorFormula1Formula1SimulatorFormulaOneFormulaOneSimulatorgadgetshexatechsimulatorThu, 24 Dec 2009 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: BBC interviews Schumacher about his return to Mercedes-Benz F1]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/23/video-bbc-interviews-schumacher-about-his-return-to-mercedes-be/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/23/video-bbc-interviews-schumacher-about-his-return-to-mercedes-be/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/23/video-bbc-interviews-schumacher-about-his-return-to-mercedes-be/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Michael Schumacher talks about his return to F1 racing - Click above to watch the video

Let the rumors rest -- Michael Schumacher is back. As we reported earlier this morning, it appeared he was all set to sign with Mercedes-Benz, and now the deal is done. The newly named Mercedes GP Petronas team (nee Brawn GP) finally announced that they have signed the soon-to-be-41-year-old, seven-time World Champion to drive for the Silver Arrows team in 2010, and the BBC has already tracked him down for an extensive interview. Although most closely associated with Ferrari for returning that legendary marque to the winners circle following a decades-old drought, Schumacher does have a history with Mercedes having started his top level driving career via their junior program back in 1990 competing in Group C and DTM racing.

Besides being reunited with Ross Brawn - the man who brought him every one of his seven championships - Michael brings just a bit more experience to the Mercedes F1 team with his 248 starts, 91 wins, 154 podiums, and 68 pole positions. And even after a three-year layoff, the consensus seems to be that he hasn't missed a step. As you may remember, Michael almost made his comeback for Ferrari last year following Felipe Massa's unfortunate accident in Hungary, but he was sidelined due to neck problems related to a motorcycle racing crash. Schui has been tuning up with some karting action, most recently in Las Vegas, where he was competing against some of the best racers in the world, including fellow F1 pilots Nelson Piquet, Jr. and Sebastien Buemi.

MS will be joining fellow German Nico Rosberg at Mercedes, making the team an all-German affair. The F1 driving contract is said to be worth nearly $9.9 million to Schumi for 2010. Michael, for his part, says he has high hopes for returning to the podium right away and in fact plans to grab another championship trophy next year. Why else would he bother, right? It should be a fascinating season. Click through to the jump to watch the BBC interview Schumacher talking about his decision to return to racing and read the official statement from Mercedes GP.

[Sources: YouTube via BBC Sport, Brawn GP]

Continue reading VIDEO: BBC interviews Schumacher about his return to Mercedes-Benz F1

VIDEO: BBC interviews Schumacher about his return to Mercedes-Benz F1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Dec 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BBCbenzBrawn GPBrawnGpF1F1 world championshipF1WorldChampionshipFerrariformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnemercedesMercedes GPmercedes-benzMercedesGpMichael SchumacherMichaelSchumacherNico RosbergNicoRosbergRoss BrawnRossBrawnSchuischumachersilver arrowsSilverArrowsWorld ChampionWorldChampionWed, 23 Dec 2009 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[He's Back: Schumacher reportedly signs with Mercedes-Benz F1 for 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/23/hes-back-schumacher-signs-with-mercedes-benz-f1-for-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/23/hes-back-schumacher-signs-with-mercedes-benz-f1-for-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/23/hes-back-schumacher-signs-with-mercedes-benz-f1-for-2010/#commentsFiled under: ,



All clearances given, the BBC is reporting that Michael Schumacher is officially a driver for the Mercedes-Petronas F1 team. The deal is understood to be a one-year agreement, with Schumacher being paid £6.2 million ($9.82M U.S.) and having an open door at the end of the year to carry on if it all works out.

Mercedes is said to have its eye on Sebastian Vettel when his contract is up in 2012. Theoretically then, if Michael remains Michael behind the wheel, he could drive for the Three-Pointed Star and collect trophies, and perhaps Championships, until then. That's an immense theoretical, however: Prost and Lauda took time off, came back, and won the whole show again; Jacques Villeneuve, well, not so much.

And as much as Ferrari respects the times it had with Schumacher, we have a feeling Luca di Montezemolo has already called Alonso to tell him, "You know what you have to do..." On the other hand, if Alonso doesn't work out at Ferrari, and Michael does well and only has a one-year deal with Mercedes...

