Jenson Button is hopeful of being in a position to challenge Lewis Hamilton for the Formula One World Championship in 2009.
Following an abysmal season last year for Honda and Button due to a wretched car, the 28-year-old threatened to walk away unless the team improved dramatically .
With the recruitment of technical genius Ross Brawn, Honda appear to be heading in the right direction, and Button readily concedes he could not be happier.
Miracles, though, are not going to happen this year, particularly as Brawn has only been with the team two months and his impact has yet to be truly felt.
But, from 2009, Button feels he will have a car capable of winning grands prix, and potentially pushing for the title, which could see him at the front of the grid with McLaren's Hamilton.
"I hope so," remarked Button when questioned on the matter at the launch of the new car, the RA108, at Honda Racing F1's headquarters in Brackley.
"It's 14 months down the line and we hope to be challenging at the front, but there's a long way to go before that.
"So I'm not thinking about 2009 just yet, I'm thinking about this year, and I admit it won't be us that wins a World Championship.
"It will be McLaren or Ferrari, but for the future in the sport, I can't think of anywhere better to be than here at Honda.
"All thought of leaving has gone. I'm the happiest I've probably been with this team, and not just for this year, but the coming seasons.
"I want to be challenging for the World Championship, which could be in 2009, but if it's not, it's not. It will be the following year."
Hamilton certainly feels fellow Briton Hamilton will be pushing for the world title this year after he missed out on it by a point last season.
"He's with the same team, who believe in him, so he has an awful lot of confidence within the team," added Button.
"If McLaren are quick, then they're going to be challenging and in with a very good chance of winning the World Championship.
"He's also a good team-mate in Heikki (Kovalainen), who is someone who will probably fit in better than (Fernando) Alonso did.
"So it's going to be interesting to see the battles there."
Although now a veteran of the Formula One scene, Button insists he is not standing in the last chance saloon as far as his ambitions are concerned.
"In my mind I've never thought of it as that, instead I've thought 'fantastic, this is exactly what this team needs'," added Button.
"It's going to be a hard battle, but I think over the years we can be challenging for the Championship, and that makes me very happy.
"I knew Honda would not sit around in the position they were last season.
"I knew something would change, and was confident it would, that it was just a matter of time.
"Speaking to them made me realise how serious they were."
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Honda urge Aguri to keep Davidson
Anthony Davidson appears assured of his place on the Formula One grid this season due to pressure from Honda.
The 28-year-old Briton has recently refused to talk about his future due to the uncertainty surrounding Super Aguri, who use Honda engines.
On Monday FIA President Max Mosley commented that he would not stake his life on their being 11 teams starting the season come the opening grand prix in Australia on March 16.
But Honda chief executive Nick Fry on Tuesday stated that Super Aguri would continue to receive his team's backing for this season.
"At this stage the intent is they will be on the grid with Honda engines and Honda support," confirmed Fry.
"But exactly how much of that support comes from here (Honda's headquarters in Brackley) is being worked on at the moment."
It is understood Super Aguri are seeking additional financial backing, with suggestions that could come from India.
If that is the case, such sponsors may push for an Indian to drive the car alongside Takuma Sato - Narain Karthikeyan is a possibility - thus sidelining Davidson.
Although Davidson failed to score a point for Super Aguri last year, his long-standing history with Honda - and in their previous guise as BAR - as test driver gives him the edge in Fry's book.
"We were instrumental in requiring Super Aguri to have drivers of an appropriate standard, and Anthony is definitely someone who is of that standard," added Fry.
"I personally, and we collectively, demanded he be seriously considered as part of their team because he is a driver we could rely on.
"I would not personally be convinced the person mentioned (Karthikeyan) would be of an acceptable standard for us."
The 28-year-old Briton has recently refused to talk about his future due to the uncertainty surrounding Super Aguri, who use Honda engines.
On Monday FIA President Max Mosley commented that he would not stake his life on their being 11 teams starting the season come the opening grand prix in Australia on March 16.
But Honda chief executive Nick Fry on Tuesday stated that Super Aguri would continue to receive his team's backing for this season.
"At this stage the intent is they will be on the grid with Honda engines and Honda support," confirmed Fry.
"But exactly how much of that support comes from here (Honda's headquarters in Brackley) is being worked on at the moment."
It is understood Super Aguri are seeking additional financial backing, with suggestions that could come from India.
If that is the case, such sponsors may push for an Indian to drive the car alongside Takuma Sato - Narain Karthikeyan is a possibility - thus sidelining Davidson.
Although Davidson failed to score a point for Super Aguri last year, his long-standing history with Honda - and in their previous guise as BAR - as test driver gives him the edge in Fry's book.
"We were instrumental in requiring Super Aguri to have drivers of an appropriate standard, and Anthony is definitely someone who is of that standard," added Fry.
"I personally, and we collectively, demanded he be seriously considered as part of their team because he is a driver we could rely on.
"I would not personally be convinced the person mentioned (Karthikeyan) would be of an acceptable standard for us."
Monday, January 28, 2008
Dennis: Our race is with ourselves
McLaren boss Ron Dennis claims the team is only concerned with improving on last season's showing and will not be haunted by the relative failure of their 2007 campaign.
The Woking outfit lost the Drivers' Championship title on the last day of the season after Lewis Hamilton failed to finish high enough, allowing Kimi Raikkonen to claim the title by a single point.
This compounded the misery of losing out on the Constructors' Championship in the wake of the 'spying' scandal.
Dennis believes the team need to ignore their opponents and concentrate on the things they can control.
Dennis told Sky Sports: "We at Vodafone McLaren Mercedes never underestimate our opposition, and we won't do so this year.
"However, our race, if you like, is with ourselves: our team of engineers, at both McLaren and at Mercedes-Benz High Performance
Engines, is constantly striving to develop our car, and our hope and belief is that we'll do it better and more rapidly than our competitors will."
Pressed on whether former McLaren driver Fernando Alonso can put Renault back on the podium this season, Dennis kept his own counsel.
"As I say, our race is with ourselves," he said. "We respect all our competitors, but we don't spend a lot of time worrying about them."
