FORMULA 1 2009

[OZCUBAN]

My sentiments exactly Mika,

I now realize what an un-level playing field we really do have in F-1

Lets hope 2010 is a scandal free year

Cheers Oz

[MIKA27]

Hakkinen: The show must go on

Mika Hakkinen has urged the Formula One community to forget about the race-fixing scandal and "concentrate on the future".

The sport is once again reeling after Renault were handed a suspended two-year ban for fixing the result of the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix.

Former World Champion Hakkinen, though, feels it is important for the sport to focus on the future.

"The Show must go on," Hakkinen told news agency Reuters. "People who have done wrong, they need a penalty...And life has to go on.

"Forget it and concentrate on the future. I think what is important now is a great grand prix is coming."

Moving away from the Singapore scandal, Hakkinen welcomed the return of Lotus to Formula One. The Malaysian-backed team will be back on the starting grid in 2010 following a 15-year absence.

"I think it's brilliant," he added. "I think it's absolutely brilliant.

"A new organisation in Formula One, new team in Formula One, new people in Formula One. All of this is a positive thing."

The 41-year-old, who started his F1 career at Lotus, also had some advice for the team.

"You really, really have to keep your feet down on earth," he said. "You have to have the right people running the operation.

"Obviously (there is) a lot of money involved, and you need professional people. So they, the people who have decided to bring the Lotus back, and run the Formula One team, I hope they have a good plan to get the right people."

MIKA: ......MH is an absolute LEGEND!

[MIKA27]

NEXT RACE - 27th September

Grand Prix of Singapore

Length : 5.067

No of Laps: 61

Race Distance: 308.950 km

Lap Record: 1:45.599 - K Raikkonen (2008)

[MIKA27]

Spa's operating licence suspended

The future of the Belgian Grand Prix appears to be up in the air again after the Spa-Francorchamps circuit had its operating licence suspended for the next 17 years.

The decision comes from the Council of State, effectively Belgium's supreme administrative court, after a noise complaint was made by a board of local residents in 2007.

It resulted in the track operators being ordered to undertake an environmental impact study, which has been described in a Council of State ruling as "seriously inadequate and incomplete".

That has resulted in the licence suspension until 2026, with the decision coming as a major shock to circuit director Pierre-Alain Thibaut.

"The whole viability of the circuit may be questioned," remarked Thibaut on lesoir.be, a Belgian news website.

"Since the filing of the complaint, the situation has changed. The circuit has worked hard to reduce noise, and relations with local residents have improved.

"It is a difficult situation, but we've made commitments vis-a-vis a range of people, and we must comply on pain of having to pay damages.

"We will challenge the government, and organise a dialogue with the board of residents."

The race was already under discussion after it was confirmed on the Sunday of this year's event just over three weeks ago that it had made a £2.6million loss.

It prompted the president of the race organisers, Etienne Davignon, to suggest the prospect of renegotiating its current contract with F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone, or even alternating the event with another circuit such as Germany's Nurburgring.

MIKA: WTF!?

NOT SPA, IS THE WORLD OF F1 GOING MAD!?

This is a sad situation......

Some have suggested recreating the circuit in the Middle East, but this just wouldn't work. Part of the reason that Spa is so good for F1 is the changeable weather. The best and most memorable races at Spa have always been affected by the weather. It just wouldn't be the same in the Middle East. Shame, although I don't think this decision will stand, it will probably be overturned on appeal due to the massive loss of earnings to the area.

All F1 races/venues lose revenue BUT it's effect on local businesses (Restaurants, hotels etc) is positive and in most cases, local businesses look forward to the yearly race.

Spa Francorchamps opened their circuit in 1921, now I'm no architect but 90% of all the houses seem to post-date 1921. (Most seem to post-date 1971). They (RESIDENTS) bought in to the 'Motor Racing Circus'.

The people of BELGIUM should feel blessed they have the F1 oportunity because there are a great many countries who would love to host such an amazing event. It is afterall, a window to the world to see your amazing country. Spa is one of "THE" best circuits (My favourite).

[MIKA27]

Wet weekend forecast for Singapore

Formula One is gearing up for a wet weekend in Singapore, although the rain is expected to abate in time for Sunday's grand prix.

The teams will arrive at the circuit on Thursday with brollies at the ready as despite the maximum temperature expected to reach 30'C, heavy rain is forecast.