[Source: BBC | Image: Clive Mason/Getty]

He's Back: Schumacher reportedly signs with Mercedes-Benz F1 for 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 23 Dec 2009 08:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsf1formula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnemercedes f1MercedesF1michael schumacherMichaelSchumachermotorsportsWed, 23 Dec 2009 08:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Schumacher Says It Himself: driving for Mercedes F1 is a "very strong possibility"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/schumacher-says-it-himself-driving-for-mercedes-f1-is-a-very-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/schumacher-says-it-himself-driving-for-mercedes-f1-is-a-very-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/schumacher-says-it-himself-driving-for-mercedes-f1-is-a-very-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,



There are hearts breaking all over Italy, and the biggest one of all is that which beats in the chest of Ferrari head Luca de Montezemolo. Michael Schumacher is still under contract to The Prancing Horse as a global ambassador and consultant for their road cars. However, given the opportunity to return to a Formula One cockpit and prove a thing or ten, he appears keen on racing no matter the color of the car.

Neither Schumacher nor the Mercedes F1 team is revealing anything public about the German's chances of driving, but it's been in the press for a few weeks now. Last week, Schumacher phoned Montezemolo and told him there was a "very, very, very strong possibility" he'd end up as a driver for Mercedes. Speculation is that the final say is only waiting on Schumacher's neck to be declared fully healed after his motorcycle accident earlier this year.

If the 41-year-old Schumy does race again with Mercedes, it will be with the company that put him on the road to becoming one of the greatest racing drivers ever. And it will come at the expense of a muy doloroso de Montezemolo, who is so torn up about Michael switching camps that he has taken to calling the former Ferrari driver "the real Michael Schumacher," and the potential Mercedes pilot, "the new Michael Schumacher."

If it comes to pass, we'll play a sad song for de Montezemolo on the jukebox, but we'll do a dance for the coming F1 season: Rosberg and Schumacher in Mercedes', Alonso and Massa in Ferraris, Hamilton and Button in McLarens, Vettel in his Red Bull. There hasn't been a field like that in that kind of machinery in more than a decade. Please let it be March already...

[Source: Autosport | Image: Juergen Schwarz/Getty]

Schumacher Says It Himself: driving for Mercedes F1 is a "very strong possibility" originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f1ferrariferrari f1FerrariF1formula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOneluca de montezemoloLucaDeMontezemolomercedesmercedes f1MercedesF1michael schumacherMichaelSchumachermotorsportsMon, 21 Dec 2009 16:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Renault stays in Formula One after selling stake in team]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/renault-stays-in-formula-one-after-selling-stake-in-team/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/renault-stays-in-formula-one-after-selling-stake-in-team/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/17/renault-stays-in-formula-one-after-selling-stake-in-team/#commentsFiled under: ,



The Renault name will remain on the Formula One grid when the series resumes in 2010 thanks to a deal announced on Wednesday. There had been considerable speculation in recent months that Renault would shut down its F1 effort and follow Honda, BMW and Toyota out the door. These rumors hit a fever pitch after the "Crash-Gate" controversy and the sudden departure of primary sponsor ING.

However, in the past couple of weeks it became plausible that Renault could stay in the sport although in a scaled down fashion. Luxemborg based Genii Capital will buy a majority stake in the team which will retain the automaker's name. The exact percentage hasn't been disclosed although the earlier speculation had Renault retaining only 25 percent of the team.

Renault will retain the engine building operation and continue to supply the Red Bull Racing team in 2010. The press release is after the jump.

[Source: Renault]

Continue reading Renault stays in Formula One after selling stake in team

Renault stays in Formula One after selling stake in team originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F1FIAformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnegenii capitalGeniiCapitalrenaultRenault F1renault formula 1renault formula oneRenaultF1RenaultFormula1RenaultFormulaOneThu, 17 Dec 2009 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[McLaren's Whitmarsh reportedly elected to replace Montezemolo as FOTA chairman]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/mclarens-whitmarsh-reportedly-elected-to-replace-montezemolo-as/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/mclarens-whitmarsh-reportedly-elected-to-replace-montezemolo-as/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/mclarens-whitmarsh-reportedly-elected-to-replace-montezemolo-as/#commentsFiled under: ,



There's only so many chairs one man can sit in at once. But Luca di Montezemolo has made an art out of pushing the limits. In addition to serving as chairman of both Ferrari and the Fiat group, the hereditary nobleman was, until recently at least, also chairing the Italian Confindustria employers' federation and the FIEG editorial organization. But something's got to give, and at the end of this year he's stepping down from his role as the founding chairman of the Formula One Teams Association.

