Any Formula 1 racing fans out there?

[5150 Lego]

I wouldn't base anything on that.

The hearing isn't until the 21st and of course noone would make public comments until then.

Except the Picquets

I've been searching a few F1 related news sites and none of them go any further than talking about the hearing and the allegations made by Nelsinho and his father.

Personally I highly doubt there's anything to come for.

If they've persuaded Nelsinho to crash, then how is he going to prove it?

Does he have a recording or contract on it?

No!

All he has is a battered image as a crappy driver and he's trying to blame Renault for it.

Ahh KimT... Your love for Renault has blinded you from the facts that have been presented right in front you of my friend.

How can you say you wouldn't base anything on that transcript? If there was no foul play then why wouldn't Simonds just deny that a conversation took place? And more than one F1 website have reported that neither Bravio or Simonds deny that a conversation about crashing took place for last years singapore race. And now we have this...

From Plane F1.com

http://planetf1.com/story/0,18954,3213_5563045,00.html

From Forumla1.com

http://www.formula1.com/news/headlines/2009/9/9940.html

Still think your team is completley inocent? Even after that they publicly anounced that they will not be disputing the alligations against them?? I can understand being faithful to your team, but com'on man. At this point there's more then enough evidence to suggest foul play. I'm not suggesting that the Piquests are inocent on all this, but Renault clearly had an equal part in it. Even if it was Piquest's idea, Bravio should have reported this right away.

[KimT]

The Renault Formula One team issued the following press release on Wednesday:

The ING Renault F1 Team will not dispute the recent allegations made by the FIA concerning the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix.

It also wishes to state that its managing director, Flavio Briatore and its executive director of engineering, Pat Symonds, have left the team.

Before attending the hearing before the FIA World Motor Sport Council in Paris on 21 September 2009, the team will not make any further comment.

And I stand corrected.

Wow... talk about a team being torn apart.

Dammit

What's going to happen to Renault now?

We could do without Briatore, but losing Symonds is going to be hard on the team.

Perhaps Ross Brawn or Paul Gascoigne is interested in a new job?

Four letter word, starts with F.

[5150 Lego]

Wow, look like Renault and Ferrari could be starting Criminal charges against Flavio and Symonds..

http://planetf1.com/story/0,18954,3213_5564741,00.html

Flavio Briatore and Pat Symonds could face criminal charges in Singapore, litigation from Ferrari and could also be sued by Renault in connection with race-fixing allegations.

On Wednesday, Renault announced that the team "will not dispute the recent allegations" of race-fixing when they face the FIA's World Motor Sport Council. Added to that, the team said that both "managing director, Flavio Briatore and its executive director of engineering, Pat Symonds, have left the team."

Briatore and Symonds are at the heart of the allegations, the pair being accused by former driver Nelson Piquet Jr of asking him to deliberately crash in last year's Singapore GP in order to help his team-mate Fernando Alonso claim the race win.

Briatore denied the claims and last Friday even went as far to launch criminal proceedings against Piquet Jr and his father, accusing the two of making "false allegations" and trying to "blackmail" him into keeping the under-performing Piquet Jr as Alonso's team-mate.

In a twist of fate, though, it is Briatore himself, as well as Symonds, who could face criminal proceedings.

The Telegraph reports that 'Singapore could request extradition from a Commonwealth country for someone charged for offences which are deemed "extradition crimes."

'Part One of the First Schedule of the Singapore Extradition Act lists "acts done with the intention of endangering vehicles, vessels or aircraft" as an extraditable crime. "Malicious or wilful damage to property" is also on the list.'

But 'whether the Singapore government would want to jeopardise its chances of hosting future grands prix by dragging Formula One's name through the mud is a moot point.'

However, it's not just Singapore that could hit back at Briatore and Symonds.

Renault could sue the duo for bringing the company's name into disrepute while Ferrari and Felipe Massa could launch a legal challenge for loss of the World title and the earnings involved.

Massa had been leading the race when Piquet Jr crashed. The Brazilian went on to finish 13th and eventually lost the World title to Lewis Hamilton by one point.

