Alternate Future History 2012 F1 World Championship

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For those who didn't get around to the first part, it is available here http://www.gprejects.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=3766. Now comes the 2012 and season and this first bit may contain spoilers if you have not read the first one. In summary we follow the creation of new teams and that of new driver Adam Randle who having won the F3 title made the jump to F1 and had a somewhat successful 2011 in a brand new team.

Here is the drivers, Tyre Specifications and Race details for 2012
Teams and Drivers

Team: Red Bull Racing
Chassis: RB8
Engine: Renault RS29 V10 3.0L
Tyres: Goodyear
Main Sponsor: Red Bull
Drivers: Mark Webber (1), Sebastian Vettel (2)
Test Driver: Sebastien Buemi
Car Numbers: 1 & 2

Team: Mercedes GP Petronas
Chassis: F1 W03
Engine: Mercedes F0 108Z V8 2.4L
Tyres: Michelin
Main Sponsor: Petronas
Drivers: Michael Schumacher (3), Nico Rosberg (4)
Test Driver: Sam Bird
Car Numbers 3 & 4

Team: Canon Williams F1 Team
Chassis: FW34
Engine: Cosworth CR8 V10 3.0L
Tyres: Goodyear
Main Sponsor: Canon, SEGA,
Drivers: Kimi Raikkonen (5), Nico Hulkenberg (6)
Test Driver: Valterri Bottas
Car Numbers: 5 & 6

Team: Vodafone McLaren Mercedes
Chassis: MP4-27
Engine: Mercedes F0 108Z V8 2.4L
Tyres: Michelin
Main Sponsor: Vodafone
Drivers: Lewis Hamilton (7), Jenson Button (8)
Test Driver: Gary Paffett
Car Numbers: 7 & 8

Team: Orange Arrows Team F1
Chassis: A25
Engine: BMW M91 V12 3.5L
Tyres: Pirelli
Main Sponsor: Orange
Drivers: Lucas DiGrassi (9), Pastor Maldonado (10)
Test Driver: Adrian Sutil
Car Numbers: 9 & 10

Team: UPN Team Lotus
Chassis: T129
Engine: Renault RS29 V10 3.0L
Tyres: Pirelli
Main Sponsor: UPN
Drivers: Jarno Trulli (11), Heikki Kovalainen (12)
Test Driver: Giedo Van Der Garde
Car Numbers 11 & 12

Team: Mettis Randle Racing F1
Chassis: GR01B, GR02
Engine: BMW M92 V12 3.5L
Tyres: Goodyear
Main Sponsor: Mettis Aerospace, BP
Drivers: Adam Randle (13), Nick Heidfeld (14)
Test Driver: Danny Hume
Car Numbers 13 & 14

Team: Sahara Force India F1 Team
Chassis: VJM05
Engine: Mercedes F0 108 Z V8 2.4L
Tyres: Michelin
Main Sponsor: Sahara, Kingfisher
Drivers: Sebastien Buemi (15), Paul DiResta (16)
Test Driver: Jules Bianchi
Car Numbers: 15 & 16

Marussia Virgin Racing
Chassis: MR01, VR02B
Engine: Cosworth CA2012 V8 2.4L
Tyres: Goodyear
Main Sponsor: Marussia, Virgin
Drivers: Timo Glock (17), Stefano Coletti (18)
Test Driver: Maria De Villota
Car Numbers: 17 & 18

Team: Benetton Toleman Renault
Chassis: TGR32, TGR31B
Engine: Renault RS29 V10 3.0L
Tyres: Pirelli
Main Sponsor: Benetton, Total
Drivers: Robert Kubica (19), Vitaly Petrov (20)
Test Driver: Jerome D’Ambrosio
Car Numbers 19 & 20

Team: Hispania Racing Team
Chassis: F112, F111B
Engine: Cosworth CA2012 V8 2.4L
Tyres: Michelin
Main Sponsor: TATA, Telefonica
Drivers: Karun Chandhock (21), Vitantonio Liuzzi (22)
Test Driver: Dani Clos
Car Numbers 21 & 22

Team: European Minardi F1
Chassis: MPS12, MPS11B
Engine: Ferrari E4B 011 V12 3.5L
Tyres: Pirelli
Main Sponsor: Agip, Compaq,
Drivers: Jean-Eric Vergne (23), Jaime Alguersuari (24)
Test Driver: Davide Valsecchi
Car Numbers: 23 & 24

Team: Equipe Ligier Prost
Chassis: JS49, JS47B
Engine: Renault RS29 V10 3.0L
Tyres: Michelin
Main Sponsor: Loto, Elf Fuel
Drivers: Romain Grosjean (25), Franck Montagny (26)
Test Driver: Nathanael Berthon
Car Numbers: 25 & 26

Team: Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro
Chassis: F2012
Engine: Ferrari E4B 012 V12 3.5L
Tyres: Goodyear
Main Sponsor: Marlboro, Santander
Drivers: Fernando Alonso (27), Felipe Massa (28)
Test Driver: Davide Rigon
Car Numbers: 27 & 28

Team: Sauber F1 Team
Chassis: C31
Engine: Ferrari E4B 011 V12 3.5L
Tyres: Goodyear
Main Sponsor: Telmex, NEC
Drivers: Kamui Kobayashi (29), Sergio Perez (30)
Test Driver: Esteban Gutierrez
Car Numbers 29 & 30

Team: Shell Super Aguri Grand Prix
Chassis: SA11B, SA12
Engine: Honda RA012E V10 3.0L
Tyres: Michelin
Main Sponsor: Shell Petroluem, Honda
Drivers: Bruno Senna (31), Fabio Leimer (32)
Test Drivers: Hiroki Yoshimoto
Car Numbers 31& 32

Team: Team Modena Lamborghini
Chassis: Lambo 211B, Lambo 212
Engine: Lamborghini L4012 V12 3.5L
Tyres: Pirelli
Main Sponsor: Red Bull, Lamborghini
Drivers: Daniel Ricciardio (33), Giacomo Ricci (34)
Test Drivers: Luca Fillipi
Car Numbers: 33 & 34

Team: Lola Stefan Grand Prix
Chassis: T012/30
Engine: Honda RA012E V10 3.0L
Tyres: Pirelli
Main Sponsor: American Express, N. Technologies
Drivers: Pedro De La Rosa (35), Charles Pic (36)
Test Drivers: Kazuki Nakajima
Car Numbers: 35 & 36

Team: ART Grand Prix
Chassis: ARTF112
Engine: Cosworth CR8 V10 3.0L
Tyres: Michelin
Main Sponsor: Krounenberg, BP
Drivers: Marcus Winkelhock (37), Sebastian Bourdais (38)
Test Driver: Tom Dillmann
Car Numbers 37 & 38

Section from 2011 Campaign

Tyre choice will be reclassified in 2012 with lettering system
A. Supersoft
B. Soft
C. Medium
D. Hards
E. Intermediate Soft
F. Intermediate Medium
G. Intermediate Hard
H. Wets
I. Ultra Wets

12th September 2011 FIA
The following is the 2012 Grand Prix calendar of races and number of entrants allowed into main qualifying and the race. Top 13 placed teams of 2011 will automatically be in main qualifying and 14th and 15th team will be in main qualification at the respective races where 32 and 34 cars will be in main qualifying. All the rest will be in a prequalification session the Thursday before the race where top 4 will progress. Second half of season will be revised after German Grand prix with the same criteria as before.

1. Australian Grand Prix, Albert Park 18th March
28 start, 32 into Main qualifying
2. Malaysian Grand Prix, Sepang 25th March
30 start, 34 into main qualifying
3. Chinese Grand Prix, Shanghai International Circuit 15th April
30 start, 34 into main qualifying
4. Bahrain Grand Prix, Bahrain International Circuit 22nd April
28 start, 32 into main qualifying
5. Spanish Grand Prix, Catalunya 13th May
28 start, 32 main qualifying
6. Monaco Grand Prix, Monte Carlo 27th May
26 start, 30 main qualifying
7. Canadian Grand Prix, Circuit De Villeneuve 10th June
28 start, 32 main qualifying
8. European Grand Prix, Jerez 24th June
28 start, 32 main qualifying
9. British Grand Prix, Silverstone 8th July
30 start, 34 main qualifying
10. German Grand Prix, Hockenheim 22nd July
28 start, 32 main qualifying
11. Hungarian Grand Prix, Hungaroring 29th July
28 start, 32 main qualifying
12. Belgian Grand Prix, Spa Francorchamps 2nd September
30 start, 34 main qualifying
13. Italian Grand Prix, Monza 9th September
28 start, 32 main qualifying
14. Singapore Grand Prix, Marina Bay 23rd September
28 start, 32 main qualifying
15. Japanese Grand Prix, Suzuka 7th October
28 start, 32 main qualifying
16. Korean Grand Prix, Yeongam, 14th October
30 start, 34 main qualifying
17. Indian Grand Prix, Greater Noida, 28th October
30 start, 34 main qualifying
18. Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Yas Marina, 4th November
30 start, 34 main qualifying
19. USA Grand Prix, Austin, 18th November
30 start, 34 main qualifying
20. Brazilian Grand Prix, Interlagos 25th November
28 start, 32 main qualifying

Therefore until Germany, HRT, Marussia, Stefan and ART will be in all Prequalifying sessions, Super Aguri will participate in the Monaco Round and Arrows will participate at all rounds where 30 do not start the race. After Germany the top 14 for the last half of 2011 and first half of 2012 will not have to prequalify. The top 4 go through in each prequalifying session and the last 4 in a qualifying session Do Not qualify.

After a thrilling 2011 Campaign drew to a close and Webber was successful in winning his first championship, the F1 teams retired for the winter and began final preparations for the testing before the new season. With new changes in place such as a new tyre system, qualifying and with the highest entrant list since 1989 it would all lead to an exciting 2012. As many teams were anticipating a return of turbos for 2013 and 2014, there was only minor engine development for this season. However Ferrari, BMW and Lamborghini were still committing to a V12 program for the foreseeable future. Force India will hope for a much improved campaign and will have spent time on developing the new car. The winter tests were as followed:

13th – 16th December: Brands Hatch
16th – 18th January: Imola
9th – 11th February: Barcelona
16th – 19th February: Paul Ricard
7th – 10th March: Istanbul

The release date for the teams new cars have still not been announced and will be updated throughout the next few months.

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28th November 2011 (BBC)
Webber overjoyed with Championship victory and looking forward to month off as Red Bull test driver will take part in the first test. Many teams are likely to be using 2011 car the test at Brands Hatch in two weeks and new cars likely to be at Imola test onwards.

29th November 2011 (Autosport)
Red Bull, Williams, McLaren, Force India to release new cars on 15th January for Imola test

30th November 2011 (Skysports)
Mercedes, Arrows, Lotus, Sauber to release new cars on 8th February for Barcelona test

1st December 2011 (F1 Fanatic)
Ferrari, Stefan, ART will have new car for the Imola test as it will be released on 14th January

2nd December 2011 (BBC)
Randle BMW feel 2011 car will still be competitive and will unlucky be running the new car until Spanish Grand Prix in May as do not want to rush out the 2012 car.

3rd December 2011 (The Sun)
HRT will hope to have new car ready in time for new season but will test old car in the winter testing, Ligier and Modena will do the same.

4th December 2011 (Autosport)
Minardi will test 2011 car alongside 2012 and see which one will start the flyaway races as wanting to development as much as possible.

5th December 2011 (The Times)
Toleman reveal 2012 car will appear when it is ready

6th December 2011 (F1Fanatic)
Red Bull, Mercedes, Williams, McLaren, Arrows, Lotus, Randle BMW, Force India, Marussia and Toleman are the only teams to participate for the Brands Hatch test with test drivers appearing on most of the days.

13th December 2011 Brands Hatch Testing Day 1
So for the first time since 1986 Brands Hatch featured F1 cars on its tracks for an official FIA event, it was a cold winter’s day for the test that was attended by the British based teams. With no 2012 cars launched it was an extra way for teams to see if the 2011 cars were worth running for 2012. Many were simply testing new engines and seeing how they ran in conditions, the top time for each driver in a speed run were as follows

Red Bull: Sebastian Buemi (1:11.987)
Mercedes: Sam Bird (1:12.576), Nico Rosberg (1:10.899)
Williams: Valterri Bottas (1:14.567), Kimi Raikkonen (1:12.121)
McLaren: Gary Paffett (1:15.091) Jenson Button (1:13.876)
Arrows: Adrian Sutil (1:15.987), Pastor Maldonado (1:14.143)
Lotus: Giedo Van D. Garde (1:13.909) J. Trulli (1:13.454)
Randle BMW: Danny Hume (1:12.903) Nick Heidfeld (1:11.261)
Force India: Jules Bianchi (1:15.717) Sebastian Buemi (1:13.226)
Marussia: Timo Glock (1:15.610) Stefano Coletti (1:14.989)
Toleman: Jerome D’Ambrosio (1:12.125)

14th December 2011 Brands Hatch Testing Day 2
For this day most teams decided to test other parts of the car and with it fully fuelled so fast times were slim. The top times for each team were:

Red Bull: Sebastian Buemi (1:14.987)
Mercedes: Sam Bird (1:15.576), Michael Schumacher (1:15.143)
Williams: Valterri Bottas (1:17.607),
McLaren: Gary Paffett (1:16.091)
Arrows: Adrian Sutil (1:17.006),
Lotus: Jarno Trulli (1:14.454)
Randle BMW: Nick Heidfeld (1:14.261)
Force India: Jules Bianchi (1:17.717)
Marussia: Stefano Coletti (1:18.989)
Toleman: Jerome D’Ambrosio (1:19.125)

15th December 2011 Brands Hatch Testing Day 3
Rain happened on this day and so many teams just ran one car to collect data in the wet, it also gave a chance for Pirelli to test the new ultra wets when it became heavy.

16th December 2011 Brands Hatch Testing Final Day
With the last day of testing all teams went for speed runs and to practice qualifying times. This meant Nigel Mansell’s 25 year lap record went as the teams set competitive times, as most teams ran all 3 drivers with the exception being Red Bull, McLaren, Mercedes, Force India and Toleman leaving 25 entrants for a shootout, the times were as follows:

1. A. Randle, Randle BMW, 1:07.013
2. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth, 1:07.354
3. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth, 1:07.623
4. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault, 1:07.832
5. N. Rosberg, Mercedes, 1:07.889
6. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, 1:08.214
7. M. Schumacher, Mercedes, 1:08.472
8. S. Buemi, Red Bull Renault, 1:08.653
9. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes, 1:08.721
10. L .Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes, 1:08.767
11. D. Hume, Randle BMW, 1:08.818
12. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, 1:08.935
13. V. Bottas, Williams Cosworth, 1:09.113
14. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, 1:09.243
15. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes, 1:09.404
16. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, 1:09.457
17. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, 1:09.566
18. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault, 1:09.832
19. A. Sutil, Arrows BMW, 1:09.921
20. J. Bianchi, Force India Mercedes, 1:10.246
21. G. Van Der Garde, Lotus Renault, 1:10.465
22. S. Colletti, Marrussia Cosworth, 1:10.640
23. L. Di Grassi, Arrows BMW, 1:10.919
24. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, 1:11.200
25. M. De Villota, Marussia Cosworth, 1:11.798

The test was received well by the teams and it brought back memories of non championship races for older fans, with the Randle team being presented with a special award for achieving the new lap record.
G. Randle (Team Owner Randle BMW), It was fantastic to test here and it brought me memories of when I use to come here as a spectator in the 70s and 80s and when the F3 teams use to race here.
F. Williams (Williams): I did miss coming here as it was a fantastic circuit to race on and it brought us some wonderful times here especially when Nigel use to race for us. Perhaps the most special was the win here ny Alan Jones all those years ago and Nigels win in 1985 as highlights.
J. Button, What a fast circuit to drive around on, obviously it probably will not be back on the calendar properly but it was fun to drive on and test these last few days.

[gnrpoison]

17th December 2011 BBC
As the teams shut up shop for the Christmas break, the main concentration turns to next year and making sure the cars are ready, with the first test of the new season and with work to resume on the 7th January.

7th January 2012 F1 Fanatic
Some of the new teams will be unveiling cars for the Imola test and with not much change in regulations from 2011, the cars should not be radically different but are likely to be faster.

10th January 2012 Autosport
BMW in collaboration with Randle Racing release images of the new BMW V12 Le Mans Prototype that will take part in the World Endurance Championship and the car that Adam Randle will drive in the historic 24 hours of Le Mans on the 16th June. The team using the experience of 2011 and with substantial BMW backing look favourites to take the LMP1 Caterogy against Toyota, Audi, Volkswagon, Aston Martin, Jaguar and Peugeot entries.

11th January 2012 The Sun
A. Randle: It is an honour to be the lead driver in for BMW in that Race and I hope it can be a memorable debut in the race. I hope the team can also enjoy success in the Sportscar championship and we do well in the F1 campaign.

14th January 2012 Autosport
Ferrari lead the way with the release of a stylist looking 2012 Car, the F2012 and the new V12 engine which is lighter and more fuel efficient look to be ready for the title fight. The new Stefan and Art cars look to be interesting and it seems in the example of Stefan that the Lola car is respectable and looks amazing.

15th January 2012 BBC
Red Bull fire salvo by releasing new car and claim it is even better then the previous cars, the RB8 combined with the new Renault engine should ensure a good campaign.
McLaren new MP4 27 is stylish and looks at the moment to be the prettiest of the cars so far, whether it can be the fastest time will tell.
Williams: The FW34 is bulkier as it now has a V10 engine and if reports are to believed on the testing of the new engine, the car could be an outsider for the title.
Force India: The VJM05 visually is almost a b spe of last years car, hopefully it is more then that as the car needs to set up.

16th - 18th January 2012 Imola testing
The day would be the first team many of the new cars were to get a test, with all drivers participating, it would be a day of 38 cars all bustling for track time to test vital components and race pace. The day was sunny and warm and the teams best times were as follows round the renovated Imola track. The test weekend was a sellout and it would place pressure on Ferrari to entertain the home fans. Ferrari shorn over the weekend as they were fastest in the straight line test and the car did not seem to be on the limit throughout. The following was on the final day’s speed run and the times of all entrants.

1. F. Alonso, Ferrari (27) (G) 1:19.254
2. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault (2) (G) 1:19.321
3. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault (1) (G) 1:19.417
4. F. Massa, Ferrari (28) (G) 1:19.502
5. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth (5) (G) 1:19.605
6. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes (8) (M) 1:19.663
7. N. Rosberg Mercedes (4) (M) 1:19.726
8. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth (6) (G) 1:19.838
9. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault (19) (P) 1:19.911
10. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes (7) (M) 1:19.990
11. A. Randle, Randle BMW, (13) (G) 1:20.049
12. M. Schumacher, Mercedes (3) (M) 1:20.091
13. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari (30) (G) 1:20.186
14. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault (20) (P) 1:20.223
15. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari (29) (G) 1:20.465
16. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW (14) (G) 1:20.509
17. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault (25) (M) 1:20.737
18. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault (12) (P) 1:20.991
19. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes (16) (M) 1:21.112
20. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes (15) (M) 1:21.465
21. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW (10) (P) 1:21.603
22. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault (26) (M) 1:21.717
23. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda (31) (M) 1:21.924
24. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini (34) (P) 1:22.079
25. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault, (11) (P) 1:22.432
26. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari (24) (P) 1:22.576
27. D. Riccardio, Modena Lamborghini (33) (P) 1:22.781
28. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda, (35) (P) 1:22.991
29. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P) 1:23.199
30. L. Di Grassi, Arrows BMW, (9) (P) 1:23.502
31. C. Pic, Lola Honda (36) (P) 1:23.774
32. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth (22) (M) 1:23.841
33. K. Chandhock, HRT Cosworth (21) (M) 1:23.919
34. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth (17) (G) 1:24.078
35. S. Bourdais, ART Cosworth (38) (M) 1:24.114
36. M. Winkkelhock, ART Cosworth, (37) (M) 1:24.321
37. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda (32) (M) 1:24.606
38. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth (18) (G) 1:24.923

19th January 2012 BBC
Many teams were happy with Imola test and the new cars from Williams, Red Bull, Ferrari and McLaren were quick. Frontrunners were very close and Top 16 expecting to be exciting for the season as midfield is close and no clear top 5 emerged yet. Some concern for Art and Stefan who are slighty behind pace.

20th January 2012 Autosport
Backmarkers anticipate hard battles to get on the grid for races. This comes as teams at the back were over 2 seconds off the last grid slots, many expecting to improve in the next tests and put it down to old cars and the newer cars being faster.

