Grosjean is off and red flag and end Q1
Bottas one was close as well, but he just managed to keep it out of the wall.
Bottas one was close as well, but he just managed to keep it out of the wall.
Hamilton's pole is not so surprising, damp, cold, high speed session, with engine mode. He looks incredibly comfortable in that cockpit. Haven't checked what the weather will be like tomorrow, but I'm hoping for rain.
Did not expect it to happen this year after earlier in the season it made more sense, so not quit sure what changed. So bye bye Palmer, ok driver but never good enough throughout his career to end up in F1 and it showed.
Welcome back Danill, 3rd win for Max confirmed in Austin :P
And party tonight so DVR running for this one, because I expect Lewis to cruise, if he gets a good start, to the victory.....1st corner drama with Vettel maybe ??
Welcome back Danill, 3rd win for Max confirmed in Austin :P
And party tonight so DVR running for this one, because I expect Lewis to cruise, if he gets a good start, to the victory.....1st corner drama with Vettel maybe ??
Farewell, Dalai Palmer.
By markao Go To PostAnd party tonight so DVR running for this one, because I expect Lewis to cruise, if he gets a good start, to the victory…..1st corner drama with Vettel maybe ??Rosberg should drive one race for TR, he'll hit Hamilton, give Vettel a win, cause a 25 point swing in the title fight, and have a fist fight with Niki in the pit lane,
It's 7.04 here.
Such a great opening to the race, of course Sainz/Whiting has to ruin everything.
Verstappen start onboard:
Such a great opening to the race, of course Sainz/Whiting has to ruin everything.
Verstappen start onboard:
Ferrari sabotaging themselves.
Somebody give the Hulk one of those DRS-hats.
A Stroll through the grass.
Somebody give the Hulk one of those DRS-hats.
A Stroll through the grass.
How lucky did Hamilton get there!
VER would've had it if Alonso and Massa didn't take their sweet ass time moving out of the way.
Ferrari has gone full self-destruct the last three races. Vettel's gap went from -3 after Monza to -59, a 56-point swing. Meanwhile the team went from -62 to -145, an 83-point swing.
VER would've had it if Alonso and Massa didn't take their sweet ass time moving out of the way.
Ferrari has gone full self-destruct the last three races. Vettel's gap went from -3 after Monza to -59, a 56-point swing. Meanwhile the team went from -62 to -145, an 83-point swing.
By Spengo Go To PostFerrari has gone full self-destruct the last three races. Vettel's gap went from -3 after Monza to -59, a 56-point swing. Meanwhile the team went from -62 to -145, an 83-point swing.
It is absolutely pathetic. Team has gone to hell since Toad/Brawn left. These things rarely happened during their time.
By Shanks D Zoro Go To PostIt is absolutely pathetic. Team has gone to hell since Toad/Brawn left. These things rarely happened during their time.I would not say that, this latest era its the the engine that's dominant en Mercedes started best and gained that gap to all other manufacturers over the years (even if it is closing a little). In those days teams with the most money could test the most and the moment the sun had risen, there was a Ferrari running in Fiorano and testing new parts and making it bullet proof. Accepting that rule change (limited testing), even though they had no real say in it, was what did them. Ferrari, like all those chasing Merc have to make bigger steps, means more risk and engine part on the limits and that's what is going to hurt (ignore Singapore stupidity) you, when all part get to their end of life (5/6 races).
Race decided as always in Suzuka by the start, Lewis and Max great, DannyRic bit less and he lost 2 places. Great move on Seb by Max in the hairpin and DannyRic lining up Ocon after restart.
Force India best of the rest, Sainz going out in style and Massa/Alonso should have gotten out of the way a bit quicker, would have been fun last 1/2 lap, even though Lewis probably would have stayed ahead.
And respect for Palmer, kept his chin up, not through the easiest of times, even though I will not miss him.
By Shanks D Zoro Go To PostIt is absolutely pathetic. Team has gone to hell since Toad/Brawn left. These things rarely happened during their time.This year's car is on par with Mercedes in my opinion. Ignition issue can happen to anyone, with the precisions required. You need to also remember that the championship deciding point was the crash in Singapore, and all the current problems with the two cars originated from that point also. However, some strategies Ferrari use during races... could be addressed.
STR: Brendon Hartley driving STR at COTA
New Zealander Brendon Hartley will race for Scuderia Toro Rosso at the next round of the Formula 1 World Championship, the USA Grand Prix in Austin, as Pierre Gasly will be racing in Japan for the last race of the Super Formula Championship in Suzuka.Wish him the best of luck. I'm convinced that If Buemi didn't have his meltdown in Montreal, he would be sitting in the Toro Rosso in Austin instead of Hartley.