As such Stephen Hornsby, a specialist sport's lawyer, believes should Ferrari seek action against Renault, Briatore or Symonds it could carry more weight than Sheffield United's case against West Ham over the Carlos Tevez affair. Sheffield won £30 million in damages after they were relegated from the Premier League due to West Ham's illegal signing of Tevez.

"There is a clear causal link between the alleged cheating and the financial loss to Massa and his team," Hornsby said.

"As for Renault suing Briatore that is possible too. But Renault are unlikely to want to keep the matter going for little reward."

[KimT]

Dammit.

I hope this isn't the end of Renault F1

Too many huge egos in this.

[MetroiD]

F1 is now officialy a joke for me Can't believe this whole thing, it's just ridiculous...

And sorry I have to say that, KimT, cause I know just how much you love Renault mate, but let's be honest here - they must face the music now.

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12433_5574160,00.html

I had NOT however expected to see a "suspended" ban. I was expecting a full-blown two-year ban from racing. Still not convinced that they'll be lining up for next year tho...

Edited September 21, 2009 by TheOtters

[5150 Lego]

F1 is now officialy a joke for me Can't believe this whole thing, it's just ridiculous...

And sorry I have to say that, KimT, cause I know just how much you love Renault mate, but let's be honest here - they must face the music now.

http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12433_5574160,00.html

I had NOT however expected to see a "suspended" ban. I was expecting a full-blown two-year ban from racing. Still not convinced that they'll be lining up for next year tho...

You might be right. There loosing there key sponsor ING Bank, and due to this, they may be hard pressed to find a replacment sponsor.

I have to say i think Renault got off easy. Regaurdless if they fired Bratorvio and Symonds and didn't protest the aligations.

Though Renault could still be facing being sueded my Farrari and Felipi Massa for changing the outcome of the Singapore race and possibly causing Massa the Championship title last year.

One things for sure...

Alsonso will defenatly be moving to Ferrari.

[KimT]

Yeah they got off easy.

But so did McLaren when they stole Ferraris blue-prints.

Had it been a smaller team, then they'd probably been banned instantly.

As for Alonso, I kinda doubt we'll see him with another team next season.

Kimi is doing well and it looks as if he's 'back' and determined to spend another season with Ferrari.

Massa surely isn't going anywhere and Fisi has the 3rd driver seat.

Why change a good setup?

- Unless Kimi is going to McLaren?

Best of luck to all teams this weekend (except Brawn).

[MetroiD]

Best of luck to all teams this weekend (except Brawn).

They won't be needing it anyway

[5150 Lego]

As for Alonso, I kinda doubt we'll see him with another team next season.

Kimi is doing well and it looks as if he's 'back' and determined to spend another season with Ferrari.

Massa surely isn't going anywhere and Fisi has the 3rd driver seat.

Why change a good setup?

One word. MONEY! Kimi is still negotiating his contract and it doesn't look like he's getting what he wants from ferrari. There's to much scandal associated with Renault for Alonso to be associated with them. They've also lost two key sponsors and rumors are there having a hard time funding the rest of the season, let alone next year.

Also concerning Massa, i have a very strong feeling he won't be racing next year. He sustained a serious head injury, and that's going to take a while to get over. My guess is he'll test during the off season and like schumacher, find out that his injury isn't quite healed yet. We'll see him back in 2011' instead.

[KimT]

You make some good points there 5150.

I think I'll just wait and see what happens.

Good to have Renault score a podium in Singapore, they sure needed that.

Perhaps that'll help finding new sponsors for next year, plus Williams is considering the use of Renault engines next season.

Which would be another fine reason for Renault to stay in F1.

Congrats to Hamilton for winning and a big 'booo' to Brawn for once more proving that their Championship was won in the first 7 races when they had the advantage of not having to fight for last season's championship.

I say it again 'BOOO'.

[MetroiD]

You can boo them all you want, but you have to admit that Brawn GP have done one hell of a job. When they took over, Honda were not really winning races, so the effort they'd put in to give the team that extra edge was admirable. Admittedly, they were MUCH better during the first half of the season, but if you forget about the non-stop tyre troubles that they've been having for the better part of the 2nd half of the season, their cars have been engineered brilliantly. Never had engine failures or any problems with the chassis, which just goes to show that this one is a quality team.