The Woking outfit lost the Drivers' Championship title on the last day of the season after Lewis Hamilton failed to finish high enough, allowing Kimi Raikkonen to claim the title by a single point.
This compounded the misery of losing out on the Constructors' Championship in the wake of the 'spying' scandal.
Dennis believes the team need to ignore their opponents and concentrate on the things they can control.
Dennis told Sky Sports: "We at Vodafone McLaren Mercedes never underestimate our opposition, and we won't do so this year.
"However, our race, if you like, is with ourselves: our team of engineers, at both McLaren and at Mercedes-Benz High Performance
Engines, is constantly striving to develop our car, and our hope and belief is that we'll do it better and more rapidly than our competitors will."
Pressed on whether former McLaren driver Fernando Alonso can put Renault back on the podium this season, Dennis kept his own counsel.
"As I say, our race is with ourselves," he said. "We respect all our competitors, but we don't spend a lot of time worrying about them."
'F1' sold for £440000
Millionaire entrepreneur Afzal Kahn has splashed out a record £440000 for the legendary 'F1' number plate.
The 37-year-old who runs a car design company in Bradford said yesterday: "It stands for Formula 1 and was worth every penny.
"Everyone will recognise my number now. It's a great number on a great car."
The number plate was auctioned by the Essex County Council to raise funds for a charity that will raise the standards of young drivers.
Council leader Lord Hanningfield said: "It will be with some sadness that we will be losing this little piece of Essex history."
The record number plate will be placed on Kahn Design's groundbreaking Range Rover Cosworth, which will be launched soon.
The 37-year-old who runs a car design company in Bradford said yesterday: "It stands for Formula 1 and was worth every penny.
"Everyone will recognise my number now. It's a great number on a great car."
The number plate was auctioned by the Essex County Council to raise funds for a charity that will raise the standards of young drivers.
Council leader Lord Hanningfield said: "It will be with some sadness that we will be losing this little piece of Essex history."
The record number plate will be placed on Kahn Design's groundbreaking Range Rover Cosworth, which will be launched soon.
Force planning February run-out
Force India will be cutting it rather fine when they give their new car its first run-out in Barcelona towards the end of February - a few short weeks before the start of the 2008 season.
The team has a major unveiling planned for a press conference in Mumbai on February 7, where the public will get a first look at the new livery and sponsorship package, with the first test for the 2008 car set to follow on February 25.
The car is scheduled to complete three days of testing in Spain and the team are confident that they'll be challenging for points.
Team owner Vijay Mallya told Autosport: "We now have to work to make India proud of its team. We have to however be realistic.
"There will be no miracle in performance in 2008. Even with significantly more input and aero development, all of this takes time.
"From 2009 onwards I am looking forward to obviously significant improvements. I am clear where we want to be in two years' time: at the Indian Grand Prix in 2010, I want to see a Force India car on the podium.'
The team has a major unveiling planned for a press conference in Mumbai on February 7, where the public will get a first look at the new livery and sponsorship package, with the first test for the 2008 car set to follow on February 25.
The car is scheduled to complete three days of testing in Spain and the team are confident that they'll be challenging for points.
Team owner Vijay Mallya told Autosport: "We now have to work to make India proud of its team. We have to however be realistic.
"There will be no miracle in performance in 2008. Even with significantly more input and aero development, all of this takes time.
"From 2009 onwards I am looking forward to obviously significant improvements. I am clear where we want to be in two years' time: at the Indian Grand Prix in 2010, I want to see a Force India car on the podium.'
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
MOSLEY THREAT TO SPYING TEAMS
FIA president Max Mosley has revealed that any Formula One team caught spying in the future faces expulsion from the championship.
McLaren were fined £50m and kicked out of the 2007 constructors' championship by the FIA's World Motor Sport Council in September after they were found guilty of being in illegal possession of Ferrari technical data.
However, their drivers, Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso, were allowed to retain their championship points and fight for the drivers' crown.
But speaking to the official Formula One website, Mosley warned that such leniency would not be exercised were there to be a repeat incident.
"You can never stop what someone has got in his head, but we can stop the transfer of information in written or electronic form," Mosley said.
"And if you are prepared to check - and we have demonstrated that we are - then somebody using such information would be very unwise because in a modern F1 team you cannot do it without leaving traces, and we will find those traces.
"Next time, whoever it was, I don't think they would stay in the championship.
"In the case of McLaren everybody said 'oh, a hundred million dollars', but the alternative would have been to exclude them - and that would have been more expensive
McLaren were fined £50m and kicked out of the 2007 constructors' championship by the FIA's World Motor Sport Council in September after they were found guilty of being in illegal possession of Ferrari technical data.
However, their drivers, Lewis Hamilton and Fernando Alonso, were allowed to retain their championship points and fight for the drivers' crown.
But speaking to the official Formula One website, Mosley warned that such leniency would not be exercised were there to be a repeat incident.
"You can never stop what someone has got in his head, but we can stop the transfer of information in written or electronic form," Mosley said.
"And if you are prepared to check - and we have demonstrated that we are - then somebody using such information would be very unwise because in a modern F1 team you cannot do it without leaving traces, and we will find those traces.
"Next time, whoever it was, I don't think they would stay in the championship.
"In the case of McLaren everybody said 'oh, a hundred million dollars', but the alternative would have been to exclude them - and that would have been more expensive
Alonso pleased with new car's debut
Fernando Alonso was encouraged by the track debut of Renault's Formula One car for the 2008 season.
Ahead of next week's formal launch, two-time World Champion Alonso took the new car for 39 laps around the Valencia track, and was pleased with his initial findings.
"When you have your first day with a new car you always have to take your time to check all the systems are functioning correctly and that is what we did today," said the Spaniard.
"Everything went well but it is still too early to try and compare our performance with that of other teams, and that was not the objective today.
"The good news is we encountered few problems and we will be able to continue our work tomorrow."
Spanish driver Alonso is back at Renault after a troubled season with McLaren, and he was happy with early impressions of the R28 car.
