Formula 1

[lord bunberry]

What predictions do we all have for the 2021 season?

I'll start off - Ocon to outscore Alonso.
That’s a bold call. Alonso is one of the best of his generation, it will be interesting to see how he gets on after his time away. I think Williams will be a bit more competitive this year which should see Russel feature a bit further up the grid. McLaren having a Mercedes engine this year will be interesting, but I got the feeling that the Renault engine was pretty good last year.

[Northernhibee]

That’s a bold call. Alonso is one of the best of his generation, it will be interesting to see how he gets on after his time away. I think Williams will be a bit more competitive this year which should see Russel feature a bit further up the grid. McLaren having a Mercedes engine this year will be interesting, but I got the feeling that the Renault engine was pretty good last year.

Alonso's generation was about fifteen years ago, and we seen what happened with Michael Schumacher who had been competitive far more recent to his return than Alonso has been. He's been out of it for two years, is thirty-nine and has an ego that outsizes his talent. Ocon was having a positive end to his season and if he starts the new season well I think we could see some toys out of the pram yet again.

[lord bunberry]

Alonso's generation was about fifteen years ago, and we seen what happened with Michael Schumacher who had been competitive far more recent to his return than Alonso has been. He's been out of it for two years, is thirty-nine and has an ego that outsizes his talent. Ocon was having a positive end to his season and if he starts the new season well I think we could see some toys out of the pram yet again.
I can’t agree with that, Alonso is one of the all time greats of F1 imo. Ocon has achieved nothing and was easily put in his place by his team mate last season. I think Alonso will win at least one race this season and I doubt Ocon will.

[Northernhibee]

I can’t agree with that, Alonso is one of the all time greats of F1 imo. Ocon has achieved nothing and was easily put in his place by his team mate last season. I think Alonso will win at least one race this season and I doubt Ocon will.

I see him on a similar level to Vettel, if not quite the same level perhaps. Both won championships in teams built around them and Vettel had arguably more competition in his team mate than Alonso did in Fisichella. The times that Alonso has had an equal team mate in a competitive car haven't ended well.

He'd not make it into my top ten of all time. A very good driver but not a great. Can't imagine two years out of the sport will have done himself any benefits either.

[Jack]

"Monaco (May 23), Azerbaijan (June 6) and Canada (June 13) will, insiders say, fall off the calendar just like last year.

The cancellation of the street races in Monaco, Azerbaijan and Canada will be announced next month, according to reports.

Formula One’s 2021 calendar already suffered a number of blows earlier this month, when it was confirmed that the Australian GP would be postponed and the Chinese GP was facing cancellation."

Shamelessly stolen from elsewhere.

[Jack]

Not F1 but ...

The 24 hours of Le Mans were postponed to 𝟮𝟭-𝟮𝟮 𝗔𝘂𝗴𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟭.

"We have made this decision because we are eager for spectators to attend the race this year and are taking all health precautions to ensure a safe event."

"We are working very hard to put on a safe event, with all the necessary health precautions in place.

This year’s race promises to be another thriller as the new Hypercar class makes its debut."

[Northernhibee]

"Monaco (May 23), Azerbaijan (June 6) and Canada (June 13) will, insiders say, fall off the calendar just like last year.

The cancellation of the street races in Monaco, Azerbaijan and Canada will be announced next month, according to reports.

Formula One’s 2021 calendar already suffered a number of blows earlier this month, when it was confirmed that the Australian GP would be postponed and the Chinese GP was facing cancellation."

Shamelessly stolen from elsewhere.

Shame about Canada as there's usually some good racing there, but absolutely delighted we won't see Monaco on the calendar. Hideously dull racing and only there to give the mega rich an event.

[The_Exile]

Shame about Canada as there's usually some good racing there, but absolutely delighted we won't see Monaco on the calendar. Hideously dull racing and only there to give the mega rich an event.

Yep, Monaco CAN be a bit ****, however, around 5 or 6 of my top 10 most memorable f1 moments have been at Monaco. It is iconic and I honestly couldn’t imagine the sport without it.

[lord bunberry]

I’ve created a fantasy F1 league if anyone wants to join it
https://fantasy.formula1.com/
the code is below to join.

aa7a037590

[David_D]

Just seen the sad news that Murray Walker has passed away. Always used to love his commentary when I was growing up.

[BroxburnHibee]

Sad news.

[NORTHERNHIBBY]

Murray Walker was synonymous with Formula One. Like Harry Carpenter and Boxing and Bill McLaren and Rugby. Such is the exposure of sport nowadays we won't see these singular figures again.

[SteveHFC]

I’ve created a fantasy F1 league if anyone wants to join it
https://fantasy.formula1.com/
the code is below to join.

aa7a037590

Joined. :aok:

[Northernhibee]

Just seen the sad news that Murray Walker has passed away. Always used to love his commentary when I was growing up.

The greatest.

[The_Exile]

Really sad news about Murray, but as he said himself, he got to live an extraordinary life.

It’s odd because there doesn’t seem to many people in broadcasting nowadays who are so well loved, and as mentioned above, it’s likely because sport is so spread out over so many different broadcasters that impressionable kids nowadays won’t get that same experience that we all did. People like Murray Walker brought an extra dimension to simply sitting watching a race, you felt like you were watching the race with one of your best mates.

[BenjiOscar]

I’ve created a fantasy F1 league if anyone wants to join it
https://fantasy.formula1.com/
the code is below to join.

aa7a037590
Joined 👍

[Jack]

Sad to see Johnny Dumfries died during the week.

Probably the least well known of the Scottish F1 drivers probably better known for the 24 Hour Le Mans which he won.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/56487859

[lord bunberry]

Joined 👍


Joined. :aok:
That’s 3 of us so far, we could do with a few more joining up. :greengrin

[lord bunberry]

I’ve created a fantasy F1 league if anyone wants to join it
https://fantasy.formula1.com/
the code is below to join.

aa7a037590
Bump

[Sergio sledge]

I've never done F1 Fantasy before, but I'll give it a shot!

[lord bunberry]

I've never done F1 Fantasy before, but I'll give it a shot!
Neither have I.

[David_D]

Never done this before but let’s give it a shot.

[Northernhibee]

Joined with the team 'Private Paradise'. Fourteen Northernhibee points if you get the reference.

[Stokesy's on fire]

Team Ricciardo!

[Jack]

Happy new season everyone!

[lord bunberry]

Excellent we’ve got a few teams now. I’m dying to see who everyone has picked. :greengrin

[lord bunberry]

Happy new season everyone!
It’s handy there’s no hibs game today as it would’ve clashed with qualifying.

[Gatecrasher]

If that quali is anything to go by its going to be an amazing season. Hopefully the race is just as good. Several teams looking strong.

[lord bunberry]

If that quali is anything to go by its going to be an amazing season. Hopefully the race is just as good. Several teams looking strong.
Definitely. Alpha Tauri look really strong which can only be a good thing. Absolutely delighted for Max to start P1 tomorrow.

[patch1875]

Looking forward to this hopefully the Red Bull can live up to the hype.

[patch1875]

Marzipan look like he’s going to be a liability.

Money talks

[marinello59]

Marzipan look like he’s going to be a liability.

Money talks

The car doesn’t look too great either. Young Schumacher struggling with it.

[lord bunberry]

Interesting differences in the two strategies from Mercedes and Red Bull. Will Hamilton go to the end on those hard tyres?

[Radium]

One more stop for the top 3. Bottas has got himself back into things. Mercedes don’t have fresh mediums, do both teams have a set of softs?


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[Northernhibee]

Marzipan look like he’s going to be a liability.

Money talks

Five spins this weekend. Incident “noted” by the stewards,

Everybody knows that he’s not close to F1 standard and he’s not lasting more than a few races.

[lord bunberry]

One more stop for the top 3. Bottas has got himself back into things. Mercedes don’t have fresh mediums, do both teams have a set of softs?


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Hamilton pits.

[marinello59]

Hamilton pits.

On hard tyres.
Disaster for Bottas with his stop.

[lord bunberry]

On hard tyres.
Disaster for Bottas with his stop.
He never has much luck with these type of things. Looking like Mercedes are 3 stopping.

[Radium]

With 20 laps to go, Red Bull leading and also going top of the constructors... and then they stop.

Enjoying the twists


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[patch1875]

Going to be a cracking finish

[lord bunberry]

This is getting tense now.

[marinello59]

This is getting tense now.

Totally gripping. Loving this.

[lord bunberry]

Totally gripping. Loving this.
Hamilton wins. Gutted for Max, but what a drive from Hamilton.

[marinello59]

That was superb, what a start to the season.

[BroxburnHibee]

If the season continues like that then we're in for a treat. That was brilliant from Hamilton.

[Stairway 2 7]

Wow what a race

[Northernhibee]

Brilliant from Hamilton.

[BenjiOscar]

Great start to the season. Hamilton looks well up for the challenge from Verstappen and looks like being an epic battle. Agree that Mazepin is nowhere near good enough for F1. Was disappointed that Gasly couldn’t be more involved but after having to pit so early for a front wing change then he was always going to struggle. 3 week gap now to Imola.

[Radium]

Good race, thought RB had it but well driven by Hamilton


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[Jack]

That was exciting!