The same is forecast for Friday and Saturday, however, there is some hope that the heavy showers will let up by nightfall, which is when the weekend's practice sessions and qualifying take place.

The weather is expected to clear up on Sunday, but with more rain coming on Monday, the Singapore GP, F1's only night race, could take place under cloud cover and perhaps in the rain.

There are some concerns in the F1 paddock of how the rain will affect visibility at night.

'One concern was not addressed last year, namely the effect on night time visibility in the event of rain,' said a Ferrari press release.

'Inevitably, in this part of the world, the weather forecast for the week mentions the chance of thunderstorms, but it remains to be seen if these will arrive during times of on-track action.'

[MIKA27]

Hamilton Seeks Redemption In Singapore

Lewis Hamilton has his thanked his McLaren team for his Singapore pole after his mechanics worked through the night to give him a car that he was happy to drive.

Hamilton struggled in Friday's practice, where he was soundly beaten by his team-mate Heikki Kovalainen.

It was the Brit, though, who had the final say on Saturday, claiming pole position thanks largely to the hard work of his mechanics.

"Fantastic. I'm very happy and pleased for the team," said Hamilton.

"Throughout the weekend we came with updates, but so did everyone else and didn't know where we would be.

"Friday practice was not spectacular for me, but I came here today with a positive approach and a big thanks to the guys. They worked until 10am this morning rebuilding the car.

"We had some problems so had to change the chassis. They stayed up in the garage today in this humidity. They did a great job and I'm pleased to do this for them."

And although the Brit did benefit from the session coming to an early end when Rubens Barrichello put his Brawn GP into the wall while Sebastian Vettel was on a flyer, Hamilton is confident he could have gone quicker if needed.

"The lap was really, very relaxed," he said. "The car over the weekend has got better and better as the circuit got gripper.

"I was feeling more comfortable in the car. The lap was really very relaxed and I was able to go faster so I am quite happy. We will see what happens with the strategies."

The out-going World Champion is now intent on making up for his Monza mistake, which saw him bin the car on the final lap while lying in third place.

"I said I would be back to try and redeem myself, and hopefully this is the first step."

MIKA: Well, look where both Brawns are on the grid, good luck to them! Hamilton looks good, car is sound, who knows?

Being in pole position is not the 'Be all and end all" though....

[MIKA27]

Lewis warns Jense: It's not yet in the bag

Lewis Hamilton has urged his fellow Brit Jenson Button to learn from his mistakes and continue to push because the World title is not yet in his grasp.

Hamilton learnt this lesson the hard way when, back in 2007, he had a 17-point lead going into the final two races of the season, which led many to believe that the McLaren would secure his first Drivers' crown in his debut season.

But it wasn't to be.

Hamilton failed to see the chequered flag in the penultimate race of the Championship while a costly mistake in the opening laps of the season-ending Brazilian GP meant he only bagged two points.

In sharp contrast, Kimi Raikkonen claimed back-to-back victories to end the season one point ahead of Hamilton, thereby taking the World title off the Brit.

Two years later, Button finds himself in a slightly less secure situation as the Brawn GP driver has a 15-point lead with three races still to go.

Added to that, the Brit also hasn't won a grand prix since June's Turkish GP and, up until Sunday's Singapore GP, had been lost ground to his closest rival and team-mate Rubens Barrichello in three consecutive races.

The gap between the two team-mates, coupled with Button's somewhat ailing charge, have led Hamilton to warn Button to stay on his toes.

"Let's not forget, I was leading by 17 points with two races to go and I lost it," said the out-going World Champion.

"It's very, very, very tough, right up until the last moment so I just suggest that they all keep pushing and we will see over the next few races but he's done a fantastic job up until now, so I wish him all the best."

As for his own campaign, Hamilton may not be fighting for the World title but his team is tussling with Ferrari for third place in the Constructors' Championship.

Thanks to his victory in Singapore on Sunday, which also saw Heikki Kovalainen finish seventh, McLaren have closed the gap to three-points in Ferrari's favour.

"I think the team would be very happy with that (third in the Constructors' race)," said Hamilton.

"It doesn't really have too much importance exactly where I finish in the Championship. If you're not first, then it doesn't matter where you are really.

"First is where you want to be, but for the team, after the hard work they've put in, they've had a couple of tough years but they've done a great job this year and they deserve to first make a step forward and hopefully at least get third, that would be great for them."