25th January 2012 Daily Mirror
New BMW LMP1 car goes well in test at Donington, the car seemed to be on par with current Sportcar pace.

[gnrpoison]

2nd February 2012 The Sun
Preparations ready for next week’s test at Barcelona and final preparations are being made ready for Mercedes, Arrows, Lotus and Sauber as they release the new 2012 cars to the world.

3rd February 2012 Autosport
Schumacher announces retirement at the end of 2012 season, has decided to renew contract after a strong 2011 season. Believed to be wanting to go out in style by helping Mercedes gain constructors.

5th February 2012 BBC
Ecclestone happy with Circuit of the Americas preparations for the returning Grand Prix, would like Imola, and Mexico City to return. Also hasn’t made mind up if some Grand Prix’s are going to be renewed.

8th February 2012 Team Launches
Mercedes: The Silver Arrows debut new car with its sleek nose and cockpit with both drivers happy with it progress, lessons have been learnt from 2011 title surrender

Arrows: The new Arrows, with the new engine meant it was drastically different from the 2011 car, the car was wider and longer to incorporate the BMW V12. Still sporting Orange and Black in respect of title sponsor ORANGE.

Lotus: Sporting Black and Gold, now into their third season with hopes of maintaining in the midfield, the car a further evolution with remodelled sidepods, front wing and diffuser should be able to be to do that.

Sauber: New Engine, Colour scheme and with a new car that should be able to qualify for all races easy. The sidepods have been made bigger to allow more air to allow cooling of the feracious Ferrari V12.

9th – 11th February 2012 Barcelona Testing
It was a wet weekend for the Spanish test, so it gave many teams the chance to see how the cars were going to handle in the wet. Ferrari continued to be the early pace setters, yet the Goodyear Wet was not as strong as the Michelin Wet with many of their runners well placed. The last day saw improved conditions that were good enough for intermediate tyres and the last hour saw the track starting to dry but not quickly enough for slicks to appear. The new Lotus struggled in the wet, while the new Sauber excelled. The fastest times for each entrant were:

1. F. Alonso, Ferrari (27) (G) 1:25.675
2. F. Massa, Ferrari (28) (G) 1:25.783
3. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes (8) (M) 1:25.932
4. N. Rosberg, Mercedes (4) (M) 1:25.967
5. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault (1) (G) 1:26.101
6. M. Schumacher, Mercedes (7) (M) 1:26.190
7. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth (5) (G) 1:26.431
8. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari (30) (G) 1:26.446
9. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes, (7) (M) 1:26.513
10. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari (29) (G) 1:26.592
11. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes (16) (M) 1:26.718
12. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault (2) (G) 1:26.775
13. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth (6) (G) 1:26.941
14. A. Randle, Randle BMW (13) (G) 1:27.002
15. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes (15) (G) 1:27.165
16. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G) 1:27.220
17. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, (20) (P) 1:27.406
18. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini, (34) (P) 1:27.515
19. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari, (24) (P) 1:27.666
20. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault, (25) (M) 1:27.978
21. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P) 1:28.134
22. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, (19) (P) 1:28.336
23. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault, (26) (M) 1:28.470
24. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P) 1:28.635
25. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P) 1:28.808
26. D. Riccardio, Modena Lamborghini, (33) (P) 1:28.971
27. S. Bourdais, ART Cosworth, (38) (M) 1:29.148
28. L. Di Grassi, Arrows BMW, (9) (P) 1:29.305
29. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault, (11) (P) 1:29.569
30. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda, (31) (M) 1:29.766
31. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth, (37) (M) 1:29.899
32. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda, (35) (P) 1:29.970
33. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 1:30.478
34. K. Chandhock, HRT Cosworth, (21) (M) 1:30.717
35. C. Pic, Lola Honda, (36) (P) 1:32.786
36. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda, (32) (M) 1:34.576
37. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (17) (G) 1:43.012
38. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth, (18) (G) 1:45.987

Marussia were unhappy as they were only able to get a few laps in due to car problems and this meant slow times were given to see what they were. HRT could have been at least a second faster had their steering on the cars not been damaged. Cars 32 and 36 were in race conditions throughout the race and that was the reasoning for them off the pace.

12th February 2012 BBC
Toleman will debut new car in Australia after deciding that 2011 car has had enough development, the new car will be tested privately over the next few weeks

13th February 2012 Sky Sports News
Ferrari happy with progress and expecting success with the first races, feel hardest test will be when European season starts.

14th February 2012 BBC
Marussia are to increase budget for new season and hope to regularly qualify for the races.

16th – 19th February 2012 Paul Ricard Testing
The teams made the journey to Southern France to embark on another test in anticipation of the new season. Some of the new cars were being tested to their limits and were beginning to find optimal performance, for teams using 2011 cars or B spec versions there was other important data to collect. It was a glorious sunny for days round the full track for the first time since 1985, with much improved safety features added to the track it meant the full Mistral Straight could be used to test the cars maximum speed. With advances in technology since the mid 1980s and development of formula one, the cars were almost 10 seconds faster then their 1980s counterparts. The cars reached top speeds that tested both the driver’s reactions and fitness. Ferrari showed good form but Red Bull and Williams were closer now, McLaren were finding the car’s handling to be tricky. The top times for each driver are as followed:

1. F. Alonso, Ferrari (27) (G) 1:30.798
2. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth (5) (G) 1:30.971
3. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault (1) (G) 1:31.203
4. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault (2) (G) 1:31.298
5. F. Massa, Ferrari (28) (G) 1:31.401
6. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes (7) (M) 1:31.489
7. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth (6) (G) 1:31.531
8. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari, (29) (G) 1:31.608
9. N. Rosberg, Mercedes, (4) (M) 1:31.698
10. M. Schumacher, Mercedes (3) (M) 1:31.717
11. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari, (30) (G) 1:31.890
12. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G) 1:31.900
13. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes, (8) (M) 1:31.988
14. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes, (16) (M) 1:32.143
15. R. Grosjean. Ligier Prost Renault, (25) (M) 1:32.308
16. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, (20) (P) 1:32.414
17. A. Randle, Randle BMW, (13) (G) 1:32.452
18. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes, (15) (M) 1:32.605
19. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari, (24) (P) 1:32.608
20. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini, (34) (P) 1:32.677
21. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, (19) (P) 1:32.717
22. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P) 1:32.798
23. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P) 1:32.890
24. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault, (11) (P) 1:32.991
25. D. Riccardio, Modena Lamborghini, (33) (P) 1:33.204
26. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault, (26) (M) 1:33.465
27. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P) 1:33.687
28. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 1:33.890
29. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda, (31) (M) 1:34.035
30. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda, (32) (M) 1:34.354
31. C. Pic, Lola Honda, (36) (P) 1:34.567
32. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda, (35) (P) 1:34.890
33. L. DiGrassi, Arrows BMW, (9) (P) 1:35.032
34. S. Bourdais, ART Cosworth, (38) (M) 1:35.132
35. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (17) (G) 1:35.406
36. K. Chandhock, HRT Cosworth, (21) (M) 1:35.623
37. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth, (37) (M) 1:35.765
38. S. Colletti, Marussia Cosworth, (18) (G) 1:36.032

[andrew]

what do you use to simulate this

[gnrpoison]

what do you use to simulate this

Nothing really, I use no race sim as it was originally going to be a piece of written work to go on alternatehistory.com, however I decided to dry run it here and it was well recieved. The original 2011 season is linked in the first post, so all this is my own work based on research and a bit of artistic licence. I did this because I saw all the racing game versions and felt it could work as a piece of alternate history, with improvements to the current rules. For example the races I would look at previous years and guess how fast it would be in this timeline, the winners of each race is determined by position and if the car is suited to it, then all possible winners go into a hat and I draw it out of them and write accordingly. The performance of the cars as well is determined a little by if they are truly independent ala HRT or if they are backed by a manufacturer ala Randle BMW The only downside is that I do not get to show how the cars look so have to leave it to the imagination.

[gnrpoison]

7th – 10th March Istanbul Testing Final Day Results
The final preseason test came with the last of teams that were not using old cars releasing their new cars for this test with the new HRT and Minardi hopefully better than their predecessors, it was a close test and Ferrari considered to show their dominance while Red Bull seemed to be a little slower then everyone expected, with just a week to go before the first race of the season it would surely highlight who would be favourite for the early races. Alonso put his name in the frame for that by lapping quicker than most of the rivals in the speed test and taking the top time that was faster than last year’s grand prix pole and 2 seconds faster than his qualifying time showing the increase in speed for the teams. The Ferrari V12 had shown itself to be more reliable than last year and it may give the Spaniard his third world title, which many feel in the paddock is overdue.

1. F. Alonso, Ferrari (27) (G) 1:20.871
2. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault (1) (G) 1:21.032
3. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault (2) (G) 1:21.115
4. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth, (5) (G) 1:21.302
5. F. Massa, Ferrari (28) (G) 1:21.415
6. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth, (6) (G) 1:21.476
7. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes (7) (M) 1:21.587
8. N. Rosberg, Mercedes (4) (M), 1:21.613
9. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes (8) (M) 1:21.798
10. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari (30) (G) 1:21.943
11. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, (19) (P) 1:22.075
12. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G) 1:22.224
13. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari 1:22.298
14. A. Randle, Randle BMW, (13) (G) 1:22.313
15. M. Schumacher, Mercedes 1:22.476
16. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes 1:22.609
17. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes, 1:22.698
18. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P) 1:22.805
19. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault (12) (P) 1:22.901
20. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault (25) (M) 1:23.287
21. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari, (24) (P) 1:23.546
22. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, (20) (P) 1:23.670
23. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault, (11) (P) 1:23.892
24. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini (34) (P) 1:23.901
25. D. Riccardio, Modena Lamborghini (33) (P) 1:24.112
26. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda (31) (M) 1:24.364
27. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda (35) (P) 1:24.809
28. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW (10) (P) 1:24.991
29. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault (26) (M) 1:25.342
30. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 1:25.476
31. L. Di Grassi, Arrows BMW, (9) (P) 1:25.987
32. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda (32) 1:26.354
33. S. Bourdais, ART Cosworth (38) (M) 1:26.908
34. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth (37) (M) 1:27.256
35. C. Pic, Lola Honda (36) (P) 1:27.657
36. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth (18) (G) 1:28.109
37. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth (17) (G) 1:28.405
38. K. Chandhock, HRT Cosworth (21) (M) 1:28.987

11th March 2012 BBC
Webber hoping to take a home win for second year in the row and the first win of a hopeful successful title campaign

12th March 2012 Birmingham Mail
Randle BMW confident of points with 2011 car and new car tested well in private test, but it still some time from being truly competitive.

13th March 2012 F1 Fanatic
Likely groupings for all the teams based on expectations and hopes
Top Teams: Ferrari, Red Bull, McLaren, Williams, Mercedes
Midfield: Randle BMW, Sauber, Force India, Toleman
Backmarkers: Minardi, Team Lotus, Ligier, Lamborghini, Arrows
Struggling to Qualify: Super Aguri, Marussia, HRT, ART, Lola

14th March 2012 FIA
Tyre Compounds this weekend will be B (Soft) and C (Medium) for dry, intermediate medium and both wets

15th March 2012 Australian Grand Prix Prequalifying
The new year started early at 9am with the cars ready for the first Prequalifying Session with only 4 cars going through it was going to be a battle with 5 teams and 10 cars hoping they are successful. With no Ligier or Randle BMW times will probably be slightly faster than the rest of last year’s times. Maldonado dominated the times with last year’s BMW engine to ensure progress at the first attempt and Liuzzi was disappointed that he could not improve his peak time as he felt the car could have been quicker. Problems for ART meant they were off the pace and used it for extra testing.

1. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW (10) (P) 1:24.342
2. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (17) (G) 1:24.476
3. L. Di Grassi, Arrows BMW, (9) (P) 1:24.576
4. C. Pic, Lola Honda, (36) (P) 1:25.054
5. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda, (35) (P) 1:25.687
6. K. Chandhock, HRT Cosworth, (21) (M) 1:25.709
7. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 1:25.807
8. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth, (18) (G) 1:26.132
9. S. Bourdais, ART Cosworth, (38) (M) 1:27.980
10. M. Winkelhock ART Cosworth 128.453

17th March 2012 Australian Grand Prix Qualifying
The session was extremely wet and many teams struggled in the conditions, Lola managed to start in 28th and last due to a remarkable performance from Pic. Ricci heavy crash brought the paddock to a worry but he was fine and will be back for the next race as he had a concussion. Many drivers felt the session should have been delayed till dryer conditions or postponed till the next day which as to be dryer. Eventually Alonso took a magnificent pole over a second ahead of Webber to set up an interesting battle for the race the next day.

1. F. Alonso, Ferrari (27) (G) 1:58.978
2. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault (1) (G) 1:59.981
3. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault (2) (G) 2:00.354
4. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes (7) (M) 2:00.567
5. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes (8) (M) 2:00.978
6. M. Schumacher, Mercedes (3) (P) 2:01.112
7. F. Massa, Ferrari (28) (G) 2:01.232
8. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari (29) (G) 2:01.354
9. A. Randle, Randle BMW (13) (G) 2:01.434
10. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth (5) (G) 2:01.545
11. N. Rosberg, Mercedes (4) (P) 2:01.607
12. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari (30) (G) 2:01.717
13. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault (19) (P) 2:01.902
14. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth (6) (G) 2:02.046
15. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes (16) (M) 2:02.213
16. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes (15) (M) 2:02.506
17. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault (25) (M) 2:02.745
18. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari (24) (P) 2:02.980
19. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P) 2:03.032
20. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P) 2:03.354
21. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, (20) (P) 2:03.465
22. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW (14) (G) 2:03.576
23. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari (23) (P) 2:03.792
24. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault, (11) (P) 2:04.213
25. D. Riccardio, Modena Lamborghini (33) (P) 2:04.787
26. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda (31) (M) 2:04.971
27. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth (17) (G) 2:05.546
28. C. Pic, Lola Honda (36) (P) 2:06.143
29. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda (32) (M) 2:07.876
30. L. DiGrassi, Arrows BMW, (9) (P) 2:07.989
31. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault, (26) (M) 2:09.102
32. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini, (34) (P) 2:14.786

18th March 2012 Australian Grand Prix 58 laps

It had been a wet morning and the track was still wet but with sun expecting to come in, intermediates were on all the cars as the teams lined up to take the grid for the start. The 28 cars all fuelled waited for the start, the lights went out and Alonso took the first corner ahead of Webber as all the cars managed to avoid incident on the first lap. Kobayashi had made a decent start but as the three drivers behind in Rosberg, Raikkonen and Randle all were known to be good starters, he had dropped down into the midfield. The track drying in parts did catch out one driver who spun off and out of the race on second lap as Trulli failed to pass Maldonado and ended up in the grass at turn 6. At the front the race turned into a battle between Alonso and Webber who had pulled a bit of distance from 3rd place Button who had slowed the cars behind him as he struggled for any real speed to catch the front two. Pic in his and Stefan GP first race had made some overtakes and was part of the back group down in 24th. By lap 10 the track was drying quickly now and many drivers pitted for a soft compound, while some ambitious drivers went for the medium in the hope of having to do only 1 more stint. The BMW engine of Maldonado expired on lap 13 as the driver was respectively in 18th place after a good early race. The top 10 on lap 15 were 1. F. Alonso (27), 2. M. Webber (1) +3.254s, 3. S. Vettel (2) + 14.875s, 4. L. Hamilton (7) +19.765s, 5. J. Button (8) +21.654s, 6. F. Massa (28) + 25.765s, 7. M. Schumacher (3) +30.643s, 8. K. Raikkonen (5) + 33.132s, 9. N. Rosberg (4) +34.432s and 10. A. Randle (13) + 35.023s

By lap 21 a few more cars had retired for various mechanical settings such as the lone Ligier of Grosjean due to a broken differential, a broken gearbox for Hulkenberg’s Williams and a broken suspension by colliding into a wall had forced Buemi in the Force India to retire. The race had started to develop into a battle for 3rd as several cars started to come close to Vettel, whose softs were going to need a change on lap 30, whereas the medium compounds of Hamilton, Schumacher and Button who had started to lap quicker now that their tyres were closing on optimal speed. The final retirements happened on lap 32 as a collision between a battling Massa and Rosberg ended their races. The pit stops added some drama to the midfield but it wasn’t enough to stop Alonso to win the race as Webber settled for 2nd in the final laps and the Australian set the fastest lap with a 1:24.987 on lap 54. A battling Schumacher took the final podium spot for Mercedes

1. F. Alonso (27) 1 Hr 32mins 23.765s 25pts
2. M. Webber (1) + 10.534s 18pts
3. M. Schumacher (3) + 25.987s 15pts
4. L. Hamilton (7) + 28.976s 12pts
5. K. Raikkonen (5) + 31.543s 10pts
6. S. Vettel (2) + 37.986s 8pts
7. J. Button (8) + 49.198s 6pts
8. A. Randle (13) + 55.765s 4pts
9. S. Perez (30) + 1.10.876s 2pts
10. R. Kubica (19) + 1:15.543s 1pt
11. K. Kobayashi (29) + 1 Lap
12. P. DiResta (16) + 1 lap
13. H. Kovalainen (12) + 1 lap
14. J. Alguersuari (24) + 1 lap
15. N. Heidfeld (14) + 1 lap
16. V. Petrov (20) + 1 lap
17. D. Riccardio (33) + 2 laps
18. C. Pic (36) + 2 laps
19. T. Glock (17) + 3laps
20. J. E. Vergne (23) + 3 laps
21. B. Senna (31) + 4 laps
22. N. Rosberg (4) 32 laps Collision
23. F. Massa (28) 32 laps Collision
24. S. Buemi (15) 21 laps Suspension
25. N. Hulkenberg (6) 20 laps Gearbox
26. R. Grosjean (25) 17 laps Differential
27. P. Maldonado (10) 13 laps Engine
28. J. Trulli (11) 1 Lap Spun Off

F. Lap: M. Webber (2) 1:24.987 on lap 54
ROTR: B. Senna, just was anonymous all afternoon and drove averagely at the back
DOTR: Alonso brilliant performance to start the season

Championship
1. F. Alonso (27) 25pts
2. M. Webber (1) 18pts
3. M. Schumacher (3) 15pts
4. L. Hamilton (7) 12pts
5. K. Raikkonen (5) 10pts
6. S. Vettel (2) 8pts
7. J. Button (8) 6pts
8. A. Randle (13) 4pts
9. S. Perez (30) 2pts
10. R. Kubica (19) 1pt
Constructors
1. Red Bull 26pts
2. Ferrari 25pts
3. McLaren 18pts
4. Mercedes 15pts
5. Williams 10pts
6. Randle BMW 4pts
7. Sauber 2pts
8. Toleman 1pt
9. Force India 0pts
= Team Lotus 0pts
= Minardi 0pts
= Modena 0pts
= Stefan 0pts
= Marussia 0pts
= Super Aguri 0pts
NC Ligier Prost
= Arrows
= HRT
= ART

[gnrpoison]

19th March 2012 BBC
Alonso happy with win, Ferrari say they have achieved at least a target for the season, will have small upgrades for Malaysia

20th March 2012 F1Fanatic
Ligier have told Montagny he must do better or lose seat

21st March 2012 FIA
Same tyre compounds as Australia to be used in Malaysia so B and C compounds.

22nd March 2012 Malaysian Grand Prix Prequalifying
The second session of the year was a good one for Marussia HRT and Lola as they would be represented in main qualifying, while Arrows were happy not having to get up as it was one they would miss due to more cars allowed in main qualifying and on the starting grid.

1. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (17) (G) 1:47.856
2. P. De La Rosa Lola Honda, (35) (P) 1:48.132
3. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 1:48.321
4. C. Pic, Lola Honda, (36) (P) 1:48.576
5. K. Chandhock, HRT Cosworth, (21) (M) 1:48.717
6. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth, (37) (M) 1:49.043
7. S. Bourdais, ART Cosworth, (38) (M) 1:49.213
8. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth, (18) (G) 1:49.560

24th March 2012 Malaysian Grand Prix Qualifying

1. F. Alonso, Ferrari (27) (G) 1:43.697
2. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault (1) (G) 1:43.717
3. N. Rosberg, Mercedes, (4) (M) 1:43.798
4. M. Schumacher, Mercedes, (3) (M) 1:43.818
5. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault (2) (G) 1:43.909
6. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes, (7) (M) 1:44.144
7. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth, (5) (G) 1:44.303
8. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth, (6) (G) 1:44.465
9. F. Massa, Ferrari, (28) (G) 1:44.509
10. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari, (30) (G) 1:44.515
11. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, (19) (P) 1:44.602
12. A. Randle, Randle BMW, (13) (G) 1:44.678
13. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes (16) (M) 1:44.723
14. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes, (8) (M) 1:44.883
15. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P) 1:44.943
16. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault, (11) (P) 1:45.043
17. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G) 1:45.122
18. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari (29) (G) 1:45.325
19. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes, (15) (M) 1:45.419
20. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault, (25) (M) 1:45.590
21. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari, (24) (P) 1:45.783
22. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P) 1:45.936
23. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, (20) (P) 1:46.104
24. D. Riccardio, Modena Lamborghini, (33) (P) 1:46.221
25. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault, (26) (M) 1:46.464
26. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (17) (G) 1:46.607
27. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini, (34) (P) 1:46.890
28. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW (10) (P) 1:47.453
29. C. Pic, Lola Honda, (36) (P) 1:47.542
30. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 1:47.768
31. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda, (31) (M) 1:47.899
32. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda, (35) (P) 1:48:243
33. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda, (32) (M) 1:48:405
34. L. DiGrassi, Arrows BMW (9) (P) 1:48:543

25th March 2012 Malaysian Grand Prix 56 laps
Rain was expected halfway towards the end of the race because of the local monsoon season; this would play in many strategies as it could come down who would handle the conditions better in the wet or who could maintain a large enough distance in the dry so the wet weather would not come into play. With 30 cars assembled for the race, the first two corners would be very tight, many were thinking a safety car would be inevitable and this meant the Randle BMW of Randle started the race on the C medium compound as the advantage for softs may be wiped out instantly. The lights went out and the cars all sped to the first corner, which went without incident but a 4 car collision towards the back of the grid involving the two Minardis, Petrov’s Toleman and Kobayashi’s Sauber put all 4 out of the race just after turn two. After the first lap the cars led by Rosberg who had started well were in a procession behind the safety car, so the wreckage on turn 2 could be cleared. If it was heavy rain there were concerns that the race may last the full 2 hours as the dry portion would not be as quick as hoped. The positions at this stage were not important as by lap 6 the safety car pulled in and Webber was right behind the back of the leading Mercedes, he managed by the smallest of margins pass on the inside of turn 1 and kept it for turn 2 as the Mercedes attempted to regain the lost position. Randle allowed some cars on softs to pass him as there was no point in losing time battling with them at this point as the medium tyres would last longer without a pit stop. Over the pit radio the crew told Randle to make sure he kept within 2 seconds of their lap time to take advantage of the tyres degrading by lap 23, rain was not expected on lap 31 so it could effectively buy a pit stop if it was successful. The Williams were going steady in positions 5 and 7 as Raikkonen and Hulkenberg had Vettel battling with them for 5th. By lap 10 the positions were 1. M. Webber (1) 2. N. Rosberg (4) +4.078s, 3. F. Alonso (27) + 6.783s, 4. M. Schumacher (3) + 9.876s, 5. S. Vettel (2) + 11.321s, 6. K. Raikkonen (5) + 11.789s, 7. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 12.543s, 8. L. Hamilton (7) + 14.576s, 9. F. Massa (28) + 15.345s, 10. S. Perez (30) + 16.789s

The pit crews could see the clouds gathering as the cars lapped reasonably well on full fuel loads with the fastest of those being Raikkonen who was challenging Vettel and Schumacher who had fallen a little behind the front 3 on lap 14. By now those on softs were starting to see their advantage over the mediums begin to fade as their tyres had been worn quite quickly due to the weight of fuel and dry conditions, the softs on Webber’s car were still enough to take a fastest lap on lap 20 but be now the softs had worn a lot causing many to start pitting, this early period saw the medium clad tyres of Randle able to progress into 6th as the cars of Hamilton, Hulkenberg, Perez and Massa were all forced to take on new tyres. Massa decided to gamble with softs while the others confident of little rain went for mediums. Lap 24 would see Webber, Rosberg and Alonso pit for softs in the event of a mid 30s rainfall, this meant Randle had rose to 4th as Schumacher had passed him on fresher soft tyres. Massa would set the fastest lap on lap 28 with a 1:48.789s, with the next fastest Schumacher coming close with a 1:48.881s. Over the pit radio the race engineer for Randle was discussing that heavy rain expected for 32 would be almost torrential as the clouds above had darkened, the decision would be made on lap 31 for wets to be fitted to the car in the event of rain some 2 miles away at the same time. A gearbox problem for Williams would put Raikkonen out on lap 29, this would be joined on the same lap with an engine failure for Trulli showing that Lotus were struggling with his car. The top 12 on lap 30 were 1. M. Schumacher (3), 2. M. Webber (1) + 5.089s, 3. N. Rosberg (4) + 6.987s, 4. A. Randle (13) + 7.065s, 5. F. Alonso (27) + 9.021s, 6. F. Massa (28) + 16.765s, 7. L. Hamilton (7) + 17.987s, 8. R. Kubica (19) + 20.034s, 9. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 22.345s, 10. S. Perez (30) + 23.567s, 11. S. Vettel (2) + 24.892s and 12. S. Buemi (15) + 26.213s.

The Randle BMW crew were ready for Randle on lap 31 as small traces of rain started to appear the gamble was made to put him on wets instead of intermediates as a deluge was expected, this meant that he lost a bit of time on laps 32 and 33 but it was the right call when on lap 34 the conditions worsened causing most of the teams to call drivers in to change to wets, a mistake in Mercedes lead to Schumacher being given Inters and this meant a few corners later he spun out of the race. The gamble had worked off for both Randle and Massa who had gained some places and were comfortably in 2nd and 3rd behind a slowing Webber as both cars were some 4 seconds a lap quicker, the move came on lap 37 as both passed the struggling Red Bull who was struggling in the changing conditions. By now most of the cars except the front two were lapping with lap times 2 minutes + while Randle was building a lead able to lap at 1:56 – 57 with Massa struggling to keep up with 1:58 – 59 lap times. As conditions became torrential many cars were struggling with two cars sliding off on lap 42 in Pic some 2 laps down and Webber who hadn’t coped in the wet. Perhaps as a sign to come Heidfeld’s engine went as he came to be lapped by his teammate on lap 45 which narrowly almost caused Massa to skid off. The lap times were stabilising now as the rain had stopped but no sunshine meant it was no going to dry. The last retirement of the race was on lap 50 when Montagny 4 laps down retired with a broken suspension sustained from a spin into the barriers. On lap 50 the top 12 were 1. A. Randle (13), 2. F. Massa (28) + 9.093s, 3. N. Rosberg (4) + 15.687s, 4. F. Alonso (27) + 19.564s, 5. S. Vettel (2) + 24.897s, 6. R. Kubica (19) +30.897s, 7. L. Hamilton (7) + 35.897s, 8. N. Hulkenberg (6) +47.987s, 9. S. Perez (30) + 55.687s, 10. S. Buemi (15) 1:12.876s, 11. J. Button (8) 1:13.564s and 12. P. DiResta (16) 1:15.543s.

By now Randle’s wet tyres were almost bare with no tread left and his lap times had slowed, as had Massa’s this meant Rosberg could hope to gain on the front two who were slowing around 1.5 seconds a lap with 6 laps to go. If the German pushed he could get passed, the Randle BMW crew felt it was not enough to at least lose 2nd so did not bring the car in, for Massa any pit stop would put him down to 5th so it was discouraged. Rosberg would pass Massa for 2nd on lap 54 and was now some 3 seconds off Randle who was struggling to get the cars around the course, this would pay dividends for Rosberg who took his time and passed the leader on the start of the final lap, fortunately Massa was too far behind and the driver took 2nd for the team. A relieved team sighed with relief as the Randle BMW crossed the line narrowly in front of Alonso who had passed his teammate for 3rd. The race had managed to be completed some 7 minutes short of the 2 hour time and this was fortunate, some disappointment for Button and Perez whose cars had expired before the finish with mechanical problems but would be classified 2 laps down in 16th and 17th. For Rosberg it was a win that would help erase memories of last season’s title capitulation and was a relief considering it had cost Schumacher a likely win. A disappointed Randle had felt had he stopped on lap 48 for new tyres then he would be celebrating his maiden win and the team’s second ever.

Classification
1. N. Rosberg (4) 1hr 52mins 56.789s 25pts
2. A. Randle (13) + 5.678s 18pts
3. F. Alonso (27) + 8.897s 15pts
4. F. Massa (28) + 12.563s 12pts
5. S. Vettel (2) + 15.986s 10pts
6. L. Hamilton (7) + 22.876s 8pts
7. R. Kubica (19) +25.678s 6pts
8. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 38.776s 4pts
9. S. Buemi (15) + 1:08.897s 2pts
10. P. DiResta (16) 1:11.765s 1pt
11. R. Grosjean (25) 1:25.676s
12. H. Kovalainen (12) 1:30.678s
13. D. Riccardio (33) + 1:45.876s
14. G. Ricci (34) + 1 lap
15. V. Liuzzi (22) + 2 laps
16. J. Button (8) + 2 laps Driveshaft
17. S. Perez (30) + 2 laps Exhaust
18. P .Maldonado (10) + 3 laps
19. T. Glock (17) + 3 laps
20. F. Montagny (26) 46 laps Suspension
21. N. Heidfeld (14) 44 laps Engine
22. M. Webber (1) 42 laps spun off
23. C. Pic (36) 40 laps spun off
24. M. Schumacher (3) 35 laps spun off
25. J. Trulli (11), 29 laps Engine
26. K. Raikkonen (5), 29 laps Gearbox
27. K. Kobayashi (29), 0 laps Collision
28. V. Petrov (20) 0 laps Collision
29. J. Alguersuari (24), 0 laps Collision
30. J. E. Vergne (23), 0 laps Collision

F. Lap: F. Massa (28) 1:48.789s on lap 28
DOTR: Randle brilliant strategy and wet weather driving saw a rise up the grid from 12th to almost victory
ROTR: Minardi, both drivers out at second corner when they had been fast in practice.

Championship
1. F. Alonso (27) 40pts
2. N. Rosberg (4) 25pts
3. A. Randle (13) 22pts
4. L. Hamilton (7) 20pts
5. M. Webber (1) 18pts
= S. Vettel (2) 18pts
7. M. Schumacher (3) 15pts
8. F. Massa (28) 12pts
9. K. Raikkonen (5) 10pts
10. R. Kubica (19) 7pts
11. J. Button (8) 6pts
12. N. Hulkenberg (6) 4pts
13. S. Perez (30) 2pts
= S. Buemi (15) 2pts
15. P. DiResta (16) 1pt

Constructors
1. Ferrari 52pts
2. Mercedes 40pts
3. Red Bull 36pts
4. McLaren 26pts
5. Randle BMW 22pts
6. Williams 14pts
7. Toleman 7pts
8. Force India 3pts
9. Sauber 2pts
10. Ligier Prost 0pts (Best Pos. 11th)
= Team Lotus 0pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Modena 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Minardi 0pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= HRT 0pts (Best Pos. 15th)
= Stefan 0pts (Best Pos. 18th)
= Arrows 0pts (Best Pos. 18th)
= Marussia 0pts (Best Pos. 19th)
= Super Aguri (Best Pos. 21st)
NC ART

[gnrpoison]

26th March 2012 BBC
Randle happy with second as the car’s engine may have blown had the race continued to be dry. The new car may be ready to go for Bahrain but will decide after China as it has passed its safety tests.

27th March 2012 Sky Sports
Schumacher was unhappy with team and disappeared post race due to team costing him a possible victory.

28th March 2012 Autosport
Is time running out for Montagny at Ligier after another disappointing race?

29th March 2012 BBC
Rosberg happy with win and hopes there is no permanent rift between Schumacher and Mercedes.

30th March 2012 BBC
Schumacher annoyed but will remain with team and keep professional conduct.

31st March 2012 Autosport
Randle continues testing car for BMW Le Mans return and happy with progress with it.

1st April 2012 F1Fanatic
Adrian Sutil in a possible switch to Ligier if Montagny is let go?

2nd April 2012 BBC
Alain Prost: Franck knows the situation and knows he has to deliver; we cannot waste development if the driver stalls progress.

3rd April 2012 Sky Sports
Hamilton’s contract could be up for 2013 as negotiations stall on new McLaren offer

4th April 2012 McLaren Press Release
Contrary to recent announcements, there has been no stall in negotiations as it has been delayed till after the British Grand Prix.

5th April 2012 FIA
Softs and Hard for China, Prequalifying to be made of entrants 17 & 18 (Marussia), 21 & 22 (HRT), 35 & 36 (Stefan Lola) and 37 & 38 (ART)

6th April 2012 Autosport
Randle BMW driver Adam Randle in a possible switch to Ferrari in no.28 seat, as both Alonso and Massa’s contracts are up at end of 2013.

7th April 2012 BBC
Rumours continue to link the British driver with Ferrari after strong Malaysian finish, we will know more later on in the season as Ferrari will announce before Italian Grand Prix.

8th April 2012 BBC
Murray Walker reckons rumours of Randle to Ferrari are false and it is in fact Hamilton or Schumacher to race for the team instead.

9th April 2012 F1Fanatic
Weather to be sunny and hot all week for the event, may be slightly overcast in prequalifying.

10th April 2012 Autosport
Rosberg hoping for back to back wins as Mercedes is looking good for the race, Webber also aiming for win.

11th April 2012 BBC
Randle BMW hoping points will be possible after some strong performances, could be the GR01B last race as development as the car was finished a long time ago. GR02 will definitely be used in Spain but will decide next week if it is used in Bahrain as GR01B may get a swansong as its race it debuted in as GR01 over a year ago.

12th April 2012 Chinese Grand Prix Prequalifying
The Sky was overcast and the track dry for another prequalifying attempt for the teams. ART were hoping of improved performance and there was one but it was sadly still not enough to see them get an entry into main qualification. Glock and Liuzzi set the pace by easily qualifying for the race with a competitive time, while Coletti enjoyed progressing through for the first time as did Chandhock. A sad session for the Stefan team as problems meant they could not improve on times that were not good enough to qualify with.

1. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth (17) (G) 1:35.687
2. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth (22) (M) 1:35.798
3. K. Chandhok, HRT Cosworth (21) (M) 1:36.407
4. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth (18) (G) 1:36.613
5. S. Bourdais, ART Cosworth (38) (M) 1:36.908
6. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth (37) (M) 1:37.142
7. C. Pic, Lola Honda (36) (P) 1:37.456
8. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda (35) (P) 1:37.664

14th April 2012 Chinese Grand Prix Qualifying

1. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault (1) (G) 1:32.254
2. F. Alonso, Ferrari, (27) (G) 1:32.347
3. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari, (30) (G) 1:32.487
4. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault (2) (G) 1:32.634
5. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth (5) (G) 1:32.660
6. F. Massa, Ferrari (28) (G) 1:32.876
7. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes (7) (M) 1:33.023
8. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes (8) (M) 1:33.146
9. N. Rosberg, Mercedes (4) (M) 1:33.278
10. M. Schumacher, Mercedes (3) (M) 1:33.465
11. A. Randle, Randle BMW (13) (G) 1:33.501
12. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes (16) (M) 1:33.554
13. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G) 1:33.606
14. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes (15) (M) 1:33.612
15. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari, (29) (G) 1:33.806
16. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault, (25) (M) 1:33.899
17. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P) 1:33.978
18. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault (19) (P) 1:34.134
19. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth (6) (G) 1:34.335*
20. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW (10) (P) 1:34.503
21. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault (26) (M) 1:34.758
22. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (17) (G) 1:34.822
23. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault, (11) (P) 1:34.905
24. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, (20) (P) 1:34.994
25. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari, (24) (P) 1:35.171
26. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P) 1:35.201
27. D. Ricciardio, Modena Lamborghini, (33) (P) 1:35.285
28. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini, (34) (P) 1:35.339
29. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 1:35.432
30. L. DiGrassi, Arrows BMW (9) (P) 1:35.667
31. K. Chandhok, HRT Cosworth, (21) (M) 1:35.698
32. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth, (18) (G) 1:35.989
33. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda, (32) (M) 1:36.132
34. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda, (31) (M) 1:36.467

*Hulkenberg’s fastest time of 1:32.987 was disqualified due to setting it on yellow flag, his second fastest was given as his qualifying time.

15th April 2012 Chinese Grand Prix 56 laps

The Sauber crew were hoping for a strong finish after the astonishing qualifying by Sergio Perez achieving a fine 3rd on the grid. The car was capable of a top 5 the mechanics felt and hoped the Mexican would deliver. The Williams team had protested Hulkenberg time being removed and it had been overruled and the punishment stayed, it meant he would have to start from 19th. Montagny and DiGrassi had performed well considering there were rumours about the security of their drives. The cars lined up and the race started brilliantly for Webber who kept the cars of Perez and Alonso behind him, the Randle BMWs of Randle and Heidfeld had started well too moving to 7th and 8th after the first lap. A tangle between Hamilton and Rosberg put both at the back of the pack; neither car was damaged but would now have to climb through the field. The first lap saw no major collisions and each car settled into their strategies to achieve the most from the race. The top 3 were on the same hard tyres and were expecting to stop around the same time, the tyres this weekend had been more durable and some were expecting to not stop at all if it was possible, others were experimenting with a hard start for 25 laps and then a pit for softs with another run towards the end to use the grip on the tyres for faster times and the cars becoming lighter due to using the fuel. With many tarmac areas, the retirements would likely be from mechanical or driver error collisions. By lap 5 the top 10 were 1. M. Webber (1) 2. S. Perez (30) +3.254s, 3. F. Alonso (27) + 4.897s, 4. K. Raikkonen (5) +10.876s, 5. S. Vettel (2) + 13.765s, 6. A. Randle (13) + 16.132s, 7. F. Massa (28) + 18.931s, 8. N. Heidfeld (14) + 20.465s, 9. M. Schumacher (3) + 20.989s, 10. J. Button (8) + 22.003s.

The first retirement occurred on lap 7 when Petrov’s wheel broke and put the Russian out of the race. It had been a frustrating few races for the driver as he had struggled without the improvements that Kubica had been given in the new car. Back at the front Raikkonen closed the gap to Alonso by being the quickest on the circuit; the Randle BMWs were running comfortably and were on target for their strategies. Towards the back the Arrows of Di Grassi had gone up to 23rd with some strong overtakes, this being the first race for some time with two Arrows cars in the main race, the team were hoping the strong engine would aid their chassis. The cars of Rosberg and Hamilton were in 21st and 22nd respectively having made some places up from the first lap tangle as both were on hard tyres; there was now a probability of them going without a pit stop to make the positions back up. Randle attempted a pass on Vettel on lap 14 only for the Red Bull to block and battle for position, this lead the cars behind to gain behind them as both cars battle to take the lead, the closeness of each other getting to each would cause Vettel to miss a corner and use the runoff to regain a place, this would lead to a stewards investigation as he did not give the place back. Two laps later and a drive through penalty was given to him that dropped him down to 11th as cars had closed up behind during the battle. A disappointing afternoon for Toleman was continued when Steering problems on Kubica’s Toleman on lap 18 put the car out of the race; the team packed up and hoped for better luck in Bahrain. The team were not the only ones whose races ended early this was repeated when an idiotic error by Ricciardio trying to overtake his teammate Ricci on lap 20 put both out of the spot at turn 3. Ricci who had received an awful crash in Australia let his teammate know his feelings by lambasting him for a stupid move. Alonso made the most of a Perez mistake to take second on lap 21 leaving the top 10 like this on lap 22. 1. M. Webber (1) 2. F. Alonso (27) + 8.342s, 3. S. Perez (30) + 9.354s, 4. K. Raikkonen (5) + 13.786s, 5. A. Randle (13) + 24.798s, 6. N. Heidfeld (14) + 26.798s, 7. F. Massa (28) + 28.765s, 8. J. Button (8) + 30.123s, 9. M. Schumacher (3) + 33.543s, 10. S. Vettel (2) + 39.456s

On lap 25 the front 3 pitted leaving Raikkonen to take the lead and all three exited in front of the Randle BMWs that were going well in the top 6. With positions 2 – 6 all close together as cars were coming to be lapped, Randle took advantage of the traffic to pass Perez for 4th going on the outside of a Ligier to take the position. Heidfeld tried to follow but ran out of road leaving Button to catch up as Massa had pitted. Rosberg and Hamilton were now in positions 14th and 15th after some of the lower midfield had pitted, the race proved too much for the gearbox of Hulkenberg on lap 27, and a shame as he had made it up to 12th from the problems in qualifying. Raikkonen would have no such problems and pitted with ease on lap 30 and rejoined a strong second after the battles of Webber and Alonso had cost them precious seconds in pursuit of the lead. On lap 31 it was obvious that Heidfeld needed a stop as his tyres had blistered and he duly stopped for another set of hard tyres to take him towards the finish. The next lap Randle pitted for softs from 4th and managed to join in 7th but it would require another stop on lap 45 for another pair of tyres. This decision was made as the frontrunners were now coming to lap backmarkers that would delay the cars, so with newer tyres the pit stop could allow some breathing time for a charge back up. The positions on lap 34 were thus 1. M. Webber (1) 2. K. Raikkonen (5) + 4.576s, 3. F. Alonso (27) + 5.897s, 4. S. Perez (30) + 7.713s, 5. J. Button (8) + 9.542s, 6. N. Heidfeld (14) + 12.654s, 7. A. Randle (13) + 21.452s, 8. F. Massa (28) + 27.987s, 9. M. Schumacher (3) + 29.871s, 10. P. DiResta (16) + 34.765s.