"The car ran pretty much trouble-free, that is about as good a first day as you can expect with a new car," said chassis technical director Bob Bell.
"We would have completed our first run pretty much on time if it had not been for the weather and I think that's a real tribute to the whole factory and all the hard work that has been put in to get this car here today."
Renault, third last season after winning the 2005 and 2006 championships, will launch the new car in Paris on January 31.
Ahead of next week's formal launch, two-time World Champion Alonso took the new car for 39 laps around the Valencia track, and was pleased with his initial findings.
"When you have your first day with a new car you always have to take your time to check all the systems are functioning correctly and that is what we did today," said the Spaniard.
"Everything went well but it is still too early to try and compare our performance with that of other teams, and that was not the objective today.
"The good news is we encountered few problems and we will be able to continue our work tomorrow."
Spanish driver Alonso is back at Renault after a troubled season with McLaren, and he was happy with early impressions of the R28 car.
"The car ran pretty much trouble-free, that is about as good a first day as you can expect with a new car," said chassis technical director Bob Bell.
"We would have completed our first run pretty much on time if it had not been for the weather and I think that's a real tribute to the whole factory and all the hard work that has been put in to get this car here today."
Renault, third last season after winning the 2005 and 2006 championships, will launch the new car in Paris on January 31.
Renault positive after first run
The Renault team are feeling positive about the upcoming season after witnessing the new R28 in action for the first time at Valencia on Monday.
Fernando Alonso, who is returning to the team with whom he won both his World titles, put the new car through its paces at the Spanish track. He amassed 39 laps and didn't encounter any problems as the team completed its programme for the day.
"It was a good first day of work, which is always important with a new car," said Renault's test chief engineer, Christian Silk.
"The whole team is very enthusiastic about working with the R28 and it is clear that everyone has given their all to get this new car on track.
"We were able to follow our programme without any difficulties and there were no big surprises with the new car. It is a solid basis on which we can build in the days to come."
Bob Bell, the team's technical director, was full of praise for all those working in the Renault factory, saying it's thanks to them that the team could get through their first test without any glitches.
"Today has been very successful. We completed just under 40 laps and the car ran pretty much trouble-free - that is about as good a first day as you can expect with a new car," he said.
"We would have completed our first run pretty much on time if it had not been for the weather, and I think that's a real tribute to the whole factory and all the hard work that has been put in to get this car here today.
"Overall, a really positive first day's work."
Fernando Alonso, who is returning to the team with whom he won both his World titles, put the new car through its paces at the Spanish track. He amassed 39 laps and didn't encounter any problems as the team completed its programme for the day.
"It was a good first day of work, which is always important with a new car," said Renault's test chief engineer, Christian Silk.
"The whole team is very enthusiastic about working with the R28 and it is clear that everyone has given their all to get this new car on track.
"We were able to follow our programme without any difficulties and there were no big surprises with the new car. It is a solid basis on which we can build in the days to come."
Bob Bell, the team's technical director, was full of praise for all those working in the Renault factory, saying it's thanks to them that the team could get through their first test without any glitches.
"Today has been very successful. We completed just under 40 laps and the car ran pretty much trouble-free - that is about as good a first day as you can expect with a new car," he said.
"We would have completed our first run pretty much on time if it had not been for the weather, and I think that's a real tribute to the whole factory and all the hard work that has been put in to get this car here today.
"Overall, a really positive first day's work."
Mosley: Budget cap is achievable
FIA President Max Mosley is pushing ahead with plans to impose a budget cap in Formula One by the start of the 2009 season.
While some people have met the suggestion with a lot of scepticism, Mosley believes it is accomplishable and is the way forward for the sport.
The proposed budget cap would exclude drivers' salaries, engines as well as funds spent on marketing promotion.
"I think for a long time the feeling was with the big manufacturers that costs doesn't really matter, that they don't care," he told the official Formula One website.
"Now everybody understands that they do care and in fact it became of big importance to them. The teams at the last meeting were strongly in favour - or almost all of them were strongly in favour - of a cost cap rather then specific regulations.
"With the cost cap, the amount of money is limited, but you can spend it any way you want, whereas if we start saying this is for the use of the wind tunnel or the computer, one team has a big wind tunnel, the other has got a big computer, so you end up getting everybody unhappy.
"But obviously the problem with the cost cap is we have got to agree how we are going to enforce it, how are we going to check - and what the figure should be.
"I am very convinced that we are able to do it, but people are still sceptical, saying: 'how will you know for sure they haven't had something given to them?' The answer is we've got some very good plans for that. It will all be discussed in the next few months."
The proposal was first discussed at a meeting of team bosses in Paris last week and most teams were open to the idea except Ferrari who were reportedly strongly against it.
While some people have met the suggestion with a lot of scepticism, Mosley believes it is accomplishable and is the way forward for the sport.
The proposed budget cap would exclude drivers' salaries, engines as well as funds spent on marketing promotion.
"I think for a long time the feeling was with the big manufacturers that costs doesn't really matter, that they don't care," he told the official Formula One website.
"Now everybody understands that they do care and in fact it became of big importance to them. The teams at the last meeting were strongly in favour - or almost all of them were strongly in favour - of a cost cap rather then specific regulations.
"With the cost cap, the amount of money is limited, but you can spend it any way you want, whereas if we start saying this is for the use of the wind tunnel or the computer, one team has a big wind tunnel, the other has got a big computer, so you end up getting everybody unhappy.
"But obviously the problem with the cost cap is we have got to agree how we are going to enforce it, how are we going to check - and what the figure should be.
"I am very convinced that we are able to do it, but people are still sceptical, saying: 'how will you know for sure they haven't had something given to them?' The answer is we've got some very good plans for that. It will all be discussed in the next few months."
The proposal was first discussed at a meeting of team bosses in Paris last week and most teams were open to the idea except Ferrari who were reportedly strongly against it.
Malaysia keen on a night race
Malaysia is keen to add its name to the list of countries wanting to host a night grand prix in the future.
Singapore will make history later this year when the country hosts Formula One's first ever night race. However, even before the race has been run Malaysia has expressed an interest in following Singapore's example.
