Full Version: 2010 Silly Season (merged)
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Brazilian media reports that Bruno reports itself on twiiter.
QUOTE (highdownforce @ Oct 30 2009, 18:26) 
Brazilian media reports that Bruno reports itself on twiiter.
He is quite cryptic at twitter, but must be it!
QUOTE (saudoso @ Oct 30 2009, 18:27)
He is quite cryptic at twitter, but must be it!
I guess so.
An official announcement is expected for next week anyway.
QUOTE (Captain Tightpants @ Oct 30 2009, 10:35)
Manor are said to be after two rookies ...
But that could have just been we don't stand a hope in hells chance of getting anyone who is currently on the grid to convince to sign us with just yet, and we don't want a Wurz, de la Rosa, Gene, Badoer experienced because we actually believed they'll be no use. I suppose Klien, Davidson and Sato spring to mind as people with GP's under their belt, of a reasonable age, but also none have ever had much success in F1, so why not just take a risk and hope that these rookies are a success.
QUOTE (r4mses @ Oct 30 2009, 19:55)
Strange? Horrible! Of all options we know - Kimi, Heidfeld - that's the worst, imho 
Kimi = Button = 1 x WDC
It would be good publicity.
Remember, Ford WRC team drives with 2 x Finn drivers. So why not 2 x English drivers for McLaren?
I hope Christian Klien gets a seat next year his talent is being wasted.
QUOTE (THE @ Oct 30 2009, 15:49)
I hope Christian Klien gets a seat next year his talent is being wasted.
uhhh, his WHAT?
Well, it looks like this will be Kovalainen's last race.
http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp...50770&FS=F1
Another indication Raikkonen's announcement is near?
http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp...50770&FS=F1
QUOTE
In what might be interpreted as a parting shot, Heikki Kovalainen has suggested that he did not enjoy equal treatment as Lewis Hamilton's McLaren teammate in 2008 and 2009.
The Finn is now linked strongly with a move to Toyota, or possibly Renault, as McLaren weighs up pairing Hamilton next year with Kimi Raikkonen or Jenson Button.
McLaren insists it operates without a driver hierarchy, but Kovalainen, 27, painted a different picture in conversation with the Finnish newspaper Helsingin Sanomat.
"It was always difficult to accept that Lewis was always the first to receive the new parts.
"I have never wanted to make a big deal about it, but it would have been nice to just once had the new parts on my car, particularly after we lost the chance of winning the championship," he said.
"I could have complained publicly but instead wanted to show the team that I always give maximum effort with the car that I have, and I think they realise that."
Kovalainen also alleges that he has not enjoyed equal status in terms of race strategies.
"Every time this season when Hamilton and I are in the third part (Q3) of qualifying, I had to do it with more fuel. If you take into account the quantities of fuel, I would have had pole position several times," he insists.
Kovalainen admits his performances at times this season could have been better, but does not rule out staying at McLaren in 2010.
"I am 100 per cent sure that McLaren has not yet made a decision. We'll see what they do," he said.
The Finn is now linked strongly with a move to Toyota, or possibly Renault, as McLaren weighs up pairing Hamilton next year with Kimi Raikkonen or Jenson Button.
McLaren insists it operates without a driver hierarchy, but Kovalainen, 27, painted a different picture in conversation with the Finnish newspaper Helsingin Sanomat.
"It was always difficult to accept that Lewis was always the first to receive the new parts.
"I have never wanted to make a big deal about it, but it would have been nice to just once had the new parts on my car, particularly after we lost the chance of winning the championship," he said.
"I could have complained publicly but instead wanted to show the team that I always give maximum effort with the car that I have, and I think they realise that."
Kovalainen also alleges that he has not enjoyed equal status in terms of race strategies.
"Every time this season when Hamilton and I are in the third part (Q3) of qualifying, I had to do it with more fuel. If you take into account the quantities of fuel, I would have had pole position several times," he insists.
Kovalainen admits his performances at times this season could have been better, but does not rule out staying at McLaren in 2010.
"I am 100 per cent sure that McLaren has not yet made a decision. We'll see what they do," he said.
Another indication Raikkonen's announcement is near?
QUOTE (maccaFTW @ Oct 30 2009, 22:38)
Well, it looks like this will be Kovalainen's last race.
http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp...50770&FS=F1
Another indication Raikkonen's announcement is near?
http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp...50770&FS=F1
Another indication Raikkonen's announcement is near?
Sounds like someone has been eating lemons.
So where are we in the grand scheme of things.
Ferrari
FA
FM
Mclaren
LH
KR
Brawn
JB
NR
Red Bull
SV
MW
Renault
RK
TG
Williams
RB
Hulkengerg
STR
JA
SB
Force India
AS
TL
Toyota
KK
HK
Campos
PdlR
BS
Manor
??
??
Too many rumours to mention
USF1
??
??
Too many rumours to mention
Lotus
JT
??
Qadbak
NH
??
Looks like the main seats are filled.
Mandzipop (or should I say: MP): is it really that hard to spell out the drivers names instead of using those acronyms?
QUOTE (maccaFTW @ Oct 31 2009, 09:38)
Another indication Raikkonen's announcement is near?
That has nothing to do with Raikkonen. Kimi has only said that McLaren "is his only option", but that doesn't mean he's absolutely going to go back to the team.