Vettel down in 13th after his pit stop was now charging and was closing on 12th Hamilton who had also stopped, the expired Renault engine of Trulli would leave oil on the track at the final turn as the Lotus went into the pits for an unwanted record of 3 retirements from 3, his second engine failure in a row was a particular annoyance. This was not just isolated to Trulli, his teammate would suffer a similar fate when his Renault engine went, leaving another team to assess its race a little early. The battles of 11th – 13ths between Rosberg, Vettel and Hamilton took centre stage for the TV cameras as all 3 were separated by a second on lap 40, the TV viewers would miss a brilliant pursuit by Randle who now the fastest on the track had been let through by his teammate in pursuit of Button, whose tyres were in critical shape, 5th and 6th would fall to the Randle BMWs a lap later as both got past a struggling Button who was forced on lap 46 to finally pit for softs, Randle would follow a lap later leaving a chasing Heidfeld to gain Perez, Webber and Alonso who had struggled and themselves needing to pit on lap 48. The pit lane entrance that was now slippery which Trulli’s broken engine would catch out two cars who had been having good races, those cars were sadly Buemi, whose Force India spun and broke the suspension on the pit entrance on lap 45 and Vettel a lap later attempting a pass around Rosberg would stall in the gravel trap. The top 10 on lap 48 were 1. K. Raikkonen (5) 2. F. Massa (28) + 13.756s, 3. N. Heidfeld (14) + 15.876s, 4. S. Perez (30) + 20.987s, 5. A. Randle (13) + 22.876s, 6. M. Webber (1) + 24.032s, 7. F. Alonso (27) + 24.989s, 8. J. Button (8) + 39.432s, 9. M. Schumacher (3) + 40.142s, 10. N. Rosberg (4) + 47.987s.

The tyres of Massa, Heidfeld and Perez all well past their peak which meant Webber, Alonso and Randle all on soft tyres on low fuel all were able to lap some 2 – 3 laps quicker as they fell back from the pace. To demonstrate Alonso set the fastest lap of the race on lap 53 with a 1:35.354 and on lap 54 the Perez slipped to 5th, Massa whose tyres went the worse lost more time with a spin down to 9th and Heidfeld down to 7th. Webber managed to pass Randle which would settle at least 2nd for the Australian, while Alonso could not match Randle’s consistency for the final podium place. Webber charging at Raikkonen was only 2 seconds behind him on the final lap but it was not enough as the driver hung on to give Williams their first victory since Montoya in Brazil 2004.

Classification

1. K. Raikkonen (5) 1hr 34mins 34.253s 25pts
2. M. Webber (1) + 2.032s 18pts
3. A. Randle (13) + 4.965s 15pts
4. F. Alonso (27) + 7.891s 12pts
5. S. Perez (30) + 34.765s 10pts
6. M. Schumacher (3) + 35.123s 8pts
7. N. Heidfeld (14) + 37.798s 6pts
8. N. Rosberg (3) + 50.876s 4pts
9. F. Massa (28) + 58.987s 2pts
10. J. Button (8) + 1:09.567s 1pt
11. L. Hamilton (7) 1:10.576s
12. P. DiResta (16) + 1:17.987s
13. R. Grosjean (25) + 1:33.987s
14. K. Kobayashi (29) + 1 lap
15. P. Maldonado (10) + 1 lap
16. V. Liuzzi (22) + 1 lap
17. T. Glock (17) + 1 lap
18. F. Montagny + 1 lap
19. L. DiGrassi (9) + 2 laps
20. J. E. Vergne (23) + 2 laps
21. J. Alguersuari (24) + 2 laps
22. S. Vettel (2) 47 laps spun off
23. S. Buemi (15) 45 laps Suspension
24. H. Kovalainen (12) 37 laps Engine
25. J. Trulli (11) 34 laps Engine
26. N. Hulkenberg (6) 27 laps Gearbox
27. G. Ricci (34) 20 laps Collision
28. D. Ricciardio (33) 20 laps Collision
29. R. Kubica (19) 18 laps steering
30. V. Petrov (20) 7 laps Wheel

F. Lap: F. Alonso (27) 1:35.354 on lap 54
ROTR: Ricciardio, stupid move to take out teammate, honourable mention for Lotus’ engines with 3 out 4 failures in the last 2 races for the team.
DOTR: Raikkonen strong drive brought welcoming win for Williams and his first since his return.

Championship
1. F. Alonso (27) 52pts
2. A. Randle (13) 37pts
3. M. Webber (1) 36pts
4. K. Raikkonen (5) 35pts
5. N. Rosberg (4) 29pts
6. M. Schumacher (3) 23pts
7. L. Hamilton (7) 20pts
8. S. Vettel (2) 18pts
9. F. Massa (28) 14pts
10. S. Perez (30) 12pts
11. J. Button (8) 7pts
= R. Kubica (19) 7pts
13. N. Heidfeld (14) 6pts
14. N. Hulkenberg (6) 4pts
15. S. Buemi (15) 2pts
16. P. DiResta (16) 1pt

Constructors
1. Ferrari 66pts
2. Red Bull 54pts
3. Mercedes 52pts
4. Randle BMW 43pts
5. Williams 39pts
6. McLaren 27pts
7. Sauber 12pts
8. Toleman 7pts
9. Force India 3pts
10. Ligier Prost 0pts
= Team Lotus 0pts
= Modena 0pts
= Minardi 0pts
= HRT 0pts
= Arrows BMW 0pts
= Marussia 0pts
= Stefan 0pts
= Super Aguri 0pts
NC ART

[gnrpoison]

16th April 2012 BBC
Randle BMW will debut new car in Spain as old car has proven it deserves Bahrain send off

17th April 2012 F1Fanatic
Protesting will overshadow this weekend’s Grand Prix, F1 teams hoping for Peace

18th April 2012 FIA
The race will go on but it is up to the teams if they will take part, Medium and Supersoft are the tyre choices as well.

19th April 2012 Bahrain Grand Prix Prequalifying

The prequalifying for the controversial race went without incident, as was expected the BMW V12 was the class of the field and Maldonado was assured a place in main qualifying from his second timed lap. ART and HRT were both happy to get a car in while Marussia were a little un competitive here.

1. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW (10) (P) 1:06.643
2. K. Chandhok, HRT Cosworth (21) (M) 1:07.021
3. L. DiGrassi, Arrows BMW (9) (P) 1:07.132
4. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth (37) (M) 1:07.243
5. C. Pic, Lola Honda, (36) (P) 1:07.465
6. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth, (18) (G) 1:07.756
7. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (17) (G) 1:07.808
8. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 1:07.954
9. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda, (35) (P) 1:08.175
10. S. Bourdais, ART Cosworth, (38) (M) 1:08.231

21st April 2012 Bahrain Grand Prix Qualifying

1. F. Massa, Ferrari, (28) (G) 1:03.132
2. N. Rosberg, Mercedes, (4) (M) 1:03.203
3. A. Randle, Randle BMW, (13) (G) 1:03.217
4. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari, (30) (P) 1:03.311
5. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes, (7) (M) 1:03.339
6. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes, (8) 1:03.406
7. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth, (6) (G) 1:03.578
8. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault, (2) (G) 1:03.717
9. F. Alonso, Ferrari, (27) (G) 1:03.721
10. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault, (1) (G) 1:03.867
11. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth, (5) (G) 1:03.982
12. M. Schumacher, Mercedes, (3) (M) 1:04.165
13. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G) 1:04.220
14. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari, (29) (G) 1:04.414
15. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, (20) (P) 1:04.554
16. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, (19) (P) 1:04.627
17. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault, (25) (M) 1:04.730
18. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault, (26) (M) 1:04.835
19. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P) 1:04.939
20. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes, (16) (M) 1:05.231
21. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault, (11) (P) 1:05.401
22. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes, (15) (M) 1:05.564
23. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P) 1:05.831
24. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari, (24) (P) 1:05.895
25. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda (32) (M) 1:05.917
26. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P) 1:05.951
27. L. DiGrassi, Arrows BMW (9) (P) 1:06.023
28. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth (37) (M) 1:06.243
29. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini (34) (P) 1:06:456
30. D. Ricciardio, Modena Lamborghini (33) (P) 1:06.476
31. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda (31) (M) 1:06.698
32. K. Chandhok, HRT Cosworth (21) (M) 1:06:712

22nd April 2012 Bahrain Grand Prix 95 laps
The race that had been marred in controversy due to the political situation that was happening had overshadowed what was going to be a close race between the teams. The 95 laps around the outer ring circuit would put much pressure on the cars and drivers as it was one of the fastest on the calendar. The race would be the last for the Randle GR01B type car that had been debuted in its first test back in August 2010 some twenty months ago, a long time for a modern day F1 car to be still competitive. Having achieved a respectable 3rd place in qualifying there was hope of last year’s race debut without the mechanical failures happening again in the Randle BMW garage. The 28 cars lined up for the start in the heat as temperatures were at a high and with no rain expected it was going to be a warm one for the drivers. Not all 28 would start though as on the formation lap the engine of DiResta’s Force India blew, leaving 27 to start. The lights went out and into the first corner Massa led from Randle, Perez and Hamilton, a poor start by Rosberg had seen him drop to 6th. A first corner collision between Vergne and Kovalainen would leave the Minardi out of the race by the end of the first lap due to damage sustained, the Lotus was able to continue was now at the back of the pack. After that the first 15 laps would pass without incident as the cars lapped strongly round the circuit, with tyre wear low it was hoped if some were brave enough to go the whole race without pitting. After lap 16 the top ten were 1. F. Massa (28), 2. A. Randle (13) + 2.034s, 3. L. Hamilton (7) + 6.098s, 4. S. Perez (30) + 9.032s, 5. N. Rosberg (4) + 11.943s, 6. F. Alonso (27) + 13.465s, 7. J. Button (8) + 15.789s, 8. M. Webber (1) + 16.403, 9. S. Vettel (2) + 18.054s, 10. N. Heidfeld (14) + 21.543s.

The first signs of mechanical failures would happen between laps 21 and 27 when engine failures would remove Petrov, Hulkenberg and Kovalainen from the race. A gearbox problem would also remove Button who had been battling for 4th with a group of cars. A fast few laps by Randle on laps 30 – 33 would see him challenge for the lead at turns 8 and 9 at the back of the circuit, these would be successful enabling the BMW powered car to lead at the Bahrain Grand Prix a second year in succession. By now some of the tyres were not able to by continued on so on lap 36 – 39 several midfield runners would change tyre to catch the frontrunners, the frontrunners themselves were expecting to pit around laps 45 – 46 as their tyrewear was being maintained better. A change of lead would happen on lap 40 when Massa was able to get back ahead after Randle spun at turn 4 dropping the car down to 3rd behind Hamilton, he had to quickly fend off a charging Rosberg who was close to passing but was able to succeed in keeping 3rd. Brakes failure would put an end to one of the Mercedes on lap 43 when Schumacher’s failed leaving the car having to slow down and pit into retirement, it had been a disappointing race as he had been dropping from the points for most of the race leaving him in 17th before retiring. Before the frontrunners pitstops for new tyres the top 10 on lap 44 was 1. F. Massa (28), 2. L. Hamilton (7) +12.789s, 3. A. Randle (13) + 15.763s, 4. N. Rosberg (4) + 18.756s, 5. S. Perez (30) + 22.654s, 6. M. Webber (1) + 28.543s, 7. F. Alonso (27) + 31.654s, 8. S. Vettel (2) + 33.423s, 9. K. Raikkonen (5) + 36.798s, 10. N. Heidfeld (14) + 40.765s.

Drivers who pitted on lap 45 were Randle, Hamilton, Massa leaving Rosberg to take the race lead for 2 laps until he pitted for new tyres, while Raikkonen was the only driver from the top 10 to not pit leaving the Williams 4th after the cars around it had pitted. A collision after a battle for 12th place would see Trulli and Grosjean both out of the race on lap 47, as debris was left on the corner by the cars it would cause a puncture to Vettel who on the next lap ran on the piece of body work and spun out of the race. A furious Vettel demanded to the race organisers why a safety car hadn’t been issued, but the response was that as it was on the edge of the track, the Marshalls could safely remove it. Nevertheless feeling like his race had been ruined Vettel stormed off to the Red Bull motor home refusing to do interviews. Back to the track and Raikkonen was trying to make the tyres last longer and was in 4th managing to hold off a resurgent Perez in 5th who also hadn’t stopped yet. Both would stop on lap 55 for new tyres that would take them to the end of the race. With most of the frontrunners all pitted laps 50 to 70 would see the race develop as those who hadn’t pitted were finding they were not far off the pace on those who had as the circuit was not particular tough on the tyres. For those that had pitted it was now a waiting game to see if the optimum performance would come a crucial stage late enough for it to not need another stop and for the remaining cars to hang on for the finish. The top 10 on lap 70 were 1. F. Massa (28), 2. A. Randle (13) + 10.876s, 3. L. Hamilton (7) + 13.654s, 4. M. Webber (1) + 17.987s, 5. N. Rosberg (4) + 26.873s, 6. F. Alonso (27) + 31.432s, 7. S. Perez (30) + 33.652s, 8. K. Raikkonen (5) + 36.321s, 9. N. Heidfeld (14) + 42.654s, 10. R. Kubica (19) + 47.652s.

It was lap 77 when the lap times would start dropping as the low fuel and tyres hitting their peak would see many of the cars going quicker and making up large times on those who didn’t pit, the final car would stop for new tyres on lap 81 when Leimer having done an impressive 79 laps on the original set would get a pair of supersofts to take to the end of the race, a similar decision by Randle and Raikkonen on lap 82 and 83 would hope to catch those on the mediums who had hoped to do one stoppers. A second brakes failure for Mercedes on lap 84 would end Rosberg’s race leaving the team disappointed as the car had been running well all afternoon, the final engine failure would happen on the next lap when the Ferrari of Kobayashi’s Sauber would blow ending what could have been a point in 9th. The fastest laps would trade between Raikkonen and Randle on laps 91 and 92 as they charged through the palces leaving Raikkonen to take it on lap 93 with a time of 1:05.423. An audacious pass for 3rd on Webber by Randle would see him take a podium position while Massa had drove well all afternoon to take 1st and his first win since Brazil 2008, Hamilton was a close second while Raikkonen had gone up to 5th when on the last lap he was able to post another almost faster lap by overtaking 6th and 7th whose tyres had gone. There was joy for Ligier as a point for Montagny meant that being demoted down to prequalifying was now very slim, while the 11th for Arrows Maldonado would help them in their attempt to escape prequalifying.

1. F. Massa (28) 1 Hr 42mins 25.432s 25pts
2. L. Hamilton (7) + 5.324s 18pts
3. A. Randle (13) + 15.897s 15pts
4. M. Webber (1) + 20.876s 12pts
5. K. Raikkonen (5) + 33.765s 10pts
6. S. Perez (30) + 37.867s 8pts
7. F. Alonso (27) + 39.045s 6pts
8. N. Heidfeld (14) + 53.986s 4pts
9. R. Kubica (19) + 57.983s 2pts
10. F. Montagny (26) + 1 lap 1pt
11. P. Maldonado (10) + 1 lap
12. S. Buemi (15) + 1 lap
13. J. Alguersuari (24) + 1 lap
14. L. DiGrassi (9) + 2 laps
15. M. Winkelhock (37) + 2 laps
16. F. Leimer (32) + 3 laps
17. K. Kobayashi (29) 85 laps Engine
18. N. Rosberg (4) 84 laps Brakes
19. S. Vettel (2) 48 laps Spun Off
20. J. Trulli (11) 47 laps Collision
21. R. Grosjean (25) 47 laps Collision
22. M. Schumacher (3) 42 laps Brakes
23. V. Petrov (20) 27 laps Engine
24. N. Hulkenberg (6) 26 laps Engine
25. J. Button (8) 24 laps Gearbox
26. H. Kovalainen (12) 21 laps Engine
27. J. E. Vergne (23) (P) 0 laps Collision
28. P. DiResta (16) DNS Engine

F. Lap: K. Raikkonen (5) 1:05.423 on lap 93
DOTR: Massa drove well to gain first win in almost 4 years
ROTR: Mercedes Brakes, cost both drivers a good point’s haul and will leave the team with some catching up to do.

Championship
1. F. Alonso (27) 58pts
2. A. Randle (13) 52pts
3. M. Webber (1) 48pts
4. K. Raikkonen (5) 45pts
5. F. Massa (28) 39pts
6. L. Hamilton (7) 38pts
7. N. Rosberg (4) 29pts
8. M. Schumacher (3) 23pts
9. S. Perez (30) 20pts
10. S. Vettel (2) 18pts
11. N. Heidfeld (14) 10pts
12. R. Kubica (19) 9pts
13. J. Button (8) 7pts
14. N. Hulkenberg (6) 4pts
15. S. Buemi (15) 2pts
16. P. DiResta (16) 1pt
17. F. Montagny (26) 1pt

Constructors
1. Ferrari 97pts
2. Red Bull 66pts
3. Randle BMW 62pts
4. Mercedes 52pts
5. Williams 49pts
6. McLaren 45pts
7. Sauber 20pts
8. Toleman 9pts
9. Force India 3pts
10. Ligier Prost 1pt
11. Arrows 0 pts (Best Pos. 11th)
= Team Lotus 0 pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Modena 0 pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Minardi 0 pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= ART 0 pts (Best Pos. 15th)
= HRT 0 pts (Best Pos. 15th)
= Super Aguri 0 pts (Best Pos. 16th)
= Marussia 0 pts (Best Pos. 17th)
= Stefan Lola 0 pts (Best Pos. 18th)

[gnrpoison]

23rd April 2012 BBC
Vettel still angry at yesterday’s events and calls on FIA for better marshalling.

24th April 2012 Autosport
Randle GR02 ready for Spain and to undergo shakedown test at Silverstone before Spain to prepare for race distance.

25th April 2012 F1Fanatic
Trulli unhappy at Lotus, thinking about retirement after Italian Grand Prix.

26th April 2012 The Sun
Ecclestone, it would not surprise if Schumacher retires and one of Hamilton, Randle or Hulkenberg take the place at Mercedes. The F1 boss posits, in talks with Red Bull over bringin back Austria to take over a spot on the calendar after New Jersey Grand Prix suffers difficulties.

27th April 2012 SkySports
Silverstone prepares for private test of Randle BMW team
28th April 2012 BBC
Test goes well and car competitive with laptimes, faster than the GR01 times from last years race.

29th April 2012 FIA
Jerez confirmed for 2013 Spanish Grand Prix, Catalunya circuit will exit the calendar after 21 years after debuting in 1991. The European Grand Prix will either not take place reducing the calendar down or French Grand Prix will take place at Paul Ricard to replace it. New Jersey Grand Prix going ahead as originally planned, Russia at Sochi will be on the calendar for 2014.

30th April 2012 BBC
Catalunya lost race due to lack of funds for Spain to provide 2 races, Circuit organisers hoping for race share with Jerez to help costs.

1st May 2012 F1Fanatic
Alain Prost: I will help in whatever capacity I can to bring the French Grand Prix back, with French drivers and three French teams on the entry list. There is more than enough support for it.

2nd May 2012 Autosport
Larrousse set for return, as former team manager looking to invest in either HRT or start an entry up. Backing could come from BP with a car designed by March, Lola.

3rd May 2012 F1Fanatic
Stefan confirm Lola contract to last till 2014 when the team will design own car with a turbo powerplant.

4th May 2012 BBC
HRT would welcome investment and new sponsors but will not consider selling the team.