Obviously, I do like them already, from their first season in F1. Yes, Jenson may not be as good as Alonso or Hamilton when it comes to sheer driving skills, but he still showed that he was a fighter and jumped at the opportunity to put his name out there. I was far from happy upon hearing Barrichelo's rants about not receiving a fair treatment from his own team (it just sounded like BS, which it turned out to be, naturally), but by the looks of it, having such competition within the team can actually help quite a bit. I'd still put my money on Jenson grabbing the title this season, though. Thoroughly deserved too.

Good job by Lewis yesterday! It was great seeing him finally control a race like he did and it does give me good hopes for the next season. Let's see who'll partner him now - perhaps he might for once actually get a really competitive teammate (although I seriously doubt it).

[5150 Lego]

You can boo them all you want, but you have to admit that Brawn GP have done one hell of a job. When they took over, Honda were not really winning races, so the effort they'd put in to give the team that extra edge was admirable. Admittedly, they were MUCH better during the first half of the season, but if you forget about the non-stop tyre troubles that they've been having for the better part of the 2nd half of the season, their cars have been engineered brilliantly. Never had engine failures or any problems with the chassis, which just goes to show that this one is a quality team.

One thing you have to remember is that Ross Brawn has ben deleoping these cars for nearly 3 years before there introduction. Also they admitatly route off last season as soon as first couple of GP's to concentrate on the 09' car. If Ferrari and McLaren weren't fighting for the championship i think the playing field would have been more equal.

Obviously, I do like them already, from their first season in F1. Yes, Jenson may not be as good as Alonso or Hamilton when it comes to sheer driving skills, but he still showed that he was a fighter and jumped at the opportunity to put his name out there. I was far from happy upon hearing Barrichelo's rants about not receiving a fair treatment from his own team (it just sounded like BS, which it turned out to be, naturally), but by the looks of it, having such competition within the team can actually help quite a bit. I'd still put my money on Jenson grabbing the title this season, though. Thoroughly deserved too.

My money is on Barrichelo for the title. IMO, he deserves it more than Jenson, especaily after his cockyness after winning his last GP. I think at that point he thought he had it in the bag and just got sloppy. He hasn't bagged anything yet. He neds to get focuses or he'll loose it all.

Good job by Lewis yesterday! It was great seeing him finally control a race like he did and it does give me good hopes for the next season. Let's see who'll partner him now - perhaps he might for once actually get a really competitive teammate (although I seriously doubt it).

Its looking more and more like Kimi might join him next season with Alonso going to Ferrari. Rumor is that it will be anounced at the Fuji GP next week!

Congats to Hamiltion! Well done my friend! Glad to see he kept his cool even when being pushed by Vettel. Speaking of Vetel, i bet he'll never speed down pit lane again! Same goes to Nico Rosberg. maybe he'll watch his speed exiting pit lane alittle better now!

[5150 Lego]

OK, so here's my predictions for a few of the drivers for 2010'-

Alsonso will go to Ferrrari. Massa will be the planned teammate, but durring the off season, he'll find out he has not quite healed from his injury, so Fisechella will take over and become Alonso's teammate. Either this or Ferrari will buy out Massa's contract because Alonso won't be happy enless he's put as the number one driver, and we all know that will never happen with Massa as his team mate.

Kimi will move to McLaren, . Thats all i have for now.

[KimT]

OK, so here's my predictions for a few of the drivers for 2010'-

Alsonso will go to Ferrrari. Massa will be the planned teammate, but durring the off season, he'll find out he has not quite healed from his injury, so Fisechella will take over and become Alonso's teammate. Either this or Ferrari will buy out Massa's contract because Alonso won't be happy enless he's put as the number one driver, and we all know that will never happen with Massa as his team mate.

Kimi will move to McLaren, . Thats all i have for now.

My thoughts exactly.

I just hope we'll still have Renault around.

But who's to drive?

Briatore has ensured that noone wants to be with Renault.