QUOTE (Captain Tightpants @ Oct 30 2009, 20:45)
That has nothing to do with Raikkonen. Kimi has only said that McLaren "is his only option", but that doesn't mean he's absolutely going to go back to the team.
Oh, I know. But it seemed to be getting to the point where McLaren was thinking either sign Kimi or keep Heikki. It looks like they're definitely not keeping Heikki, so...
QUOTE (maccaFTW @ Oct 31 2009, 14:42)
Oh, I know. But it seemed to be getting to the point where McLaren was thinking either sign Kimi or keep Heikki. It looks like they're definitely not keeping Heikki, so...
Kovalainen's been on the outer for a while now. He just hasn't had the pace. He seems like a nice enough guy who gives his best - he seemed really upset when they asked about his future - but I can't for the life of me convince myself that McLaren had just two names on their short list: his and Raikkonen's. That little episode where someone from Vodafone dropped Button's name and McLaren said they've spoken to a few drivers was intended to give Raikkonen the hurry-up because McLaren have a policy of taking the two best drivers available at the time. No, they needed Raikkonen to make up his mind because there was always the threat that other drivers they'd have their eyes on might slip through their fingers and sign for other teams.
There's a real shortage of high-calibre drivers at the moment; or, at the very least, there will be next season. With the four new teams and Fisichella moving to a testing role for Ferrari, there's going to be nine available seats, and maybe more if the likes of Trulli decide to call it a day. And there's also that gap between the front runners and the midfield: you've got your Alonsos, Buttons, Massas, Hamiltons, Vettels and Barrichellos, and then at the opposite end of the scale are the Alguersuaris, Kobayashis, Buemis and Liuzzis. There's only a handful of drivers scattered between the two extremes, and most of the high-calibre drivers are either stitched up with a team for 2010, as is the case with Vettel, or so tight with their team that they'll likely stay on-board, like Button. So there's only a handful of middle-tier drivers that McLaren might want: Kubica, Glock, Sutil and so on. Kubica's taken, Glock is expected to join him and Sutil wants to stay with Force India, so McLaren need to move fast-like.
The only thing that might come as a shock would be if McLaren decided to take someone like Alguersuari and intend to keep him on for a few years: someone who has potential, but it still raw, and which they can polish into someone more refined. But that's at odds with their policy of taking the two best drivers available, and not something they'd enter into lightly. The only reason I can see it being a possibility is because Lewis Hamilton took McLaren from pretty much last in the standings to third overall all on his own.
QUOTE (Captain Tightpants @ Oct 30 2009, 23:59)
Kovalainen's been on the outer for a while now. He just hasn't had the pace. He seems like a nice enough guy who gives his best - he seemed really upset when they asked about his future - but I can't for the life of me convince myself that McLaren had just two names on their short list: his and Raikkonen's. That little episode where someone from Vodafone dropped Button's name and McLaren said they've spoken to a few drivers was intended to give Raikkonen the hurry-up because McLaren have a policy of taking the two best drivers available at the time. No, they needed Raikkonen to make up his mind because there was always the threat that other drivers they'd have their eyes on might slip through their fingers and sign for other teams.
Well, you've got the statement MW just made to MTV3 in Finland saying in so many words that McLaren's driver will be Finnish, so that leaves two drivers.
Personally, I think the only guy they've wanted all along is Raikkonen, and they will do what it takes to make it work. Raikkonen has just said McLaren is his only choice, and he's said he's willing to make compromises.
QUOTE (maccaFTW @ Oct 31 2009, 15:46)
Well, you've got the statement MW just made to MTV3 in Finland saying in so many words that McLaren's driver will be Finnish, so that leaves two drivers.
Mika Maki. The only racing driver whose surname is his first name spelt differently.
QUOTE (Captain Tightpants @ Oct 31 2009, 04:57)
Mika Maki. The only racing driver whose surname is his first name spelt differently.
What about Fernando Alonso? His names are spelt differently. Otherwise he'd be Fernando Fernando.
Yes, I know you meant anagrams.... Did you also know that in GP2 this year, iSport's two drivers' first names were anagrams of each other? DIEGO Nunes and GEIDO Van der Garde! Think that might be unique also.
QUOTE (Ringo @ Oct 31 2009, 16:52)
Did you also know that in GP2 this year, iSport's two drivers' first names were anagrams of each other? DIEGO Nunes and GEIDO Van der Garde! Think that might be unique also.
And "Lewis Carl Hamilton" is an anagram for "A Romance Hits Will L." ... I'm a little bit concerned for Will L. - whoever he is - to be honest.
Had no clue where to post that as the "Fairnando to Ferrari" thread is closed.
FROM TS:
Did he really think that he would get Rob? He must know that Flippi and Smedley are buddys.
FROM TS:
QUOTE
In TS Andrea Stella says he will miss Kimi not only for human side but on professional side. He says only Kimi and Hamilton have been the best drivers at the end of season due to their fantastic driving skills.
Andrea Stella will be Alonsos race engineer despite the fact that Alonso wanted Massas race engineer to be his.
Andrea Stella will be Alonsos race engineer despite the fact that Alonso wanted Massas race engineer to be his.
Did he really think that he would get Rob? He must know that Flippi and Smedley are buddys.
QUOTE (hello86 @ Oct 31 2009, 07:07)
Had no clue where to post that as the "Fairnando to Ferrari" thread is closed.