MIKA: Wise words from Hamilton I must say. I truly believe JB is not as deserving for his possible championship win as he really doesn't seem to be pumped considering how close he is to grasping F1 glory. I hope he's not hoping to just 'Cruise' to winning by sheer luck, people will not see him as a particularly worthy world champion.

[MIKA27]

Alonso: This one is for you, Flavio

Not one to shy away from controversy, Fernando Alonso has dedicated his Singapore GP podium to disgraced former Renault team boss Flavio Briatore.

Briatore was handed a lifetime ban from all Formula One activities on Monday for his role in Renault's race-fixing scandal at last year's Singapore GP, which saw Nelson Piquet Jr deliberately crash to help Alonso to the race win.

Less than a week later, though, Alonso proved he does have pace at Singapore, finishing Sunday night's race in third place - and without any help.

The Spaniard paid homage to his team, thanking them for putting the scandal behind them in order to focus on this weekend's race, and dedicated his podium to the ousted Briatore.

"The team has been fantastic, all season, we had a fantastic team," said Alonso.

"The mechanics and engineers, everyone in the factory, did the maximum, and sometimes we got some good results and sometimes were a bit unlucky.

"But this podium in a particular moment after what happened... it has been a difficult time for the team, now we put it behind us and we concentrate on the remaining races.

"And I dedicate this podium to Flavio - he is at home but he is part of the success we had today."

As for his race, Alonso says he has no complaints with his result, despite an illegal move from Mark Webber costing him the chance to finish ahead of Timo Glock.

"The first lap was a little bit stressful, running to Turn 7 side-by-side with Mark, we both ran wide over the kerb and Timo took the benefit there and overtook me there in Turn 8," said Alonso.

"With the battle with Webber I lost position with Timo and finished the race behind him. No real complaints, it is fantastic for us. We didn't have the pace all weekend to be on the podium but we are on the podium so better than expected."

MIKA: ......... Do I hear crickets fernando?

[MIKA27]

Vettel: The car was falling apart

Sebastian Vettel brought his car home in fourth place in Sunday's Singapore GP but later revealed that it wasn't the same car with which he started the race.

Second on the grid for F1's night race, Vettel was in a strong position over the bumps of the street circuit, holding onto second place before a drive-through penalty for speeding in the pit lane cost him dearly.

And although he made his way back into the points, the stress and strain of the Singapore bumps saw him finish the grand prix with a rather battered Red Bull racer. The car not only had one of its mirrors missing but also a huge chuck had been taken out of the rear diffuser.

"We had to bring the car home, fourth was all we could do. I had the chance for the podium, we put pressure on Lewis, I knew I would pit earlier though," said the German.

"I was surprised by the penalty, I wasn't rushing so I don't know why I was speeding, we will see if it was electronic. Disappointing at the car was quick, unlucky with the start and traffic, after that with the drive-through it was the best we could do.

"The car was falling apart, it was a tough race for the car with the bumps. My mirrors vibrated and fell off, the car wasn't the same. Nowadays, every bit of downforce is useful and on top of that the diffuser was damaged by hitting the kerb."

Vettel's fourth place finish saw him take one point off Championship leader Jenson Button. But with only thirty still to play for, the German's 25-point deficit may be a bridge too far.

The 22-year-old, though, is refusing to give up.

"We will do the same, try to attack and win, we were close today, we still have a chance for the Championship. We'll keep pushing and try to win races."

MIKA: It was great to finally see a great drive from Vettel. He has a gift and whilst this season hasn't been the greatest, he drove the wheels off (Litterally) of his racer. Weird that an Adrian Newey designed vehicle would fall apart but then again, look at Kimi's poor season of aero unreliability back in 2005 where his mcLaren kept falling apart and costed him the championship.

Would be good to hear what Adrian Newey has to say?

[MIKA27]

Glock 'really surprised' with P2

Timo Glock admits his second-place finish at the Singapore Grand Prix came as a bit of a surprise.

After starting sixth on the grid, the German made his way up to fourth place in the opening few laps. He eventually moved into P2 following the first round of pit stops and never let go of the position.

The Toyota driver says he didn't have the pace to keep up with race winner Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel at the start, but decided to bide his time.

"It was a really good race for me," Glock said. "The start was a bit of a mess in the first corner. I knew I could not have the pace of the first two or three guys, so I just settled down and concentrated on me and what I could do with my car.