5th May 2012 Autosport
Lola boss unsure of supplying proposed Larrousse project due to still being owed from when the firm made the French teams cars from 86 – 91.

6th May 2012 FIA
Softs and Hards for Spain are allowed for the upcoming race, that the tyre manufacturs are allowed to supply.

7th May 2012 BBC
Lack of received Sponsorship payment might see Chandhok out of the car for a few races as HRT have not received payment from the Indian’s sponsors.

8th May 2012 F1fanatic
HRT will though have updates to Liuzzi’s car in a vain hope to get into the race

9th May 2012 BBC
Alonso hoping for strong race on a circuit he enjoys, as several teams will have updates it is going to be close. Randle BMW looking strong for qualifying and hoping for strong race as well.

10th May 2012 Spanish Grand Prix Prequalifying
The surprise of prequalifying was the pace of drivers DiGrassi and De La Rosa managing fine drives to get their cars into main qualifying. Maldonado would narrowly miss out after an engine failure while he had set provisional best after 30 mins were overtaken by conditions improving in the last 15 minutes of the session leaving him out in 6th. The HRTs surprised the other teams by both taking the final two spots at the teams home grand prix.

1. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda, (35) (P) 1:23.678
2. L. DiGrassi, Arrows BMW, (9) (P) 1:24.001
3. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 1:24.112
4. K. Chandhok, HRT Cosworth, (21) (M) 1:24.345
5. C. Pic, Lola Honda, (36) (P) 1:24.678
6. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P) 1:24.717
7. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (17) (G) 1:25.021
8. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth, (37) (M) 1:25.453
9. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth, (18) (G) 1:25.687
10. S. Bourdais, ART Cosworth, (38) (M) 1:25.717

12th May 2012 Spanish Grand Prix Qualifying

1. A. Randle, Randle BMW (13) (G) 1:19.354
2. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G) 1:19.601
3. F. Alonso, Ferrari, (27) (G) 1:19.989
4. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes (7) (M) 1:20.132
5. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault, (2) (G) 1:20.207
6. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault, (1) (G) 1:20.365
7. F. Massa, Ferrari, (28) (G), 1:20.476
8. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth, (5) (G) 1:20.717
9. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes, (8) (M), 1:20.809
10. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, (19) (P) 1:20.970
11. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari, (29) (G) 1:21.105
12. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari, (30) (G) 1:21.206
13. N. Rosberg, Mercedes, (4) (M), 1:21.278
14. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth, (6) (G) 1:21.345
15. M. Schumacher, Mercedes, (3) (M) 1:21.457
16. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, (20) (P) 1:21.632
17. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P) 1:21.766
18. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault, (25) (M) 1:21.992
19. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes, (16) (M) 1:22.238
20. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes, (15) (M) 1:22.404
21. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault, (11) (P) 1:22.461
22. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault, (26) (M) 1:22.651
23. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari, (24) (P) 1:22.808
24. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda, (35) (P) 1:22.874
25. L. DiGrassi, Arrows BMW, (9) (P) 1:22.890
26. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini (34) (P) 1:22.944
27. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth (22) (M) 1:23.112
28. K. Chandhok, HRT Cosworth (21) (M) 1:23.301
29. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda (32) (M) 1:23.557
30. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P) 1:24.001*
31. D. Ricciardio, Modena Lamborghini, (33) (P) 1:24.112*
32. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda, (31) (M) 1:26.609*

*All suffered mechanical problems that left them only doing one timed lap.

13th May 2012 Spanish Grand Prix 66 laps

The Randle BMW were hoping for a good Sunday after achieving their first ever pole and on the new car’s debut it gave the rest of the field to ponder how good it really was. This race was not expecting many retirements as teams had extensively tested here and the weather was going to be fine. All 28 cars lined up and when the lights went out, the Randle BMWs led from the front, with Alonso’s Ferrari behind him, on heavy fuel the BMWs were not the fastest but were still able to control the race as the drivers settled into their strategies, bar a few well timed overtakes in the midfield, the race was fairly processional for the first 20 laps with not a lot happening, save for a gearbox problem for Raikkonen would sadly put the finn out of the race on lap 18. The positions 4th – 9th were very close by lap 23 and only seconds would separate the battling cars, this meant the front 3 had pulled a large lead over the rest and had lapped a few backmarkers. A few more retirements would happen in these few laps as a collision put paid to Kubica’s and Perez race, while an engine failure would end the race for Montagny on lap 27. The positions on lap 31 were 1. A. Randle (13), 2. N. Heidfeld (14) +5.876s, 3. F. Alonso (27) + 8,970s, 4. S. Vettel (2) + 25.876s, 5. M. Webber (1) + 27.876s, 6. L. Hamilton (7) + 30.143s, 7. J. Button (8) + 31.213s, 8. F. Massa (28) + 34.768s, 9. K. Kobayashi (29) + 40.987s, 10. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 45.876s

By lap 35 some of the frontrunners pitted with Heidfeld and Alonso pitting first, both were still in 2nd and 3rd respectively showing how much of a gap the front three had pulled on those behind them, the leader would come in on lap 38 and narrowly get out in front of the Heidfeld and Alonso battle as now only 6 seconds covered the top 3. The runners from 4th – 7th started to pull away from 8th and 9th as fuel loads started to go down leaving the cars lighter and starting to put in faster laps. Steering problems would bring an end to Kovalainen’s race on lap 41 leaving Trulli in the remaining Lotus to get the team to the finish, this would be followed by an engine failure for the leading BMW two laps later that would end what was a strong weekend for Randle and BMW. Laps 50 would see a collision between Heidfeld and Alonso, Heidfeld went out instantly but Alonso would limp round the circuit for two laps before pulling out of the lead. This would see a fortunous Vettel inherit the lead and he would keep it till the end of the race, lap 54 would see the last retirement of the race when a driveshaft would break DiGrassi’s Arrows leaving the driver out of the race. Button would take the fastest lap on the race when having pitted due to a puncture he would put in a stonking 1:22.576 on lap 62, he would finish in 8th but felt he could have done better. Vettel would therefore go unchallenged to the flag and collect a vital win in his campaign to be the best of the Red Bull drivers and the team’s first of the season.

Classification
1. S. Vettel (2) 1hr 41 mins 50.675s 25pts
2. M. Webber (1) + 15.576s 18pts
3. L. Hamilton (7) + 20.987s 15pts
4. F. Massa (28) + 40.321s 12pts
5. K. Kobayashi (29) + 49.786s 10pts
6. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 57.898s 8pts
7. N. Rosberg (4) + 1:04.700s 6pts
8. J. Button (8) + 1:06.121s 4pts
9. V. Petrov (20) + 1:15.874s 2pts
10. R. Grosjean (25) + 1:19.675s 1pt
11. M. Schumacher (3) + 1 lap
12. J. Alguersuari (24) + 1 lap
13. J. Trulli (11) + 1 lap
14. S. Buemi (15) + 1 lap
15. P. DiResta (16) + 1 lap
16. P. De La Rosa (35) + 2 laps
17. V. Liuzzi (22) + 2 laps
18. G. Ricci (34) + 2 laps
19. K. Chandhock (21) + 3 laps
20. L. DiGrassi (9) 53 laps Driveshaft
21. F. Alonso (27) 52 laps Collision
22. N. Heidfeld (14) 50 laps Collision
23. A. Randle (13) 43 laps Engine
24. H. Kovalainen, (12) 41 laps Steering
25. F. Montagny, (26) 27 laps Engine
26. S. Perez, (30) 24 laps Collision
27. R. Kubica, (19) 24 laps Collision
28. K. Raikkonen (5) 18 laps Gearbox

F. Lap: J. Button (8) 1:22.576 on lap 62
DOTR: Kobayashi, drove well to pick up a good haul of points for Sauber
ROTR: Schumacher, should have made use of the opportunity to get a good points tally but was quite off the pace all afternoon.

Championship
1. M. Webber (1) 66pts
2. F. Alonso (27) 58pts
3. L. Hamilton (7) 53pts
4. A. Randle (13) 52pts
5. F. Massa (28) 51pts
6. K. Raikkonen (5) 45pts
7. S. Vettel (2) 43pts
8. N. Rosberg (4) 35pts
9. M. Schumacher (3) 23pts
10. S. Perez (30) 20pts
11. N. Hulkenberg (6) 12pts
12. J. Button (8) 11pts
13. K. Kobayashi (29) 10pts
= N. Heidfeld (14) 10pts
15. R. Kubica (19) 9pts
16. S. Buemi (15) 2pts
= V. Petrov (20) 2pts
18. R. Grosjean (25) 1pt
= P. DiResta (16) 1pt
= F. Montagny (26) 1pt

Constructors
1. Ferrari 109pts
= Red Bull 109pts
3. McLaren 64pts
4. Randle BMW 62pts
5. Mercedes 58pts
6. Williams 57pts
7. Sauber 30pts
8. Toleman 11pts
9. Force India 3pts
10. Ligier Prost 2pts
11. Arrows 0 pts (Best Pos. 11th)
= Team Lotus 0pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Minardi 0pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Modena 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= HRT 0pts (Best Pos. 15th)
= ART 0pts (Best Pos. 15th)
= Stefan Lola (Best Pos. 16th)
= Super Aguri (Best Pos. 16th)
= Marussia 0pts (Best Pos. 17th)

[HawkAussie]

A good read at the moment

[gnrpoison]

A good read at the moment

Thank You, make sure you read the 2011 season as well, should be linked in the first post as it explains the world we find this in.

[gnrpoison]

Update coming soon as broken laptop is getting replaced, so rest of 2012 season will be done over the next few weeks and will start 2013 as well

[MrMasaTasa]

Looks really interesting. And by really, I do mean really. Who wouln't like to se Bruno Senna Racing in a SUPAH AGURI

[gnrpoison]

Cheers for the compliment, I am hoping ot have the new chapters added in the next few days, as done past Monaco now and will try and write to Monza before upload as want to get onto 2013 season asap.

[gnrpoison]

14th May 2012 BBC
Randle BMW optimistic despite race ending early, team felt the car handled and performed well but will need to ensure efficiency is kept.

15th May 2012 Autosport
Honda announces a switch to V6 turbo engine for 2014, but will allow a customer team to use the 2013 normally aspirated V10 if they should prefer it.

16th May 2012 F1Fanatic
Alfa Romeo is considering rejoining F1 in 2014 by offering a turbo engine and partnership to an existing team or a new entrant. The marquee not active since the 1980s is hoping to transfer sports car success into other disciplines with a rally team expecting to enter in 2013 as well.

17th May 2012 Autosport
McLaren considering new engine partner as deal with Mercedes ends at the end of 2014, rumours inside the team considering not renewing it and joining up with Honda, Porsche or Lamborghini.

18th May 2012 BBC
Bernie Ecclestone reckons 2013 will be when engine makers will settle on if they are considering turbo projects as they will be allowed to use from 2014 onwards.

19th May 2012 FIA
Monaco King’s cup will commence after Saturday qualifying for those that do not qualify for main race, it will be a 40 lap race with prize money to the top 6. Qualifying will be determined by non qualifiers best times in pre qualifying and normal qualifying. Tyres will be super soft and soft for the whole weekend.

20th May 2012 Autosport
The drivers for BMW attempt at Le Mans are Adam Randle, Danny Hume, and Adrian Sutil in car 1. Jacque Villeneuve, Josh Hill, Stefan Johansson in car 2, the final car will have Jan Magnussen, Riccardo Zonta and Michael Binns in car 3, cars 2 and 3 will be entered for the Sports car championship for a few rounds with a view to next year’s full participation.

21st May 2012 BBC
Walker, I am expecting a close battle for those trying to qualify and reckon it is too close to call but the circuit will suit those with a V8 or whose V12 do not suffer sufficient power shortages.

24th May 2012 Monaco Grand Prix Prequalifying
With only last year’s top 13 teams guaranteed a spot in main qualifying, the Super Aguri team dropped down into the session. This meant for only 4 places it was going to be the most competitive of the season and this showed with the lap times and the busy action on the track. The Super Aguri team who had been at the receiving end of accusations of stagnation in main qualifying answered their critics brilliantly by being the fastest and easing through into main qualifying. Coletti magnificently prequalified for his home race and his was joined by an ART in the form of Bourdais for the first time. Disappointment for the Arrows and Lola’s who were very close to qualifying themselves.

1. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda (32) (M) 1:15.678
2. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda (31) (M) 1:15.897
3. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth (18) (G) 1:16.132
4. S. Bourdais, ART Cosworth, (38) (M) 1:16.231
5. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW (10) (P) 1:16.240
6. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda (35) (P) 1:16.279
7. L. DiGrassi, Arrows BMW (9) (P) 1:16.301
8. C. Pic, Lola Honda, (36) (P) 1:16.356
9. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (17) (G) 1:16.476
10. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth, (37) (M) 1:16.798
11. K. Chandhok, HRT Cosworth, (21) (M) 1:17.012
12. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 1:17.321

26th May 2013 Monaco Grand Prix Qualifying

1. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault (1) (G) 1:12.678
2. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault (2) (G) 1:12.717
3. F. Alonso, Ferrari (27) (G) 1:12.851
4. N. Rosberg, Mercedes, (4) (M) 1:12.922
5. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes, (8) (M) 1:13.110
6. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes, (7) (M) 1:13.212
7. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth, (6) (G) 1:13:278
8. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth, (5) (G) 1:13.314
9. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault, (25) (M) 1:13.366
10. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, (20) (P) 1:13.393
11. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P) 1:13.456
12. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, (19) (P) 1:13.608
13. M. Schumacher, Mercedes, (3) (M) 1:13.692
14. A. Randle, Randle BMW, (13) (G) 1:13.724
15. F. Massa, Ferrari, (28) (G) 1:13.812
16. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari, (30) (G) 1:13.967
17. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G) 1:14.202
18. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P) 1:14.387
19. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault, (26) (M) 1:14.455
20. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault, (11) (P) 1:14.572
21. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini (34) (P) 1:14.705
22. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari, (29) (G) 1:14.713
23. D. Ricciardio, Modena Lamborghini (33) (P) 1:14.809
24. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P) 1:14.917
25. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda, (31) (M) 1:15.012
26. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth, (18) (G) 1:15.132
27. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda, (32) (M) 1:15.243
28. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes, (15) (M) 1:15.313
29. S. Bourdais, ART Cosworth (38) (M) 1:15.413
30. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes, (16) (M) 1:15.423

Therefore for the grid for King’s Cup race it is:
1. F. Leimer (32), 2. S. Buemi (15), 3. S. Bourdais (38), 4. P. DiResta (16), 5. P. Maldonado (10), 6. P. De La Rosa (35), 7. L. DiGrassi (9), 8. C. Pic (36), 9. T. Glock (17), 10. M. Winkelhock (37), 11. K. Chandhok (21), 12. V. Liuzzi (22).

The race was won by Buemi followed by DiResta and Maldonado rounding out the top 3, the race was seen as a success and the prize money was well received.

27th May 2012 Monaco Grand Prix 78 laps
The weather was nice and there was no chance of rain for this jewel in the crown on the calendar, the Red Bulls had done well in qualifying to lock out the front row, with entries capped at 26 to start the race it meant 12 cars had not qualified with Force India shockingly amongst them after a problem left them uncompetitive. The lights went out and all 26 cars drove into Ste Devote hoping to avoid a collision, fortunately it was close but the Ferrari of Massa and Schumacher did come close, Webber led from the front as the cars behind him tried to improve on their positions on this tight circuit. The first lap went without incident as all 26 managed to get around the course. Grosjean had the best start and the Ligier was a wonderful 5th but was keeping faster cars behind leaving the top 4 to break away. The streets at Monaco are a very demanding circuit for drivers concentration as one mistake will see you put the car into the barriers, the first of these would happen on lap 7 when Kobayashi’s Sauber would hit the wall in the tunnel causing suspension damage. A safety car was not needed as he managed to go down the slip road at the chicane; however a yellow flag was required just in case debris was on the track. After 15 laps the top 10 was 1. M. Webber (1), 2. S. Vettel (2) + 2.364s, 3. F. Alonso (27) + 7.798s, 4. J. Button (8) + 12.543s, 5. R. Grosjean (25) + 20.132s, 6. N. Rosberg (4) + 21.234s, 7. L. Hamilton (7) + 22.435s, 8. K. Raikkonen (5) + 24.143s, 9. J. Alguersuari (23) + 27.987s 10. V. Petrov (20) + 30.321s.

Some cars had pitted for some new tyres on lap 24 as a problem with the left front tyre and wear on it had caused a few punctures for those using Pirelli’s, the problem had affected Petrov’s Toleman and this meant his Renault powered car would drop down the order, other Pirelli runners it had affected were the Minardis and Trulli’s Lotus. This meant the midfield had a bit of a shake up and meant the affected teams had to be careful not to exacerbate the problem if it was a recurring one. Kubica would pit on lap 29 to change for a new set of tyres as the team had noticed part of one had worn considerably more than was expected. Senior staff from Team Lotus and Minardi approached the Pirelli men to discuss solutions and if there was need to worry. Toleman would approach the tyre manufacturer when Petrov’s race was ended on lap 35 with a puncture that caused the car to break part of its front suspension when it slid into Ste Devote. A visibly angry Petrov was seen disappearing towards the exit and not willing to take to reporters after what looked like some strong points went due to problems with the tyres. A collision between Randle and Schumacher on lap 47 would bring some respite to the Pirelli runners as a safety car period would mean the tyres strain could be relinquished for a few tours as the debris from the Mercedes and the Randle BMW, before this the McLaren pair of Hamilton and Button had been looking strong and were eating into the front 3 lead as the Red Bulls had tried to keep control of the race. Before the end of the safety car was over the Minardi’s and Team Lotus withdrew their cars as problems in low speed were affecting the tyres too much and for safety all 4 exited the race. The remaining Pirelli runners of Lamborghini and Kubica’s Toleman decided to see how the next few laps under race conditions would affect the cars before making their decision. The Safety car pulled in on lap 56 and the top 10 at the restart was 1. M. Webber (1), 2. S. Vettel (2), 3. F. Alonso (27), 4. J. Button (8), 5. L. Hamilton (7), 6. R. Grosjean (25), 7. K. Raikkonen (5), 8. N. Rosberg (4), 9. F. Massa (28) and 10. S. Perez.

With 20 laps to the finish and with the race now nearing its end, the final laps would be almost like a sprint and at the restart the Ferrari of Alonso fell victim to the McLarens who were able to get pass over the following lap as Grosjean was able to keep cars behind him and drop the rest of the cars further from the leaders. A rare problem of reliability would take second place Vettel on lap 60 as the Gearbox broke and left him with only 2 gears. Finally the last of the Pirelli runners would withdraw from the race over the final 15 laps as tyre problems were not rescinding leaving 14 cars to take the finish. The Lambo’s would have only had to have completed a lap to be classified as a miscalculation saw their retirement early. Webber would hold off the charge of the McLaren’s for 10 laps to take the chequered flag in a close finish and his first win of the season. This was even more surprising as Button claimed the fastest lap on lap 77 with a 1:16.899 and was surely only a few laps from taking the lead. Marussia were celebrating a 13th place which would go a long way to help them in the battle to escape prequalifying and it was one of their best ever results.

1. M. Webber (1) 1hr 50 mins 34.567s 25pts
2. J. Button (8) + 0.054s 18pts
3. L. Hamilton (7) + 1.321s 15pts
4. F. Alonso (27) + 6.987s 12pts
5. R. Grosjean (25) + 17.987s 10pts
6. N. Rosberg (4) + 21.345s 8pts
7. K. Raikkonen (5) + 26.987s 6pts
8. S. Perez (30) + 28.032s 4pts
9. N. Heidfeld (14) + 33.872s 2pts
10. F. Massa (28) + 35.762s 1pt
11. F. Montagny (26) + 56.987s
12. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 59.653s
13. S. Coletti (18) + 1 lap
14. B. Senna (31) + 1 lap
15. D. Riccardio (33) 69 laps Withdrew
16. G. Ricci (34) 69 laps Withdrew
17. R. Kubica (19) 64 laps Withdrew
18. S. Vettel (2) 60 laps Gearbox
19. J. Trulli (11) 54 laps Withdrew
20. H. Kovalainen (12) 54 laps Withdrew
21. J. E. Vergne (23) 54 laps Withdrew
22. J. Alguersuari (24) 54 laps Withdrew
23. A. Randle (13) 47 laps Collision
24. M. Schumacher (3) 47 laps Collision
25. V. Petrov (20) 35 laps Puncture
26. K. Kobayashi (29) 7 laps Suspension

F. Lap: J. Button (8) 1:16.899 on lap 77
DOTR: Webber, led from lights to flag in a close finish to pick up first win of the season
ROTR: Pirelli, problems with tyres saw withdrawal of all runners from race and a fine of £10,000 to each entrant from the FIA.