First Fisi, then Hekki and with Alonso leaving, the team has lost it's edge.

Dammit.

[KimT]

And I just found this as well; nice to have more races next year and back to Canada

2010 FIA Formula One World Championship calendar

14 March - Bahrain

28 March - Australia

4 April - Malaysia

18 April - China

9 May - Spain

23 May - Monaco

30 May - Turkey

13 June - Canada*

27 June - Europe (Valencia)

11 July - Great Britain

25 July - Germany

1 August - Hungary

29 August - Belgium

12 September - Italy

26 September - Singapore

3 October - Japan

17 October - Korea

31 October - Abu Dhabi

14 November - Brazil

[5150 Lego]

While not completely offical, its looking like Alonso will be signing with ferrari. offical anouncment is expected thursday in Japan.

http://planetf1.com/story/0,18954,3213_5593023,00.html

Cadena Ser radio reported on Tuesday that the two-time World Champion will sign a deal until 2014 with the Italian marquee with an option of extending the contract by one more year. The deal will earn him a reported €25 million a year.

Media reports claim that Ferrari will make an announcement on Thursday and team boss Stefano Domenicali has all but confirmed the deal saying: "As soon as we are ready we will let you know. We don't want to wait too long."

Speculation is rife that Alonso's departure will lead to Kimi Raikkonen returning to McLaren while BMW driver Robert Kubica is expected partner Romain Grosjean at Renault next year.

I believe Kimi is expected to make the anouncment of where he is going as well. Going to be a very interesting weekend!

[KimT]

This is going to be the death of my favourite team...

[5150 Lego]

I wouldn't nessasarly say its the death of Renault. Just think of it like when Alonso left for McLaren in 07'. THey'll come back from the whole scandal thing. Every team does. They all face one sooner or later.

[KimT]

And they've stated that they're going to reveal next season's drivers within a week.

Go Renault Go Go Go.

[KimT]

Wow, what a crazy qualify.

First Alguerueri crashed and caused a red flag during Q2 and then the same happened for Timo.

Then as everything started again, Buemi went off track and lost his front wing in the last sector, which followed a yellow flag. - Button & Rubens then raced through the yellow flag zone as if it wasn't there and set 4 & 5 best lap.

I hope they get disqualified for speeding through a yellow flag zone, what the heck where they thinking?

- There could have been a car there (arrogant... very arrogant of them).

And now in Q3 Kovalainen just crashed his car and theres still 5:30 minutes to go.

This is insane

[KimT]

Ooooh!

Even Alonso got a punishment

Glad to see the Brawns whipped though

From PlanetF1.com

Four drivers, including Championship leader Jenson Button, have been slapped with penalties for failing to slow down under yellow flags in Saturday's Japanese qualifying.

Button, together with his Brawn GP team-mate Rubens Barrichello, Renault's Fernando Alonso, Force India's Adrian Sutil and Toro Rosso's Sebastien Buemi were called before the Suzuka stewards in the wake of qualifying.

The stewards ruled that Button, Barrichello, Alonso and Sutil had all failed to slow down under waved yellow flags in the wake of Buemi's Q2 accident.

The four drivers were all handed five-grid slot penalties, which means the two Championship rivals, Barrichello and Button, will now start P9 and P11 respectively.

Brawn GP boss Ross Brawn conceded his drivers did not slow down. "No, they swerved to avoid the problem. But they didn't lift off, no," he said.

Alonso, who earlier defended himself saying he did slow down, will start 17th on the grid while Sutil will drop from fourth to eighth.

Meanwhile, Buemi was reprimanded by the stewards for driving back to the pits with a damaged car, which he did in the wake of his accident. He too was handed a five-grid slot penalty.

Other penalties this weekend include Tonio Liuzzi's five-grid slot penalty for changing his gearbox.