"I knew before coming here we were good here last year and that the driver can make a difference, and from practice we just picked up. We concentrated on the car and my crew.

"In qualifying I thought we could easily get into Q3 but we struggled in Q1. Then got better and better in qualifying, shame to not use last set of tyres.

"I lost the view of where the others guys were, and then I changed to the Option tyre and they said I was P2 and I was really surprised."

MIKA: A well deserved second place Timo.

Now... It would be great if the Toyotas could do well in Japan to show the team they should stay in F1!

[MIKA27]

Whitmarsh refuses to deny Raikkonen rumours

With a silence that spoke volumes, Martin Whitmarsh has point-blank refused to deny that Kimi Raikkonen is on the verge of returning to McLaren as Heikki Kovalainen's replacement.

Pressed on the rumours that Raikkonen would be leaving Ferrari to become Lewis Hamilton's team-mate for next season, a laughing Whitmarsh refused to comment despite strenuous requests from the panellists on the BBC Forum.

Although Whitmarsh's reticence could be interpreted as a simple 'no comment', the McLaren boss' demeanour spoke volumes, not least because he also refused to endorse the under-pressure Kovalainen. His remark that "my job is to ensure that McLaren have the best two drivers possible" and admission that the Finn's performances had been disappointing seem to have signalled the death knell of Kovalainen's McLaren career.

But while Whitmarsh was shy on revealing McLaren's 2010 line-up, he did also let slip that, according to paddock gossip, Robert Kubica will move to Renault at the end of the current campaign.

MIKA: Great move by Kimi if he does move back to McLaren. Would be great to see him back at the team who he has always had a better chance to develop his potential to win not 1 but several WC's should he have stayed rather than leaving to head over to ferrari.

To see two young world world champions on the same team would be fantastic!

[MIKA27]

'Possible' Alonso/Ferrari announcement at Suzuka

The 'Fernando Alonso to Ferrari' saga could come to an end this weekend in Japan with Stefano Domenicali admitting that an announcement is possible.

Alonso has been linked to Ferrari for the past few seasons, however, instead of joining the Italian marque he swapped Renault for McLaren and then back to Renault.

The rumours, though, have continued to dog him and now it appears as if they may actually come to fruition.

Asked about an Alonso announcement in Suzuka, the Scuderia's team boss said: "It is a possibility, but it is not guaranteed.

"I think that as soon as we are ready we will let you know. We don't want to wait too long."

But Alonso's signing hinges on Kimi Raikkonen agreeing a pay-off as the Finn still has a year to run on his estimated £31 million per year Ferrari contract.

According to the Daily Telegraph, 'lawyers have been working overtime in Singapore to complete the final details of his pay-off.'

And once that is signed and sealed, McLaren are expected to announce they've bagged the Finn at a 'fraction of the price' while Ferrari will finally confirm Alonso.

MIKA: Fernando better make the right decision because he will not have Flavio to run back to should he drive for Ferrari and not be the 'Golden child' he seems to expect from the teams he has raced for. Ferrari's star (Massa) is their favourite (Even though Kimi has done better this season).

[brian1]

Dont do it Ferrari.

'Possible' Alonso/Ferrari announcement at Suzuka

The 'Fernando Alonso to Ferrari' saga could come to an end this weekend in Japan with Stefano Domenicali admitting that an announcement is possible.

MIKA: Fernando better make the right decision because he will not have Flavio to run back to should he drive for Ferrari and not be the 'Golden child' he seems to expect from the teams he has raced for. Ferrari's star (Massa) is their favourite (Even though Kimi has done better this season).

[MIKA27]

Alonso set to sign five-year deal with Ferrari

Fernando Alonso will sign a five-year contract with Ferrari worth €25 million (£23 million), according to Spanish media.

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.

MIKA: Big mistake Ferrari.

Even if Alonso drives well, he wont like playing second fiddle to Massa and whilst diplomatically every team state "Everyone is equal" Ferrari LOVE Massa.

FA will soon start his complaining as he did whilst at McLaren because FA is "VERY SPECIAL".

[MIKA27]

Button won't take any 'unusual risks'

Jenson Button is set to play it safe over the next few races as he looks to win his maiden World Championship.

The Brit has a 15-point lead over Rubens Barrichello with just three races left and he can wrap up the title in Suzuka this weekend if he scores five or more points than his team-mate.

Button, though, admits he won't be taking any "unusual risks" in the final few races.