Championship
1. M. Webber (1) 91pts
2. F. Alonso (27) 70pts
3. L. Hamilton (7) 68pts
4. F. Massa (28) 52pts
= A. Randle (13) 52pts
6. K. Raikkonen (5) 51pts
7. S. Vettel (2) 43pts
= N. Rosberg (4) 43pts
9. J. Button (8) 29pts
10. S. Perez (30) 24pts
11. M. Schumacher (3) 23pts
12. N. Hulkenberg (6) 12pts
= N. Heidfeld (14) 12pts
14. R. Grosjean (25) 11pts
15. K. Kobayashi (29) 10pts
16. R. Kubica (19) 9pts
17. S. Buemi (15) 2pts
= V. Petrov (20) 2pts
19. F. Montagny (26) 1pt
= P. DiResta (16) 1pt

Constructors
1. Red Bull 134pts
2. Ferrari 122pts
3. McLaren 97pts
4. Mercedes 66pts
5. Randle BMW 64pts
6. Williams 63pts
7. Sauber 34pts
8. Ligier Prost 12pts
9. Toleman 11pts
10. Force India 3pts
11. Arrows BMW 0pts (Best Pos. 11th)
= Team Lotus 0pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Minardi 0pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Modena 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Marussia 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Super Aguri 0pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= HRT 0pts (Best Pos. 15th)
= ART 0pts (Best Pos. 15th)
= Stefan Lola 0pts (Best Pos. 16th)

[gnrpoison]

28th May 2012 FIA
The FIA have fined the Pirelli Tyre Corporation a total of £60,000 due to an inability to provide tyres that were suitable for their customers to perform at optimal ability.

29th May 2012 BBC
Problems with Pirelli customers marred what was a successful weekend for the sport, many teams saw extra revenues lost when at the most watched Grand Prix, a supplier failed to provide adequate resources. All this bad publicity cannot be good for Pirelli and casts a bad shadow over F1.

30th May 2012 Autosport
HRT late in paying suppliers and so will have no new parts for their cars until at least the British Grand Prix, rumours are in the paddock that drivers sponsor have not paid up.

31st May 2012 Birmingham Mail
New Wind tunnel funded by Randle Racing and BMW to be built on old Rover Longbridge plant, deal is rumoured to create 600 new jobs for the area. Completion expected by 2015 and comes from a new deal between the companies to provide a future together that lasts till 2016.

1st June 2012 F1 Fanatic
ART will possibly give Jules Bianchi a drive in their car for British Grand Prix after Bourdais having trouble finding funding for rest of the season, Ferrari rumoured to be offering the team money and intelligence in order to give him a chance after Force India looking to lose him as a test driver.

2nd June 2012 Sky Sports
Grosjean rumoured to be in talks with Toleman over switch to the team for 2013, rumours flying as both seats could be available with many drivers expected to switch teams.

3rd June 2012 BBC
Marussia testing at Brands Hatch on 3rd July in order to develop car for second half of the season, result at Monaco means team has a slim chance of escaping prequalifying for some rounds in 2012 but look strong for 2013. Randle looking strong in Le Mans Practice as well in other news

4th June 2012 FIA
Super soft and soft compounds to be used in Grand Prix, any tyre manufacturer unable to provide sufficient quality tyres will be given sanctions.

5th June 2012 BBC
Weather forecast for the weekend expecting wet qualifying and dry race, McLaren looking strong with Hamilton the early favourite

6th June 2012 FIA
As some F1 drivers are taking part in Le Mans are not available for official checks and Scrutineering due to taking part in the Canadian GP, the FIA have allowed an official to be present at this weekend’s event so that the Le Mans regulations can be enforced on those in F1 wanting to take part.

7th June 2012 Canadian Grand Prix Prequalifying
Maldonado made up for not prequalifying for the last 2 races be dominating the session and leading the times for most of it, HRT were relieved when a staggering drive by Liuzzi put the HRT through on what was driver merit alone as the car had to be shared due to lack of cars after Chandhok had damaged his and the spare in the session. Problems were ongoing for ART when engine problems meant that the cars did no running and was a costly wasted trip for the team.

1. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW (10) (P) 1:15.678
2. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth (18) (G) 1:15.872
3. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda (35) (P) 1:15.935
4. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth (22) (M) 1:16.023
5. L. DiGrassi, Arrows BMW (9) (P) 1:16.121
6. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth (17) (G) 1:16.208
7. C. Pic, Lola Honda (36) (P) 1:16.454
8. K. Chandhok, HRT Cosworth (21) (M) 1:16.698
9. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth (37) (M) No Time
10. S. Bourdais, ART Cosworth (38) (M) No Time

9th June 2012 Canadian Grand Prix Qualifying

1. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault (2) (G) 1:28.765
2. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes (7) (M) 1:28.773
3. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault (1) (G) 1:28.901
4. F. Alonso, Ferrari (27) (G) 1:29.132
5. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes, (8) (M) 1:29.243
6. N. Rosberg, Mercedes, (4) (M) 1:29.354
7. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth, (6) (G) 1:29.565
8. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth, (5) (G) 1:29.713
9. F. Massa, Ferrari, (28) (G) 1:29.844
10. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes, (16) (M), 1:29.990
11. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault, (25) (M), 1:30.231
12. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari, (30) (G), 1:30.307
13. A. Randle, Randle BMW, (13) (G), 1:30.374
14. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault (20) (P), 1:30.431
15. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G), 1:30.488
16. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, (19) (P), 1:30.512
17. M. Schumacher, Mercedes, (3) (M), 1:30.534
18. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari, (24) (P), 1:30.697
19. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P), 1:30.784
20. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari, (29) (G), 1:30.891
21. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P), 1:31.147
22. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda, (35) (P), 1:31.341
23. J. E. Vergne Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P), 1:31.620
24. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes, (15) (M), 1:31.668
25. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault, (26) (M), 1:31.714
26. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault, (11) (P), 1:31.808
27. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini, (34) (P), 1:31.854
28. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda, (31) (M), 1:31.916
29. D. Ricciardio, Modena Lamborghini, (33) (P), 1:32.035
30. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth, (18) (G), 1:32.132
31. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M), 1:32.225
32. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda, (32) (M), 1:32.414

10th June 2012 Canadian Grand Prix 70 laps

A sunny race for what had been a surprising grid due to the problems of rain in the qualifying sessions, with 28 starters filling the grid, it was hoped that what was normally a race of attrition would give some of the backmarkers a chance for rare coverage. The Pirelli clientele were reassuring their teams that the tyres were an improvement over Monaco and were stronger after the recent publicity, on the surface all was calm but many insiders suspected some teams were considering going to Michelin or Goodyear. A report in the most recent issue of Autosport even dared to suggest that Bernie Ecclestone had pleaded with the boss of Bridgestone to return as a supplier. Fortunately that was just a tabloid rumour; however pressure was on Pirelli to deliver with their teams today. The two cars on row 11 in Maldonado in the Arrows and De La Rosa in the Stefan GP entered Lola would be hoping to make it to the race as a few places inside the top 16 would give both teams a boost for the Prequalifying battle. The race got off to a clean start, with Sebastian Vettel taking the early lead from pole. There were no big changes immediately behind him, as Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso, Mark Webber, Nico Rosberg and Felipe Massa all staying in their respective places. Further back the Randle BMWs lost out as they were swarmed by the Toleman’s of Kubica and Petrov, the Mercedes of Schumacher and the aggressiveness of Kovalainen putting his Lotus in places not many were expecting on the first lap. In fact surprisingly the whole field managed to control its urges and succeeded in getting through the first corner and first 10 laps of the race without incident. Some cars were more daring then others in trying to make places to gain a chance of controlling the race around them while some drove strategically to not be caught too far behind. The Top 10 runners at the end of lap 15 were: 1. S. Vettel (2), 2. L. Hamilton (7) +2.301s, 3. M. Webber (1) + 4.786s, 4. J. Button (8) + 6.103s, 5. F. Alonso (27) +6.798s, 6. N. Rosberg (4) + 8.022s, 7. K. Raikkonen (5) + 10.231s, 8. N. Hulkenberg (6) +11.432s, 9. R. Grosjean (25) + 13.432s and 10. F. Massa (28) +14.174s.

It would be laps 15 – 20 that would see the first of several retirements from the race when on lap 16 the Lamborghini of Ricci would succumb to brakes failure as his car pitted out of the race. This was followed a lap later with a radiator cooling problem from the Sauber of Perez who had running comfortably in the midfield. This was then completed on the 19th lap on what was starting to become an increased occurrence this season, when the Lotus of Trulli retired with another engine failure for the team. The Italian seemed to be dismayed at what was starting to turn into a horrible season for the veteran and the team. At this point the previous season points had been acquired for the 2010 newcomers but this time a dismal 3 finishes from 12 entries had happened in the first 6 races. Lap 24 would see a lead change as Hamilton who for some laps had been gaining on Vettel pulled a brilliant pass into the final chicane and held on into the first corner to take the lead on a track he enjoys. This was pleasing for team principal Whitmarsh who communicated with Lewis to push to open a gap so that he could secure an extra pit stop for fresher tyres later on in the race. A wonderful battle of cars from DiResta in 12th to Maldonado in 19th was in progression in the midfield as cars tried to keep in touching distance of each other. With each combatant losing a regaining time over each other, the gap to 11th was increasing as DiResta had to be on the defensive of a Toleman duo desperate to get within the points. Within this was the Randle BMW drivers who had hoped the car introduced a few races would start making its mark on the championship, the team currently in 5th in the constructors were hoping of improving so that regular podiums could happen for the young team. However it was going to need a stroke of good fortune for the team to get a large haul of points here as the car was definitely off the frontrunners pace. A battling Grosjean whose Ligier was enjoying the Montreal circuit was closing in on the Williams pair in front of him which for a few laps was the race director’s focus. It was refreshing to see the maturity of Grosjean and Hulkenberg had started to display now that they were coming into their own as strong drivers. By the end of lap 27 the top 10 were 1. L. Hamilton (7), 2. S. Vettel (2) + 3.143s, 3. M. Webber (1) + 10.654s, 4. J. Button (8) + 12.765s, 5. N. Rosberg (4) + 14.243s, 6. F. Alonso (27) +14.987s, 7. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 22.143s, 8. R. Grosjean (25) + 24.132s, 9. K. Raikkonen (5) + 24.576s and 10. F. Massa (28) + 27.354s.

Approaching the middle of the race, some cars had pitted, while some had decided to keep going on tyres that were not getting worn. Passing some backmarkers, Hamilton was able to extend his lead over Vettel who lost 4 seconds from Hamilton on laps 33 and 34 after trouble passing Montagny, with Vettel being initially held up by the Frenchman. An angry Vettel demanded someone in the Red Bull crew go speak to Guy or Alain and get in his own words this ‘f****** idiot out of his way’ over the two laps the driver was stuck behind as Hamilton diced through more back markers. When finally passed over the radio Vettel was incensed and asked ‘where were the blue flags being displayed’, this was made even more comical when the Ligier of Montagny and the Lola of De La Rosa, effortlessly allowed 3rd place Webber through who was not directly behind the German. Ex driver John Watson commentating for Sky Sports broadcasted ‘Well Seb, you cannot say those two have a vendetta against Red Bull, as your teammate Mark has no trouble passing them.’ A clearly frustrated German showed a rare lapse of judgment when distracted by an approaching Webber, missed his breaking point at the hairpin, running wide and then spinning saw the German down in 4th and comically behind the Ligier of Montagny again. The whole charade had effectively blown Vettel’s chances of taking the race win, which now seemed to falling into Hamilton’s grasp. The erratic driving of Maldonado would cost his team a strong finish when on lap 36 he clipped the wall of champions breaking his suspension and parking at the first corner. Kobayashi would end Sauber’s recent good fortunes by damaging his chassis hopping the chicanes that the car had to retire from the race on lap 38. The battles continued to rage behind the leading duo, as Rosberg started to attack 3rd placed Button. A patient Alonso who had eased past Vettel, waited for one of the duo to go defensively, so he could prepare on opportunity to gain some places. A rare for the season Ferrari retirement sadly would befall one of the cars as Massa comfortably in 10th place would feel his steering arm break during the hairpin, leaving the driver to slow down and stop at the pit entrance. His mechanics acting fast managed to move the car quickly so a safety car was not needed. Lap 45 would see the second brakes failure of the Grand Prix as DiResta who had been close to a point's finish spun off at turns 6 and 7. At the end of lap 50 with 20 laps remaining the top 10 were as follows: 1. L. Hamilton (7), 2. M. Webber (1) + 9.765s, 3. J. Button (8) + 15.904s, 4. F. Alonso (27) + 17.103s, 5. N. Rosberg (4) +21.224s, 6. S. Vettel (2) + 22.543s, 7. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 35.879s, 8. R. Grosjean (25) +37.543s, 9. K. Raikkonen (5) + 40.143s and 10. V. Petrov (20) + 57.198s.

The Mercedes of Schumacher who had fairly quiet all day apart from a strong start exited the race in P11 on lap 52 when the engine blew. Over the next 10 laps the final three retirements would happen when a collision would take out a battling pair of Minardi to the dismay of their pit crew on lap 57 and the brakes failure of Buemi would end Force India’s race on lap 62. The final laps passed by and apart from a charge on lap 68 that would take the fastest lap of the race with a 1:12.899 to dissuade a pursuing Button a chance of a McLaren 1 -2, Webber slowed and a triumphant Hamilton made it a record breaking win as 7 different winners had won the first 7 races. A charging Rosberg took advantage of Alonso’s worn tyres to pass the Ferrari on casino straight for 4th, Vettel a little too far behind could not make the same opportunity as Alonso crossed a second head of him. While a lap down Kovalainen took advantage of a Randle BMW slow down to pass both for a strong finish in 12th and a joyous Stefan team celebrated as another classified finish was added to their record

Classification

1. L. Hamilton (7) 1 hr 33mins 54.876s 25pts
2. M. Webber (1) + 14.876s 18pts
3. J. Button (8) + 16.264s 15pts
4. N. Rosberg (4) + 25.032s 12pts
5. F. Alonso (27) + 28.331s 10pts
6. S. Vettel (2) + 29.013s 8pts
7. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 43.321s 6pts
8. R. Grosjean (25) + 46.983s 4pts
9. K. Raikkonen (5) + 49.408s 2pts
10. V. Petrov (20) + 1:05.275s 1pt
11. R. Kubica (19) + 1:07.765s
12. H. Kovalainen (12) + 1 lap
13. A. Randle (13) + 1 lap
14. N. Heidfeld (14) + 1 lap
15. F. Montagny (26) + 2 laps
16. P. De La Rosa (35) + 3 laps
17. B. Senna (31) + 5 laps
18. S. Buemi (15) 62 laps Brakes
19. J. Alguersuari (24) 57 laps Collision
20. J. E. Vergne (23) 57 laps Collision
21. M. Schumacher (3) 52 laps Engine
22. P. DiResta (16) 45 laps Brakes
23. F. Massa (28) 41 laps Steering
24. K. Kobayashi (29) 38 laps Chassis
25. P. Maldonado (10) 36 laps Suspension
26. J. Trulli (11) 19 laps Engine
27. S. Perez (30) 17 laps Radiator
28. G. Ricci (34) 16 laps Brakes

F. Lap: M. Webber (1) 1:12.899 on lap 68
DOTR: Hamilton drove strong to capture another win at the track and take part in a strong weekend for McLaren with victory
ROTR: Minardi, second time both drivers have taken each other out in what would have been strong finish in the midfield for the team.

Championship

1. M. Webber (1) 109pts
2. L. Hamilton (7) 93pts
3. F. Alonso (27) 80pts
4. N. Rosberg (4) 55pts
5. K. Raikkonen (5) 53pts
6. F. Massa (28) 52pts
= A. Randle (13) 52pts
8. S. Vettel (2) 51pts
9. J. Button (8) 44pts
10. S. Perez (30) 24pts
11. M. Schumacher (3) 23pts
12. N. Hulkenberg (6) 18pts
13. R. Grosjean (25) 15pts
14. N. Heidfeld (14) 12pts
15. K. Kobayashi (29) 10pts
16. R. Kubica (19) 9pts
17. V. Petrov (20) 3pts
18. S. Buemi (15) 2pts
19. F. Montagny (26) 1pt
= P. DiResta (16) 1pt

Constructors
1. Red Bull 160pts
2. McLaren 137pts
3. Ferrari 132pts
4. Mercedes 78pts
5. Williams 71pts
6. Randle BMW 64pts
7. Sauber 34pts
8. Ligier Prost 16pts
9. Toleman 12pts
10. Force India 3pts
11. Arrows 0pts (Best Pos. 11th)
= Team Lotus 0pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Minardi 0pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Modena 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Marussia 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Super Aguri 0pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= HRT 0pts (Best Pos. 15th)
= ART 0pts (Best Pos. 15th)
= Stefan Lola 0pts (Best Pos. 16th)

[gnrpoison]

11th June 2012 BBC
BMW and lead driver Adam Randle confident of strong Le Mans Performance as preparations are made for the upcoming endurance race, with Audi, Peugeot and Toyota having strong entries; it is likely to be the most competitive in years. BMW are hoping this will help springboard a program into the World Endurance Championship full time next year as participation is expected at the 6 Hours at Silverstone, 6 Hours of Sao Paulo and 6 Hours of Fuji.

12th June 2012 Sky Sports
Paul Stoddart hoping his drivers will learn to work together rather than taking each other out, speaking in an interview, he praised Alguersuari’s and Vergne passion but wish a bit of tactical intelligence and restraint would be used more.

13th June 2012 24 hours of Le Mans Qualifying 1
Audi have topped timesheets with a 3:25.453 from car 1, while the BMW entrant sees car 1 of Randle, Hume and Sutil in a close 2nd with a 3:25.515.

14th June 2012 Final 24 hours of Le Mans Qualifying Top 5
BMW take the pole position with a remarkable drive in final minutes by lead driver Randle, team pleased with overall speed and long distance run.
1. BMW Motorsport Team Randle Racing Car 1 (LMP1) (G) 3:23.787
2. Audi Sport Team Joust Car 2 (LMP1) (M) 3:23.900
3. Audi Sport Team Joust Car 1 (LMP1) (M) 3:24.078
4. BMW Motorsport Team Randle Racing Car 2 (LMP1) (G) 3:24.176
5. Toyota Racing Car 2 (LMP1) (M) 3:24.842

15th June 2012 BBC
Randle impressed with performance and feels the 3 entries have a strong chance of success after qualifying 1st, 4th and 6th. In other news rumours are that Team Lotus might be replacing a likely retiring Trulli with Lola’s Pic after the Italian gave an interview to the press expressing his dismay for Formula One during what looks to be a bad season. If these were achieved then Nakajima could take the vacant Lola seat.

16th June 2012 F1 Fanatic
The second US Grand Prix (east) at New Jersey, San Marino Grand Prix at Imola and French Grand Prix at Paul Ricard, likely to be included on provisional calendar, as Jerez is granted Spanish Grand Prix over Barcelona and a dropped Valencia Street Circuit as the European grand prix are left off the list. This would take the calendar to 22 rounds although 20 is surely the likely number as Korea, Abu Dhabi and bizarrely Belgian Grand Prix could be in danger as calendar shake up is expected. As work has been started for New Jersey which should see it completed in time for a June race next year after the Canadian round, Imola is ready to host and take back the first European round, while a late June, early July could accommodate the French Grand Prix.