FROM TS:
Did he really think that he would get Rob? He must know that Flippi and Smedley are buddys.
FROM TS:
Did he really think that he would get Rob? He must know that Flippi and Smedley are buddys.
He wouldn't be unfaithful to his Felipe baby.
QUOTE (Captain Tightpants @ Oct 31 2009, 06:57)
Mika Maki. The only racing driver whose surname is his first name spelt differently.
"Mika" has 4! = 24 possible anagrams, and Mäki is not one of them...
QUOTE (maccaFTW @ Oct 30 2009, 22:38)
Well, it looks like this will be Kovalainen's last race.
http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp...50770&FS=F1
Another indication Raikkonen's announcement is near?
http://www.motorsport.com/news/article.asp...50770&FS=F1
Another indication Raikkonen's announcement is near?
If he's suggesting he's been hard done by after he's been allowed two seasons in which to show potential, then I say pull the other one. It's pathetic to moan at #2 treatment when in truth he's being dismissed because he wasn't quick enough even for that role.
QUOTE (hello86 @ Oct 31 2009, 08:07)
Had no clue where to post that as the "Fairnando to Ferrari" thread is closed.
Did he really think that he would get Rob? He must know that Flippi and Smedley are buddys.
QUOTE
FROM TS:
Andrea Stella will be Alonsos race engineer despite the fact that Alonso wanted Massas race engineer to be his.
Andrea Stella will be Alonsos race engineer despite the fact that Alonso wanted Massas race engineer to be his.
Did he really think that he would get Rob? He must know that Flippi and Smedley are buddys.
Hehe, it didn't take long, didn't it? Ferrari in 2010 will be highly entertaining.
QUOTE (Ringo @ Oct 31 2009, 07:52)
What about Fernando Alonso? His names are spelt differently. Otherwise he'd be Fernando Fernando.
Yes, I know you meant anagrams.... Did you also know that in GP2 this year, iSport's two drivers' first names were anagrams of each other? DIEGO Nunes and GEIDO Van der Garde! Think that might be unique also.
Yes, I know you meant anagrams.... Did you also know that in GP2 this year, iSport's two drivers' first names were anagrams of each other? DIEGO Nunes and GEIDO Van der Garde! Think that might be unique also.
It's Giedo not Geido
Heard on the radio that Bernie as The Godfather of F1 is doing the utmost to place Piquet Jr. back into F1, since he is very gratefull to Nelson Piquet for his Brabham services.
Also hinted that Toyota is a possibility.
Nelson Sr. offered to fund Jr. season, but Nelsinho refused the offer and might get a third party sponsorship for 2010.
So the "reliable source" close to Nelsinho evaluated in 90% the chances of Jr being in the 2010 F1 field.
Also hinted that Toyota is a possibility.
Nelson Sr. offered to fund Jr. season, but Nelsinho refused the offer and might get a third party sponsorship for 2010.
So the "reliable source" close to Nelsinho evaluated in 90% the chances of Jr being in the 2010 F1 field.
Bit off topic,,,
Do you know that Nico and Nelsinho used to have classes together at the school in Monaco ?
Nico said that he was a brilliant student and Nelsinho was laid down.
Do you know that Nico and Nelsinho used to have classes together at the school in Monaco ?
Nico said that he was a brilliant student and Nelsinho was laid down.
A bit of a joke if he does make it back - he was mediocre at Renault.
I'm wondering ... if for whatever reason Raikkonen doesn't go to McLaren and/or McLaren are intent on having a German driver, I wonder if they'd be amenable to Sebastien Buemi.
It's not as absurd as you might think: Rosberg and Vettel are the two best German drivers out there, but they're either stitched up with other teams, or about to be. Nick Heidfeld has gone ten year without a win and may be going into the twilight of his career. Timo Glock is touted for Renault and seems to have been talking with Manor. And the accident-prone Adrian Sutil would send McLaren's compulsory third-party insurance premiums through the roof. So, five German drivers, and the best two are taken while the other three aren't of the highest calibre. They'd probably win the odd race, but I don't think any could keep up with Hamilton.
But based on the past three races ... Sebastien Buemi could be an attractive prospect. Okay, he's rough around the edges, as he showed in Japan. But McLaren are a very disciplined team, and I don't think anyone else except Ferrari could hammer him into shape faster. The Toro Rosso is one of the worse cars on the grid, and yet it was Buemi who spent most of the practice sessions in Abu Dhabi taking the fight to Hamilton. There is the possibility that he was doing qualifying runs and Alguersuari was practicing over extended distances like Kobayashi and Trulli were, of course, but Buemi's really come into his own in qualifying of late.
Plus, he's going nowhere in Toro Rosso. The team is Red Bull's own private stable, and Buemi's going to have to wait a while until a spot opens up at Red Bull. If the RB6 is as good as the current RB5 is - and once Adrian Newey gets it right, he can usually keep the momentum going - then Webber is likely to be a threat in 2010. Buemi will have to wait until 2011 at the least, but next year will be the first that Toro Rosso develops its own chassis, and I'm not expecting a hell of a lot from him. He'd be better to jump ship if the opportunity arises.
And besides, all the cool teams have someone named Sebastien racing for them these days.