"It's another race," Button is quoted by Autosport. "People say that if I finish five points in front of Rubens I can win the Championship.

"I know that's a fact, for sure. But my aim is to win the World Championship and I'm not going to take any unusual risks.

"I'm just going to drive like I have been and hopefully that will be enough."

Button hasn't tasted victory since winning six of the first seven races of the year. However, the competitive nature of this year's field means he hasn't lost too many points.

"It's just an unusual year where there's so many cars that are competitive whatever the conditions," he said." There are so many different possibilities of teams being quick.

"So it makes it very difficult when it comes to strategy and we know we have to beat the Red Bulls, but that's why you see us sometimes at the front fighting for wins and other races we are not.

"But the important thing is to make the most out of the good times, but also the difficult times. When it's difficult you need to pick the points up and that's what I have been trying to do."

MIKA: Button is praying he 'just' manages to win the World Championship by 'Playing it safe'.

Thus far after JB's first 5 wins, that's all he HAS been doing is 'Playing it safe' and relying on lady luck to coast him through. Whilst I was initially stoked JB was doing so well, the last 5 races or so he has been boring to watch and he is not a champion by no means.

Someone like Rubes deserves the WC as this bloke is one of many on the grid that will risk it all to win.

Look at season 2007 with Hamilton and Kimi, both guys pushed hard, Hamilton was kicking serious butt but with 5 races remaining, Kimi risked it all, drove hard, could have smashed on any one of the remaining races but succeeded and won the WC by 1 point!

All Jenson needs is someone like Rubens to push hard, take a risk and before he knows it, Jenson has lost it all. Unfortunately, I don't believe Jensen will be successful in future so this is it as far as I'm concerned. That's my opinion anyway.

[MIKA27]

Bruno Senna: Hopefully I'll be in F1 next year

Bruno Senna is confident "one way or another" he will be racing in Formula One next season despite negotiations being overshadowed by teams' financial worries.

Senna has been forced to bide his time and look on from afar this year as it appeared at one stage he would be driving for Honda.

Although the Japanese manufacturer pulled out of the sport and re-emerged in the guise of Brawn GP, the team opted to re-sign Rubens Barrichello for this season, leaving Senna kicking his heels.

Senna, who has competed in endurance racing in the Le Mans Series this year to keep his hand in, is firmly entrenched in talks with four F1 teams for 2010.

One of the three new entrants in Campos Racing are understood to be leading the chase, while Manor, as well as established names such as Williams, Toyota and Force India, have also been mentioned.

Senna, though, concedes times are hard in F1 as the teams attempt to address their budgets, including what to pay their drivers.

"At the moment we're negotiating for a Formula One seat with quite a few teams - some more advanced than others," Senna said at a GAME event to promote EA's Need for Speed: Shift.

"Unfortunately, we're still a bit far away from actually bagging anything, but we're going forward.

"It's because Formula One is in a very difficult moment, and this is not really helping my case very much.

"Some teams are struggling financially, to know where they're going to be next year, which engine they're going to use.

"There are many doubts for all the teams, even for those people would not imagine having problems, they are in a bit of difficulty.

"It's definitely not the easiest time in Formula One."

Yet the 25-year-old nephew of legendary three-times champion Ayrton Senna rates his chances of being on the grid for the opening grand prix of next year in Bahrain as "pretty high".

Senna, though, appreciates beggars cannot be choosers when it comes to the honour of being a Formula One driver.

"We've been dealing with some of the teams and we know which one is the best option," added Senna.

"The fact is it's better to be with a team currently there, knowing the team will continue growing, rather than starting from zero.

"Obviously what I would like is to be with a team currently in F1, but that might not be the case.

"We're trying, and if not, we should be there with one of the new teams. We're definitely working hard and hopefully we'll get it.

"One way or another we'll be there, and hopefully next year I'll be racing in at least 18 grands prix."

You would be forgiven for thinking it is his name alone that is able to open doors, and while it is true it does carry weight, the talent he possesses is not to be overlooked.

The 2008 GP2 Series runner-up remarked: "Fortunately I'm in a position where both my talent and name count quite a lot.

"The teams want me because they believe I'm good enough, and all the teams believe in potential for sponsorship and for commercial opportunities.

"So being successful in motor racing and having the surname are helping me a lot, especially if there is competition from other drivers from GP2, or in Formula One right now."