In his place, according to the latest reports, will serve one Martin Whitmarsh, recently promoted to team principal of the McLaren team after Ron Dennis went off to concentrate on the emerging road car division. Meanwhile, Red Bull chief Christian Horner was reportedly elected to chair the Sporting Working Group while Ross Brawn stays on as head of the Technical Working Group within FOTA. The meeting of the team principals took place in Monaco on the heels of the F1 Business Forum and the Formula 1 Commission meeting.

[Source: Autosport | Image: Clive Mason/Getty]

McLaren's Whitmarsh reportedly elected to replace Montezemolo as FOTA chairman originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christian hornerChristianHornerf1formula 1formula oneformula one teams associationFormula1FormulaOneFormulaOneTeamsAssociationfotamartin whitmarshMartinWhitmarshmclarenross brawnRossBrawnwhitmarshTue, 15 Dec 2009 08:32:00 EST<![CDATA[2010 F1 grid comes into focus as Lotus signs Trulli and Kovalainen]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/2010-f1-grid-comes-into-focus-as-lotus-signs-trulli-and-kovalain/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/2010-f1-grid-comes-into-focus-as-lotus-signs-trulli-and-kovalain/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/14/2010-f1-grid-comes-into-focus-as-lotus-signs-trulli-and-kovalain/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The pieces to the puzzle that is the upcoming Formula One season are coming together bit by bit. In the latest development, the upstart Lotus F1 Racing team has announced the signing of two veteran drivers: Jarno Trulli and Heikki Kovalainen.

A former Monaco Grand Prix race winner, Trulli has driven for five different teams over the course of the past twelve years on the grid. Speculation was that he could switch to NASCAR following a recent test with Michael Waltrip Racing, particularly as the Toyota team for which he'd been driving for the past six years announced its withdrawal from the series. Finnish driver Kovalainen, meanwhile, is also a former race winner, left without a ride when McLaren replaced him with reigning world champion Jenson Button. Local aspirant Fairuz Fauzy, formerly of Malaysia's A1GP team, will serve as reserve/test driver.

The announcement was made by Malaysia's prime minister, whose government is backing the team. Although the outfit has no direct ties with the automaker of the same name - save for mutual patronage by Malaysia's state-run Proton - the British sportscar-maker and engineering firm could buy into the team at some point in the future as part of its comprehensive racing plan, giving Lotus the kind of operation Ferrari has run for decades.

With the Lotus drivers in place and Force India having recently confirmed the retention of Adrian Sutil and Tonio Liuzzi, the 2010 grid is rapidly taking form. The only remaining seats are with Mercedes/Brawn GP (which has yet to announce Nico Rosberg's team-mate as speculation intensifies over Michael Schumacher's return), Renault (which has yet to announce a wingman for Robert Kubica as the team's future remains in question), Sauber (which was only recently approved for next season), Toro Rosso, Campos Meta (which has announced only Bruno Senna), Virgin/Manor (which has confirmed only Timo Glock so far) and USF1.

Follow the jump for the full press release from Lotus.

[Source: Lotus F1 Team | Image: Bongarts/Getty]

Continue reading 2010 F1 grid comes into focus as Lotus signs Trulli and Kovalainen

2010 F1 grid comes into focus as Lotus signs Trulli and Kovalainen originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Dec 2009 18:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 malaysia1Malaysiaf1fairuz fauzyFairuzFauzyfauzyformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOneheikki kovalainenHeikkiKovalainenjarno trulliJarnoTrullikovalainenlotuslotus f1lotus f1 racingLotusF1LotusF1RacingmalaysiatrulliMon, 14 Dec 2009 18:27:00 EST<![CDATA[<i>Autosport</i>: Drivers vote Senna as greatest of all time]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/autosport-drivers-vote-senna-as-greatest-of-all-time/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/autosport-drivers-vote-senna-as-greatest-of-all-time/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/13/autosport-drivers-vote-senna-as-greatest-of-all-time/#commentsFiled under:

SennaAutosport recently held one of those this-has-to-be-about-creating-controversy polls to find the greatest F1 driver of all time. But this was more like the Screen Actors Guild Awards than the Oscars, in that it was 217 Formula 1 drivers -- going all the way back to 98-year-old Paul Pietsch, who raced in the 1930s -- doing the voting. From among all their peers, the group chose Brazilian driver Ayrton Senna as the number one F1 stunner.