"Our target is to have the race at night next year and the same consultants (as Singapore) are doing the lighting system," Sepang's chairman Datuk Mokhzani Mahathir told Autosport.
"It won't be the same (as Singapore). Our lighting system will probably have to shine from further out, not within the circuit. We are still studying all the factors involved."
Singapore will host F1's first night race on September 28th 2008
Singapore will make history later this year when the country hosts Formula One's first ever night race. However, even before the race has been run Malaysia has expressed an interest in following Singapore's example.
"Our target is to have the race at night next year and the same consultants (as Singapore) are doing the lighting system," Sepang's chairman Datuk Mokhzani Mahathir told Autosport.
"It won't be the same (as Singapore). Our lighting system will probably have to shine from further out, not within the circuit. We are still studying all the factors involved."
Singapore will host F1's first night race on September 28th 2008
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Klien confident despite losing out
Christian Klien is confident he will be racing in 2008 despite losing out on a Force India race-seat to Giancarlo Fisichella.
Force India, formerly known as Spyker, announced earlier this week that Fisichella would be partnering Adrian Sutil this season, leaving Klien without a drive
However, the Austrian, who tested with Force India during the winter, is grateful to the team for at least giving him the opportunity to try out.
"I would like to thank Force India F1 for providing me with the testing opportunities in Barcelona and Jerez," he said.
"It was a very satisfying experience and the team did a really good job. I was happy to be fastest in Jerez and feel I worked very well with the team.
"There was intense competition for the remaining race seat beside Adrian Sutil and that was my goal after a season as test and reserve driver for the Honda Racing F1 Team."
As for his future, Klien reckons it's only a matter of time before he's back racing, although that doesn't necessarily mean it will be in F1.
"Obviously my first choice remains Formula One. It is important to me, however, to keep my race skills fully exercised. Therefore, I have been considering other options for the 2008 season," he added.
"There are good opportunities outside of Formula One, that I want to explore and I am very much looking forward to developments in the coming weeks
Force India, formerly known as Spyker, announced earlier this week that Fisichella would be partnering Adrian Sutil this season, leaving Klien without a drive
However, the Austrian, who tested with Force India during the winter, is grateful to the team for at least giving him the opportunity to try out.
"I would like to thank Force India F1 for providing me with the testing opportunities in Barcelona and Jerez," he said.
"It was a very satisfying experience and the team did a really good job. I was happy to be fastest in Jerez and feel I worked very well with the team.
"There was intense competition for the remaining race seat beside Adrian Sutil and that was my goal after a season as test and reserve driver for the Honda Racing F1 Team."
As for his future, Klien reckons it's only a matter of time before he's back racing, although that doesn't necessarily mean it will be in F1.
"Obviously my first choice remains Formula One. It is important to me, however, to keep my race skills fully exercised. Therefore, I have been considering other options for the 2008 season," he added.
"There are good opportunities outside of Formula One, that I want to explore and I am very much looking forward to developments in the coming weeks
Ferrari promise equal status
Ferrari have vowed to give both their drivers equal status this season, despite Kimi Raikkonen being the reigning Formula One World Champion.
Raikkonen clinched the title last season while his team-mate Felipe Massa could only manage fourth place.
But despite the Finn clearly having the edge over Massa last year - especially during the latter part of the season - Ferrari have insisted that both drivers will start the year on an equal footing.
"We have our drivers who start on an equal basis," team boss Stefano Domenicali said during Ferrari's annual winter event at Madonna Di Campiglio.
"They are going to play it out with their own chances of victory, and there are no changes from this point of view. They are both on an equal basis."
Driver policy
Domenicali, who has replaced Jean Todt at the helm of Ferrari's F1 team, added his belief that Ferrari's driver policy speaks for itself, given the number of Drivers' Championships the Scuderia have won in recent years.
"One of the fundamental factors for the success of the last few years, not only of last year, has been having been able to manage our drivers," he said.
"It is clear that in the spirit of the driver, each one wants to be the strongest and it is correct to be so, but this must be implemented within the team spirit and from this point of view, I have to say that Felipe last year did an extraordinary job.
"It wasn't easy for a driver, in general, to make himself available to the needs of the team to be able to win a Championship.
"So I think that one of the strengths of Ferrari has been the fact that we've always well defined the rules with the drivers and there's been a great professionalism on the part of all the drivers who respect the needs of their team-mate but also the need for coming first and it's correct for them to have this desire."
Raikkonen clinched the title last season while his team-mate Felipe Massa could only manage fourth place.
But despite the Finn clearly having the edge over Massa last year - especially during the latter part of the season - Ferrari have insisted that both drivers will start the year on an equal footing.
"We have our drivers who start on an equal basis," team boss Stefano Domenicali said during Ferrari's annual winter event at Madonna Di Campiglio.
"They are going to play it out with their own chances of victory, and there are no changes from this point of view. They are both on an equal basis."
Driver policy
Domenicali, who has replaced Jean Todt at the helm of Ferrari's F1 team, added his belief that Ferrari's driver policy speaks for itself, given the number of Drivers' Championships the Scuderia have won in recent years.
"One of the fundamental factors for the success of the last few years, not only of last year, has been having been able to manage our drivers," he said.
"It is clear that in the spirit of the driver, each one wants to be the strongest and it is correct to be so, but this must be implemented within the team spirit and from this point of view, I have to say that Felipe last year did an extraordinary job.
"It wasn't easy for a driver, in general, to make himself available to the needs of the team to be able to win a Championship.
"So I think that one of the strengths of Ferrari has been the fact that we've always well defined the rules with the drivers and there's been a great professionalism on the part of all the drivers who respect the needs of their team-mate but also the need for coming first and it's correct for them to have this desire."
McLaren conclude Jerez test
McLaren-Mercedes wrapped up the first test of the new MP4-23 at Jerez on Friday with both Lewis Hamilton and Heikki Kovalainen at the wheel.
The pair, who were also both in action on Thursday, continued to familiarise themselves with the team's 2008 challenger.