I hear Mazepin already has the nickname Mazyspin.

[BroxburnHibee]

22 more of them please :greengrin

[BenjiOscar]

Now time for the MotoGP. This could be anyone’s race. Like to see Jack Miller do it.

[Lancs Harp]

22 more of them please :greengrin

That was something else wasnt it?

[BroxburnHibee]

That was something else wasnt it?

It was brilliant! I'm no fan of Hamilton but he showed his class in those last few laps.

[Northernhibee]

Made a bold prediction on a WhatsApp group before the race that there would be a safety car on lap 1 because of Mazepin crashing.

Going to make another bold prediction now - we won't see Mazepin in F1 again.

[lord bunberry]

I’m bottom of the hibs league. Gasly losing his front wing was a disaster, he was my turbo driver. :greengrin

[Sergio sledge]

I’m bottom of the hibs league. Gasly losing his front wing was a disaster, he was my turbo driver. :greengrin

When the results came in and I saw my points I thought that I'd done pretty well only to find I'm 2nd bottom... :greengrin

Need Alonso to have better races.

[Northernhibee]

The league is clearly unsafe to continue due to COVID so I think we stop it there. :agree:

[lord bunberry]

When the results came in and I saw my points I thought that I'd done pretty well only to find I'm 2nd bottom... :greengrin

Need Alonso to have better races.
Alonso was doing ok until he had to retire I thought.

[lord bunberry]

The league is clearly unsafe to continue due to COVID so I think we stop it there. :agree:
😂 that will require a vote and maybe a court case.

[SteveHFC]

When the results came in and I saw my points I thought that I'd done pretty well only to find I'm 2nd bottom... :greengrin

Need Alonso to have better races.

3rd bottom here. If Kimi, Russell and Gasly can start picking up points that would be grand :greengrin.

[Northernhibee]

😂 that will require a vote and maybe a court case.

I refuse to be demoted from my rightful position. I'll take it to Judge Rinder if I have to.

[bawheid]

Is it too late to join the fantasy league?

[lord bunberry]

Is it too late to join the fantasy league?
I’m not sure, try and see if it will let you. The link and code is further up the page.

[lord bunberry]

I refuse to be demoted from my rightful position. I'll take it to Judge Rinder if I have to.
:tee hee::tee hee:

[lord bunberry]

Imola this week, great track but a bit too narrow for modern F1 cars. Has anyone made any subs in the fantasy league?

[lord bunberry]

Hamilton on pole, Perez second and Max third. 0.08 separate the first 3. Game on for tomorrow.

[Northernhibee]

Hamilton on pole, Perez second and Max third. 0.08 separate the first 3. Game on for tomorrow.

Different gravy from Lewis today. Not looked fastest all weekend and when push comes to a shove gets pole.

[lord bunberry]

Different gravy from Lewis today. Not looked fastest all weekend and when push comes to a shove gets pole.
:agree: It’s what he does. Max made a mistake on his last flying lap and Lewis didn’t, he very rarely does. I reckon we’re going to see the best of Hamilton this year. As much as I want to see Max win the title, I’m looking forward to the battle.

[patch1875]

Crazy scenes again😀

[Northernhibee]

Good race. Think Russell will be in a bit of trouble with Mercedes - not worthy of a penalty from the stewards but think it was still more his fault than Valterri’s.

For Mazepin to finish over a minute behind his team mate in a half distance race essentially is embarrassing.

Supreme from Lando today too.

[Jack]

Formula E.

I don't like it, it's like sitting in the dentists chair listening to it, but in the absence of anything else I liked on the telly I've just watched the Valencia ePrix.

On a wet/dry track with a record number of safety cars (5) an exciting race was turned to farce as most ran out of electricity for the last lap!

Maybe not the showcase the electric car lobby were looking for.

Tune in again tomorrow, hopefully they will have an extra 50p for the meter.

[lord bunberry]

Formula E.

I don't like it, it's like sitting in the dentists chair listening to it, but in the absence of anything else I liked on the telly I've just watched the Valencia ePrix.

On a wet/dry track with a record number of safety cars (5) an exciting race was turned to farce as most ran out of electricity for the last lap!

Maybe not the showcase the electric car lobby were looking for.

Tune in again tomorrow, hopefully they will have an extra 50p for the meter.
That’s hilarious. You’d think they’d have some kind of contingency in place for the cars running low on electricity. :greengrin

[Sergio sledge]

That’s hilarious. You’d think they’d have some kind of contingency in place for the cars running low on electricity. :greengrinI don't mind formula e, the sound of it is a bit strange, but races tend to be exciting. Part of the strategy is driven by the need to keep energy consumption within a set limit each race.

Every time there is a safety car period the FIA reduce the amount of available charge to the drivers so that they have to manage their energy consumption through the race and can't just go flat out the whole time. It means the teams have to manage the set up if the car to try to maximise performance but also make it to the end of the race.

The race distance is 45mins + 1 lap, so the race distance isn't a set length.

The teams that ran out of energy are blaming the FIA for making a reduction so late in the race which meant they had no time to recover and the FIA are blaming the race leader at the time for going too fast under the safety car meaning that he crossed the line 15seconds before the 45mins, meaning the cars had to complete a lap more than the FIA had anticipated.

Given the cars all had enough charge to finish and they are just software limited, surely the FIA could have just not made the reduction in the last lap and let them race?

[lord bunberry]

I don't mind formula e, the sound of it is a bit strange, but races tend to be exciting. Part of the strategy is driven by the need to keep energy consumption within a set limit each race.

Every time there is a safety car period the FIA reduce the amount of available charge to the drivers so that they have to manage their energy consumption through the race and can't just go flat out the whole time. It means the teams have to manage the set up if the car to try to maximise performance but also make it to the end of the race.

The race distance is 45mins + 1 lap, so the race distance isn't a set length.

The teams that ran out of energy are blaming the FIA for making a reduction so late in the race which meant they had no time to recover and the FIA are blaming the race leader at the time for going too fast under the safety car meaning that he crossed the line 15seconds before the 45mins, meaning the cars had to complete a lap more than the FIA had anticipated.

Given the cars all had enough charge to finish and they are just software limited, surely the FIA could have just not made the reduction in the last lap and let them race?
I’ve never actually watched a full race yet, but it seems they need to iron out a few problems so that it doesn’t happen again.

[Northernhibee]

Turkey replaces Canada this July.

[patch1875]

Wasn’t the best race but Lewis showing he’s top dog.

Mazepin probably worst ever F1 driver.

[Northernhibee]

Wasn’t the best race but Lewis showing he’s top dog.

Mazepin probably worst ever F1 driver.

I don't think he's quite done enough yet to get himself proclaimed as the worst (or even top five worst) but he is sliding in the rankings. Inoui, Ide, Deletraz, Rosset - can think of quite a few 90s and 00s pay drivers that just now are worse.

[lord bunberry]

Wasn’t the best race but Lewis showing he’s top dog.

Mazepin probably worst ever F1 driver.
At least he didn’t crash today. It’s quite annoying that he’s taking the seat of a potentially talented driver because he’s can afford to pay to drive. F1 should find a way to fund these teams better, the big teams should put their young drivers in the smaller teams and pay for it. I presume this is what’s happening with Russell and Schumacher, but there needs to be more of it. Guys like Mazepin and Latifi aren’t bringing anything to the sport other than money.

[Northernhibee]

At least he didn’t crash today. It’s quite annoying that he’s taking the seat of a potentially talented driver because he’s can afford to pay to drive. F1 should find a way to fund these teams better, the big teams should put their young drivers in the smaller teams and pay for it. I presume this is what’s happening with Russell and Schumacher, but there needs to be more of it. Guys like Mazepin and Latifi aren’t bringing anything to the sport other than money.

Formula 1 has always had untalented pay drivers, in fact it allowed many teams like Minardi, Arrows, Footwork, Forti, Pacific and the like to operate. In fact, I miss teams like that because on the once in four season occasion that a team like Minardi won a world championship point it felt like they'd won the title.

It's just now that the grid is smaller and that there are a lot less privateer teams that it's more noticeable IMO.

[lord bunberry]

Formula 1 has always had untalented pay drivers, in fact it allowed many teams like Minardi, Arrows, Footwork, Forti, Pacific and the like to operate. In fact, I miss teams like that because on the once in four season occasion that a team like Minardi won a world championship point it felt like they'd won the title.

It's just now that the grid is smaller and that there are a lot less privateer teams that it's more noticeable IMO.
I know what you’re saying, but at that time you had charismatic privateers and playboy drivers. The pay drivers now are driving for established teams and offer nothing. The guys you talk about brought entertainment to the sport, guys like Mazepin are just getting in the way and denying a drive to a more talented drivers. F1 has changed so much in the past 20 years and not always for the better, guys like Hamilton are unbelievably talented, but have zero personality.

[marinello59]

Good to see the driVers doing a parade lap at Monaco today, a chance for the ordinary fan to wave at them from the stern of their yachts. :greengrin

[patch1875]

Usual Monaco Sunday drive round the streets.

Good to see no mercs on the podium.

Pity Leclerc couldn’t start.

[RyeSloan]

Usual Monaco Sunday drive round the streets.

Good to see no mercs on the podium.

Pity Leclerc couldn’t start.