Still, there are plenty of "What?!" moments. Ayrton we're solid on, and only three drivers from the past two decades made the top ten, one of them being Fernando Alonso at the number nine spot. But seriously -- Lewis Hamilton at number 17 ahead of Jack Brabham, Graham Hill, and Kimi Raikkonen? Jensen Button at number 30 ahead of Alan Jones, Guiseppe Farina, and Phil Hill? We say, "Hmmm..." Have a look at the list yourselves, where you can vote for whether a driver should be ranked higher or lower. Hat tip to Marien.

[Source: Autosport | Image:AFP/Getty]

Autosport: Drivers vote Senna as greatest of all time originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Dec 2009 09:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ayrton sennaAyrtonSennaf1formula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOneSun, 13 Dec 2009 09:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Star Search: Fresh talent descends on Jerez for F1 mega test]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/12/star-search-fresh-talent-descends-on-jerez-for-f1-mega-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/12/star-search-fresh-talent-descends-on-jerez-for-f1-mega-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/12/star-search-fresh-talent-descends-on-jerez-for-f1-mega-test/#commentsFiled under: ,

Youngsters invade F1 test at Jerez
F1 Young Drivers Test at Jerez - Click above for high-res image gallery

The biggest football fans don't just watch the NFL. They're watching college football too. If not because they say it's a better spectacle, then simply to see the future pros who'll ultimately be drafted by NFL teams.

Formula racing works the same way. (Well, sorta.) There are countless feeder series staged every year around the world, and most of the drivers in them are hoping for their shot at the big leagues. But with championships split between so many series - from Formula Renault to GP2 and from Indy Lights to Formula 2 - it can be a bit much to follow.

Fortunately this year in the off-season, all the returning F1 teams came together for one massive test at the Jerez track in Spain. There they put the latest crop of up-and-coming talent to the test. Follow the jump to read how it unfolded.


Gallery: F1 Young Driver Test, Jerez, December 2009

Continue reading Star Search: Fresh talent descends on Jerez for F1 mega test

Star Search: Fresh talent descends on Jerez for F1 mega test originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 12 Dec 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Alexander RossiAlexanderRossiAndy SoucekAndySoucekBertrand BaguetteBertrandBaguetteBrendon HartleyBrendonHartleycircuito jerezCircuitoJerezDaniel RicciardoDaniel ZampieriDanielRicciardoDanielZampieriEsteban GutierrezEstebanGutierrezf1formula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOneGary PaffettGaryPaffettHo-Pin TungHo-pinTungjerezJR HildebrandJrHildebrandJules BianchiJulesBianchiLucas Di GrassiLucasDiGrassiMarco ZipoliMarcoZipoliMarcus EricssonMarcusEricssonMike ConwayMikeConwayMirko BortolottiMirkoBortolottiNico HulkenbergNicoHulkenbergOliver TurveyOliverTurveyPablo Sanchez LopezPabloSanchezLopezPaul Di RestaPaulDiRestayoung driver testyoung driversYoungDriversYoungDriverTestSat, 12 Dec 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[2010 F1 cars reportedly set to be unveiled at joint event in Valencia]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/2010-f1-cars-reportedly-set-to-be-unveiled-at-joint-event-in-val/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/2010-f1-cars-reportedly-set-to-be-unveiled-at-joint-event-in-val/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/10/2010-f1-cars-reportedly-set-to-be-unveiled-at-joint-event-in-val/#commentsFiled under:


BMW Sauber F1.09 unveiled at Valencia - Click above for high-res image gallery

We have to admit, it can get a bit tedious every January when each of the individual teams participating in the Formula One World Championship unveils its car for the upcoming season... one... at... a... time. This year, in fact, a couple of teams opted not to hold official debut events in light of financial restrictions. Seems a little silly to us when you consider how many millions of dollars each team spends every year, but they did it just the same. Next season looks to be even more berserk with an unprecedented 13 teams on the grid, even though three automakers have recently pulled out of the sport. But reports now indicate that rather than taking the wraps off one car at a time, all the teams will get together for one big event and present their cars together.