MIKA: It's not only his name that carries weight, look at the guy, spitting image of his late father!

Would be great to see him on the grid, give the guy a chance.

[MIKA27]

Haug: McLaren can handle Lewis and Kimi

Norbert Haug has hinted at McLaren's pending signing of Kimi Raikkonen, saying he's confident the team can avoid the pitfalls that befell them during Fernando Alonso's time in Woking.

Double World Champion Alonso raced for McLaren back in 2007, teamed up alongside rookie driver Lewis Hamilton. But despite the difference in experience, Hamilton quickly proved to be on a par with his team-mate - and that's when the trouble started.

On-track antics and off-track tension marred the campaign, eventually resulting in both drivers losing the World title by one point to Ferrari's Kimi Raikkonen. Alonso left the team after just one year, returning to Renault.

McLaren, though, could face even more intra-team tension next season as the Woking outfit is reportedly on the verge of signing a deal that will see Raikkonen return after a three-year absence.

But despite potentially having two World Champions, both wanting Number One status, on the payroll, Haug reckons McLaren could handle Raikkonen alongside Hamilton.

"Whatever you can do to get the best available drivers, that is what you have to do," he said.

"It's a question of money, it's a question of capability, a question of the amount of talent. Managing two megastars, I don't think that honestly it was a problem.

"With Alonso there were some noises to the outside world, but in reality inside the team everybody did his job and in reality we should have won the World Championship. But it was not due to not having team orders.

"You can imagine what would have happened in Fernando would not have blocked Lewis in Hungary, no penalty, one point more and you are there. This is how it goes sometimes. We won it by one point and we lost it by one point.

"I stress, I do not confirm that there is change. This is very important. But managing drivers ifs and whys is the name of the game and we are qualified to do so."

Haug added that he would enjoy having Raikkonen back at the team, believing that the partnership could yield the title, a feat that they almost achieved on two occasions together in the past.

"Reflecting on our co-operation which was five years, I think that it was positive," he said. "We should have won at least two World Championships.

"I have to say we missed one with two points in 2003 but I think an engine failure was one of the reasons, so without that he could have done it.

"In 2005 he could have done it, in fairness. The engines at that stage were not as good and reliable as they are now. To have Kimi in our team winning two World Championships would certainly have been a fair outcome for him.

"I have a good relationship with him and I'm sure he would say the same."

But while Haug may be open to the idea of Raikkonen rejoining McLaren, Hamilton and his father Anthony are reportedly against the idea with Hamilton stating he would be happy to keep Heikki Kovalainen as his team-mate.

"At the moment I'm very happy with how things are in the team but we have to see what happens," he told Auto Motor und Sport.

MIKA: It will be great to have Kimi back at McLaren because as haug stated, Kimi should have won two world championships whilst at McLaren but due to reliability, he didn't.

Having two WC's will be a great pairing in my opinion, both driving each other to push harder.

What i don't particularly agree with is Hamilton and his father not being too happy about this arrival of Kimi and moreso, I wonder if it's Lewis who is worried or lewis' father.

I really hate any competition which involves ones mother or father as manager.

There's always trouble where they the parent try to over shadow their sons or daughters talent and have the limelight to themselves.

[brian1]

Agree with everything you say Mika. Big mistake by Ferrari. This must be one of the most unpopular signings in Ferrari history.

Alonso set to sign five-year deal with Ferrari

Fernando Alonso will sign a five-year contract with Ferrari worth €25 million (£23 million), according to Spanish media.

MIKA: Big mistake Ferrari.

Even if Alonso drives well, he wont like playing second fiddle to Massa and whilst diplomatically every team state "Everyone is equal" Ferrari LOVE Massa.

FA will soon start his complaining as he did whilst at McLaren because FA is "VERY SPECIAL".

[MIKA27]

Vettel aims to pull off a Raikkonen

Sebastian Vettel will draw inspiration from Kimi Raikkonen's dramatic title triumph two years ago as he looks to overhaul Jenson Button in the final two races of the season.

Raikkonen trailed Championship favourite Lewis Hamilton by 17 points going into the last two rounds but won his maiden Championship in dramatic fashion as victories in China and Brazil, coupled with the Englishman beaching his McLaren in the gravel in Shanghai and only managing seventh at Interlagos, saw the Ferrari driver claim the crown by a solitary point.