Clearly the drivers and the F1 paddock love Monaco...I’m sure it’s great for the insiders and the connected.

As a spectator event for the TV audience it’s brutally boring.

Really think it’s time for it to either change or gtf. But as per the above I think there will be a lot of resistance to that from the vested interests that it suits just now.

Glad it’s out of the way and we can get onto the craziness of Baku!

[Hibs Class]

Clearly the drivers and the F1 paddock love Monaco...I’m sure it’s great for the insiders and the connected.

As a spectator event for the TV audience it’s brutally boring.

Really think it’s time for it to either change or gtf. But as per the above I think there will be a lot of resistance to that from the vested interests that it suits just now.

Glad it’s out of the way and we can get onto the craziness of Baku!

I watched most of it, just reiterated how boring it was, but to be honest that’s pretty much how F1 is almost all the time....occasional bursts of excitement in a mostly monotonous predictable borefest.

[patch1875]

Clearly the drivers and the F1 paddock love Monaco...I’m sure it’s great for the insiders and the connected.

As a spectator event for the TV audience it’s brutally boring.

Really think it’s time for it to either change or gtf. But as per the above I think there will be a lot of resistance to that from the vested interests that it suits just now.

Glad it’s out of the way and we can get onto the craziness of Baku!

Think for drivers it’s all about the qualification the race is pretty much a formality if nothing goes wrong. It’s where F1 shows it money a one big party weekend must be great if you can afford it.

Azerbaijan next time which can be a pretty good race.

[lord bunberry]

Clearly the drivers and the F1 paddock love Monaco...I’m sure it’s great for the insiders and the connected.

As a spectator event for the TV audience it’s brutally boring.

Really think it’s time for it to either change or gtf. But as per the above I think there will be a lot of resistance to that from the vested interests that it suits just now.

Glad it’s out of the way and we can get onto the craziness of Baku!
I recorded it and watched it last night. Once the pit stops were out of the way it was a procession, I ended up fast forwarding it to the last 5 laps. I can’t see it being dropped due to the prestige that comes with it, but it’s the most boring race of the year.

[Stairway 2 7]

I recorded it and watched it last night. Once the pit stops were out of the way it was a procession, I ended up fast forwarding it to the last 5 laps. I can’t see it being dropped due to the prestige that comes with it, but it’s the most boring race of the year.

It's been terrible for years and I'm not sure how they could change it as they won't leave there luxury holiday. Perhaps time trials

[Jack]

Usual Monaco Sunday drive round the streets.

Good to see no mercs on the podium.

Pity Leclerc couldn’t start.

Leclerc drives a decent first stint in Q3 and has provisional pole. The final stint he's way behind Verstappen and Bottas and they've only just gone through the first sector. The Ferrari crashes, stops the session and Ferrari take pole. The only thing that didn't go to plan was the damage to the gearbox. They deserved all they got.

Monaco, dull as the race is, is going to stay on the schedule. Far too much money and wheeling and dealing done with the sponsors high rollers.

[lord bunberry]

It's been terrible for years and I'm not sure how they could change it as they won't leave there luxury holiday. Perhaps time trials
There’s very little they can do, even a reverse grid wouldn’t make much difference. It can sometimes be an exciting race if it’s wet and we get a few crashes, but that’s pretty rare these days.

[McD]

Monaco highlights the worst of the current F1 issues. The cars can’t run close behind each other without overheating and wrecking tyres, and they’re so wide and long at the moment that the narrow track at Monaco means passing is virtually impossible.

I think it’s a bit of a pisstake that they run at about 3/4 speed to make the tyres last and no one tries to do anything about it, because it’s one of the big name weekends.

the powers-that-be keep making noises about making the cars easier to run close together and race, but nothing is changing in that regard at all.

[cabbageandribs1875]

i see Max Mosley has died


Max Mosley: Privacy campaigner and ex-motorsport boss dies at 81 - BBC News (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-57232681)
Former motorsport boss Max Mosley, who later became a privacy campaigner, has died aged 81.


Ex-Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone said it was "like losing a brother".


Mr Mosley, who had been suffering from cancer, led motorsport's governing body the FIA from 1993 to 2009.

[RyeSloan]

Monaco highlights the worst of the current F1 issues. The cars can’t run close behind each other without overheating and wrecking tyres, and they’re so wide and long at the moment that the narrow track at Monaco means passing is virtually impossible.

I think it’s a bit of a pisstake that they run at about 3/4 speed to make the tyres last and no one tries to do anything about it, because it’s one of the big name weekends.

the powers-that-be keep making noises about making the cars easier to run close together and race, but nothing is changing in that regard at all.

The reg changes next year (postponed by Covid from this year) are designed to address the issue with following closely.

Proof will be in the pudding of course as the teams are pretty cunning in finding new aero downforce...which in turn makes following difficult!

As for Monaco. You and others are correct I think, it’s a big thing for those in and around the F1 show so unlikely to be dropped.

But even so as a spectator sport I’m not sure they can continue to completely ignore the fact that for everyone else it’s a bit of a farce. Somehow they need to revise the track to at least allow the possibility of an overtake.

Liberty seem to be more open to accounting for the ‘show’ so maybe even precious Monaco might have to bend?

[McD]

The reg changes next year (postponed by Covid from this year) are designed to address the issue with following closely.

Proof will be in the pudding of course as the teams are pretty cunning in finding new aero downforce...which in turn makes following difficult!

As for Monaco. You and others are correct I think, it’s a big thing for those in and around the F1 show so unlikely to be dropped.

But even so as a spectator sport I’m not sure they can continue to completely ignore the fact that for everyone else it’s a bit of a farce. Somehow they need to revise the track to at least allow the possibility of an overtake.

Liberty seem to be more open to accounting for the ‘show’ so maybe even precious Monaco might have to bend?


yeah I agree mate, the changes coming are expected to be a bit of a sea change, let’s hope for closer racing and overtaking :greengrin


also agree about Monaco and Liberty, they seem to be more open to experimenting, and I think Monaco will at some point soon have to make some adjustments, even with their sacred cow status

[Lancs Harp]

Not F1 obviously but looks like a full house watching the Indy 500. Great to see.

[BroxburnHibee]

Baku is usually good. Looking forward to it.

[lord bunberry]

Baku is usually good. Looking forward to it.
It’s been brilliant so far. If the race is anything like the practice and qualifying we’re in for a cracker.

[RyeSloan]

It’s been brilliant so far. If the race is anything like the practice and qualifying we’re in for a cracker.

The most exciting qualifier ever?!?

Was superb and amazing that a qualifying session can be 100x more interesting than the previous race!

What a track Baku is. A serious challenge or what!

[lord bunberry]

The most exciting qualifier ever?!?

Was superb and amazing that a qualifying session can be 100x more interesting than the previous race!

What a track Baku is. A serious challenge or what!
It’s got to be up there. We could easily see a record amount of safety cars tomorrow.

[Northernhibee]

I fancy a very exciting race tomorrow.

Gasly to win after another safety car and red flag strewn race.

[lord bunberry]

I fancy a very exciting race tomorrow.

Gasly to win after another safety car and red flag strewn race.
It could easily be a case of who is passing the pit lane when a crash happens that wins it. My money is on Sainz if his car is ok after his crash today.

[lord bunberry]

That was a big shunt for Stroll there. It must have been terrifying at that speed.

[Jack]

That's a shame.

[bawheid]

Somebody at Pirelli is getting sacked in the morning.

[lord bunberry]

Well that didn’t disappoint. Hamilton had a mare on that restart.

[Northernhibee]

Absolutely delighted to see Seb getting his mojo back. F1 is better for him.

[RyeSloan]

Well that didn’t disappoint. Hamilton had a mare on that restart.

Brake bias switch stuffed Lewis…he’d actually done Perez on the restart.

Gotta love Pirelli tho…just when you think the race is done up pops a tyre failure to spice it up nicely!!

[Northernhibee]

Huge let off for Bottas there.
Can hardly be upset with his drive after Hamilton’s brain fart.

I’m not sure it is a let off; Perez showed how vital it is to have a number two driver who can mop up if your title challenger fails to score.

[BroxburnHibee]

Pirelli have a lot of questions to answer after that.

Baku is fast becoming my favourite track. Always seems to provide a cracking race!

[RyeSloan]

I’m not sure it is a let off; Perez showed how vital it is to have a number two driver who can mop up if your title challenger fails to score.

I’m beginning to wonder how patient Merc will be with Bottas.

He seems to be having more and more off days and clearly knows his card is marked.

I get they probably don’t want to upset their team dynamic just as Red Bull are starting to seriously challenge but none the less it does seem increasingly odd that they have a better driver pottering about in a Williams while their number 2 grumps his way from one underwhelming performance to another.

[patch1875]

Botta’s is just Lewis wingman he was hung out to dry in qualifying providing a tow, it’s a one car team this year with Max much more of a championship threat.

[RyeSloan]

Botta’s is just Lewis wingman he was hung out to dry in qualifying providing a tow, it’s a one car team this year with Max much more of a championship threat.

It’s been a one man team in all but name for the whole time Bottas has been there.

As for the qualifying this time…well they take it turn about so it was just bad luck for Bottas it was on a track that the tow means so much.