It's not as absurd as you might think: Rosberg and Vettel are the two best German drivers out there, but they're either stitched up with other teams, or about to be. Nick Heidfeld has gone ten year without a win and may be going into the twilight of his career. Timo Glock is touted for Renault and seems to have been talking with Manor. And the accident-prone Adrian Sutil would send McLaren's compulsory third-party insurance premiums through the roof. So, five German drivers, and the best two are taken while the other three aren't of the highest calibre. They'd probably win the odd race, but I don't think any could keep up with Hamilton.
But based on the past three races ... Sebastien Buemi could be an attractive prospect. Okay, he's rough around the edges, as he showed in Japan. But McLaren are a very disciplined team, and I don't think anyone else except Ferrari could hammer him into shape faster. The Toro Rosso is one of the worse cars on the grid, and yet it was Buemi who spent most of the practice sessions in Abu Dhabi taking the fight to Hamilton. There is the possibility that he was doing qualifying runs and Alguersuari was practicing over extended distances like Kobayashi and Trulli were, of course, but Buemi's really come into his own in qualifying of late.
Plus, he's going nowhere in Toro Rosso. The team is Red Bull's own private stable, and Buemi's going to have to wait a while until a spot opens up at Red Bull. If the RB6 is as good as the current RB5 is - and once Adrian Newey gets it right, he can usually keep the momentum going - then Webber is likely to be a threat in 2010. Buemi will have to wait until 2011 at the least, but next year will be the first that Toro Rosso develops its own chassis, and I'm not expecting a hell of a lot from him. He'd be better to jump ship if the opportunity arises.
And besides, all the cool teams have someone named Sebastien racing for them these days.
A small problem with Buemi - he may be a Swiss National but he is Swiss-French
QUOTE (PEW @ Nov 1 2009, 20:29)
A small problem with Buemi - he may be a Swiss National but he is Swiss-French
How is that a problem? I never said he was German.
And if the rumours are to be believed, Mercedes and McLaren will go their separate ways soon, so there's no pressing need for McLaren to have a German driver.
QUOTE (Captain Tightpants @ Nov 1 2009, 09:35)
I'm wondering ... if for whatever reason Raikkonen doesn't go to McLaren and/or McLaren are intent on having a German driver, I wonder if they'd be amenable to Sebastien Buemi.
Sorry- misled by your opening sentence
I think Buemi will replace Webber in 2011.
QUOTE (Brawn BGP 001 @ Nov 1 2009, 10:42)
I think Buemi will replace Webber in 2011.
Buemi has got what it takes - of all the 'new boys' he really shows great pace.
QUOTE (Ellios @ Nov 1 2009, 21:44)
Buemi has got what it takes - of all the 'new boys' he really shows great pace.
And that's why I think he might be a candidate for McLaren if Raikkonen doesn't sign on.
I think most of the people agree that K. Koba shud be given a race seat 2010 with Toyota, but just imagine this if Toyota/Howett fail to do so? How epic would that be on Howetts part? Is it so difficult to see things correctly?
Brawn-Mercedes: Button, Rosberg all but certain
Red Bull-"Red Bull"-rebadged Cosworth/Renault/Mercedes: Vettel, Webber confirmed
McLaren-Mercedes: Hamilton confirmed; Räikkönen nr. 1 choice; Kovalainen, Heidfeld, Glock, Sutil considered if negotiations fail
Ferrari: Massa, Alonso confirmed
Toyota: Kobayashi would be very hard to leave out now; other seat probably contested by Heidfeld, Kovalainen, Sutil
Williams-Cosworth: Barrichello, Hülkenberg waiting official confirmation
Renault: Kubica confirmed; Glock is considered favourite for the other seat before Kovalainen, Heidfeld, Grosjean
Force India-Mercedes: Sutil, Liuzzi likely to stay; Kovalainen due to McLaren connection?
Toro Rosso-Ferrari: Buemi, Alguersuari anticipated to keep their seats
Campos-Cosworth: Senna confirmed; de la Rosa strongest name along Piquet, Petrov - Soucek claims to be close to a deal, maybe at Campos?
Manor-Cosworth: di Grassi claimed himself to be "90 % sure", other names Parente, Petrov, Glock, Carroll
USF1-Cosworth: de la Rosa mentioned, Wurz lost interest; Villeneuve, Andretti, Summerton, Rahal, López mentioned; Piquet??
Lotus-Cosworth: Trulli strongly linked; Kovalainen rumoured, Fauzy considered
Sauber(?)-Ferrari: Looking very unlikely to participate in 2010 season; test driver Klien must be strong candidate - if they can make it
Red Bull-"Red Bull"-rebadged Cosworth/Renault/Mercedes: Vettel, Webber confirmed
McLaren-Mercedes: Hamilton confirmed; Räikkönen nr. 1 choice; Kovalainen, Heidfeld, Glock, Sutil considered if negotiations fail
Ferrari: Massa, Alonso confirmed
Toyota: Kobayashi would be very hard to leave out now; other seat probably contested by Heidfeld, Kovalainen, Sutil
Williams-Cosworth: Barrichello, Hülkenberg waiting official confirmation
Renault: Kubica confirmed; Glock is considered favourite for the other seat before Kovalainen, Heidfeld, Grosjean
Force India-Mercedes: Sutil, Liuzzi likely to stay; Kovalainen due to McLaren connection?
Toro Rosso-Ferrari: Buemi, Alguersuari anticipated to keep their seats
Campos-Cosworth: Senna confirmed; de la Rosa strongest name along Piquet, Petrov - Soucek claims to be close to a deal, maybe at Campos?