The debut event, which is shaping up to be an auto show in its own right, is expected to take place in Valencia, Spain, ahead of the first test session of the season. Exact details are being negotiated as we speak by the team principals at the meeting of the Formula One Teams Association in Monaco, where the F1 Business Forum is currently underway. But Brawn/Mercedes GP CEO Nick Fry has already revealed the basics. For our part, we'll look forward to bringing you all the new cars at once next month.

[Source: Autosport]

2010 F1 cars reportedly set to be unveiled at joint event in Valencia originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Dec 2009 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 formula one world championship2010FormulaOneWorldChampionshipf1F1 world championshipF1WorldChampionshipFIAformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnevalenciaThu, 10 Dec 2009 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Silverstone secures the British Grand Prix for the next 17 years]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/silverstone-secures-the-british-grand-prix-for-the-next-17-years/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/silverstone-secures-the-british-grand-prix-for-the-next-17-years/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/09/silverstone-secures-the-british-grand-prix-for-the-next-17-years/#commentsFiled under: ,


BRDC President Damon Hill and Silvestone Managing Director Richard Phillips announce the new deal

Following months of negotiations and uncertainty, the British Racing Drivers Club has signed a deal with the FIA and Formula One Management to keep the British Grand Prix at Silverstone for the next seventeen years, starting with next year's race.

The deal is struck for the same amount of time (with a cancellation clause after ten years) that rival circuit Donington Park had signed with Bernie Ecclestone. That deal fell through, however, and Donington has gone into bankruptcy. In order to meet Formula One's demands, Silverstone - which first hosted the event in 1948 and has hosted it every year since 1987 - will undertake a massive renovation project.

Included in the plans are new grandstands, a new paddock area with new pits, and a potential switch to a new track layout. The Arena circuit was carved out of sections of the existing grand prix circuit for use by MotoGP, which will also be racing at Silverstone in the coming year. By containing it within the main area, the Arena circuit offers spectators a better view of the action, and the BRDC (headed by 1996 World Champion Damon Hill) has submitted the layout for FIA approval. Press release after the jump.

[Source: Silverstone]

Continue reading Silverstone secures the British Grand Prix for the next 17 years

Silverstone secures the British Grand Prix for the next 17 years originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Dec 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brdcbritish grand prixbritish racing drivers clubBritishGrandPrixBritishRacingDriversClubf1FIAformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnesilverstonesilverstone arenasilverstone circuitSilverstoneArenaSilverstoneCircuitWed, 09 Dec 2009 17:29:00 EST<![CDATA[FIA gives Sauber the green light to fill Toyota's slot]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/fia-gives-sauber-the-green-light-to-fill-toyotas-slot/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/fia-gives-sauber-the-green-light-to-fill-toyotas-slot/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/08/fia-gives-sauber-the-green-light-to-fill-toyotas-slot/#commentsFiled under: , ,


After months in limbo, the FIA has released a short statement to announce that it has approved the Sauber F1 team - formerly owned by BMW - to fill Toyota's vacant spot on the grid for next year's F1 championship.

The announcement puts an end to a long period of uncertainty for the Swiss team that started when BMW announced it would withdraw its support. A deal was then penned with a shady investment firm known as Qadbak. But after Qadbak emerged as little more than a shell company for a convicted fraudster, the team's founder and namesake Peter Sauber negotiated a deal to buy the team back from the departing Bavarian automaker.

BMW motorsport chief Mario Thiessen - who supervised the company's F1 participation from providing engines to Williams through its purchase of Sauber - has announced that he'll remain with BMW and not leave with Sauber, leaving old Peter in charge.

The newly independent team has reportedly negotiated a deal to run Ferrari engines next season, an arrangement that powered Sauber F1 cars for eight years, rebadged as Petronas under the sponsor's name. Reports also suggest that Giancarlo Fisichella - who raced for Sauber in 2004 alongside Felipe Massa - could drive for the team once again in parallel to his Ferrari test duties.

A revised entry list is expected within the next few days. Follow the jump for the FIA's official announcement.