But that’s a recurring theme..Bottas and his ‘bad luck’. The difference this season though is that Bottas is being posted missing far too often. Merc have built their success by normally having two cars in the mix…this helps box in Red Bull on strategy with their single Max car.

But if Perez is going to get up with Max to support him then Merc can’t afford for Bottas to be posted missing so often as he has recently.

That might change as the tracks come back to the Merc strengths but Bottas must be thinking his coat is on a shoogly peg if he doesn’t step up in the next 2 - 3 races.

[Northernhibee]

It’s been a one man team in all but name for the whole time Bottas has been there.

As for the qualifying this time…well they take it turn about so it was just bad luck for Bottas it was on a track that the tow means so much.

But that’s a recurring theme..Bottas and his ‘bad luck’. The difference this season though is that Bottas is being posted missing far too often. Merc have built their success by normally having two cars in the mix…this helps box in Red Bull on strategy with their single Max car.

But if Perez is going to get up with Max to support him then Merc can’t afford for Bottas to be posted missing so often as he has recently.

That might change as the tracks come back to the Merc strengths but Bottas must be thinking his coat is on a shoogly peg if he doesn’t step up in the next 2 - 3 races.

I can’t imagine that Lewis will be happy about Bottas being slower than even the Alfa Romeos at a race when it looked like he’d need a favour to take points off Verstappen.

Max made a barbed comment last year about it not being any use if his team mate finished half a minute behind him.

[CloudSquall]

I'm disappointed about Bottas, I always thought of him as being fairly quick with Williams when they had that 1 or 2 year period of being half decent, but since he has been at Mercedes he's been sub standard at best.

I think in previous seasons he did what they needed, gained enough points to get 3rd in the constructors and get Mercedes over the line to win the double.


Now though that they have real competition from Verstappen and Red Bull that have two good drivers they need more from Bottas and I just can't see how he can provide that.

[RyeSloan]

Max V Lewis again tomorrow.

Paul Ricard has produced zero entertainment previously but maybe might be worth a watch this time around with the Red Bulls n Mercs so closely matched.

[patch1875]

Very good race Red Bulls are looking like contenders.

[Jack]

Great racing between the two top teams, I fair enjoyed that.



Rules get tightened up again (tyres) Ferrari not in the points for the first time this season. Coincidence?

[Northernhibee]

Think Mercedes got that right. If they went toe for toe in terms of strategy then they wouldn’t have won, and it nearly paid off. A shower of rain or a safety car would have done it for them too.

[RyeSloan]

Another day, another ‘unlucky’ one from Bottas.

Not sure why he thinks having that kind of spin in the pit Lane is not deserving of a penalty…it was dangerous to the max and lucky no one was hurt.

Max looking imperious again and Merc just not able to get on terms.

Superb again from the tow British young guns. Russell somehow getting that Williams 8 thousands away from Q3 and Norris will be needing a new seat fitting considering how much he has his team mate in his back pocket.

[Northernhibee]

Another day, another ‘unlucky’ one from Bottas.

Not sure why he thinks having that kind of spin in the pit Lane is not deserving of a penalty…it was dangerous to the max and lucky no one was hurt.

Max looking imperious again and Merc just not able to get on terms.

Superb again from the tow British young guns. Russell somehow getting that Williams 8 thousands away from Q3 and Norris will be needing a new seat fitting considering how much he has his team mate in his back pocket.

I think we could be in for an unexpected winner today. A tough track to get out of DRS range due to how short a lap it is and two or three good passing opportunities.

[CloudSquall]

Another win for Verstappen, will be interesting to see how Hamilton mentally handles the increasing gap in the standings.

[Northernhibee]

That was desperately dull.

[RyeSloan]

Well quali was more exciting than last weeks race.

Lando and Russell doing unbelievably well again.

And no Merc in the top 3…when was the last time that happened?

[CloudSquall]

Verstappen with a 32 point gap on Hamilton now, he had no answers today.

[RyeSloan]

Verstappen with a 32 point gap on Hamilton now, he had no answers today.

Merc have an upgrade coming for Silverstone..they better hope it’s a good one!

Great race from Lando today.

[SteveHFC]

Lando will be a world champion in the next 5 years.

[Northernhibee]

Lando will be a world champion in the next 5 years.

I’m not sure of that. Mercedes have Lewis with Russell waiting in the wings, Ferrari have Leclerc and a good youth set up, Red Bull have Max and I don’t see much changing line up wise in a #1 driver position.

McLaren will need to get back to the very front for that to happen. Fingers crossed though, as I would love to see them win titles again.

[Bangkok Hibby]

I see lots of talk recently about Mercedes unable to match Red Bull for the moment. Seems to back up my earlier assertion that its the car that makes champions and not necessarily the driver. Or has Verstappen suddenly become a better driver than Hamilton? You can't have it both ways.

[RyeSloan]

I see lots of talk recently about Mercedes unable to match Red Bull for the moment. Seems to back up my earlier assertion that its the car that makes champions and not necessarily the driver. Or has Verstappen suddenly become a better driver than Hamilton? You can't have it both ways.

Max is at a level with Lewis currently, don’t think many will argue with that.

Whether he can stay a decade or more at the top obviously remains to be seen. And you can’t take away the fact that Lewis has seven world championships…and not all of them in the fastest car. One obvious example being the Ferrari in 2018.

But you can’t just take one great driver and compare him to another and say it’s just the machine. You just need to look at their team mates performances in the same equipment to see that it’s not just the driver OR the machine, it’s a combination of both. That’s always the way in motorsport and especially in Formula 1.

So I think you are making an argument that doesn’t need to be made. Everyone knows that to be a world champion in F1 you need a damn fine car, it can’t be done otherwise.

That machine still needs to be expertly piloted though over many many races and Lewis has proven time and again that he’s right up there in being the best at doing exactly that.

[lord bunberry]

I see lots of talk recently about Mercedes unable to match Red Bull for the moment. Seems to back up my earlier assertion that its the car that makes champions and not necessarily the driver. Or has Verstappen suddenly become a better driver than Hamilton? You can't have it both ways.
You have to be a good driver in a good car to become a champion. Albon was in the same car as verstappen last season and was miles behind him, Bottas has had the same car as Hamilton for years and hasn’t laid a glove on him. It’s pretty simple to understand that you need to have a good car and be a good driver. Red Bull seem to have the best car this season but they wouldn’t win the title if they had Mazepin and Latifi driving for them.

[patch1875]

Russell to be confirmed for the Merc 2nd seat at Silverstone.

[lord bunberry]

It’s not hard to see why Hamilton isn’t over the moon about having Russell in the same team next season. If Bangkok hibby reads this, how can you explain the difference between Russel and Latifi if it’s all down to the car?

[Bangkok Hibby]

It’s not hard to see why Hamilton isn’t over the moon about having Russell in the same team next season. If Bangkok hibby reads this, how can you explain the difference between Russel and Latifi if it’s all down to the car?

Hi, I'm actually not a big F1 fan so unsure what you mean. I take it Russell has been given a Mercedes job over Latifi? Good for him.
Can I just say I have never once said some drivers are not better than others and its all down to the car, don't read something I haven't said. What I have said is the car makes champions. Now I understand that Hamilton is better than Bottas but if they were both driving for Arrows for example Hamilton would still be the better driver but never world champion.
Similarly "decent" jockeys become champions when given a top stable jockey job.

[RyeSloan]

It’s not hard to see why Hamilton isn’t over the moon about having Russell in the same team next season. If Bangkok hibby reads this, how can you explain the difference between Russel and Latifi if it’s all down to the car?

Phenomenal from Russell yet again!

Nice move from Williams to give him a solo lap in Q3…Russell, the crowd and the sponsors loved that!

[Stairway 2 7]

145,000 expected on Sunday unreal numbers

[RyeSloan]

Hi, I'm actually not a big F1 fan so unsure what you mean. I take it Russell has been given a Mercedes job over Latifi? Good for him.
Can I just say I have never once said some drivers are not better than others and its all down to the car, don't read something I haven't said. What I have said is the car makes champions. Now I understand that Hamilton is better than Bottas but if they were both driving for Arrows for example Hamilton would still be the better driver but never world champion.
Similarly "decent" jockeys become champions when given a top stable jockey job.

You make a bit of an obvious point as of course in motorsport you need a very good car to be a champion. That really goes without saying.

As you say you can’t be a champion jockey if you are riding donkeys just as much as you can’t win the Americas Cup sailing a dinghy. Any sport that involves man and machine needs the machine to be very good indeed if you are to be a world champion at it.

The difference with Hamilton though is that he has done it so consistently across such a long time and beaten almost every team mate that’s taken him on. Also as previously suggested he’s beaten better cars along the way. Obviously the Merc has been the best car on a number of occasions but on the flip side you don’t get the best car year after year if you are not one of the best drivers!

Even when he lost out to Rosberg you can put that down to mechanical failures. He was better than Rosberg and easily winning more races in the same car…the fact Rosberg didn’t have the cahoonies to try again shows you all you need to know on that front.

And again today Hamilton showed just how good he is. Delivering in front of a massive crowd to get his first non pole pole of his career [emoji1787]

That said it will be very interesting to see what Russell can do in the same machine as Lewis. Absolute quality that lad for sure!