17th June 2012 24 Hours of Le Mans Race Result (top 10 finishers)

1. (LMP1) BMW RR Car 1 (Randle/Hume/Sutil) (G) 378 laps
2. (LMP1) Audi TJ Car 1 (Lotterer/Fassler/Treluyer) (M) 377 laps
3. (LMP1) Audi TJ Car 2 (McNish/Capello/Kristensen) (M) 377 laps
4. (LMP1) Audi NA Car 1 (Jarvis/Bonanomi/Rockenfeller) (M) 375 laps
5. (LMP1) BMW RR Car 3 (Magnussen/Zonta/Binns) (G) 368 laps
6. (LMP1) BMW RR Car 2 (Villeneuve/Hill/Johansson) (G) 367 laps
7. (LMP1) Rebellion Racing Car 1 (Prost/D’Ambrosio/Jani) (M) 367 laps
8. (LMP1) Audi TJ Car 3 (Gene/Dumas/Duval) (M) 366 laps
9. (LMP1) JRM Car 1 (Brabham/Dumbreck/Chandhok) (M) 357 laps
10. (LMP2) Starworks Motorsports Car 1 (Potolicchio/Dalziel/Kimber-Smith) (D) 354 laps

18th June 2012 BBC
A brilliant win for BMW and for Randle, Hume and Smith, which along with a Peugeot in 2009 has stopped the domination Audi have held on the competition since 2004. Randle was hoping this will springboard success in F1 as feels that it was a huge challenge after attempting the racing 2010 in a GT car when he was in F3. ‘The difference in speeds is mind-blowing, but the car handled well, we got our strategy right and it is a privilege to win this legendary race. Who knows I could win Monaco next year for Randle BMW and that would leave the Indy 500 for the Triple Crown. Who knows perhaps we can convince BMW to go Indy car racing and then enter V8 supercars to try Bathurst as well. I am going to enjoy tonight but have to be careful as have practice and qualifying at the end of the week, fortunately I only have to go to Southern Spain, so will have a nice drive down and be ready for the European Grand Prix.’

19th June 2012 FIA
Medium and Soft compounds will be used at Jerez for this weekend’s event

20th June 2012 The Times
HRT and Super Aguri apparently struggling for money, a F1 insider has leaked to this newspaper, as both have struggled with battle for qualifying, expect some new drivers as the team struggles for funds

21st June 2012 European Grand Prix Prequalifying

1. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P), 1:18.798
2. L. DiGrassi, Arrows BMW, (9) (P), 1:19.808
3. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda, (35) (P) 1:19.952
4. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (17) (G) 1:20.032
5. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 1:20.102
6. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth, (37) (M) 1:20.224
7. S. Bourdais, ART Cosworth, (38) (M) 1:20.289
8. C. Pic, Lola Honda (36) (P) 1:20.301
9. K. Chandhok, HRT Cosworth, (21) (M) 1:20.387
10. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth, (18) (G) 1:20.416

23rd June 2012 European Grand Prix Qualifying

It had been a session disrupted by rain halfway through and so times struggled to improve, problems with Lotus’ engines meant that Trulli’s car blew at the start and by the time the spare was up and running, rain was coming down, leaving no time to set a fast lap. Kovalainen had spun off into the wall and so with no cars left, it was a horrible session for Lotus.

1. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault, (2) (G) 1:17.337
2. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault, (1) (G) 1:17.453
3. F. Alonso, Ferrari, (27) (G) 1:17.602
4. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes (7) (M) 1:17.798
5. N. Rosberg, Mercedes, (4) (M) 1:17.915
6. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes, (8) (M) 1:18.012
7. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, (20) (P) 1:18.134
8. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, (19) (P) 1:18.304
9. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth, (6) (G) 1:18.410
10. A. Randle, Randle BMW, (13) (G) 1:18.507
11. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth, (5) (G) 1:18.688
12. M. Schumacher, Mercedes, (3) (M) 1:18.725
13. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari, (30) (G) 1:18.793
14. F. Massa, Ferrari, (28) (G) 1:18.900
15. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari, (29) (G) 1:19.039
16. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G) 1:19.045
17. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes (16) (M) 1:19.158
18. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes, (15) (M) 1:19.263
19. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari, (24) (P) 1:19.461
20. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault, (25) (M) 1:19.611
21. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P) 1:19.754
22. D. Ricciardio, Modena Lamborghini, (33) (P) 1:19.904
23. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P) 1:20.112
24. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault, (26) (M) 1:20.231
25. L. DiGrassi, Arrows BMW (9) (P) 1:20.464
26. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini, (34) (P) 1:20.557
27. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda (35) (P) 1:20.601
28. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault (12) (P) 1:20.717
29. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda (31) (M) 1:20.898
30. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (17) (G) 1:21.033
31. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda (32) (M) 1:21.226
32. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault (11) (P) No Time Set

24th June 2012 European Grand Prix 69 laps

For the first time in fifteen years, Jerez would hold a round of the Formula One World Championship. The scene of the controversial final round of the 1997 championship would again hope to provide a satisfying afternoon’s racing for some of the teams who took the opportunity that was being made available to them. The Lotus team had spent all night ensuring Kovalainen had a spare car after problems that had hit the team in qualifying, adjusting Trulli’s car for the race. They had managed to rebuild some of his car but the FIA not entirely convinced of the job threatened to disqualify the team unless the number 11 car was used instead of a rebuilt number 12 Lotus T129. With the adjustments made in time before the time limit expired to get the cars onto the grid otherwise it would have had to start from the pit lane. With no rain expected it was a hot and dry day with a small gust a wind coming from the South, ideal conditions to run the 69 laps expected to take about 80 – 90 minutes if no safety cars were needed. The 28 cars lined up for the starting lights in front of a sold out crowd that had been aided by 3 Spanish drivers qualifying for the race and a Spanish team existing in F1. It was a far cry from the late 1980s and early 1990s when this race and the race at Circuit De Catalunya would see empty grandstands. The grid of 28 cars made their way down to the first corner as the lights went out, they had all safely made it through the first corner and it was a strong start by incumbent championship leader Webber who had made the better of the Red Bull starts, but his German teammate would be very close behind followed by Button and incredibly the two Toleman’s of Petrov and Kubica who had made a brilliant start from 7th and 8th respectively. The first 12 laps would pass without incident as each car settled into their strategies and would try and make the most of them. The first retirement of the race would happen on lap 13 when quite sadly for the home crowd the Ferrari of Alonso succumbed to a broken Throttle after curb hopping the chicane put in place after Martin Donnelly’s horrific 1990 accident. The top 10 on lap 15 were as followed: 1. M. Webber (1), 2. S. Vettel (2) + 3.542s, 3. R. Kubica (19) + 6.987s, 4. J. Button (8) +8.543s, 5. V. Petrov (20) + 8.717s, 6. L. Hamilton (7) + 11.432s, 7. N. Rosberg (4) + 12.432s, 8. A. Randle (13) + 13.002s, 9. S. Perez (30) + 15.321s and 10. K. Raikkonen (5) + 16.543s

The battle for the low end points was going to be strong all afternoon as the Mercedes of Rosberg, had to hold off the Randle BMW of Randle, the Sauber of Perez, the two Williams of Raikkonen and Hulkenberg and the charging form of Schumacher down in 13th. While the gap emerged from the front 5 the television cameras for a few laps were solely on these midfield battles. What was not being noticed by the TV crews and commentators saved for an odd mention was how well the Lotus of Kovalainen had been doing, on lap 17 overtaking a pair of Force India’s to go from 28th – 17th in a matter of 17 laps. This was even more surprising considering it was in his teammate’s car and the team had been having a wretched season with constant mechanical problems. While based on late 2011 form the team was not going to have to endure Prequalifying for the rest of the season, it was vital for some good results to be registered so that for the first half of 2013 the team would not have to prequalify. Arrows on the other hand despite strong BMW 2011 spec V12 engines were in danger if Super Aguri or Marussia in the next few races were to do well in high attrition races then that team would definitely have had problems. One lingering question for reporters was how long it would be before one of Maldonado or DiGrassi would be let go as despite a decent chassis and customer engines, the team should have been comfortably in point positions and with two cars that drivers such as Glock, Pic, Coletti, Liuzzi, Chandhok, Bourdais and Senna were envious of, Arrows would not have to look far for new drivers who would be better suited to their efforts. This was then made worse by what can only be described as a glaring amateur error, the Arrows of DiGrassi when coming up to the battle of Grosjean in the Ligier and the sister Arrows of Maldonado on lap 18 decided to overtake on the inside at a point where there was no gap and proceeded to knock himself and the other two cars out of the race. A furious Grosjean made his feelings clear to the Brazilian and would complain to the Arrows Team Principle and race stewards upon returning to the pit lane. Back at the front the lead changed on lap 28 when Vettel passed Webber who had made a mistake coming out of the final hairpin, leaving a chance for the German to accelerate pass him on the straight and to comfortably take the lead into the first turn. A first of the season occurred on this lap when an overzealous Hamilton attempted to pass Petrov on the outside on a dirty part of the track and spun out into his first retirement of the season. The top 10 then on lap 29 was 1. S. Vettel (2), 2. M. Webber (1) +1.132s, 3. J. Button (8) +15.654s, 4. R. Kubica (19) +17.654s, 5. V. Petrov (20) +19.311s, 6. N. Rosberg (4) + 32.786s, 7. A. Randle (13) + 33.214s, 8. K. Raikkonen (5) + 37.865s, 9. S. Perez (30) + 40.321s, and 10. M. Schumacher (3) + 42.132s

The rest of the race went relatively low key as apart from retirements taking it down to 17 and a few midfield battles the two Red Bulls and Button would contest the lead until the 42nd lap when a suspension problem would put an end to the race of Webber, leaving Vettel and Button to fight for the victory. Lap 47 would see a collision between the Sauber of Kobayashi and Schumacher’s Mercedes ending the races of both. The final retirement on lap 55 would go to Massa who would exit the race with an engine failure. The race would be decided on lap 63 when problems with Vettel’s tyres meant that Button was able to pass him for the victory and Vettel dropped back to stay 2nd with a fast closing Rosberg behind taking 3rd and the race fastest lap with a 1:21.542s on lap 65. A superb drive by Kovalainen led to Lotus’ first points of the season, strong finished for Minardi, Modena and Lola would help them in the battle to not slip into prequalifying with 2 races remaining. With Button being the 8th different winner in 8 races, it certainly was going to be a season where consistency was needed and with competition fierce all through the grid, the season had started to be one of the most memorable.

Classification

1. J. Button (8) 1 Hr 31mins 26.366s 25pts
2. S. Vettel (2) + 15.876s 18pts
3. N. Rosberg (4) + 17.987s 15pts
4. R. Kubica (19) + 34.212s 12pts
5. V. Petrov (20) + 37.654s 10pts
6. A. Randle (13) + 50.424s 8pts
7. K. Raikkonen (5) + 55.320s 6pts
8. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 1:03.765s 4pts
9. N. Heidfeld (14) + 1:15.571s 2pts
10. H. Kovalainen (12) + 1 lap 1pt
11. P. DiResta (16) + 1 lap
12. J. Alguersuari (24) + 1 lap
13. G. Ricci (34) + 1 lap
14. P. De La Rosa (35) + 1 lap
15. D. Ricciardio (33) + 2 laps
16. J. E. Vergne (23) + 3 laps
17. F. Massa (28) 55 laps Engine
18. K. Kobayashi (29) 47 laps Collision
19. M. Schumacher (3) 47 laps Collision
20. S. Perez (30) 43 laps Fuel leakage
21. M. Webber (1) 42 laps Suspension
22. S. Buemi (15) 37 laps Gearbox
23. F. Montagny (26) 33 laps Engine
24. L. Hamilton (7) 28 laps Spun Off
25. P. Maldonado (10) 17 laps Collision
26. R. Grosjean (25) 17 laps Collision
27. L. DiGrassi (9) 17 laps Collision
28. F. Alonso (27) 13 laps Throttle

F. Lap: N. Rosberg (4) 1:21.542s on lap 65
DOTR: H. Kovalainen, drove brilliantly from last on the grid and in his teammate’s car to take a valuable point for the team
ROTR: L. DiGrassi, cost Arrows a big chance of strong positions with a stupid error that surely will amount to answering his critics that he is not right for F1.

Championship

1. M. Webber (1) 109pts
2. L. Hamilton (7) 93pts
3. F. Alonso (27) 80pts
4. N. Rosberg (4) 70pts
5. J. Button (8) 69pts
= S. Vettel (2) 69pts
7. A. Randle (13) 60pts
8. K. Raikkonen (5) 59pts
9. F. Massa (28) 52pts
10. S. Perez (30) 24pts
11. M. Schumacher (3) 23pts
12. N. Hulkenberg (6) 22pts
13. R. Kubica (19) 21pts
14. R. Grosjean (25) 15pts
15. N. Heidfeld (14) 14pts
16. V. Petrov (20) 13pts
17. K. Kobayashi (29) 10pts
18. S. Buemi (15) 2pts
19. P. DiResta (16) 1pt
= F. Montagny (26) 1pt
= H. Kovalainen (12) 1pt

Constructors

1. Red Bull 178pts
2. McLaren 162pts
3. Ferrari 132pts
4. Mercedes 93pts
5. Williams 81pts
6. Randle BMW 74pts
7. Toleman 34pts
= Sauber 34pts
9. Ligier Prost 16pts
10. Force India 3pts
11. Team Lotus 1pt
12. Arrows 0pts (Best Pos. 11th)
= Minardi 0pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Modena 0 pts (Best Pos.13th)
= Marussia 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Stefan Lola 0pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= Super Aguri 0pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= HRT 0pts (Best Pos. 15th)
= ART 0pts (Best Pos. 15th)

[gnrpoison]

25th June 2012 BBC
Team Lotus happy with points and hoping it will be the start for positive results; the result should be enough to enable Lotus to not have to prequalify.

26th June 2012 Skysports
Arrows have given both drivers warning their seats will be available to other drivers unless results improve, with a strong chassis and engine, the team find it appalling no points have been scored.

27th June 2012 F1Fanatic
Bianchi to ART rumours are starting to appear more concrete as driver seen as team headquarters, team announcement likely to be made before prequalifying.

28th June 2012 The Times
Several top Indycar teams possibly making moves towards Randle BMW driver Adam Randle with contract to race in 2013 Indy 500 and Surfers Paradise round, a BMW spokesman said it would be unlikely for the driver to miss an F1 race for the rounds due to contract clauses.

29th June 2012 Autosport
New Engine upgrades made available by BMW to Randle team for British Grand Prix where they could be an outside possibility for the win.

30th June 2012 Motorsport News
In anticipation for the 2014 Russian Grand Prix at Sochi, Team Lotus have offered Vitaly Petrov a two contract to drive for the team, with rumours of an impending retirement for Jarno Trulli and Kovalainen’s future not sorted. Lotus has acted quickly to ensure stability and income for the team.

1st July 2012 Autosport
Bourdais quits ART Grand Prix after a mutual agreement to end contract, Jules Bianchi favourite to drive the car.

2nd July 2012 BBC Sport
Lucas Di Grassi to miss British Grand Prix and possibly both German and Hungarian Grand Prixs after accident in testing caused neck pains, Adrian Sutil will drive in Britain on a race by race basis depending on Di Grassi’s condition.

3rd July 2012 F1 Fanatic
Horror testing crash for De Villota in the Marussia almost claims her life after driver ploughed into the walls at 180mph at Dijon. Driver in stable condition in hospital but early reports suggests severe damage to head.

4th July 2012 Autosport
ART confirms deal with Jules Bianchi for the vacant 38 car, the extra funding from Ferrari for the driver to take the place could lead to engine or development deal. Driver is happy to be part of the team and hopes to be able to aid the struggling outfit for the rest of the season.

5th July 2012 British Grand Prix Prequalifying
With 30 cars permitted to start the British Grand Prix and 34 allowed into main qualifying, prequalifying was between the Marussia’s, HRT and the two new teams of Lola and ART. Bianchi showed what a talented driver her was by topping the timings in his debut. Marussia shaken up by the unfortunate events in their testing put both cars through leaving the Lola of De La Rosa to prequalify just ahead of Winkelhock’s ART.

1. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth (38) (M), 1:27.874
2. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth (17) (G), 1:27.918
3. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth, (18) (G) 1:27.990
4. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda, (35) (P) 1:28.154
5. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth (37) (M) 1:28.202
6. C. Pic, Lola Honda, (36) (P) 1:28.312
7. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 1:28.476
8. K.Chandhok, HRT Cosworth, (21) (M) 1:28.576

7th July 2012 British Grand Prix Qualifying

1. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault (1) (G) 1:24.978
2. A. Randle, Randle BMW, (13) (G) 1:25.011
3. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault, (2) (G) 1:25.143
4. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G) 1:25.341
5. F. Alonso, Ferrari, (27) (G), 1:25.502
6. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, (19) (P) 1:25.617
7. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari, (30) (G) 1:25.786
8. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth (6) (G) 1:25.877
9. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth (5) (G) 1:25.922
10. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari, (29) (G) 1:26.151
11. F. Massa, Ferrari, (28) (G) 1:26.223
12. N. Rosberg, Mercedes, (4) (M) 1:26.243
13. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes, (7) (M) 1:26.356
14. M. Schumacher, Mercedes, (3) (M) 1:26.401
15. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault (25) (M) 1:26.554
16. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P) 1:26.678
17. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes, (8) (M) 1:26.715
18. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, (20) (P) 1:26.890
19. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes, (16) (M) 11:27.020
20. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes, (15) (M) 1:27.059
21. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P) 1:27.067
22. A. Sutil, Arrows BMW, (9) (P), 1:27.112
23. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini, (34) (P), 1:27.187
24. D. Riccardio, Modena Lamborghini, (33) (P), 1:27.223
25. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari, (24) (P), 1:27.345
26. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (17) (G), 1:27.515
27. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth, (38) (M), 1:27.603
28. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault, (11) (P), 1:27.808
29. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault (26) (M), 1:27.851
30. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda, (32) (M), 1:27.901
31. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth, (18) (G), 1:28.107
32. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda (35) (P), 1:28.108
33. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda (31) (M), 1:28.376
34. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P), 1:28.414

8th July 2012 British Grand Prix 52 laps

It was a warm July’s day for the 2012 running of the British Grand Prix, qualifying had shown some surprises for the race, one was how poor the Michelin teams had suffered with both drivers from McLaren and Mercedes qualifying out of the top 10. The new driver at ART had impressed the paddock with qualifying respectively on the fourteenth row and their highest grid position of the season. The Randle BMW team were confident with both drivers inside the top 4 and a car that had been developed heavily on the Silverstone circuit. With 30 cars lined up to start, many were expecting some collisions on the first few turns as it would get very narrow and bunch the cars together. The lights went out and those who had made predictions of collision were right, a bad start by Kobayashi and then being hit by Massa would cause a big collision that would hit the cars of Button (8), Kovalainen (11), Hulkenberg (6), Rosberg (4), Schumacher (3), Petrov (20), Maldonado (10) and Buemi (15). With 10 cars crashed at the first and second corner, a restart was needed and the race was red flagged as a safety car could not be used due to too much debris on the circuit. With spare cars fortunately 9 of the 10 were able to make the restart with a disappointed Schumacher missing out due to his car being too damaged and the safety going to Rosberg who had a damaged car as well. The 29 cars would reline up some 30 minutes later to restart the race, which would now be run at 51 laps. Randle hoping for another good start that had seen him take first was making sure everything in the car was ready. The lights went out and this time there was no incident and a quick Webber was able to improve from the original and maintain first place from a pressurising Randle. Sadly one of the 29 would not make it as the suspension of Button’s McLaren broke having been partially damaged in the collision from the first start. The first 10 laps passed without incident with Webber trying to pull away from Randle, the front two were lapping quicker and so a gap had developed from Heidfeld in third who had managed to get the better of Vettel on the 6th lap of the race. The top 10 on lap 11 were as followed 1. M. Webber (1), 2. A. Randle (13) + 3.213s, 3. N. Heidfeld (14) + 10.987s, 4. S. Vettel (2) + 12.567s, 5. F. Alonso (27) + 14.012s, 6. S. Perez (30) +15.687s, 7. R. Kubica (19) + 19.564s, 8. K. Raikkonen (5) + 23.654s, 9. K. Kobayashi (29) + 25.876s and 10. N. Rosberg (4) + 27.567s

By lap 25, after a round of pit stops it was still Webber followed narrowly by Randle who had started to lap very quickly and was the fastest car on the track by lap 29, approaching Stowe, the BMW engine car, jerked left then right and would pass the Red Bull for the lead. This would have the fans on their seats in adulation as although popular with the British fans as Webber was, a British driver leading is much more appreciated. The car was handling fine and with its tyre minimal set off in pursuit of a first victory for the driver. Towards the back of the grid Bianchi was showing that the ART with its Cosworth V10 was not as bad of a car as it had been assumed. The Frenchman was wowing many in the paddock especially his monitors from Ferrari who were confident that he could play a strong part in the future of the team. The other new driver in Sutil was comfortably in the midfield places and if there was to be attrition could be an outside bet for points. If the German was to continue driving like this then one of Maldonado or DiGrassi would lose their position in the team. For many the Arrows package was the most frustrating of the season, a decent chassis, a strong engine, yet the car was seriously not achieving its potential almost halfway through the season. On lap 31 the race weekend was over for both McLaren and Mercedes, when Hamilton with a gearbox problem and Rosberg with a driveshaft failure would be out of the race. Three more retirements would take place before lap 38 when the Williams of Raikkonen collided with the lapped Ligier of Montagny on lap 33. The last car in this sequence would be the Toleman of Petrov, whose Renault engine decided to blow on the old pit straight on lap 37. Entering lap 40 and with 11 laps remaining the top 10 were: 1. A. Randle (13), 2. M. Webber (1) + 15.786s, 3. N. Heidfeld (14) + 21.654s, 4. F. Alonso (27) + 29.072s, 5. S. Vettel (2) + 33.321s, 6. R. Kubica (19) + 45.786s, 7. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 46.987s, 8. K. Kobayashi (29) + 51.087s, 9. S. Perez (30) + 53.213s and 10. H. Kovalainen (12) + 1:06.678s.