Manor-Cosworth: di Grassi claimed himself to be "90 % sure", other names Parente, Petrov, Glock, Carroll
USF1-Cosworth: de la Rosa mentioned, Wurz lost interest; Villeneuve, Andretti, Summerton, Rahal, López mentioned; Piquet??
Lotus-Cosworth: Trulli strongly linked; Kovalainen rumoured, Fauzy considered
Sauber(?)-Ferrari: Looking very unlikely to participate in 2010 season; test driver Klien must be strong candidate - if they can make it
QUOTE (zarooch @ Nov 1 2009, 16:29)
I think most of the people agree that K. Koba shud be given a race seat 2010 with Toyota, but just imagine this if Toyota/Howett fail to do so? How epic would that be on Howetts part? Is it so difficult to see things correctly?
QUOTE
Kamui Kobayashi is now set to race for Toyota in Formula 1 next year, after team president John Howett said he had been impressed with the youngster in his two outings for the team.
Kobayashi delivered his first F1 points with a strong run to sixth place in Abu Dhabi - helped in part by a brave overtaking move past world champion Jenson Button.
And with Toyota looking for new drivers for next year, Howett said it was likely that Kobayashi would take one of the team's seats in 2010.
"It looks like it," explained Howett. "We will have to give really serious consideration, as he has really shown very good strong results.
"I am very impressed. We were very happy again. What we like is his real fighting spirit. He is not intimidated by anybody. It's very positive."
Howett said that Kobayashi's performances had erased all doubts about his potential – after a difficult season he endured in GP2 this year.
"I think that is why there was some hesitation. We always understood that he was very good in terms of racing spirit. That has been there all through his career, but because partly the GP2 pace did not look competitive, you were always hesitant against the risk.
"It is a lesson definitely that sometimes we should all be braver in our driver choices and not go for the safer risk-hedged decision."
And although experienced drivers Heikki Kovalainen and Adrian Sutil have been linked with Toyota, Howett also suggested that Kobayashi's performances could also prompt the team to take two youngsters.
"I think that is something we are currently discussing. There are some [current] drivers that are not fixed who you would consider, but if they looked not likely then we would prefer to take a brave new direction."
Toyota is likely to firm up its driver line-up after a Japanese board meeting on November 15, where the team's operating budget for 2010 will be signed off.
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/79960
Kobayashi delivered his first F1 points with a strong run to sixth place in Abu Dhabi - helped in part by a brave overtaking move past world champion Jenson Button.
And with Toyota looking for new drivers for next year, Howett said it was likely that Kobayashi would take one of the team's seats in 2010.
"It looks like it," explained Howett. "We will have to give really serious consideration, as he has really shown very good strong results.
"I am very impressed. We were very happy again. What we like is his real fighting spirit. He is not intimidated by anybody. It's very positive."
Howett said that Kobayashi's performances had erased all doubts about his potential – after a difficult season he endured in GP2 this year.
"I think that is why there was some hesitation. We always understood that he was very good in terms of racing spirit. That has been there all through his career, but because partly the GP2 pace did not look competitive, you were always hesitant against the risk.
"It is a lesson definitely that sometimes we should all be braver in our driver choices and not go for the safer risk-hedged decision."
And although experienced drivers Heikki Kovalainen and Adrian Sutil have been linked with Toyota, Howett also suggested that Kobayashi's performances could also prompt the team to take two youngsters.
"I think that is something we are currently discussing. There are some [current] drivers that are not fixed who you would consider, but if they looked not likely then we would prefer to take a brave new direction."
Toyota is likely to firm up its driver line-up after a Japanese board meeting on November 15, where the team's operating budget for 2010 will be signed off.
http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/79960
Would be a bit strange after these comments, but who knows what will happen?
QUOTE (Captain Tightpants @ Nov 1 2009, 05:58)
And that's why I think he might be a candidate for McLaren if Raikkonen doesn't sign on.
He might end up being a liability. A too-young lineup wouldn't help for the WCC. You need a seasoned lineup.
QUOTE (mkay @ Nov 2 2009, 07:49)
He might end up being a liability. A too-young lineup wouldn't help for the WCC. You need a seasoned lineup.
Hamilton already has three seasons to his name.
Yesterday they mentioned in Spanish tv (Anthony Wolfy) that De la Rosa could be on his way to Toyota
QUOTE (Francesc @ Nov 2 2009, 12:40)
Yesterday they mentioned in Spanish tv (Anthony Wolfy) that De la Rosa could be on his way to Toyota
What is everyone seeing in this guy?
This guy doesn't have any recent race experience and his career has been mediocre at best.
All because he did some ok races for McLaren when Montoya was out doens't mean he is eligble for a F1 or even GP2 seat.
QUOTE (Racing Dutchman @ Nov 2 2009, 21:42)
What is everyone seeing in this guy?
This guy doesn't have any recent race experience and his career has been mediocre at best.
This guy doesn't have any recent race experience and his career has been mediocre at best.
He has what the new teams need: experience. They need an experienced driver more than they need a quick driver - but a quick driver helps, of course - because they can anchor the team around an experienced driver. De la Rosa gets mentioned because while he's not the fastest driver, he's the test driver with the most recent race experience.