[lord bunberry]

Hi, I'm actually not a big F1 fan so unsure what you mean. I take it Russell has been given a Mercedes job over Latifi? Good for him.
Can I just say I have never once said some drivers are not better than others and its all down to the car, don't read something I haven't said. What I have said is the car makes champions. Now I understand that Hamilton is better than Bottas but if they were both driving for Arrows for example Hamilton would still be the better driver but never world champion.
Similarly "decent" jockeys become champions when given a top stable jockey job.
I’m not really sure what point you’re trying to make then. It’s blatantly obvious that the driver with the best car has a better chance to be world champion than a driver with a worse car. The best drivers end up in the best cars, the best jockeys end up on the best horses. Russel hasn’t been given the Mercedes drive yet, but he qualified in the top 10 while his team mate in the same car was miles behind, that’s because Russell is a better driver.

[lord bunberry]

What do we think will happen in the sprint race? Hamilton suggested it might be a bit of a procession with drivers not wanting to risk anything for the main race on Sunday. I can’t see that happening, these guys are hard wired to race and if an opportunity presents itself they’ll go for it.

[RyeSloan]

What do we think will happen in the sprint race? Hamilton suggested it might be a bit of a procession with drivers not wanting to risk anything for the main race on Sunday. I can’t see that happening, these guys are hard wired to race and if an opportunity presents itself they’ll go for it.

Was wondering that myself but on the flip side of you wipe out in the sprint race then you massively impact your GP.

I’m not sure anyone quite knows how this will work but I’m minded to think that it’s a mistake linking the sprint race to the GP start positions for these very reasons.

If there is to be a sprint race (not sure I’m 100% on the concept) then it should be the opposite and jeopardy free in the sense that risks and adventure are encouraged rather than one mistake compromising your ability to influence the main event.

[Bangkok Hibby]

I’m not really sure what point you’re trying to make then. It’s blatantly obvious that the driver with the best car has a better chance to be world champion than a driver with a worse car. The best drivers end up in the best cars, the best jockeys end up on the best horses. Russel hasn’t been given the Mercedes drive yet, but he qualified in the top 10 while his team mate in the same car was miles behind, that’s because Russell is a better driver.

My point was made back on page 6. "The car makes the champion" Nice to see you're finally agreeing with me. A quick check shows in the 63 years since the constructors championship started the champion driver has raced for the winners 54 times

[RyeSloan]

My point was made back on page 6. "The car makes the champion" Nice to see you're finally agreeing with me. A quick check shows in the 63 years since the constructors championship started the champion driver has raced for the winners 54 times

I think it was more along the lines of if you are in the best car you can’t fail but be Champion ergo Hamilton is not really so great after all…maybe I’ve misconstrued your point? But if not I’m still not buying that view [emoji2957]

A champion will be in the best car most of the time but to be in the best car most of the time you tend to be champion material.

To be a champion many many times over you need more than just the best, or one of the best, car(s).

[lord bunberry]

Was wondering that myself but on the flip side of you wipe out in the sprint race then you massively impact your GP.

I’m not sure anyone quite knows how this will work but I’m minded to think that it’s a mistake linking the sprint race to the GP start positions for these very reasons.

If there is to be a sprint race (not sure I’m 100% on the concept) then it should be the opposite and jeopardy free in the sense that risks and adventure are encouraged rather than one mistake compromising your ability to influence the main event.
We’ve not got long to find out.

[Northernhibee]

I think that would have worked better at half the length with points for the top five drivers to make it worth more of a risk to send one.

Still enjoyed it though.

[SteveHFC]

I think that would have worked better at half the length with points for the top five drivers to make it worth more of a risk to send one.

Still enjoyed it though.

Pretty enjoyed that myself.

[RyeSloan]

I think that would have worked better at half the length with points for the top five drivers to make it worth more of a risk to send one.

Still enjoyed it though.

Longer sprints will not be sprints tho and as we saw today if you want flat out racing the tyres simply won’t last.

I think the distance was about right.

Might work better next year when the cars can follow a bit easier as really F1 just now is it set up for sprints hence why the main GP’s are often all about the pit stops and long strategy.

Was no disaster though and I’m sure it is much better for the crowds attending to get something meaningful across the 3 days.

[CloudSquall]

Red Bull showing the best and worst of the sprint qualifying, you can either win yourself pole at the 2nd attempt or send yourself to the back of the pack.

[lord bunberry]

That was a big shunt for Verstappen there, I think Hamilton will end up with a penalty for causing it.

[marinello59]

That was a big shunt for Verstappen there, I think Hamilton will end up with a penalty for causing it.

I’m thinking racing incident but I wouldn’t be shocked to see him get a penalty here.

[lord bunberry]

I’m thinking racing incident but I wouldn’t be shocked to see him get a penalty here.
Given the penalties handed out recently I think Hamilton will get one.

[Hibby70]

Was great to watch (not that it lasted long). Was fully expecting them to crash.

Fully expecting Tom Cruise at Easter Road on Thursday. He's been at every other main sporting event. 😁

[Jack]

I wouldn't have even tried that overtake in my racing game!

Well I have actually and it never works out!!

[lord bunberry]

50/1 for Perez to win from the back, he did it last season. If Hamilton gets a penalty there could be a surprise winner, maybe Norris could get his first win.

[marinello59]

An interesting afternoon ahead for Hamilton then, he’s going to have to go some to make up that penalty.

[Moulin Yarns]

An interesting afternoon ahead for Hamilton then, he’s going to have to go some to make up that penalty.

Don't normally watch it but was channel hopping. Does the penalty mean Hamilton is effectively finishing about 9th as it stands?

[Hibby70]

I'd be expecting Hamilton to win by more than 10 seconds anyway

[lord bunberry]

Don't normally watch it but was channel hopping. Does the penalty mean Hamilton is effectively finishing about 9th as it stands?
When he goes into the pits to change tyres his team will have to wait 10 seconds before they can touch his car.

[Moulin Yarns]

When he goes into the pits to change tyres his team will have to wait 10 seconds before they can touch his car.

Thanks. Just heard that.

[patch1875]

Hamilton catching hoping leclerc can hold on!

[marinello59]

Another cracking Grand Prix, a great win for the crowd to enjoy.

[Northernhibee]

Racing incident. There was a gap and both drivers guilty of not giving the other any concession whatsoever. The sort of move that Max has attempted since day one.

[patch1875]

Being able to hear the team radio to the race director is great grassing each other up to the teacher!

It’s a tricky one agree it a racing incident 2 top driver not giving an inch a penalty was given so they must think Hamilton was at fault.

[lord bunberry]

Another cracking Grand Prix, a great win for the crowd to enjoy.
Brilliant race, the crowd add so much to the whole weekend.

[Northernhibee]

Classless from Horner and Max post race.

[Stairway 2 7]

Classless from Horner and Max post race.

What did they say turned to tdf after he won

[McD]

Classless from Horner and Max post race.


what bugs me about it is that Max has pulled these manoeuvres himself, and Horner has played the smug, smirking, ‘well you know that’s racing’ quote out. I’m no Hamilton fan per say, but there’s an element of ‘live by the sword, die by the sword’ to this for me

both of them could have avoided it, neither really tried to, and a high speed collision happened. In this instance max came off worst, very often he’s the one who sails out of it and gets the advantage

[Radium]

Verstappen appears to be well which is the important thing.

Slightly surprised by the venom that seems to be behind the Red Bull, owner/ ceo/ driver comments after the incident but they may be trying to generate a siege mentality.

Others have mentioned it already, both drivers had the opportunity to stop the contact, neither backed off.

Rest of the season could be interesting as I don’t see either backing off


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Gatecrasher]

I'm surprised to see the Racing incident conclusion by some people, that was never on for Lewis and at 180 odd mph it was down right dangerous. If it had been a slower corner the dart up the inside is feasible but not there. The result of Max going to hospital tells you that. Outside of the UK narrative on Sky etc there seems to be a lot of anger towards the incident and I think the post race comments from Lewis fanned the flames a bit.

I like Hamilton and cheered him on to many of his titles but that's not on today I'm afraid.

[Jack]

I'm surprised to see the Racing incident conclusion by some people, that was never on for Lewis and at 180 odd mph it was down right dangerous. If it had been a slower corner the dart up the inside is feasible but not there. The result of Max going to hospital tells you that. Outside of the UK narrative on Sky etc there seems to be a lot of anger towards the incident and I think the post race comments from Lewis fanned the flames a bit.

I like Hamilton and cheered him on to many of his titles but that's not on today I'm afraid.

I agree and so do stewards. I'm not sure a 10 second penalty 'for causing a collision' was appropriate.

But I never have thought 5/10 second penalties have been appropriate when the guilty party goes on to gain points while the victim is left floundering at the back of the pack, or worse.

[Northernhibee]

I'm surprised to see the Racing incident conclusion by some people, that was never on for Lewis and at 180 odd mph it was down right dangerous. If it had been a slower corner the dart up the inside is feasible but not there. The result of Max going to hospital tells you that. Outside of the UK narrative on Sky etc there seems to be a lot of anger towards the incident and I think the post race comments from Lewis fanned the flames a bit.

I like Hamilton and cheered him on to many of his titles but that's not on today I'm afraid.