[Source: FIA | Image: Andrew Yates/AFP/Getty Images]

Continue reading FIA gives Sauber the green light to fill Toyota's slot

FIA gives Sauber the green light to fill Toyota's slot originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmw sauberbmw-sauberBmwSauberf1fiaformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnepeter sauberPeterSaubersaubersauber-ferrarisauber-petronasTue, 08 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Two bidders step up to acquire Renault F1]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/report-two-bidders-step-up-to-acquire-renault-f1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/report-two-bidders-step-up-to-acquire-renault-f1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/06/report-two-bidders-step-up-to-acquire-renault-f1/#commentsFiled under: ,



Renault looks set to be the next automaker to bail out of Formula 1, and it appears that there are two serious bidders in line to take over the operation. Renault will hold a special board meeting this week to decide on the racing team's fate, and it looks like it may go ahead and just line up a sale right away, instead of announcing a shutdown and then trying work out a sale as Honda and BMW did.

AutoCar reports that Prodrive, which has been trying to break into F1 for several years, may have the inside line on the French outfit. The other primary bidder is Genil Capital, a Luxembourg-based investment fund. The financial group would likely retain the Renault name for the team, while Prodrive would probably run under its own banner. If Prodrive wins out, Renault would remain only as an F1 engine supplier.

[Source: AutoCar]

REPORT: Two bidders step up to acquire Renault F1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 06 Dec 2009 17:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>F1F1-Renaultformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnegenil capitalGenilCapitalprodriverenaultRenault F1RenaultF1Sun, 06 Dec 2009 17:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Serbian team reportedly in talks to take over Toyota F1]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/serbian-team-reportedly-in-talks-to-take-over-toyota-f1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/serbian-team-reportedly-in-talks-to-take-over-toyota-f1/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/30/serbian-team-reportedly-in-talks-to-take-over-toyota-f1/#commentsFiled under: ,



Reports of Toyota F1's demise may prove to have been exaggerated as the latest rumors from the racing world suggest that the Japanese automaker is in discussions with a Serbian outfit about taking over the Cologne-based racing team.

Stefan Grand Prix is backed by Serbian engineering firm AMCO and headed by one Zoran Stefanovic, who, like N.Technology, filed an official complaint over the FIA's selection process for new teams. His suit was rejected, but Stefanovic remained determined. The departure of Toyota from the scene and the availability of its assets - including its 2010 car design and the all-important entry slot for next year's championship - may prove to be his way in. The deal could involve Toyota sticking around to supply engines for the next few years, and Kamui Kobayashi could be part of the package, operating from the current facility in Cologne, Germany, until the move to Serbia could be completed.

For its part, Toyota is likely trying to find a way to get around its commitments under the Concorde Agreement to remain in the series, the failure of which to honor could cost Toyota hundreds of millions in fines. Meanwhile if Stefan Grand Prix manages to pull it off, they'll have successfully circumnavigated the allegedly flawed selection process and secured their spot on the grid. Stefanovic denies the prospect of his outfit simply stepping in to Toyota's place, but confirmed that negotiations are under way.

Meanwhile Sauber - which just reacquired itself from BMW in the wake of the failed Qadbak deal - was hoping Toyota would default on its agreement, thereby giving them the green light. If the Stefan deal goes through, Sauber could be locked out, unless the powers-that-be opt to let them in as an unprecedented 14th entry.

[Source: F1-Live | Image: Clive Mason/Getty]

Serbian team reportedly in talks to take over Toyota F1 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amcof1formula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOneserbiastefanstefan gpstefan grand prixStefanGpStefanGrandPrixstefanovictoyotatoyota f1ToyotaF1zoran stefanovicZoranStefanovicMon, 30 Nov 2009 17:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Canadian GP back on F1 calendar through 2014]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/canadian-gp-back-on-f1-calendar-through-2014/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/canadian-gp-back-on-f1-calendar-through-2014/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/canadian-gp-back-on-f1-calendar-through-2014/#commentsFiled under: ,

Canadian GP

It's official, Formula 1 and Montreal are in love again. Bernie Ecclestone's supersonic price increases in 2008 drove the Canadian venue (and North America entirely) off the map in 2009. It was the first time in three decades that the F1 club didn't visit Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, and by the end of this summer, everyone was highly motivated to get it back.