Hamilton was the quicker of the two for the second successive day, clocking a time of one minute 19.691 seconds, which put him 0.061s ahead of his new team-mate.
The team will be back in action at Jerez on Monday, where test drivers Pedro de la Rosa and Gary Paffett will continue with the development of the new car.
The pair, who were also both in action on Thursday, continued to familiarise themselves with the team's 2008 challenger.
Hamilton was the quicker of the two for the second successive day, clocking a time of one minute 19.691 seconds, which put him 0.061s ahead of his new team-mate.
The team will be back in action at Jerez on Monday, where test drivers Pedro de la Rosa and Gary Paffett will continue with the development of the new car.
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
McLaren put spy row behind them
McLaren are confident they can shrug off the effects of last season's spy row and resume winning races in 2008.
McLaren halted development on its new MP4-23 car after Formula One's governing body, the FIA, feared it could incorporate Ferrari data.
But chief executive Martin Whitmarsh says the 2008 car is still competitive.
"We came up with those areas and we do not believe we are handicapped by that," he said. "We can develop a car that has the opportunity to win races."
McLaren were fined £50m and stripped of all their constructors' points last September for possessing a 780-page dossier of confidential Ferrari information.
The dust finally settled on the spy row before Christmas when the team issued an apology and agreed to freeze development of their 2008 car.
The FIA feared design aspects of the quick-shift gears and fast fuel fill and the use of CO2 as a tyre gas could have been derived from the Ferrari document.
I'm just very focused on the future - we know what we are doing and where we are going
McLaren boss Ron Dennis
However, Whitmarsh insisted the team's decision to alter the development plans would not effect their ambitions for the season ahead.
"We volunteered those three areas because we did not want there to be any ambiguity or any question during the course of this year that any of our programme had been influenced by the events of last year," he said.
"We are happy that there is no influence in the development of last year's or this year's car.
"We are in there with equal opportunity with the other teams with hopefully a competitive car to compete and win races."
Whitmarsh also said the new MP4-23 car, which he described as an evolution, was already faster than the one they ended 2007 with.
Team boss Ron Dennis was equally keen to move on from the events of last season and get down to testing the new car in Jerez this week.
"It's not a question of even spending time thinking about the past," said McLaren, who has been involved in Formula One for 41 years.
"I've spent too much time in that period, so I'm just very focused on the future. We know what we are doing and where we are going.
"My enthusiasm is as strong as you would expect it to be. I'm a racer at heart."
McLaren halted development on its new MP4-23 car after Formula One's governing body, the FIA, feared it could incorporate Ferrari data.
But chief executive Martin Whitmarsh says the 2008 car is still competitive.
"We came up with those areas and we do not believe we are handicapped by that," he said. "We can develop a car that has the opportunity to win races."
McLaren were fined £50m and stripped of all their constructors' points last September for possessing a 780-page dossier of confidential Ferrari information.
The dust finally settled on the spy row before Christmas when the team issued an apology and agreed to freeze development of their 2008 car.
The FIA feared design aspects of the quick-shift gears and fast fuel fill and the use of CO2 as a tyre gas could have been derived from the Ferrari document.
I'm just very focused on the future - we know what we are doing and where we are going
McLaren boss Ron Dennis
However, Whitmarsh insisted the team's decision to alter the development plans would not effect their ambitions for the season ahead.
"We volunteered those three areas because we did not want there to be any ambiguity or any question during the course of this year that any of our programme had been influenced by the events of last year," he said.
"We are happy that there is no influence in the development of last year's or this year's car.
"We are in there with equal opportunity with the other teams with hopefully a competitive car to compete and win races."
Whitmarsh also said the new MP4-23 car, which he described as an evolution, was already faster than the one they ended 2007 with.
Team boss Ron Dennis was equally keen to move on from the events of last season and get down to testing the new car in Jerez this week.
"It's not a question of even spending time thinking about the past," said McLaren, who has been involved in Formula One for 41 years.
"I've spent too much time in that period, so I'm just very focused on the future. We know what we are doing and where we are going.
"My enthusiasm is as strong as you would expect it to be. I'm a racer at heart."
Hamilton vows to return stronger
Lewis Hamilton predicts he will have a strong Formula One season after the disappointment of the 2007 campaign.
Briton Hamilton was pipped to the F1 title in the last race in a year that was marred by his frosty relationship with former team-mate Fernando Alonso.
As McLaren unveiled their new car for the 2008 season, Hamilton said: "Every year I grow, with the knocks, mistakes, disappointments, even race victories.
"I honestly believe I can do an even better job this season."
The 23-year-old finished second behind Ferrari's Kimi Raikkonen in his rookie season, but a remarkable campaign was overshadowed by a well publicised breakdown in his relationship with Spaniard Alonso.
McLaren were also fined £50m and stripped of their constructors' points in the Ferrari spy row.
Alonso has since returned to Renault, with Heikki Kovalainen travelling in the opposite direction, and Hamilton insists he and the team are now in better shape than ever.
"I wouldn't say that what happened last year was a blow, but you wouldn't be human if you didn't feel anything," he said.
"But I've recovered from it and I feel even stronger, mentally and physically, and now I'm just excited and even more determined than I have been in the past.
"Last year was a steep learning curve. I knew what I wanted last year, but it was having that desire and not really knowing how to fill the shoes 100%.
"This year, I feel more at home, more confident and more relaxed, and even more sure of what I want.
"I just believe it's a fresh start for us all, turning over a new leaf."
Hamilton and Kovalainen will test the MP4-23 in Spain later this week ahead of the new season, which starts on 16 March with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne.
And McLaren team boss Ron Dennis said: "Our ultimate aim is to be competitive for the drivers' and constructors' championships.
It was just the best year of my life but I know it can be better
Lewis Hamilton
"Everybody worked hard at the end of 2007 so that the car would be ready as quickly as possible to allow our drivers to test it for the longest possible time."
Hamilton, who missed out on the driver's title by a single point, added: "I've done a lot of really good preparation already, way before the first test even.
"My engineer said that it needed 14,000 working hours to ensure that the car was ready for Monday. I'm really looking forward to driving it for the first time on Thursday.