At the point of turning in they were good as level, neither driver backed down and as such they made minor contact. At that speed that’s enough to put at least one off. The fact Lewis did not suffer damage shows it was nothing more than that.

Max needs to be smarter, if he played it less aggressive and let him through, worst case he’s still 25pts clear in a championship with the faster car. He’s not matured enough to make these decisions yet and as such Lewis is within ten and has a massive boost now.

[Radium]

I'm surprised to see the Racing incident conclusion by some people, that was never on for Lewis and at 180 odd mph it was down right dangerous. If it had been a slower corner the dart up the inside is feasible but not there. The result of Max going to hospital tells you that. Outside of the UK narrative on Sky etc there seems to be a lot of anger towards the incident and I think the post race comments from Lewis fanned the flames a bit.

I like Hamilton and cheered him on to many of his titles but that's not on today I'm afraid.

It is a fundamentally dangerous sport.

The contact was avoidable and both drivers had a choice. This wasn’t a Schumacher or Senna wipeout, it was a kiss.

I like Verstappen but I would argue that he believes that the other driver will always back down. He pushes his machine to the limit and deserves to be leading the championship. As has been mentioned, with a 33 point lead he needs to play a smarter game.

I am sure that Hamilton lost the chance of a title by being too aggressive with Webber in his younger days. Winning championships is different to winning races.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Northernhibee]

What did they say turned to tdf after he won

Max tweeted “ "Watching the celebrations while still in hospital is disrespectful and unsportsmanlike... but we move on."

Whingy Spice said “ "The biggest result for us today is Max is uninjured. I hope Lewis is very happy with himself. That is a hollow victory.”

[Stairway 2 7]

Max tweeted “ "Watching the celebrations while still in hospital is disrespectful and unsportsmanlike... but we move on."

Whingy Spice said “ "The biggest result for us today is Max is uninjured. I hope Lewis is very happy with himself. That is a hollow victory.”

Ta. Poor from horner in particular

[RyeSloan]

Incident aside that was a brilliant drive from Lewis there.

That stint after his pit stop was just phenomenal!

[RyeSloan]

It is a fundamentally dangerous sport.

The contact was avoidable and both drivers had a choice. This wasn’t a Schumacher or Senna wipeout, it was a kiss.

I like Verstappen but I would argue that he believes that the other driver will always back down. He pushes his machine to the limit and deserves to be leading the championship. As has been mentioned, with a 33 point lead he needs to play a smarter game.

I am sure that Hamilton lost the chance of a title by being too aggressive with Webber in his younger days. Winning championships is different to winning races.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

With you on that.

Lewis was not going to back down there and forced Max to make a choice…Max took the wrong choice by assuming g Lewis would back out of it.

Ramps up the championship up nicely when it was already getting spicy.

[Gatecrasher]

It is a fundamentally dangerous sport.

The contact was avoidable and both drivers had a choice. This wasn’t a Schumacher or Senna wipeout, it was a kiss.

I like Verstappen but I would argue that he believes that the other driver will always back down. He pushes his machine to the limit and deserves to be leading the championship. As has been mentioned, with a 33 point lead he needs to play a smarter game.

I am sure that Hamilton lost the chance of a title by being too aggressive with Webber in his younger days. Winning championships is different to winning races.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Yes F1 can be dangerous but that makes the drivers still responsibility for each other all more important.

Max was ahead and had the Racing line which gives him priority going into the corner (Lewis was never ahead) , max adjusted his line to give Lewis room, Lewis went into the corner far to fast, missed the apex and hit max at full speed.I'm sorry but there's only one person to blame here IMO.

[Radium]

Yes F1 can be dangerous but that makes the drivers still responsibility for each other all more important.

Max was ahead and had the Racing line which gives him priority going into the corner (Lewis was never ahead) , max adjusted his line to give Lewis room, Lewis went into the corner far to fast, missed the apex and hit max at full speed.I'm sorry but there's only one person to blame here IMO.

Happy to have different views.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Northernhibee]

Yes F1 can be dangerous but that makes the drivers still responsibility for each other all more important.

Max was ahead and had the Racing line which gives him priority going into the corner (Lewis was never ahead) , max adjusted his line to give Lewis room, Lewis went into the corner far to fast, missed the apex and hit max at full speed.I'm sorry but there's only one person to blame here IMO.

The FIA supplied a diagram to teams of when it is appropriate to attempt an overtaking manoeuvre when there is a “significant overlap” and the diagram has the car behind further back than from where Hamilton was.

Hamilton also loses ground from turning in to where the apex is, suggesting he got out of it for a bit. Had he fully committed with the extra momentum he had then he would have hit the apex at least alongside Max.

Every bit a racing incident for me.

[makaveli1875]

Hamilton now getting the same abuse Saka and Rashford got after the Euros . Not just a football problem , black sportsmen in any sport are going to get this **** it seems . It was a dick move by Hamilton but nothing Schumacher , prost , senna etc wouldn't have done .

[RyeSloan]

Yes F1 can be dangerous but that makes the drivers still responsibility for each other all more important.

Max was ahead and had the Racing line which gives him priority going into the corner (Lewis was never ahead) , max adjusted his line to give Lewis room, Lewis went into the corner far to fast, missed the apex and hit max at full speed.I'm sorry but there's only one person to blame here IMO.

It will be argued long and hard for sure but Lewis does not hit Max.

It’s very clear that Max turns into Lewis. Sure you can argue it’s for Lewis to get out of the move to allow Max to turn in but the on board is very clear that Max goes to turn, sees Lewis and moves left before aggressively turning right again…the only problem for Max is that Lewis has not backed out and Max then steers right into Lewis.

I get Red Bulls argument that Lewis simply shouldn’t have been there but he was so Max could also have reacted to that and not turned in so aggressively (see Leclerc in same position at the end).

That of course would have let Lewis through and he simply wasn’t prepared to let Lewis do to him what he has done to many before.

Whatever way you see it though it added to an already feisty weekend and now results in even more bad blood between the two teams…which is exactly the stuff that makes for a classic season!

[Gatecrasher]

I can't wait to see the reception he gets at zandvoort in a few weeks :hilarious

[Northernhibee]

It will be argued long and hard for sure but Lewis does not hit Max.

It’s very clear that Max turns into Lewis. Sure you can argue it’s for Lewis to get out of the move to allow Max to turn in but the on board is very clear that Max goes to turn, sees Lewis and moves left before aggressively turning right again…the only problem for Max is that Lewis has not backed out and Max then steers right into Lewis.

I get Red Bulls argument that Lewis simply shouldn’t have been there but he was so Max could also have reacted to that and not turned in so aggressively (see Leclerc in same position at the end).

That of course would have let Lewis through and he simply wasn’t prepared to let Lewis do to him what he has done to many before.

Whatever way you see it though it added to an already feisty weekend and now results in even more bad blood between the two teams…which is exactly the stuff that makes for a classic season!

Contrast and compare how much room Hamilton gave three corners prior when he was ahead and on the outside at the end of the straight. Their paths only came close to crossing near the exit of the corner and Hamilton backed out.

The roles were reversed almost perfectly into Copse and Verstappen turns in much more than Lewis did earlier in the lap and gave Lewis much less chance to back out.

[Jack]

The race stewards have given their decision. Hamilton was found guilty of causing the accident. Given they have access to more data than anyone here Hamilton was in the wrong. I'm not sure why anyone on here is so desperate to defend him.

Also interesting is that I've never heard either Hamilton or Toto being so hesitant, almost stuttering, when trying to explain their position. Both men are normally very assured when speaking to camera. They knew they were on dodgy ground.

I'm fairly certain there will be a few more similar incidents as the season continues.

[Sergio sledge]

It is a fundamentally dangerous sport.

The contact was avoidable and both drivers had a choice. This wasn’t a Schumacher or Senna wipeout, it was a kiss.

I like Verstappen but I would argue that he believes that the other driver will always back down. He pushes his machine to the limit and deserves to be leading the championship. As has been mentioned, with a 33 point lead he needs to play a smarter game.

I am sure that Hamilton lost the chance of a title by being too aggressive with Webber in his younger days. Winning championships is different to winning races.


Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkAgree with this.

Both drivers had the chance to prevent the collision and neither backed off. The fact that other drivers, with no loyalties or axe to grind (Leclerc and Alonso) have come out and put it down as a racing incident is telling for me.

In a sense this is the sort of thing we want to see (clearly without any injuries), it is pure theatre and adds to the interest. When Webber and Vettel were battling it out and coming to blows it was great entertainment, same with Alonso and Hamilton when they were at Maclaren.

Apart from the racist abuse, F1 will be delighted with this weekend I'm sure.

[Northernhibee]

The race stewards have given their decision. Hamilton was found guilty of causing the accident. Given they have access to more data than anyone here Hamilton was in the wrong. I'm not sure why anyone on here is so desperate to defend him.


Mostly for the same reason I’m ranting on here after any Hibs game officiated by Willie Collumn 😂

[RyeSloan]

The race stewards have given their decision. Hamilton was found guilty of causing the accident. Given they have access to more data than anyone here Hamilton was in the wrong. I'm not sure why anyone on here is so desperate to defend him.