QUOTE (peroa @ Nov 2 2009, 11:47)
The article states something along the lines of:
Williams: Barrichello and Hülkenberg
Renault: Glock to partner Kubica
Toyota: should announce Trulli and Kobayashi.
Räikkönen opts for McLaren or (temporary) retirement.
Both Trulli and Villeneuve are in the frame at Lotus; the latter bringing a sponsor. Villeneuve guestimates a 50-50 chance for his F1 return.
Kovalainen is in the picture at Toyota, too, although there are firmer contacts at Manor/Virgin. There, Di Grassi or Carroll would be his team mate.
Button should stick with Brawn, but has a somewhat realistic alternative in Toyota. Räikkönen is "too expensive", says Ross Brawn; the 2nd driver at the WCC team should be Rosberg.
While Force India took up their option on Sutil, they are prepared to let him go, should a larger team want him. Liuzzi is contracted for next year. Since Senna opted for Campso, Piquet could be a replacement should Sutil leave.
Heidfeld is a logical choice for Sauber, should it race in 2010, and could be partnered by Petrov.
If De la Rosa does get the Campos drive, I suppose the reserve seat would be quite attractive to Piquet and Petrov, in case it all goes Badger-shaped.
Emirates Brawn Mercedes
Brawn BGP 002 – Mercedes FO108X (Mercedes rumourd in (partly) take-over)
Team Principal: Ross Brawn ; Technical Director: Ross Brawn (?)
1. Jenson Button (negotiations for new contract ongoing, with money an issue)
2. Nico Rosberg (likely dependent on Mercedes deal)
Red Bull Racing
Red Bull RB6 – Renault RS27 (currently) / Cosworth CA2010 (remains an option) / Mercedes FO108X (ever more unlikely)
Team Principal: Christian Horner; Technical Director: Adrian Newey
3. Sebastian Vettel (on a multi-year deal until '11, with an option for '12)
4. Mark Webber (re-signed for '10)
Vodafone McLaren Mercedes
McLaren MP4-25 – Mercedes FO108X
Team Principal: Martin Whitmarsh ; Technical Director: Paddy Lowe, Neil Oatley
5. Lewis Hamilton (contracted until '12)
6. Kimi Räikkönen (highly likely with Alonso-Ferrari now confirmed)
Timo Glock (rumoured)
Heikki Kovalainen ('10 option not taken up)
Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro (Santander title sponsor?)
Ferrari F2010 – Ferrari 056
Team Principal: Stefano Domenicali ; Technical Director: Aldo Costa
7. Felipe Massa (contracted until ‘10)
8. Fernando Alonso (3-year deal '10-'12)
Panasonic Toyota Racing
Toyota TF110 – Toyota RVX-10
Team Principal: Tadashi Yamashina ; Technical Director: Pascal Vasselon
9. Jarno Trulli (a new deal is unlikely, according to team bosses, but Trulli waits until 15 November)
Heikki Kovalainen (possibly)
10. Kamui Kobayashi (current test driver, in the frame for '10 according to John Howett)
Sébastien Buemi (rumoured)
Kazuki Nakajima (allegedly has a long-term Toyota deal, but may not have the ultimate skill to make in in the big time)
AT&T Williams
Williams FW32 – Cosworth CA2010
Team Principal: Frank Williams ; Technical Director: Sam Michael, Patrick Head
11. Rubens Barrichello (confirmed)
12. Nico Hülkenberg (confirmed, probably on long-term deal)
Renault F1 Team
Renault R30 – Renault R27
Team Principal: Bob Bell ; Technical Director: unknown
14. Robert Kubica (confirmed for 2010)
15. Timo Glock (rumoured)
Heikki Kovalainen (may return to the French team)
Lucas Di Grassi (long time Renault development and test driver)
Franck Montagny (former test driver, brings some experience to the team)
Romain Grosjean (replaced Piquet mid-season; allegedly fallen out of favour due to bad results)
Force India F1 Team
Force India VJM03 – Mercedes FO108X
Team Principal: Vijay Mallya ; Technical Director: James Key
16. Adrian Sutil ('10 option taken up by the team, but free to go to bigger team)
Nelson Piquet (could be an option if Sutil leaves)
Karun Chandhok (after another GP2 season, he gets the nod from Mallya; will test McLaren simulator)
Neel Jani (Swiss with Indian father, will test McLaren simulator)
17. Vitantonio Liuzzi (has '10-'11 deal)
Scuderia Toro Rosso
Toro Roso STR5 – Ferrari 056 (Ferrari contract allegedly runs until ‘10) / Renault R27 (if Red Bull-Mercedes comes to fruition)
Team Principal: Franz Tost ; Technical Director: Giorgio Ascanelli
18. Sébastien Buemi (hard to see him dropped after a solid season)
19. Jaime Alguersuari (replaced Bourdais mid-season '09, likely to stay on)
Brendon Hartley (Red Bull junior driver and tester)
Neel Jani (finally he gets his chance, but 2 Swiss drivers at STR?)