Vettel's dominant weekend at Suzuka - he led from pole to win the 53-lap race having topped all three of Saturday's qualifying sessions - saw the German close to within 16 points of championship leader Button.

And the 22-year-old is hoping history can repeat itself in 2009 as the teams head to Interlagos in two weeks' time and then on to Abu Dhabi for the season finale.

"Two years ago, Kimi (Raikkonen) had quite a big gap (to Hamilton) with two races to go.

Everyone said to Lewis it will not be a problem, sitting in one of the most competitive cars, just get a couple of points, but you can see sometimes things just don't work your way. Anything is possible," he said.

"We were good at Brazil last year, this time we go with an even stronger car so it should be better and the last race in Abu Dhabi is a bit unknown.

"I will fight until the end, until the last breath. Two more races like this and it is looking better. We have to push ourselves to the maximum and try to win, get as many points as we can, and everything else is out of our hands.

"It was good points today for the Championship. I think it looks a bit better now so it's a shame there's only two races to go, but that's life. We are here to fight, so let's see. Anything is still possible as you can see. It can change quickly."

Vettel, though, may ultimately be left to rue his failure to finish at Monaco, Hungary and Valencia, while a drive-through penalty for speeding in the pit lane last time out in Singapore cost him second place and three more points.

But however the three-way battle for the title unfolds - Vettel is just two points behind Button's Brawn GP team-mate Rubens Barrichello in second - the German believes Red Bull can still celebrate an excellent 2009 campaign.

"Looking back, I think we have had a great season," he added.

"Obviously we should have been more consistent to fight for the Championship right now, it was a little but too much up and down. Sometimes things didn't go our way, that's part of racing I guess, it happens.

"We made some mistakes, we've had some trouble during the season, it can happen but obviously when you want to fight properly for the championship, it shouldn't happen.

"Nevertheless, I think it's been a very good season so far. The car is fantastic, we had three one-twos. We could have collected more points, been more consistent. In more than three or four places we had the pace to win and we didn't."

MIKA: I don't know about Vettel.....

A great driver but a little inconsistant for my likeing this season. It would be great if Rubens or Vettel fight on and take the crown from Button.

[MIKA27]

Massa's eye fully recovered

Tests conducted in Italy have confirmed that Felipe Massa's left eye has fully healed after his horror crash in Hungary.

The Brazilian suffered sever damage to his face and eye after a stray spring from compatriot Rubens Barrichello's car hit him just above his left eye.

It was initially feared that Massa's vision would be permanently damaged, but medical tests have calmed such concerns.

"Felipe Massa started a series of neurological and ophthalmological exams by the FIA at the Pitié Salpetrière hospital in Paris, part of the Brazilian driver's recovery programme after the accident in Budapest on 25 July," Ferrari said in a statement.

"The first outcomes are positive: especially the ophthalmological exam confirmed that Felipe, who arrived with his personal doctor Dino Altmann, has recovered the functions of his left eye by 100 per cent."

Earlier in the week Massa indicated he was focusing on return to F1 action next season, having at one staged hoped to return in the season-ending grand prix in Abu Dhabi.

[MIKA27]

Sato not giving up on F1 dream

Takuma Sato has not given up on his dream of returning to Formula One.

The Japanese driver has been out of the sport since Super Aguri decided to pull the plug on their F1 operation in 2008. He was involved in a three-way shoot-out to drive for Toro Rosso last year, but the team decided to hand the race seat to Sebastien Buemi.

"We are just communicating," he told Autosport. "As you know now in F1, in business and everything, it's quite difficult to predict. Of course new teams are coming, which is a great opportunity for me, and of course the current teams too. So we are just communicating with everybody really and trying to find any possibility, not only for F1.

"I have to have some kind of option for next year because one and a half years out of racing is just too long and to me it's the limit. If it was only half season then concentrating on F1 is fine.

"That was the case last year: we did the winter testing and it went perfectly and it didn't happen. That was a very unfortunate moment but I will never give up. I'm just attacking every single door and if that opens the doors for next year I will be very, very happy."

Sato, a former BAR driver, also praised Brawn GP after their turn-around in fortune.

"I think they can take pride," he said. "That's the kind of company Honda is always, that's what I'd like to believe.

"So did we as Super Aguri, a lot of very important designers and engineers were already integrated into that team, and we helped each other to develop the car - especially for the 2009 regulations. And that was a huge success. So from that point of view we did the right things, it's just a shame we're not here."