Also interesting is that I've never heard either Hamilton or Toto being so hesitant, almost stuttering, when trying to explain their position. Both men are normally very assured when speaking to camera. They knew they were on dodgy ground.

I'm fairly certain there will be a few more similar incidents as the season continues.

Not sure anyone is desperate!

Toto was quite clear. He was adamant the regs supported his position.

The stewards decision is theirs alone…doesn’t mean I or anyone else needs to agree with it. In fact many punters, commentators and drivers have done just that.

I thought their decision a couple of weeks ago to penalise Lando when Perez went off the track on the outside when trying to overtake was wrong as well…In my opinion they are over policing the racing and giving penalties for stuff that should be considering racing incidents.

[Caversham Green]

Karun Handchok gives a good analysis here. Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen collide in big British GP flashpoint with Red Bull out of the race | F1 News (skysports.com) (https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/12358522/lewis-hamilton-and-max-verstappen-collide-in-big-british-gp-flashpoint-with-red-bull-out-of-the-race).

To me the critical point is that there was a car's width between Verstappen and the edge of the track, but Hamilton was missing the apex. Verstappen took the racing line while allowing that car's width and Hamilton was unwise to carry that speed into that corner in those circumstances.

[lord bunberry]

Karun Handchok gives a good analysis here. Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen collide in big British GP flashpoint with Red Bull out of the race | F1 News (skysports.com) (https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/12433/12358522/lewis-hamilton-and-max-verstappen-collide-in-big-british-gp-flashpoint-with-red-bull-out-of-the-race).

To me the critical point is that there was a car's width between Verstappen and the edge of the track, but Hamilton was missing the apex. Verstappen took the racing line while allowing that car's width and Hamilton was unwise to carry that speed into that corner in those circumstances.
That’s how I saw it as well. Hamilton should’ve backed out of it and Verstappen rightly assumed he would. The stewards obviously thought the same as they punished Hamilton for it. Red Bull are being slightly hypocritical though as there’s no way Max would’ve backed out of the manoeuvre if the roles were reversed, in fact he’s built a reputation on not giving an inch. In summary Hamilton was in the wrong and should’ve received a stronger punishment, but I’m not having Horners nonsense because he knows his driver would’ve done the same.

[Northernhibee]

Brilliant from Lewis today. He’s right in Verstappen’s head.

Not very street scary from Red Bull.

[RyeSloan]

Brilliant from Lewis today. He’s right in Verstappen’s head.

Not very street scary from Red Bull.

Not only a brilliant quali lap but managed to piss off Red Bull even more on the final outlap…takes real skills that [emoji1787]

[lord bunberry]

Brilliant from Lewis today. He’s right in Verstappen’s head.

Not very street scary from Red Bull.
I love Max but Hamilton showed him who’s boss today. It’s not always just about doing driving as fast as you can, Hamilton slowing both Red Bulls down at the end was masterful.

[Northernhibee]

I love Max but Hamilton showed him who’s boss today. It’s not always just about doing driving as fast as you can, Hamilton slowing both Red Bulls down at the end was masterful.

Yep. Lewis knows he’s not the fan favourite in this and is using it to his advantage. Can see them going into Zandvoort with massive pressure on Max to perform.

[lord bunberry]

That’s was hilarious watching Hamilton starting the race on his own. What a huge mistake from Mercedes.

[patch1875]

Bonkers race hopefully Russell gets his first points.

[patch1875]

Overtaking doesn’t look very easy Ocon & Vettel have a good chance of winning this with a Williams slowing everyone down.

[lord bunberry]

Sainz could win this now Latifi has pitted.

[patch1875]

Or Lewis he’s flying now.

[lord bunberry]

Or Lewis he’s flying now.
:agree: He’s definitely got a chance.

[lord bunberry]

Looking like Hamilton is going to pit again.

[patch1875]

Tremendous from Alonso

[CloudSquall]

Hamilton's walking talking "inspirational" Instagram quote persona quickly falls away when he's up against someone like Alonso.

[patch1875]

Brilliant for Ocon.

[patch1875]

Hamilton looks like he’s struggling

[lord bunberry]

That was another excellent race today on a track that doesn’t lend itself to overtaking. Mercedes blew it and then almost rescued it with the strategy, but it’s so good to see someone like Ocon get the win. Alonso against Hamilton was epic and I was a bit disappointed to hear Hamilton complaining on his radio, but they all seem to do it. Delighted for Williams to have both cars in the points and it was good to see young Mick Schumacher get his elbows out while fighting for a points position.
It’s weird as everyone thought this season would be dull as all the teams concentrated on next season, but it could go down as one of the best.

[RyeSloan]

Brilliant from Hamilton again.

He makes this stuff look easy but wow his wheel to wheel with Alonso and waiting for his chance was superb. As was his pace throughout..that out lap to get past Max and Ric was unbelievable.

Mental race and always good to see a new winner!!

[RyeSloan]

Just on the start tho…if Hamilton had came into the pits I’m not sure he would have been able to get released.

His pit box is first and he would have been forced to wait for the whole field to come past…or he would have needed up doing an Alfa.

[patch1875]

Vettel under investigation due to not enough fuel in the car for the after race sample.

[McD]

Just on the start tho…if Hamilton had came into the pits I’m not sure he would have been able to get released.

His pit box is first and he would have been forced to wait for the whole field to come past…or he would have needed up doing an Alfa.


because the race hadn’t officially restarted he’d have been moved back to P1, what you’ve described is exactly shat happened to George Russell, the FIA told him to give the places back as he’d moved up 3 or 4 places during the pit scramble

[Northernhibee]

Vettel under investigation due to not enough fuel in the car for the after race sample.

Officially DQed.

Crying shame.

[RyeSloan]

because the race hadn’t officially restarted he’d have been moved back to P1, what you’ve described is exactly shat happened to George Russell, the FIA told him to give the places back as he’d moved up 3 or 4 places during the pit scramble

Ahh got ya, thanks.

[Jack]

Mercedes will be giving Bottas a huge bonus for playing 'the team game' sooooo well this afternoon. They couldn't have wished for better. 😉

[RyeSloan]

because the race hadn’t officially restarted he’d have been moved back to P1, what you’ve described is exactly shat happened to George Russell, the FIA told him to give the places back as he’d moved up 3 or 4 places during the pit scramble

Right I’m still confused by this.

We had, as you pointed out, Russell told to give places back but this morning we have Sainz and Ferrari complaining they lost places in the pit stop that compromised their race.

All added to a rather odd spectacle I suppose but I’m still not full understanding the rules here.

[lord bunberry]

because the race hadn’t officially restarted he’d have been moved back to P1, what you’ve described is exactly shat happened to George Russell, the FIA told him to give the places back as he’d moved up 3 or 4 places during the pit scramble
I thought Russell had to move back because he came up the inside of the other drivers in the pit lane. If you look at the restart Russell comes from the inside of all the other drivers. I can’t remember, but was Latifi 3rd when the race was red flagged?

[McD]

I thought Russell had to move back because he came up the inside of the other drivers in the pit lane. If you look at the restart Russell comes from the inside of all the other drivers. I can’t remember, but was Latifi 3rd when the race was red flagged?

Can’t multi quote on phone, apologies RyeSloan for not quoting you too

Could well be me that’s misunderstood the reason for Russell being told to give the places back 😂

[Northernhibee]

Dan Tictum dropped by the Williams Young Driver scheme after singing “Doo be Doo be Doo, Latifi’s a poo” on a live stream.

[RyeSloan]

Dan Tictum dropped by the Williams Young Driver scheme after singing “Doo be Doo be Doo, Latifi’s a poo” on a live stream.

He claims he was already punted before the incident…which makes sense as he was obviously a bit bitter about it when you read the full exchange after his wee ditty.

[RyeSloan]

I see Massi has cleared up the start procedure re last Sunday.

Absolutely the start order could and did change due to the pit stops and the order leaving the pits was considered the correct order.

Russell overtook in the pit lane so was told to give those places back.

So I’m back to where I started on this regarding Lewis having to stop in the first pit box and would have ended up last anyway.

[lord bunberry]

I see Massi has cleared up the start procedure re last Sunday.

Absolutely the start order could and did change due to the pit stops and the order leaving the pits was considered the correct order.

Russell overtook in the pit lane so was told to give those places back.

So I’m back to where I started on this regarding Lewis having to stop in the first pit box and would have ended up last anyway.
He wouldn’t have been last as I’m now probably going to make a mess of an attempt at explaining :greengrin You’re right that the whole field would’ve passed him while he had to sit in his pit box, but the chain reaction of that is that the car in second into the pits would also have to wait and so on, Hamilton would be able to leave his pit box first as soon as the whole field have past him, effectively joining the back of the train of cars. The car that went in second would join behind Hamilton. The reason some gained and some lost is due to the position of their pit box. Mercedes are number 1 with Red Bull 2 and McLaren 3, it depended on we’re your box was and what position you were in the race. The teams like Williams who’s pit box is last gained because they could take advantage of the carnage that was going on with cars crashing into each other in the pit lane.
There’s no way of knowing where he would’ve come out, but he wouldn’t have been last.