Brendon last tested with the team back in 2009. Eight years later, he will be taking part in his first Formula 1 Grand Prix, at the Circuit of the Americas, alongside Daniil Kvyat. Since his last outing with Scuderia Toro Rosso, Brendon has gained experience in many different categories, including the Formula Renault 3.5 Series, GP2 Series and sports car Series. In the last three years he successfully raced the LMP1 Porsche in the FIA World Endurance Championship.
In 2015 he was crowned WEC Champion alongside his teammates Mark Webber and Timo Bernhard. In June this year he won the prestigious 24h of Le Mans race and he's currently leading the 2017 WEC Championship, with three rounds to go – the next one being the 6 Hours of Fuji, in Japan. After that, he'll travel to Texas for his first F1 race weekend… A well-deserved reward that has been eight years in the making: never say never!
Next race and we are in the U S of A, Texas more precise for the 2017 Formula 1 United States Grand Prix in Austin on the circuit of the Americas. Great track, lay-out always delivers good racing, shame about all the run-of tarmac. Check the timing of the session, as due to a Timberlake concert, there is a bigger gap than usual between FP3 and Qualifying.
Were the last few races about Vettel vs Lewis, it is now more a case of Lewis not messing up, even if it means he ends up behind Sebastian. If Vettel does not score enough points he could even be crowned champion this weekend. Track lay-out should suit both teams and lets hope RBR is close.
Braking news, at least surprising to me, Max extend with RBR to 2020. Not sure why now, so I suppose some sweeteners have been thrown his way.
And F1 is supporting the help to breast cancer awareness and turns pink on its US tires
So is McLaren and Fernando, who finally committed to McLaren for another year. Hope the switch to Renault will provide him with a competitive car for next season.
And with Gasly missing, it is Brandon Heartly's chance to shine and maybe secure a deal for next year.
Ricciardo to Merc 2019 confirmed? Rumor is that Hartley will drive for TR for the rest of the seaon.
Buxton said there's 60 percent chance of rain this weekend.
Buxton said there's 60 percent chance of rain this weekend.
By Spengo Go To PostRicciardo to Merc 2019 confirmed?Ferrari is still more logicall for me, but we will see. If RBR has a great car next year, or better than X, what do you do?
Buxton said there's 60 percent chance of rain ths weekend.
Yeah rain moved forward a day, so might rain tomorrow, but latest is dry on Sunday.
Looks like there's gonna be big fight between Ferrari and Mercedes for Ricciardo then.
And Red Bull must have a deal in place for 2019 for engines which Verstappen seems to trust.
And Red Bull must have a deal in place for 2019 for engines which Verstappen seems to trust.
By Spengo Go To PostI'm looking forward to seeing that Sainz Hulk battle in quali.Sainz has something to prove in the FP sessions, Hulk isn't really bothered, will see true pace between them tomorrow
Bit messy with wet start, DannyRic had an issue, did not really get what was broken on his car.
[edit] Horner just explained it was a set-up issue, that needed rebuilding and took lots of time
Red Bulls quicker than anyone, on softs.
That danish waffle is edgy af today
By markao Go To PostSainz has something to prove in the FP sessions, Hulk isn't really bothered, will see true pace between them tomorrow.It will be interesting to see where Renault will be next year considering their improvements and finally having 2 competitive drivers.
That danish waffle is edgy af today
Single lap pace looks like Lewis got this, race pace wasn't a lot between the three top teams and US aren't going to last to long.....shame about Max his engine penalty, that's one car less up front battling it out.
Seb eager for running time. Got to make up for the few laps he did yesterday.
Quali begins at 22:00 in CET land.
Quali begins at 22:00 in CET land.
By Spengo Go To PostSainz in front of The Hulk. Place your bets.Like Max and DannyRic, those two are running different strategies due to the penalties. Hulk was always faster this weekend on the straight than Carlos and lost out in S1/S3, but still would be good for Carlos if he manages to put his car in front.
Lewis pole, that's a more secure bet ;)
Hartley OK
By Spengo Go To PostIs Hulkenberg running with the new upgraded Renault engine?yes, but they did have issues yesterday so I assume it is still in and he's not starting in Q2 so he will have new tires tomorrow.
Usual suspects, with Hulk not trying, only Stoffel should have been closer to Alonso and Max can start on the soft's tomorrow
Full result
Lewis did not need a perfect Q3 to be on pole, Sebastian gets Valteri, good for race tomorrow.