"I thoroughly enjoyed last year, just the whole year. It was just the best year of my life but I know it can be better."
McLaren chief executive Martin Whitmarsh said the new car already looked promising.
"We already know that the car is quicker than the one we raced in Brazil at the end of last season," he said.
"There's a lot more lap time to be added to the car before the start of the season."
Kovalainen said he was confident he would be treated as Hamilton's equal, even though he has just joined a team that the Englishman has been with for 10 years.
"I would not have come if I did not think I had a chance to fight for the championship," insisted Kovalainen.
"We don't know how the season will develop, but I have the same opportunity as Lewis.
"So it's up to me to build a relationship with the team and make it as strong as possible, and then we will see what happens."
Briton Hamilton was pipped to the F1 title in the last race in a year that was marred by his frosty relationship with former team-mate Fernando Alonso.
As McLaren unveiled their new car for the 2008 season, Hamilton said: "Every year I grow, with the knocks, mistakes, disappointments, even race victories.
"I honestly believe I can do an even better job this season."
The 23-year-old finished second behind Ferrari's Kimi Raikkonen in his rookie season, but a remarkable campaign was overshadowed by a well publicised breakdown in his relationship with Spaniard Alonso.
McLaren were also fined £50m and stripped of their constructors' points in the Ferrari spy row.
Alonso has since returned to Renault, with Heikki Kovalainen travelling in the opposite direction, and Hamilton insists he and the team are now in better shape than ever.
"I wouldn't say that what happened last year was a blow, but you wouldn't be human if you didn't feel anything," he said.
"But I've recovered from it and I feel even stronger, mentally and physically, and now I'm just excited and even more determined than I have been in the past.
"Last year was a steep learning curve. I knew what I wanted last year, but it was having that desire and not really knowing how to fill the shoes 100%.
"This year, I feel more at home, more confident and more relaxed, and even more sure of what I want.
"I just believe it's a fresh start for us all, turning over a new leaf."
Hamilton and Kovalainen will test the MP4-23 in Spain later this week ahead of the new season, which starts on 16 March with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne.
And McLaren team boss Ron Dennis said: "Our ultimate aim is to be competitive for the drivers' and constructors' championships.
It was just the best year of my life but I know it can be better
Lewis Hamilton
"Everybody worked hard at the end of 2007 so that the car would be ready as quickly as possible to allow our drivers to test it for the longest possible time."
Hamilton, who missed out on the driver's title by a single point, added: "I've done a lot of really good preparation already, way before the first test even.
"My engineer said that it needed 14,000 working hours to ensure that the car was ready for Monday. I'm really looking forward to driving it for the first time on Thursday.
"I thoroughly enjoyed last year, just the whole year. It was just the best year of my life but I know it can be better."
McLaren chief executive Martin Whitmarsh said the new car already looked promising.
"We already know that the car is quicker than the one we raced in Brazil at the end of last season," he said.
"There's a lot more lap time to be added to the car before the start of the season."
Kovalainen said he was confident he would be treated as Hamilton's equal, even though he has just joined a team that the Englishman has been with for 10 years.
"I would not have come if I did not think I had a chance to fight for the championship," insisted Kovalainen.
"We don't know how the season will develop, but I have the same opportunity as Lewis.
"So it's up to me to build a relationship with the team and make it as strong as possible, and then we will see what happens."
Fisichella 'set for Force India'
Force India Formula One team are expected to announce on Thursday that Giancarlo Fisichella will be one of their drivers for the 2008 season.
Italian Fisichella has been without a drive since his contract with Renault expired at the end of last year.
But the 34-year-old impressed while testing in Spain for the renamed Spyker team and looks set to complete their driver line-up alongside Adrian Sutil.
Force India have yet to officially confirm Fisichella's appointment.
Fellow Italian Vitantonio Liuzzi is also expected to be appointed as tester.
Liuzzi raced for Ferrari-powered Toro Rosso in 2007 but has been replaced there by France's four-times ChampCar champion Sebastien Bourdais.
Italian Fisichella has been without a drive since his contract with Renault expired at the end of last year.
But the 34-year-old impressed while testing in Spain for the renamed Spyker team and looks set to complete their driver line-up alongside Adrian Sutil.
Force India have yet to officially confirm Fisichella's appointment.
Fellow Italian Vitantonio Liuzzi is also expected to be appointed as tester.
Liuzzi raced for Ferrari-powered Toro Rosso in 2007 but has been replaced there by France's four-times ChampCar champion Sebastien Bourdais.
Raikkonen positive after F2008 shakedown
After Monday's Fiorano shakedown, Kimi Raikkonen says his first impression of the Ferrari F2008 is a positive one.
The World Champion tested in wet and misty conditions and explained that the car was easy to control despite the slippery track and the absence of traction control.
"The first impressions of the new car were very positive," said Raikkonen. "I don't think we have to make any improvements at the moment.
"There were some problems today and we still don't have the final tyres; but the impression was really fine. Next week we have further possibilities to see how the car behaves."
"I don't have many points of reference," he added. "I can only compare it to the last car. I did a test without traction control before Christmas and I have to say that first of all you have to drive very cautiously and consider that a car with traction control is fast and might respond a little bit faster.
"Surely the first impression is really positive and you can handle the car even without the traction control. The weather could have been better today, but it is really nice to drive this single-seater."
The Finn completed 55 laps and clocked a best time of 1.00.897. The Maranello-based team will resume testing on January 14 at the same track with both Raikkonen and Felipe Massa behind the wheel.
The World Champion tested in wet and misty conditions and explained that the car was easy to control despite the slippery track and the absence of traction control.
"The first impressions of the new car were very positive," said Raikkonen. "I don't think we have to make any improvements at the moment.
"There were some problems today and we still don't have the final tyres; but the impression was really fine. Next week we have further possibilities to see how the car behaves."
"I don't have many points of reference," he added. "I can only compare it to the last car. I did a test without traction control before Christmas and I have to say that first of all you have to drive very cautiously and consider that a car with traction control is fast and might respond a little bit faster.