When Ecclestone's original demand of $175 million Canadian ($165M U.S.) over five years became $75 million Canadian, ($71M U.S.), the Montreal, Quebec, and Canadian governments got together to split the cost three ways. When the government's commitment to spend such an amount on a sporting event was questioned, Quebec's minister of finance replied that the GP will cost Quebec $4 million but return $10 million to its coffers alone. On top of that, Ecclestone promised them 30% of ticket sales every year, which, for a hugely popular grand prix, should be a substantial number. Vive le Montreal GP and June 13, 2010! Thanks to everyone who submitted tips

[Source: F1 Live | Photo credit: Vinod Sankar via CC2.0]

Canadian GP back on F1 calendar through 2014 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Nov 2009 19:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bernie ecclestoneBernieEcclestoneformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnegpmontrealmontreal grand prixMontrealGrandPrixquebecSun, 29 Nov 2009 19:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Volkswagen ponders becoming F1 engine supplier in 2012]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/rumormill-volkswagen-ponders-becoming-f1-engine-supplier-in-201/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/rumormill-volkswagen-ponders-becoming-f1-engine-supplier-in-201/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/29/rumormill-volkswagen-ponders-becoming-f1-engine-supplier-in-201/#commentsFiled under: ,



There have been rumblings about VW getting into F1 by signing up with a specific team, but the chatter was always quashed. This time, reports suggest that VW is actively talking up the idea of getting into Formula 1 after 2012, but as an engine supplier to multiple teams. Hans-Joachim Stuck, VW's motorsports head, said with the way F1 engine regulations are going -- especially with costs and the potential of the "world engine" -- it could be the perfect opportunity for VW to start pumping out powerplants.

While future F1 regulations are still undefined, and VW's eventual entry into the series is by no means guaranteed, it's clear that VW's looking for ways to show off its engineering chops and get its name onto tracks. Stuck recently visited a NASCAR race and spoke about the company looking to get into the GrandAm series, and perhaps IndyCar.

Interestingly, the very conditions that Stuck sees as favorable for VW's entry are the ones that a number of F1 teams and fans are, at best, ambivalent about: substantially lower costs, spec engines, and more than 24 teams on the grid. With a new FIA president, what F1 is going to look like after 2012 is almost completely unknown. Hat tip to Stefano

[Source: Autosport]

Rumormill: Volkswagen ponders becoming F1 engine supplier in 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Nov 2009 12:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f1fiaformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnevolkswagenvwSun, 29 Nov 2009 12:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Bring the Noise: Belgium's Spa-Francorchamps reportedly safe... for now]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/28/bring-the-noise-belgiums-spa-francorchamps-reportedly-safe/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/28/bring-the-noise-belgiums-spa-francorchamps-reportedly-safe/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/28/bring-the-noise-belgiums-spa-francorchamps-reportedly-safe/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Following earlier news that the Donington track, which was supposed to take over the British Grand Prix in lieu of Silverstone, had to declare bankruptcy comes a reversal of fortune for the Spa-Francorchamps circuit. The longtime host of the Belgian Grand Prix looked to be in serious trouble with local authorities when nearby residents got fed up with the noise emanating from the track. Government officials threatened to shut down the circuit if the situation wasn't addressed, but now they appear to be singing a different tune.

According to the latest reports, the regional environment ministry has given Spa an exemption from noise regulations in light of the economic benefits the Belgian Grand Prix brings to the region. There are a few conditions, though. First of all, while they're willing to overlook the noise issue for the F1 race (and possibly a few other events), authorities will crack down at other times, even shutting down the track completely during parts of the summer. Beyond that, they've appointed a third party to monitor the noise levels, warning the track owners that their exemption will be up for review again within two years. So, while race organizers and fans can breathe a sigh of relief, it'll be a short breath, proving once again that racing and bureaucrats don't mix.

[Source: Autocar | Image: Vladimir Rys/Bongarts/Getty]

Bring the Noise: Belgium's Spa-Francorchamps reportedly safe... for now originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 28 Nov 2009 16:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Abu Dhabi Police F999 - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Wednesday evening before the inaugural Abu Dhabi Grand Prix last month, crowds gathered along the Corniche, Abu Dhabi's seafront boulevard. Two police cars sped down the road, swerved to a stop, an officer got out, pulled out his gun and began opening fire at a masked man pulling a checkered flag off a formula racing car. A driver climbed into the cockpit and drove off down the closed-off street to the applause of the gathered crowd as a marching band played on and a helicopter flew overhead. The point? Why, to promote road safety, of course!