DannyRic gets one back on Max, looks like he left time in 3rd sector (30.9 in final lap) and Carlos does what Palmer didn't, for those still doubting that switch ;)
Pretty good showing by Seb at the end there. That Ferrari is clearly slower and he forced that thing to second on the grid.
Nice work by Dan Ricciardo. The gaps are so small.
Nice work by Dan Ricciardo. The gaps are so small.
By Spengo Go To PostPretty good showing by Seb at the end there. That Ferrari is clearly slower and he forced that thing to second on the grid.Yeah Max, even though it does not matter for tomorrow, should have put it on p3 (with his 1st lap sector 3)
Nice work by Dan Ricciardo. The gaps are so small.
fulll Q results
By markao Go To PostYeah Max, even though it does not matter for tomorrow, should have put it on p3 (with his 1st lap sector 3]With the new upgraded engine worth 1.5 tenths, for sure.
I really can't stand "suck my balls" magnussen. It's hilarious that impeding drivers "in a dangerous position" get fewer grid drops than mechanical part replacements.
By Trace17 Go To PostI really can't stand "suck my balls" magnussen. It's hilarious that impeding drivers "in a dangerous position" get fewer grid drops than mechanical part replacements.Welcome to the thread. It really is a joke now, this whole system needs to go. But for all the negativity regarding the various penalties, I think it's going to be an exciting race.
By Spengo Go To PostWelcome to the thread. It really is a joke now, this whole system needs to go. But for all the negativity regarding the various penalties, I think it's going to be an exciting race.
Thanks. Yeah, it's beyond joke when Hartley, first time F1 driver has 25 place grid drop. I predict Lewis will take the win, but Seb will keep it close enough to take the title fight one more race. Seeing Max blast up the field could be great fun.
If Vettel and Hamilton have similar starts or Vettel gets a better start, it could be a very interesting couple of first laps. Verstappen should be ripping across the track tomorrow. pls do good Renault engine
Provisional starting grid:
Provisional starting grid:
Ricciardo starting in 4th, I'd love to see him on the podium. Looks like no chance for rain tomorrow either.
By Trace17 Go To PostRicciardo starting in 4th, I'd love to see him on the podium. Looks like no chance for rain tomorrow either.Is his start side of the track less rubbered in?
Mornin everyone! Anyone else attending the race?
My wife and I did gen admin and have had a blast on FP and Quali day.
We sat at the Turn 4 esses yesterday and its breathtaking to see how much speed they carry through the turns.
Its raining right now which means a green track and a day walking in mud but hoping to settle in to a nice spot along T1/main straight.
My wife and I did gen admin and have had a blast on FP and Quali day.
We sat at the Turn 4 esses yesterday and its breathtaking to see how much speed they carry through the turns.
Its raining right now which means a green track and a day walking in mud but hoping to settle in to a nice spot along T1/main straight.
Just as an aside on what I’ve noticed about the drivers after attending the various driver forums and autograph sessions is how much time Lewis spends with fans. He seemed to be avtially enjoying it and was having conversations for quite a bit with us.
Valtteri, Fernando and Ricciardo are bloody amazing as well. Fernando does whatever he wants and has reached the point where he can do no wrong with crowds. Hulk is very charismatic as well, also seems to have a good time. I wish I had recorded Dani doing his ‘Murican accent during interviews. Max seems to be very reserved but appreciate all the Orange support (Which is massive by the way, only behind Lewis and Ferrari.).
On the other hand, Magnussen is a twat. It’s the home race for Haas and this guy is on stage with Gene, Gunther Steiner, Romain and reserve driver Ferruci and couldn’t be bothered for more than a single syllable at a time and looked like he wanted to be elsewhere.
Also, I attended Will Buxton’s bash on Thursday. Hobbs, Steve Matchett and Bob Varsha introduced F1 to me nearly 17 years ago on Speed Channel. Though I hate the commercials and lack of in depth access, these guys made due and felt like buds to me.
Buxton was amazingly candid about how NBC couldn’t be bothered once they were informed of Liberty’s plan for their own streaming platform. Matchett, Hobbs and Lee Diffey couldn’t attend due to immediate budget cuts after the announcement but recorded some messages to the crowd discussing the change. Hearing Hobbs drop F bombs was pretty dope.
After that, it was pure fire from Buxton. I really hope he catches on with Sky or whatever crew Liberty uses because he is fantastic. He gave some great anecdotes including a scathing review of the insularity of Ferrari and how miserable a bunch they all are. He also tipped Ocon vs Max to be the future of F1 in just a few short years.