MIKA: SATO was a pretty good driver, if not a little reckless at times.

Saying that however, SATO always did mix it up and took alot of risks. Whilst he may not have been as fortunate to win GP's (Only 1 podium), he did however score points, his best season being 2004 where he scored 34 points whilst driving for BAR. To me, he is no different in driving style than say, Jacques Villeneauve.

I have seen worse drivers on the grid, SATO would be a welcome return to F1.

[MIKA27]

Glock out of Brazilian GP

Timo Glock will miss this weekend's Brazilian Grand Prix.

The Toyota driver was forced to sit out the Japanese Grand Prix after he suffered a gash to the leg following an accident during qualifying on Saturday.

It was thought he would be fit for the next race, but medical checks in Germany have revealed a cracked vertebra.

"Obviously everyone in the team is very disappointed and feels for Timo; we wish him a very speedy recovery," Team president John Howett said.

"Based on the initial diagnosis, we fully expected Timo to return in Brazil but unfortunately a different injury has been revealed which prevents that.

"He will remain in Germany to recover and we hope he can recuperate in time for Abu Dhabi, although at this stage the situation is not clear."

Reserve driver Kamui Kobayashi will replace Glock at Interlagos.

"Kamui was the natural choice to step in and he proved in Suzuka that he is capable of holding his own," Howett added.

"It is a difficult task for him but he knows the team will give him its complete support and we know he is motivated to make the most of this unexpected opportunity."

MIKA: No offense, most Japanese drivers who have made it into F1 are not that great with the exception of Takuma Sato who 'is' looking for a drive. Whilst Sato too, was not overly successful, he was and is by far, the best Japanese driver to make it to F1 and has a wealth of experience. I think Sato should be given a drive.

[MIKA27]

NEXT RACE - 18th October

Grand Prix of Brazil

Length : 4.309

Profile :

No of Laps: 71

Race Distance: 305.909 km

Lap Record: 1:11.473 - JP Montoya (2004)

History :

Interlagos was the home of the Brazilian Grand Prix in the 70's - then an awesome test with fast banked left-hander and a length of 6.92km (4.3 miles). But after losing the event for a decade to Rio the circuit was reshaped.

Now it has been modernised and shortened to 4.309 km, although is still a demanding test for both car and driver as it runs anti-clockwise.

Updates of the facilities for teams, media and medics have ensured its place on the calendar.

In 2009, though, that place has been moved back a slot as Brazilian will now be the penultimate race of the season and not the finale as it has been in previous years.

[MIKA27]

Report: Rubens signs Williams deal

Rubens Barrichello will leave Brawn GP at the end of the season after agreeing a deal with Williams according to a report in the Folha de Sao Paulo newspaper.

The paper stated that the Brazilian "has already signed a contract with Williams for the 2010 season with a mutual option to extend for another year."

Barrichello, who currently earns a reputed annual salary of two million dollars with Brawn will be paid "some four times more" by Williams.

The newspaper went on to say that German Nico Hulkenberg, Williams' current test driver, would pilot the second car in Frank Williams' fleet.

MIKA: Rubens will do well until he fails somewhere and pushes Sir Frank Williams in wheelchair down a hill!

I can't believe Williams of late (Last few years). They used to be one of THE BEST teams and have all but fizzled into a shadow of its former self.

[MIKA27]

Schumi: Vettel can still take the title

Michael Schumacher has implored his countryman, Sebastian Vettel, to give it his in all the remaining races this season, with a world title not out of reach.

Jenson Button leads the driver's standings with 85 points, 14 points ahead of his Brawn GP teammate Rubens Barrichello on and 16 points ahead of Vettel's Red Bull.

With only two races remaining Vettel can still come out on top, with Schumacer optimistic the German is up to the task.

"He (Vettel) still has the chance to win the title. This alone is already a big success. I am sure he will make everything possible to show a good performance in the next two races," Schumacher commented on his website.

Two year's ago Kimi Raikkonen piloted his Ferrari to World Championship glory having overcome a 17-point deficit in the final two races of the season.

"It is not over until it is over; you have to fight until the end. At Ferrari, we live that experience very successfully since many years, and I am convinced it will be like this again this time. Sebastian as well will probably share this view," said Schumacher.

"This F1 season turned out to be extremely attractive again, and as probably all motorsport fans I am looking forward to seeing what will be happening in the last two races," the seven-time World Champion added.