The F999 - a formula racer decked out with emergency lights on the rear wing and police livery - is a project of the Abu Dhabi Police, and could very well be the fastest police car the world has ever seen. It's part of a public awareness campaign that sought to capitalize on the fever that swept the gulf emirate leading up to its first F1 race. The F999 is only the most recent in a slew of special police vehicles in the emirate that has recently included a police-spec Nissan GT-R, Chevrolet Camaro and a customer chopper, to name just a few. It's Abu Dhabi's way of getting people excited about road safety, and while it may seem counterintuitive to the rest of us, it's certainly garnered its fair share of attention. Follow the jump to watch video footage of the F999's unveiling and read more in the press release. Thanks for the tip, Ali!

[Source: Abu Dhabi Police]

Continue reading VIDEO: Formula for Safety? Abu Dhabi Police unveil the F999

VIDEO: Formula for Safety? Abu Dhabi Police unveil the F999 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Nov 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abu dhabiabu dhabi grand prixabu dhabi policeabu dhabi police f999AbuDhabiAbuDhabiGrandPrixAbuDhabiPoliceAbuDhabiPoliceF999f999formula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnepoliceThu, 26 Nov 2009 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Williams sells minority stake to Austrian investor]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/williams-sells-minority-stake-to-austrian-investor/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/williams-sells-minority-stake-to-austrian-investor/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/25/williams-sells-minority-stake-to-austrian-investor/#commentsFiled under: , ,

With all the money that goes into running an F1 team, and the limited opportunity to make any of it back, we can't see why anyone would view owning a team as a sound investment. Evidently Herr Toto Wollf feels otherwise, as the Austrian financier and gentleman racing driver has acquired a minority interest in Williams Grand Prix Engineering.

This marks the first time in over 30 years of operations that Frank Williams and Patrick Head, the two team principals, have sold shares to an outside party. For his part, Sir Frank insists that business will carry on as usual, that they're not relinquishing control over the team, and that the sale was simply a way of ensuring the team's financial viability. Tellingly, though, he also indicated that Wolff, some 30 years younger than Williams and Head and the veteran of local rallies and international sportscar racing, could take the reins some day in the future.

The announcement comes hot on the heels of reports that Renault - once Williams engine partner during its heyday - was considering a similar move. Follow the jump to read the official announcement, complete with Toto Wolff's bio.

[Source: Williams]

Continue reading Williams sells minority stake to Austrian investor

Williams sells minority stake to Austrian investor originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 07:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chrisian wolffChrisianWolfff1formula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnefrank williamsFrankWilliamspatrick headPatrickHeadtoto wolffTotoWolffwilliamswilliams f1williams grand prix engineeringWilliamsF1WilliamsGrandPrixEngineeringWed, 25 Nov 2009 07:55:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: USF1 signs pay-drive deal with Jose Maria Lopez]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/report-usf1-signs-pay-drive-deal-with-jose-maria-lopez/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/report-usf1-signs-pay-drive-deal-with-jose-maria-lopez/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/22/report-usf1-signs-pay-drive-deal-with-jose-maria-lopez/#commentsFiled under: ,



Reports circulating the motorsport press indicate that USF1 has signed a provisional contract with Argentine driver Jose Maria Lopez to drive for the new team next season. The arrangement, however, depends on Lopez bringing with him $8 million in sponsorship dollars, of which the young South American reportedly already has 80% in his coffers.

Lopez has experience in formula racing, but has been off the radar for a few years now. After competing in Formula Renault and Formula 3000, Lopez drove a couple of seasons in the GP2 series and even ran some test sessions for Renault F1 . After that, he returned to Argentina, where he competed in local touring cars and in a few international sports car races.

Only a few months ago, USF1 team principal Peter Windsor said the team would absolutely not take on a driver purely on these financial criteria alone, but after balancing their budget, the nascent American grand prix team has apparently decided otherwise. Meanwhile, the team is said to be considering a number of F1 veterans for the second seat, with a 12-name short list that reportedly includes such names as Villeneuve, Montagny and de la Rosa. So much for nurturing American talent.

[Source: Autosport and F1-Live]

REPORT: USF1 signs pay-drive deal with Jose Maria Lopez originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 22 Nov 2009 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f1formula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnejose lopezjose maria lopezJoseLopezJoseMariaLopezlopezpeter windsorPeterWindsorus f1us gpeUsF1UsGpeSun, 22 Nov 2009 19:02:00 EST