"Surely the first impression is really positive and you can handle the car even without the traction control. The weather could have been better today, but it is really nice to drive this single-seater."
The Finn completed 55 laps and clocked a best time of 1.00.897. The Maranello-based team will resume testing on January 14 at the same track with both Raikkonen and Felipe Massa behind the wheel.
Monday, January 7, 2008
F2008 technical specifications
The Scuderia Ferrari F2008 is the fifty fourth single-seater built by the Italian team specifically to take part in the Formula 1 World Championship.
The design, codenamed internally as the 659, represents the Scuderia's interpretation of the regulations in force in 2008.
A major new element of these is the introduction of a new electronic system to be used by all teams, known as SECU (Standard Electronic Control Unit) and produced by MES (McLaren Electronic Systems.) It consists of a single control unit and a software system, the development of which ends as the season begins.
Other areas affected by rule changes are: gearbox, which must be used for four consecutive events; safety, with the introduction of higher side protection around the driver's helmet; materials, with a limit to the type of composites that can be used. As a result of these rules, there has been an increase in the weight of the car.
All aerodynamic surfaces have been completely revised, however the current version will be replaced by a completely different configuration in time for the first race. In fact, an intensive and all encompassing development programme is planned to run throughout the season. The monococque has been further cut away under the driver's legs and the side pods and engine cover are more tapered. The suspension system has been reworked and developed around the new aerodynamics.
The wheelbase and weight distribution have been adapted to meet the challenge of the new regulations and on the basis of lessons learned last year in terms of the performance of the Bridgestone tyres.
Changes to the technical and sporting regulations in terms of electronics, alongside the introduction of the SECU, have led to the removal of a host of a driver aids, such as traction control and engine breaking and the electronically assosted starting system, and also mean that management of the differential, engine and gearchange are much simpler.
The gearbox casing is produced in carbon, while the transmission continues to be mounted longitudinally. For the second consecutive year the gearchange is fitted with a quick shift system, adapted to the SECU software and further speeded up. In dealing with the reliability aspect of the new regulations, Shell has played a key role in defining the lubricants for the gearbox. The braking system has been updated with new callipers and innovative concepts regarding cooling.
The 056 engine is mounted longitudinally and continues as a load bearing element. Its basic structure remains unchanged compared to the unit homologated at the start of last season, while its auxiliary systems, air and fuel intakes have been further developed. The technical regulations also call for the use of fuel corresponding to European Union norms, with a content of components derived from biological sources equal to 5.75%.
As usual, during the design and development stages of the entire car, our technical partners played an important role. Apart from previously mentioned significant input from Shell , also worthy of note is the contribution of the Fiat Research Centre, especially in providing simulation systems and Brembo for its work in developing the braking system. As is now traditional, a great deal of attention was paid to the performance and optimising of the materials used at the design stage and through quality control, striving to maximise performance levels while attaining the highest possible safety standards.
SpecificationsChassis: Carbon-fibre and honeycomb, composite structureDifferential: Limited-slip differentialGearbox: Ferrari longitudinal, Semiautomatic sequential (7 speeds + reverse), electronically controlled gearbox, quick-shiftBrakes: Ventiled carbon-fibre disc brakesSuspension: Independent suspension, push-rod activated torsion springs front and rearWeight: (with water, lubricant and driver): 605 kgBBS Wheels: (front and rear): 13 in
EngineType: 056Number of cylinders: 8Cylinder block in cast aluminium: V 90°Number of valves: 32Distribution: neumatic distributionTotal displacement: 2398 cm3Piston bore: 98 mmWeight: <95 kgInjection: Magneti Marelli digital electronic injectionIgnition: Magneti Marelli static electronic ignitionFuel: Shell V-Power ULG 64Lubrcant: Shell SL-1098
The design, codenamed internally as the 659, represents the Scuderia's interpretation of the regulations in force in 2008.
A major new element of these is the introduction of a new electronic system to be used by all teams, known as SECU (Standard Electronic Control Unit) and produced by MES (McLaren Electronic Systems.) It consists of a single control unit and a software system, the development of which ends as the season begins.
Other areas affected by rule changes are: gearbox, which must be used for four consecutive events; safety, with the introduction of higher side protection around the driver's helmet; materials, with a limit to the type of composites that can be used. As a result of these rules, there has been an increase in the weight of the car.
All aerodynamic surfaces have been completely revised, however the current version will be replaced by a completely different configuration in time for the first race. In fact, an intensive and all encompassing development programme is planned to run throughout the season. The monococque has been further cut away under the driver's legs and the side pods and engine cover are more tapered. The suspension system has been reworked and developed around the new aerodynamics.
The wheelbase and weight distribution have been adapted to meet the challenge of the new regulations and on the basis of lessons learned last year in terms of the performance of the Bridgestone tyres.
Changes to the technical and sporting regulations in terms of electronics, alongside the introduction of the SECU, have led to the removal of a host of a driver aids, such as traction control and engine breaking and the electronically assosted starting system, and also mean that management of the differential, engine and gearchange are much simpler.
The gearbox casing is produced in carbon, while the transmission continues to be mounted longitudinally. For the second consecutive year the gearchange is fitted with a quick shift system, adapted to the SECU software and further speeded up. In dealing with the reliability aspect of the new regulations, Shell has played a key role in defining the lubricants for the gearbox. The braking system has been updated with new callipers and innovative concepts regarding cooling.
The 056 engine is mounted longitudinally and continues as a load bearing element. Its basic structure remains unchanged compared to the unit homologated at the start of last season, while its auxiliary systems, air and fuel intakes have been further developed. The technical regulations also call for the use of fuel corresponding to European Union norms, with a content of components derived from biological sources equal to 5.75%.
As usual, during the design and development stages of the entire car, our technical partners played an important role. Apart from previously mentioned significant input from Shell , also worthy of note is the contribution of the Fiat Research Centre, especially in providing simulation systems and Brembo for its work in developing the braking system. As is now traditional, a great deal of attention was paid to the performance and optimising of the materials used at the design stage and through quality control, striving to maximise performance levels while attaining the highest possible safety standards.