Hoping for a clean, tight race today and a Lewis win. Seb looks strong and don’t think there will be any titles clinched today.
Valtteri, Fernando and Ricciardo are bloody amazing as well. Fernando does whatever he wants and has reached the point where he can do no wrong with crowds. Hulk is very charismatic as well, also seems to have a good time. I wish I had recorded Dani doing his ‘Murican accent during interviews. Max seems to be very reserved but appreciate all the Orange support (Which is massive by the way, only behind Lewis and Ferrari.).
On the other hand, Magnussen is a twat. It’s the home race for Haas and this guy is on stage with Gene, Gunther Steiner, Romain and reserve driver Ferruci and couldn’t be bothered for more than a single syllable at a time and looked like he wanted to be elsewhere.
Also, I attended Will Buxton’s bash on Thursday. Hobbs, Steve Matchett and Bob Varsha introduced F1 to me nearly 17 years ago on Speed Channel. Though I hate the commercials and lack of in depth access, these guys made due and felt like buds to me.
Buxton was amazingly candid about how NBC couldn’t be bothered once they were informed of Liberty’s plan for their own streaming platform. Matchett, Hobbs and Lee Diffey couldn’t attend due to immediate budget cuts after the announcement but recorded some messages to the crowd discussing the change. Hearing Hobbs drop F bombs was pretty dope.
After that, it was pure fire from Buxton. I really hope he catches on with Sky or whatever crew Liberty uses because he is fantastic. He gave some great anecdotes including a scathing review of the insularity of Ferrari and how miserable a bunch they all are. He also tipped Ocon vs Max to be the future of F1 in just a few short years.
Hoping for a clean, tight race today and a Lewis win. Seb looks strong and don’t think there will be any titles clinched today.
By h3ro Go To PostAlso, I attended Will Buxton’s bash on Thursday. He also tipped Ocon vs Max to be the future of F1 in just a few short years.
Most people gush over Max. But to me Ocon looks like the real deal. He is a relatively calm driver for his age, and quick. He seems to have a good attitude to learn from his engineers. He is starting to shade Perez quite a bit now. I like the kid.
By h3ro Go To PostOn the other hand, Magnussen is a twat. It’s the home race for Haas and this guy is on stage with Gene, Gunther Steiner, Romain and reserve driver Ferruci and couldn’t be bothered for more than a single syllable at a time and looked like he wanted to be elsewhere.
Also, I attended Will Buxton’s bash on Thursday. Hobbs, Steve Matchett and Bob Varsha introduced F1 to me nearly 17 years ago on Speed Channel. Though I hate the commercials and lack of in depth access, these guys made due and felt like buds to me.
Buxton was amazingly candid about how NBC couldn’t be bothered once they were informed of Liberty’s plan for their own streaming platform. Matchett, Hobbs and Lee Diffey couldn’t attend due to immediate budget cuts after the announcement but recorded some messages to the crowd discussing the change. Hearing Hobbs drop F bombs was pretty dope.
After that, it was pure fire from Buxton. I really hope he catches on with Sky or whatever crew Liberty uses because he is fantastic. He gave some great anecdotes including a scathing review of the insularity of Ferrari and how miserable a bunch they all are. He also tipped Ocon vs Max to be the future of F1 in just a few short years.
Hoping for a clean, tight race today and a Lewis win. Seb looks strong and don’t think there will be any titles clinched today.
Magnussen really gives off that twat-ness in everything he does - interviews, behavior on track, etc. At least Maldonado gave us stupid antics while he was here.
I was wondering if they were going to be on location at COTA since they had been at years past, but it makes sense now that they cut the plans when they let 2018 go. Hobbs cursing seems super weird.
I think Max can definitely be the future "it" driver, like Lewis and Seb are now (from a celebrity perspective, talent possibly). Not as sure about Ocon though.
By GestaltGaz Go To PostIs his start side of the track less rubbered in?Welcome good sir.
Racing line goes through the 1st place gridslot. This means he loses the advantage of that side of the grid. The rain washed away the rubber though.
By h3ro Go To PostMornin everyone! Anyone else attending the race?Welcome to the thread m8.
My wife and I did gen admin and have had a blast on FP and Quali day.
We sat at the Turn 4 esses yesterday and its breathtaking to see how much speed they carry through the turns.
Its raining right now which means a green track and a day walking in mud but hoping to settle in to a nice spot along T1/main straight.
How hot can it get immediately after a storm there? Is it hot enough to screw over Mercedes?