Petrobras Campos Meta Team
Campos CM10 – Cosworth CA2010 (Dallara-designed and -built car)
Team Principal: Adrián Campos ; Technical Director: Daniel Audetto
20. Bruno Senna (gets his chance at new team, allegedly along with Petrobras money)
21. Pedro de la Rosa (experienced test driver; excellent choice to develop the new car)
Marc Gené (rumoured)
Vitaly Petrov (although Russian, he drove for Campos/Barwa in GP2 successfully, and brings sponsorship, too)
José Maria López (rumoured)
Nelson Piquet (Adrián Campos said he's a possibility)
Virgin Manor F1 Team (likely renamed Virgin F1 Team)
Manor BW01 (Virgin VF1-10) – Cosworth CA2010 (car designed and built by Nick Wirth, formerly of Simtek and Benetton)
Team Principal: John Booth (of Manor Grand Prix) / Alex Tai (of Virgin) ; Technical Director: Nick Wirth
22. Anthony Davidson (experienced ex-F1 driver)
Adam Carroll (GP2 race winner and A1GP champion, has been approached by 2 teams for ‘10)
Esteban Guerreri (has a priority pre-contract until 5 November)
23. Nelson Piquet (Booth allegedly stated he would consider him)
Lucas Di Grassi (GP2 race winner, did F3 for Manor in 2005)
Best Buy Team US F1
US F1-10 – Cosworth CA2010 (contracted) / Toyota RVX-10 (rumoured)
Team Principal: Peter Windsor ; Technical Director: Ken Anderson
24. Jacques Villeneuve (says he's in talks with the team; getting a former F1 WDC and Indy 500 winner would be a major coup for the team)
25. Pedro de la Rosa (although Spanish, experienced test driver; excellent choice to develop the new car)
Franck Montagny (rumoured although French, has some experience)
Alex Wurz (although Austrian, experienced test driver; excellent choice to develop the new car; allegedly lost interest)
Ryan Hunter-Reay (experienced driver)
Jonathan Summerton (oft-rumoured, but still young)
1Malaysia Lotus F1 Team
Lotus 110 – Cosworth CA2010
Team Principal: Tony Fernandes ; Technical Director: Mike Gascoyne
26. Jarno Trulli (rumoured)
Alex Yoong (relatively experienced and, well, Malaysian)
27. Takuma Sato (rumoured)
Jacques Villeneuve (allegedly in talks with the team; would be nice to see him with #27)
Fairuz Fauzy (Malaysian)
Sauber F1 Team (BMW-owned team did not sign 2010-2012 Concorde Agreement, but obtained '14th place'; talks on allowing 14 teams in 2010 ongoing)
Sauber C25 – Ferrari 056 (again with Petronas badge?)
Team Principal: Lionel Fischer (of QADBAK) / Peter Sauber (unlikely) ; Technical Director: Willy Rampf
28. Nick Heidfeld (contracted for '09; may stay on)
29. Vitaly Petrov (successfully raced in GP2, and brings sponsorship)
Christian Klien (current test driver; could make for a typically sound Sauber line-up with Heidfeld)
Giancarlo Fisichella (Ferrari tester; comes with the engine deal)
Brawn BGP 002 – Mercedes FO108X (Mercedes rumourd in (partly) take-over)
Team Principal: Ross Brawn ; Technical Director: Ross Brawn (?)
1. Jenson Button (negotiations for new contract ongoing, with money an issue)
2. Nico Rosberg (likely dependent on Mercedes deal)
Red Bull Racing
Red Bull RB6 – Renault RS27 (currently) / Cosworth CA2010 (remains an option) / Mercedes FO108X (ever more unlikely)
Team Principal: Christian Horner; Technical Director: Adrian Newey
3. Sebastian Vettel (on a multi-year deal until '11, with an option for '12)
4. Mark Webber (re-signed for '10)
Vodafone McLaren Mercedes
McLaren MP4-25 – Mercedes FO108X
Team Principal: Martin Whitmarsh ; Technical Director: Paddy Lowe, Neil Oatley
5. Lewis Hamilton (contracted until '12)
6. Kimi Räikkönen (highly likely with Alonso-Ferrari now confirmed)
Timo Glock (rumoured)
Heikki Kovalainen ('10 option not taken up)
Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro (Santander title sponsor?)
Ferrari F2010 – Ferrari 056
Team Principal: Stefano Domenicali ; Technical Director: Aldo Costa
7. Felipe Massa (contracted until ‘10)
8. Fernando Alonso (3-year deal '10-'12)
Panasonic Toyota Racing
Toyota TF110 – Toyota RVX-10
Team Principal: Tadashi Yamashina ; Technical Director: Pascal Vasselon
9. Jarno Trulli (a new deal is unlikely, according to team bosses, but Trulli waits until 15 November)
Heikki Kovalainen (possibly)
10. Kamui Kobayashi (current test driver, in the frame for '10 according to John Howett)
Sébastien Buemi (rumoured)
Kazuki Nakajima (allegedly has a long-term Toyota deal, but may not have the ultimate skill to make in in the big time)
AT&T Williams
Williams FW32 – Cosworth CA2010
Team Principal: Frank Williams ; Technical Director: Sam Michael, Patrick Head
11. Rubens Barrichello (confirmed)
12. Nico Hülkenberg (confirmed, probably on long-term deal)
Renault F1 Team
Renault R30 – Renault R27
Team Principal: Bob Bell ; Technical Director: unknown
14. Robert Kubica (confirmed for 2010)
15. Timo Glock (rumoured)
Heikki Kovalainen (may return to the French team)
Lucas Di Grassi (long time Renault development and test driver)
Franck Montagny (former test driver, brings some experience to the team)
Romain Grosjean (replaced Piquet mid-season; allegedly fallen out of favour due to bad results)
Force India F1 Team
Force India VJM03 – Mercedes FO108X
Team Principal: Vijay Mallya ; Technical Director: James Key
16. Adrian Sutil ('10 option taken up by the team, but free to go to bigger team)
Nelson Piquet (could be an option if Sutil leaves)
Karun Chandhok (after another GP2 season, he gets the nod from Mallya; will test McLaren simulator)
Neel Jani (Swiss with Indian father, will test McLaren simulator)
17. Vitantonio Liuzzi (has '10-'11 deal)
Scuderia Toro Rosso
Toro Roso STR5 – Ferrari 056 (Ferrari contract allegedly runs until ‘10) / Renault R27 (if Red Bull-Mercedes comes to fruition)
Team Principal: Franz Tost ; Technical Director: Giorgio Ascanelli
18. Sébastien Buemi (hard to see him dropped after a solid season)
19. Jaime Alguersuari (replaced Bourdais mid-season '09, likely to stay on)
Brendon Hartley (Red Bull junior driver and tester)
Neel Jani (finally he gets his chance, but 2 Swiss drivers at STR?)