[RyeSloan]

He wouldn’t have been last as I’m now probably going to make a mess of an attempt at explaining :greengrin You’re right that the whole field would’ve passed him while he had to sit in his pit box, but the chain reaction of that is that the car in second into the pits would also have to wait and so on, Hamilton would be able to leave his pit box first as soon as the whole field have past him, effectively joining the back of the train of cars. The car that went in second would join behind Hamilton. The reason some gained and some lost is due to the position of their pit box. Mercedes are number 1 with Red Bull 2 and McLaren 3, it depended on we’re your box was and what position you were in the race. The teams like Williams who’s pit box is last gained because they could take advantage of the carnage that was going on with cars crashing into each other in the pit lane.
There’s no way of knowing where he would’ve come out, but he wouldn’t have been last.

Hmm yeah fair point, certainly on the Williams front as Alfa decided to just let their driver crash into the queue of cars coming in…although Hamilton would have been stuck behind that nonsense as well!

But on reflection I think yer right, he would not have been dead last like he was.

Glad he didn’t though as that solo start will be an enduring F1 image!! [emoji1787]

[lord bunberry]

Just watched the recording of qualifying. ****in hell what a performance from Russell. I really thought he was going to be on pole, future world champion imo.

[lord bunberry]

Unlucky for Norris, he was looking dominant until his crash.

[Jack]

Unlucky for Norris, he was looking dominant until his crash.

Small margins between hero and zero.

He'll be lucky to make the grid tomorrow.

[RyeSloan]

Just watched the recording of qualifying. ****in hell what a performance from Russell. I really thought he was going to be on pole, future world champion imo.

He’s been doing some ridiculous things for Williams for a while but wow that lap today was just unbelievable. What a talent and cannot wait to see in an even better car.

Brilliant for Williams as well, they have had some tough times but have been suggesting that they are getting back to some sort of form and today must be a huge boost for them.

[lord bunberry]

Small margins between hero and zero.

He'll be lucky to make the grid tomorrow.
Agreed, his car was a mess.

[lord bunberry]

He’s been doing some ridiculous things for Williams for a while but wow that lap today was just unbelievable. What a talent and cannot wait to see in an even better car.

Brilliant for Williams as well, they have had some tough times but have been suggesting that they are getting back to some sort of form and today must be a huge boost for them.
Hamilton won’t be looking forward to having him as a teammate. If it’s a wet race anything could happen.

[RyeSloan]

Hamilton won’t be looking forward to having him as a teammate. If it’s a wet race anything could happen.

Well Hamilton always says he wants a challenge to keep him focussed…he’s
gonna have that next year in spades!

Russell though will also face a challenge..not just trying to best Lewis but he goes from ‘nothing to lose mode’ to everything to lose. We have seen what that’s done to the young Red Bull guys so will be interesting to see how he handles that.

But he appears to be a level above the vast majority of drivers already and looks to have the world at his feet.

[patch1875]

Perez in the wall getting the car to the grid

[lord bunberry]

Well Hamilton always says he wants a challenge to keep him focussed…he’s
gonna have that next year in spades!

Russell though will also face a challenge..not just trying to best Lewis but he goes from ‘nothing to lose mode’ to everything to lose. We have seen what that’s done to the young Red Bull guys so will be interesting to see how he handles that.

But he appears to be a level above the vast majority of drivers already and looks to have the world at his feet.
It will definitely be a different challenge for Russell, but it’s one I think he’ll take in his stride. It’s a pity he’s not likely to get a chance to show what he can do from the front row today.

[Radium]

Based on the graphic I am presuming that it will be a couple of laps behind the safety car and then half points based on the atrocious conditions


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[McD]

Should’ve either let them go out and race properly or not at all, seems a bit of a con to go out under the safety car just to get the 2 minimum laps in then straight back in, it was obvious from the medical car going round it wasn’t safe

for the record, I’m not saying they should have went racing at all, it was far too dangerous

[lord bunberry]

Should’ve either let them go out and race properly or not at all, seems a bit of a con to go out under the safety car just to get the 2 minimum laps in then straight back in, it was obvious from the medical car going round it wasn’t safe

for the record, I’m not saying they should have went racing at all, it was far too dangerous
I think that contractually it fulfills the minimum requirements. They won’t have to offer refunds to fans, sponsors and tv companies. I agree though that it’s a bit of a con. George Russell didn’t seem to mind though. :greengrin

[RyeSloan]

I think that contractually it fulfills the minimum requirements. They won’t have to offer refunds to fans, sponsors and tv companies. I agree though that it’s a bit of a con. George Russell didn’t seem to mind though. :greengrin

Classic F1 that nonsense of a ‘race’ today.

It was obvious they couldn’t go out so should either have called it a dead rubber or looked to have the race tomorrow. With the latter probably a rather significant technical challenge to pull off the right thing to do was probably just call it off.

Getting points and podiums for that is just wrong but hey it didn’t seem to bother Russell who at least got some reward for his cracking lap yesterday!

[lord bunberry]

Classic F1 that nonsense of a ‘race’ today.

It was obvious they couldn’t go out so should either have called it a dead rubber or looked to have the race tomorrow. With the latter probably a rather significant technical challenge to pull off the right thing to do was probably just call it off.

Getting points and podiums for that is just wrong but hey it didn’t seem to bother Russell who at least got some reward for his cracking lap yesterday!
The race director claims he wasn’t pressured into doing what he did, but I’m not having that. Doing what he did covered everyone’s back in terms of refunds and contracts. As you say it was classic F1, it reminded me of that race in America years ago that went ahead with only 4 cars due to problems with the tyres. It was a total stitch up, but that’s F1 I suppose, they’ll move onto the next race and all will be forgotten.

[CloudSquall]

I think Bottas' posting a fastest lap when told not to all but confirms that Russell is heading to Mercedes.

[McD]

I think Bottas' posting a fastest lap when told not to all but confirms that Russell is heading to Mercedes.


it was mentioned quickly on one of the post race shows that he’s rumoured to be off to Alfa Romeo next season, which would probably mean it’s nailed on fro Russell to be at Mercedes

[Northernhibee]

Bottas confirmed at Alfa Romeo.

[CloudSquall]

Triple H must be going radio rental in private about Vince, in the cases of Adam Cole and Daniel Bryan this situation was very avoidable.


Edit: Leaving this schoolboy error here for the inevitable puns :greengrin

[Northernhibee]

Triple H must be going radio rental in private about Vince, in the cases of Adam Cole and Daniel Bryan this situation was very avoidable.

Couldn’t even get him a drive at Haas.

[Jack]

Triple H must be going radio rental in private about Vince, in the cases of Adam Cole and Daniel Bryan this situation was very avoidable.

I think this should have been in the thread next door!

[Northernhibee]

Russell confirmed for Mercedes.

[RyeSloan]

Russell confirmed for Mercedes.

Looking forward to the Russell v Lewis battle already!

Great move for a driver that looks like he’s destined for the very top.

[lord bunberry]

That was a certainty that Bottas was going to stick it on poll after being dropped. He’s going to start from the pit lane on Sunday, but I can see him doing well in the sprint race today and having a strong end to the season now the pressure is off.

[CloudSquall]

Looking at the third picture of the Hamilton/Verstappen crash and you can see why the halo was introduced, looked like it saved Hamilton from some serious bother to say the least,

https://twitter.com/F1/status/1437051198931148802

[patch1875]

Will probably end up Hamilton’s fault for not leaving any room but not sure it was a move Max should have risked through the chicane.

Great seeing the McLarens up front but Bottas on a charge.

[Northernhibee]

Will probably end up Hamilton’s fault for not leaving any room but not sure it was a move Max should have risked through the chicane.

Great seeing the McLarens up front but Bottas on a charge.

It was the precise same thing that Max tried on Lewis on lap one. He’s a greeting faced little ********.

Fantastic for McLaren and Danny Ric today.

[Jack]

It was the precise same thing that Max tried on Lewis on lap one. He’s a greeting faced little ********.

Fantastic for McLaren and Danny Ric today.

Nah!

Max stuck to the racing line lap one.

If the two drivers had raced the length of the main straight and Lewis cut across as he did there it would have at least been investigated, error. Turning into the first corner Max gave Lewis room or they would have collided sooner.

Lewis is losing the plot.

[lord bunberry]

Looking at the third picture of the Hamilton/Verstappen crash and you can see why the halo was introduced, looked like it saved Hamilton from some serious bother to say the least,

https://twitter.com/F1/status/1437051198931148802
Definitely saved him from being seriously injured.

[lord bunberry]

It was the precise same thing that Max tried on Lewis on lap one. He’s a greeting faced little ********.

Fantastic for McLaren and Danny Ric today.


Nah!

Max stuck to the racing line lap one.

If the two drivers had raced the length of the main straight and Lewis cut across as he did there it would have at least been investigated, error. Turning into the first corner Max gave Lewis room or they would have collided sooner.

Lewis is losing the plot.
Racing incident for me. Two cars going wheel to wheel into a tight corner and inevitably collided.

[Jack]

Racing incident for me. Two cars going wheel to wheel into a tight corner and inevitably collided.

Result about to be announced, I think. You're probably right.

[patch1875]

Max gets a 3 place grid penalty at next race.

Bizarre decision

[Northernhibee]

Max gets a 3 place grid penalty at next race.

Bizarre decision

When you read the stewards report it’s pretty fair IMO.