SpecificationsChassis: Carbon-fibre and honeycomb, composite structureDifferential: Limited-slip differentialGearbox: Ferrari longitudinal, Semiautomatic sequential (7 speeds + reverse), electronically controlled gearbox, quick-shiftBrakes: Ventiled carbon-fibre disc brakesSuspension: Independent suspension, push-rod activated torsion springs front and rearWeight: (with water, lubricant and driver): 605 kgBBS Wheels: (front and rear): 13 in
EngineType: 056Number of cylinders: 8Cylinder block in cast aluminium: V 90°Number of valves: 32Distribution: neumatic distributionTotal displacement: 2398 cm3Piston bore: 98 mmWeight: <95 kgInjection: Magneti Marelli digital electronic injectionIgnition: Magneti Marelli static electronic ignitionFuel: Shell V-Power ULG 64Lubrcant: Shell SL-1098
Drivers open dialogue over safety in the wet
F1 drivers are in "dialogue" with the FIA as fears mount over the safety of racing in the wet without traction control.
TC is outlawed for the 2008 season, which has prompted drivers to open talks with F1 race director Charlie Whiting.
Whiting is the man responsible for deciding when a grand prix should be stopped should conditions become too dangerous.
The objective of the talks is to get the drivers and Whiting on the same page with regards to safety in the wet.
David Coulthard is confident in Whiting's ability, but is eager to implement a plan of action to avoid risking driver safety.
The Scottish veteran told Autosport: "Fernando Alonso aquaplaned off the road in Fuji (last year) - even with TC. The electronics still couldn't support him - and that will happen a lot more without traction control because Formula One engines are very peaky.
"I'm very relaxed about how Charlie operates. He may have made some difficult decisions - but he's only reacting on the information he's had. He doesn't have the spray we have - when you're flat out at 180mph you see simply nothing.
"But I'm confident Charlie will do the right thing based on us helping and advising him - and that's why we've started a dialogue now rather than trying to react afterwards."
Felipe Massa explained that the nature of modern F1 cars means it is wrong to compare the pre-TC days with 2008.
The driver Ferrari said: "In terms of safety, this is a big step backwards. For sure, we will have more accidents and racing in wet conditions will be very dangerous.
"I've spoken with Michael Schumacher and several other drivers and they've told me it will be more dangerous driving a car without TC now than it was in the past. Another race like Fuji would be very dangerous."
Nonetheless, FIA president Max Mosley does not believe that the absence of TC will compromise safety. Mosley believes that speeds will be lower sans TC, which means less chance of injury.
"Driving in the wet is quite dangerous - with or without traction control," he explained to Autosport. "It's dangerous in the sense that you're likely to go off but you're less likely to hurt yourself because the speeds will be lower. That was always the theory of the grooved tyre because you reduced the grip and the severity of the accident.
"Imagine, in the most extreme circumstances, holding the British Grand Prix at Silverstone on packed snow - nobody would get hurt because nobody would ever get up to enough speed to do any damage!
"It will make it more difficult in the wet - but it's difficult in the wet anyway. And people forget, even the least competent F1 driver is still amazingly good at what he does. And it won't cause any of them much trouble
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Ant Davidson certain to retain Aguri seat
Super Aguri's managing director Daniel Audetto claims that Ant Davidson is "100 per cent" certain to race for the team this season.
The British driver enjoyed a steady, if unspectacular, 2007. Although the Davidson failed to score a point in his first full season Audetto insists the 28-year-old's seat is safe.
Audetto said he believes the former Honda test driver is certain to retain his drive.
"Definitely, 100 per cent, he's doing a fantastic job," Audetto told ITV.
"I think Anthony is proving that he was a good choice: the speed is still there and the maturity is coming.
"So I expect that next year we are going to have two very good drivers."
Ant is confident that he will remain in F1 because of the improvements he has shown.
"I'm happy with what I've done," he said. "It's exactly what I wanted to really - getting better every race."
"And especially in the second half of the year I'm convinced I did a brilliant job.
"I think everyone could see that the speed was always there in qualifying; I outqualified my team-mate 10-7.
"That's a good effort in your rookie year I think.
The former Minardi man also believes that he is one of the better drivers in the field and also questioned the standard of some of the drivers in the sport.
"I'm so happy I've proved to myself that I'm good enough for F1, and probably better than half the grid - I can say that easily, without a doubt," he explained.
"I've done everything, I feel, that could have been asked from me, and probably more as well."
"I think some of the driver choices that have happened in the past, and will continue to happen, have been shocking," he said.
"I mean, this is Formula 1 - we're supposed to be the best guys in the world driving these cars, and clearly history would suggest that hasn't been the case."
The British driver enjoyed a steady, if unspectacular, 2007. Although the Davidson failed to score a point in his first full season Audetto insists the 28-year-old's seat is safe.
Audetto said he believes the former Honda test driver is certain to retain his drive.
"Definitely, 100 per cent, he's doing a fantastic job," Audetto told ITV.
"I think Anthony is proving that he was a good choice: the speed is still there and the maturity is coming.
"So I expect that next year we are going to have two very good drivers."
Ant is confident that he will remain in F1 because of the improvements he has shown.
"I'm happy with what I've done," he said. "It's exactly what I wanted to really - getting better every race."
"And especially in the second half of the year I'm convinced I did a brilliant job.
"I think everyone could see that the speed was always there in qualifying; I outqualified my team-mate 10-7.
"That's a good effort in your rookie year I think.
The former Minardi man also believes that he is one of the better drivers in the field and also questioned the standard of some of the drivers in the sport.
"I'm so happy I've proved to myself that I'm good enough for F1, and probably better than half the grid - I can say that easily, without a doubt," he explained.
"I've done everything, I feel, that could have been asked from me, and probably more as well."
"I think some of the driver choices that have happened in the past, and will continue to happen, have been shocking," he said.
"I mean, this is Formula 1 - we're supposed to be the best guys in the world driving these cars, and clearly history would suggest that hasn't been the case."
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