Petrobras Campos Meta Team
Campos CM10 – Cosworth CA2010 (Dallara-designed and -built car)
Team Principal: Adrián Campos ; Technical Director: Daniel Audetto
20. Bruno Senna (gets his chance at new team, allegedly along with Petrobras money)
21. Pedro de la Rosa (experienced test driver; excellent choice to develop the new car)
Marc Gené (rumoured)
Vitaly Petrov (although Russian, he drove for Campos/Barwa in GP2 successfully, and brings sponsorship, too)
José Maria López (rumoured)
Nelson Piquet (Adrián Campos said he's a possibility)
Virgin Manor F1 Team (likely renamed Virgin F1 Team)
Manor BW01 (Virgin VF1-10) – Cosworth CA2010 (car designed and built by Nick Wirth, formerly of Simtek and Benetton)
Team Principal: John Booth (of Manor Grand Prix) / Alex Tai (of Virgin) ; Technical Director: Nick Wirth
22. Anthony Davidson (experienced ex-F1 driver)
Adam Carroll (GP2 race winner and A1GP champion, has been approached by 2 teams for ‘10)
Esteban Guerreri (has a priority pre-contract until 5 November)
23. Nelson Piquet (Booth allegedly stated he would consider him)
Lucas Di Grassi (GP2 race winner, did F3 for Manor in 2005)
Best Buy Team US F1
US F1-10 – Cosworth CA2010 (contracted) / Toyota RVX-10 (rumoured)
Team Principal: Peter Windsor ; Technical Director: Ken Anderson
24. Jacques Villeneuve (says he's in talks with the team; getting a former F1 WDC and Indy 500 winner would be a major coup for the team)
25. Pedro de la Rosa (although Spanish, experienced test driver; excellent choice to develop the new car)
Franck Montagny (rumoured although French, has some experience)
Alex Wurz (although Austrian, experienced test driver; excellent choice to develop the new car; allegedly lost interest)
Ryan Hunter-Reay (experienced driver)
Jonathan Summerton (oft-rumoured, but still young)
1Malaysia Lotus F1 Team
Lotus 110 – Cosworth CA2010
Team Principal: Tony Fernandes ; Technical Director: Mike Gascoyne
26. Jarno Trulli (rumoured)
Alex Yoong (relatively experienced and, well, Malaysian)
27. Takuma Sato (rumoured)
Jacques Villeneuve (allegedly in talks with the team; would be nice to see him with #27)
Fairuz Fauzy (Malaysian)
Sauber F1 Team (BMW-owned team did not sign 2010-2012 Concorde Agreement, but obtained '14th place'; talks on allowing 14 teams in 2010 ongoing)
Sauber C25 – Ferrari 056 (again with Petronas badge?)
Team Principal: Lionel Fischer (of QADBAK) / Peter Sauber (unlikely) ; Technical Director: Willy Rampf
28. Nick Heidfeld (contracted for '09; may stay on)
29. Vitaly Petrov (successfully raced in GP2, and brings sponsorship)
Christian Klien (current test driver; could make for a typically sound Sauber line-up with Heidfeld)
Giancarlo Fisichella (Ferrari tester; comes with the engine deal)
What if Sauber don't race?
Surely Heidfeld should be lining up some drive, apart from chances at Toyota and McLaren that could go to Trulli and Raikkonen?
Surely Heidfeld should be lining up some drive, apart from chances at Toyota and McLaren that could go to Trulli and Raikkonen?
QUOTE (V8 Fireworks @ Nov 2 2009, 14:05)
What if Sauber don't race?
Surely Heidfeld should be lining up some drive, apart from chances at Toyota and McLaren that could go to Trulli and Raikkonen?
Surely Heidfeld should be lining up some drive, apart from chances at Toyota and McLaren that could go to Trulli and Raikkonen?
My thoughts, too, but I haven't read any credible rumours, recently.
Hartley won't drive for STR,he will drive for Tech 1 Racing in FR3.5 series with Ricciardo.
Take Summerton of that list. He wont/cant have a superlicense for next year. Not good enough anyway.
Even after Mclaren clinched 3rd on the WCC the italian fanboyism still keeps them with numbers 5 and 6.
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