Revised Grid

01. Vettel Red Bull-Renault

02. Trulli Toyota

03. Hamilton McLaren-Mercedes

04. Heidfeld BMW-Sauber

05. Raikkonen Ferrari

06. Rosberg Williams-Toyota

07. Kubica BMW-Sauber

08. Sutil Force India-Mercedes *

09. Barrichello Brawn-Mercedes *

10. Alguersuari Toro Rosso-Ferrari

11. Button Brawn-Mercedes *

12. Fisichella Ferrari

13. Kovalainen McLaren-Mercedes **

14. Buemi Toro Rosso-Ferrari *

15. Nakajima Williams-Toyota

16. Grosjean Renault

17. Alonso Renault *

18. Liuzzi Force India-Mercedes

19. Glock Toyota ***

20. Webber Red Bull-Renault ***

* Five-place grid penalty

** Five-place grid penalty for changing gearbox

*** Will use new chassis so will start from the pit lane

[Big Cam]

I am into F1 racing but clearly not as much as you guys. I just never find the time, but I want to thank you guys for posting all those interview quotes. I didn't even know this happened and it was a very interesting read.

[5150 Lego]

I am into F1 racing but clearly not as much as you guys. I just never find the time, but I want to thank you guys for posting all those interview quotes. I didn't even know this happened and it was a very interesting read.

Everything drops for me come F1 race weekends!! Glad your enjoy the drama and politics that is F1 racing!

[KimT]

Wohooo

Renault confirmed on Wednesday that Robert Kubica will race for the team in 2010. Kubica will replace Fernando Alonso, who is to join Ferrari next year, in the French squad’s line-up. Kubica, who currently drives for BMW Sauber, took his sole Formula One victory to date at the 2008 Canadian Grand Prix and finished last season fourth in the world championship.

"I am very happy I will be joining Renault in the 2010 season,” said the Polish driver. “I feel I have a special connection with this team because in 2005 I won the World Series by Renault. This gave me the chance to test with the team in Barcelona, which led to my debut in Formula One."

"I share with Renault a strong winning mentality and feel comfortable with their friendly and open attitude. I'm highly motivated and optimistic that together we can be at the front of the grid next year and hopefully fighting for the world title."

Renault team principal, Bob Bell, added: "We are very excited to have signed Robert with the Renault F1 Team starting next season. Ever since Robert made his Grand Prix debut in 2006, he has been on our radar as one of the most naturally talented drivers of his generation and he has delivered on that promise so it's great to have secured him in one of our cars next season. Renault has high ambitions and hopes for the future of the team and we feel that Robert can play a big role in fulfilling them."

After success in Italian Formula Renault, Formula Three and the Renault World Series, Kubica made his Formula One race debut in 2006 replacing former world champion Jacques Villeneuve mid-season. He finished his first complete season in 2007, accumulating 39 points on his way to sixth in the standings, before challenging for the championship in 2008.

This season, however, he has struggled to make much of an impression with BMW Sauber’s F1.09 looking distinctly uncompetitive. He has scored just nine points so far, and after BMW announced plans to withdraw from Formula One racing, he began looking for a new drive for 2010.

"I'm very thankful to those responsible in the BMW Sauber F1 Team for giving me the chance to get a Formula One cockpit," added Kubica. "I think I justified the belief in me by delivering good results.

"In 2008 I managed to get the first pole position in Bahrain and the first win in Canada. Both will remain unforgettable moments for me. For 2010 I will have a new challenge. I wish everybody I worked with at the BMW Sauber F1 Team all the best for the future. I'm sure in the future our paths will cross in Formula One."

Paying tribute to Kubica’s contribution, BMW Motorsport Director Mario Theissen said: "Robert played an important role for us - and certainly we did the same for him. He joined us in 2006 as a test driver with no Formula One experience, and then we promoted him to be one of our team's drivers during that season.

“He never let us down and, with our first pole position in 2008 in Bahrain and first victory the same year in Canada, he set milestones in the history of our team. We are grateful for his strong and constant performances and wish him all the best for his future."

Kubica has competed in 55 Grands Prix for BMW Sauber, during which he has achieved eight podium finishes and collected 129 championship points.

Yessir! A great driver for Renault.

Go Go Go!

[KimT]

This is insane.

Qualify should have been over an hour ago, but it' not even halfway through Q2

It sure rains in Sao Paolo...