Laps 40 – 50 would see three of the final four retirements of the race as Massa would retire with throttle problems on lap 41, Alguersuari on lap 42 with a Gearbox problem and Ricci in the Lamborghini with a broken steering column caused by a collision with Maldonado on lap 49. Maldonado would pull off the road on the final lap due to the collision damage and be classified 17th. Randle would set the fastest lap on lap 47 with a brilliant 1:27.657s to take a second fastest lap at the British Grand Prix, the Randle BMW team had hoped it would have taken victory as on lap 48, the car was 30 seconds ahead of Webber in 2nd, however want would be later diagnosed as an engine problem, the BMW engine’s output went and the car slowly made the last 3 laps, coming into Becketts on the final lap Webber was able to retake the lead and become the first driver of the season to collect two wins. Commiserations were given to Randle who managed to get over the finishing line in 2nd, just ahead of teammate Heidfeld in 3rd and the car breaking down at the Abbey corner and had seen a first win disappear again for the second year in a row at Silverstone.

1. M. Webber (1) 1hr 19 mins 34.675s 25pts
2. A. Randle (13) + 10.978s 18pts
3. N. Heidfeld (14) + 12.001s 15pts
4. F. Alonso (27) + 25.543s 12pts
5. S. Vettel (2) + 34.675s 10pts
6. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 50.897s 8pts
7. R. Kubica (19) + 56.897s 6pts
8. S. Perez (30) + 1:02.764s 4pts
9. K. Kobayashi (29) + 1:07.977s 2pts
10. H. Kovalainen (12) + 1:20.123s 1pt
11. R. Grosjean (25) + 1:26.566s
12. A. Sutil (9) + 1 lap
13. S. Buemi (15) + 1 lap
14. J. Bianchi (38) + 1 lap
15. P. DiResta (16) + 1 lap
16. J. Trulli (11) + 1 lap
17. P. Maldonado (10) + 1 lap Collision
18. D. Riccardio (33) + 2 laps
19. F. Leimer (32) + 3 laps
20. G. Ricci (34) + 3 laps Steering
21. T. Glock (17) + 4 laps
22. J. Alguersuari (24) 42 laps Gearbox
23. F. Massa (28) 41 laps Throttle
24. V. Petrov (20) 37 laps Engine
25. K. Raikkonen (5) 33 laps Collision
26. F. Montagny (26) 32 laps Collision
27. N. Rosberg (4) 31 laps Driveshaft
28. L. Hamilton (7) 31 laps Gearbox
29. J. Button (8) 0 laps Suspension
30. M. Schumacher (3) DNS Collision

F. Lap: A. Randle (13) 1:27.657s on lap 47
DOTR: M. Webber managed to take advantage of the problems by Randle and keep close enough distance to get first when the problems hit the BMW engine car.
ROTR: McLaren, a bad weekend, first double non points finished and were lacking all of the weekend.

Championship
1. M. Webber (1) 134pts
2. L. Hamilton (7) 93pts
3. F. Alonso (27) 92pts
4. S. Vettel (2) 79pts
5. A. Randle (13) 78pts
6. N. Rosberg (4) 70pts
7. J. Button (8) 69pts
8. K. Raikkonen (5) 59pts
9. F. Massa (28) 52pts
10. N. Hulkenberg (6) 30pts
11. N. Heidfeld (14) 29pts
12. S. Perez (30) 28pts
13. R. Kubica (19) 27pts
14. M. Schumacher (3) 23pts
15. R. Grosjean (25) 15pts
16. V. Petrov (20) 13pts
17. K. Kobayashi (29) 12pts
18. S. Buemi (15) 2pts
= H. Kovalainen (12) 2pts
20. P. DiResta (16) 1pt
= F. Montagny (26) 1pt

Constructors
1. Red Bull Renault 213pts
2. McLaren Mercedes 162pts
3. Ferrari 144pts
4. Randle BMW 107pts
5. Mercedes 93pts
6. Williams Cosworth 89pts
7. Toleman Renault 40pts
= Sauber Ferrari 40pts
9. Ligier Prost Renault 16pts
10. Force India Mercedes 3pts
11. Lotus Renault 2pts
12. Arrows BMW 0pts (Best Pos. 11th)
= Minardi Ferrari 0pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Modena Lamborghini 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Marussia Cosworth 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= ART Cosworth 0pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= Stefan Lola Honda 0pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= Super Aguri Honda 0pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= HRT Cosworth 0pts (Best Pos. 15th)

[gnrpoison]

9th July 2012 BBC
Randle disappointed with lost win and hopes that it will come soon, as the car had been strong all weekend and to break down so close to the end was heartbreaking.

10th July 2012 Autosport
Arrows will continue with Sutil in the car and if performs strongly in Germany, then the driver will be given the rest of the season and a seat in 2013. DiGrassi and Maldonado both told that only one of them will race when DiGrassi is back from injury.

11th July 2012 F1Fanatic
Bianchi drove very well and ART will look decent for the rest of the season and may have a chance of escaping prequalifying in the second half of 2013.

12th July 2012 BBC
Rumours are going around that HRT might not be on the grid for the Belgian Grand Prix as team has had to make redundancies as major sponsor has not paid up and look doubtful to continue into 2013. Apparently Dallara have stopped working with the team as payments had not arrived for the work that carried over into this season’s car. Liuzzi and Chandhok are being allowed to look for other drives, the rumour mill has been told.

13th July 2012 Autosport
Alfa Romeo have confirmed their entry for the 2014 F1 season and will run a V6 turbo engine, the head of the marquee John Elkmann said ‘With the regulations allowing Turbo's again, we felt it was right to make an entry as it would have relevance with our road cars. It was also time to get Alfa back in with the elites and with Lamborghini, Ferrari, Mercedes, Honda, BMW and Renault as rival entries, it gives us a challenge.’

14th July 2012 SkySports
Honda key staff was seen talking with Martin Whitmarsh and Ron Dennis, could this be a reunion between the two were so dominant in the late 80s and early 90s. The team responded with a press release stating it was old friends just enjoying each others company and that they are contracted to Mercedes for the future.

15th July 2012 The Sun
Rumours continue to link Randle BMW’s driver Adam Randle with a seat at Ferrari for 2014, the Randle BMW boss and father of the driver said that he is contracted until the end of 2014 but it was common knowledge a clause to end the contract a year early could be enabled if a top 3 team were to come in for the driver.

16th July 2012 F1 Fanatic
Kolles reports that rumours of HRT’s demise are untrue and that the team are all paid up, the issue with Dallara had been settled and the partnership ended cordially. In fact measures were being taken to secure the teams future and will have confirmation in the coming weeks.

17th July 2012 BBC
With no restricted 26 car entrant’s races after Hockenheim, the current top 14 will most definitely be saved from prequalifying, that special 14th place and 15th place in the constructors will be vital for most teams as it ensures an appearance in main qualifying in the rest of the season. A 10th and 11th place finish this weekend would certainly confirm top 14 due to Super Aguri’s 2 11th placed positions ensuring that the Japanese team are close. Arrows and Marussia are really the only two that could replace them from that position.

18th July 2012 Autosport
Liuzzi will drive for Minardi in 2013 after securing the seat due to uncertainty at HRT, the driver still contracted to HRT could even appear in 2012 if HRT were to fold.

19th July 2012 German Grand Prix Prequalifying
This hopefully would be the last prequalifying for some of the entrants, as approaching the halfway point in the season would mean a revised order for the second half. Marussia and Arrows were hoping for high attrition and point finishes that would secure their exit and bring Super Aguri back into the lottery. Bianchi showed his talent again by being the fastest in the session and overshadowed the rest of the efforts. The HRTs would confirm their place in prequalifying for the rest of the season by being slowest and it did not help the struggling team, the Arrows were comfortably through and that left a battle for the remaining place between the Marussia’s, the Lola’s and the remaining ART of Winkelhock. But it was ART who were celebrating as Winkelhock would prequalify for his home grand prix while Marussia and Lola would have to still be up on a Thursday morning for the rest of the season.

1. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth, (38) (M) 1:16.023
2. A. Sutil, Arrows BMW, (9) (P) 1:16.113
3. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P) 1:16.331
4. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth, (37) (M) 1:16.515
5. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (17) (G) 1:16.707
6. C. Pic, Lola Honda, (36) (P) 1:16.818
7. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth (18) (G) 1:16.987
8. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda, (35) (P) 1:17.043
9. K. Chandhok, HRT Cosworth, (21) (M) 1:18.223
10. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M), 1:18.414

21st July 2012 German Grand Prix Qualifying

1. N. Rosberg, Mercedes (4) (M) 1:14.501
2. M. Schumacher, Mercedes (3) (M) 1:14.602
3. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault, (2) (G) 1:14.681
4. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault, (1) (G) 1:14.707
5. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth, (6) (G) 1:14.989
6. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G), 1:15.054
7. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes, (7) (M) 1:15.143
8. F. Alonso, Ferrari, (27) (G) 1:15.321
9. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth, (5) (G) 1:15.442
10. A. Randle, Randle BMW, (13) (G) 1:15.606
11. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes, (8) (M) 1:15.611
12. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, (20) (P) 1:15.625
13. F. Massa, Ferrari, (28) (G) 1:15.689
14. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes, (16) (M) 1:15.697
15. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari, (30) (G), 1:15.712
16. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault (19) (P) 1:15.735
17. A. Sutil, Arrows BMW, (9) (P) 1:15.867
18. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P) 1:15.899
19. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari, (29) (G) 1:15.945
20. S. Buemi, Force India, Mercedes, (15) (M) 1:16.012
21. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault, (25) (M) 1:16.103
22. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P) 1:16.117
23. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault, (11) (P), 1:16.187
24. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth, (38) (M), 1:16.225
25. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault, (26) (M), 1:16.401
26. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P) 1:16.576
27. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda, (32) (M), 1:16.608
28. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda, (31) (M) 1:16.890
29. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth, (37) (M), 1:17.021
30. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari, (24) (P), 1:17.254
31. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini, (34) (P), 1:17.391
32. D. Ricciardio, Modena Lamborghini, 1:17.447

22nd July 2012 German Grand Prix 67 laps

IT was a warm summer’s afternoon at the Hockenheimring for round 10 of the World championship, with an all German front row and several German drivers in strong positions, the crowd were buoyant and in hopes of a German victory. A lot of the prerace talk had been of driver changes and rumoured deals, one that had gained a lot of traction was the possibility of Randle BMW driver Adam Randle driving for Ferrari in 2013, when the driver was seen after Free Practice Session 2 coming out of the Ferrari motor home, the local newspapers and internet blogs went into a frenzy. For the meantime both sides were not issuing any press releases to deny or confirm the rumour. Other rumours were that the HRT team were about to go into liquidation and that the former Larrousse F1 team, now in Sports car racing could make a return to the grid in their place. Gerald Larrousse present and interviewed in the prerace did confirm that they were looking to return to F1 but were unsure whether it was a full blown entrant or as a partnership.

The cars lined up on the grid in their slots to begin what could be a vital race for some of the smaller teams and some drivers whose futures were uncertain. The lights went out and Rosberg was able to get the best start, the veteran Schumacher was passed by both Red Bull’s but managed to hold onto 4th from a battling Heidfeld. All 28 cars managed to safely go through the first corner and there were no collisions on the first lap. Both of the Arrows cars had made strong starts and were up to 12th and 13th respectively as they were chasing points to escape the prequalifying lottery, the plan was going well in the early laps of the race. Towards the tail end of the field, the Super Aguri’s were getting some much needed coverage as having not qualified for many races needed a strong race to ensure that they were not demoted into Prequalifying. As they were in the magical 14th place, it would mean that unless Arrows gained an 11th or ART finished in 10th place, then the Japanese team would be able to not worry about Thursday mornings until 2014. For the meantime on lap 12 that was going in the Japanese teams favour. The first retirement occurred on lap 12 when a radiator broke on the Toleman of Kubica. This was followed a lap later by Grosjean who had brakes problems and pulled into the pits to end his race. By lap 15 the top 10 were as follows: 1. N. Rosberg (4), 2. S. Vettel (2) + 6.987s, 3. M. Webber (1) + 10.543s, 4. L. Hamilton (7) +13.654s, 5. M. Schumacher (3) + 15.001s, 6. A. Randle (13) + 16.212s, 7. N. Heidfeld (14) + 18.366s, 8. N. Hulkenberg (6) +20.143s, 9. J. Button (8) + 22.112s and 10. K. Raikkonen (5) + 23.100s

A collision on lap 16 would end the races of Alonso and Raikkonen when the two collided after the Williams while overtaking on the outside of Mobil 1 and put a wheel on the grass and spun both out of the race. This had now put the Arrows car into 11th and 12th momentarily as Massa, DiResta and Petrov were close behind and going much faster than the cars of Sutil and Maldonado. The Super Aguri’s down in 21st and 23rd were hoping that the Arrows would start dropping back as the Honda powered cars were not fast enough in their race pace, to gain the points that would confirm Arrows in prequalifying and their exit from the Thursday morning sessions. A backmarker would exit the race on lap 21 when the Ligier of Montagny had a mechanical failure on the hairpin; it would later be diagnosed as brakes as the driver was unable to make the corner and ended up pulling off the circuit. Rosberg was now comfortably the fastest on the course as the car of Vettel had caused the drivers behind him to be delayed as the gap increased due to Rosberg’s clear track in front of him. This situation changed on lap 26 when Webber was able to pass Vettel on the Mercedes corner, further back by the hairpin, Schumacher was able to regain 4th by passing Hamilton to the cheers of the German fans. By now some of the field were stopping for new tyres as the expected tyre wear meant that some of the Goodyear runners could expect 1 – 2 stops, while the best ones for the circuit, the Michelin runners could get away with one. Some of the Pirelli runners were attempting none but it was advised against as it could lead to severe problems in the closing laps. Rosberg made his one stop on lap 36 and rejoined in still in the lead due to the large gap that had built up. The top 10 on lap 40 were: 1. N. Rosberg (4), 2. M. Webber (1) +25.897s, 3. M. Schumacher (4) +29.919s, 4. L. Hamilton (7) +33.041s, 5. S. Vettel (2) +37.890s, 6. A. Randle (13) +45.876s, 7. N. Hulkenberg (6) +49.765s, 8. J. Button (8) +51.012s, 9. F. Massa (28) + 57.989s and 10. N. Heidfeld (14) + 1:00.076s.

A familiar occurance happens on laps 42 and 45 when the Renault engines of Team Lotus blew putting both out of the race. Frustration was seen on both drivers and with the problems the engines have been for the team, it was assumed Team Lotus would be switching for 2013. If they weren’t then the drivers would hope Renault would provide better engines. Rosberg was now in complete control of the race on lap 50 and was now lapping the cars that were 12th – 15th, as these were no trouble to get passed; he had built up a lead of almost 40 seconds with 17 laps remaining. When he pitted on lap 52 he was able to leave well ahead in 1st place and was in clear air, meaning he could coast to the finish. A miserable race was finished for both Ferrari and Williams when both cars of Massa and Hulkenberg broke down on lap 53 with a Gearbox and Throttle leakage respectively, both had been in solid point’s positions and it was now an early end for both teams. This meant the Arrows were both now 9th and 10th with not long left till the chequered flag. The team were onto their drivers to drive safely as the points haul for both were much needed, Super Aguri towards the back and a few laps down were now no longer in a position to challenge and were hoping for both drivers to be erratic. The final two retirements of the race happened on lap 55 when a collision between Hamilton and a lapped car of Buemi happened when Hamilton overzealously forced his way past at the hairpin and didn’t leave enough space to cause both to have suspension damage. Buemi furious at Hamilton confronted the driver after accident forcing stewards to step in and separate the two. Vijay Mallya was seen on live TV swearing after the incident as the team were in a good position. Rosberg on lap 61 would set the fastest lap of the race with a brilliant 1:15.784 which was one of the fastest lap times in years at the track in a race. It compounded a brilliant race for the driver as he completed a Grand Chelem of Pole, Win, fastest lap and having led every lap. It was also the most dominant win of the season as the driver had finished almost 50 seconds ahead of Webber in 2nd, he had also lapped everyone at least once from 6th onwards. A happy Schumacher completed the podium after enduring a couple of hapless races. Arrows were celebrating their haul of 6pts which ensured no prequalifying for the second half of the season. A brilliant 12th for Bianchi for ART meant they could have a strong foundation to build on for battle next season. Super Aguri while disappointed did have a strong finish of 14th and 15th which could be crucial in the other positions.

Classification

1. N. Rosberg (4) 1hr 25 mins 56.578s 25pts
2. M. Webber (1) + 49.0143s 18pts
3. M. Schumacher (3) + 55.671s 15pts
4. S. Vettel (2) + 1:01.576s 12pts
5. A. Randle (13) + 1:10.212s 10pts
6. N. Heidfeld (14) + 1 lap 8pts
7. J. Button (8) + 1 lap 6pts
8. A. Sutil (9) + 1 lap 4pts
9. P. Maldonado (10) + 1 lap 2pts
10. S. Perez (30) + 1 lap 1pt
11. V. Petrov (20) + 1 lap
12. J. Bianchi (38) + 2 laps
13. K. Kobayashi (29) + 2 laps
14. F. Leimer (32) + 2 laps
15. B. Senna (31) + 3 laps
16. J. E. Vergne (23) + 3 laps
17. L. Hamilton (7) 55 laps Collision
18. S. Buemi (15) 53 laps Collision
19. N. Hulkenberg (6) 53 laps Throttle Leakage
20. F. Massa (28) 53 laps Gearbox
21. H. Kovalainen (12) 45 laps Engine
22. J. Trulli (11) 42 laps Engine
23. P. DiResta (16) 28 laps Chassis
24. F. Montagny (26) 21 laps Brakes
25. F. Alonso (27) 16 laps Collision
26. K. Raikkonen (5) 16 laps Collision
27. R. Grosjean (25) 13 laps Brakes
28. R. Kubica (19) 12 laps Radiator

F. Lap: N. Rosberg (4) 1:15.784 on lap 61
DOTR: Rosberg, completely dominated the weekend to become the 2nd driver to score 2 wins and open up his challenge for the 2012 World Championship
ROTR: Hamilton, Threw away possible podium and vital points in reckless challenge also cost Force India vital points as well

Championship
1. M. Webber (1) 152pts
2. N. Rosberg (4) 95pts
3. L. Hamilton (7) 93pts
4. F. Alonso (27) 92pts
5. S. Vettel (2) 91pts
6. A. Randle (13) 88pts
7. J. Button (8) 75pts
8. K. Raikkonen (5) 59pts
9. F. Massa (28) 52pts
10. M. Schumacher (3) 38pts
11. N. Heidfeld (14) 37pts
12. N. Hulkenberg (6) 30pts
13. S. Perez (30) 29pts
14. R. Kubica (19) 27pts
15. R. Grosjean (25) 15pts
16. V. Petrov (20) 13pts
17. K. Kobayashi (29) 12pts
18. A. Sutil (9) 4pts
19. P. Maldonado (10) 2pts
= S. Buemi (15) 2pts
= H. Kovalainen (12) 2pts
22. P. DiResta (16) 1pt
= F. Montagny (26) 1pt

Constructors
1. Red Bull Renault 243pts
2. McLaren Mercedes 168pts
3. Ferrari 144pts
4. Mercedes 133pts
5. Randle BMW 125pts
6. Williams Cosworth 89pts
7. Sauber Ferrari 41pts
8. Toleman Renault 40pts
9. Ligier Prost Renault 16pts
10. Arrows BMW 6pts
11. Force India Mercedes 3pts
12. Team Lotus Renault 2pts
13. Minardi Ferrari 0pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= ART Cosworth 0pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Modena Lamborghini 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Marussia Cosworth 0 pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Super Aguri Honda 0 pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= Stefan Lola Honda 0pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= HRT Cosworth 0pts (Best Pos. 15th)

[gnrpoison]

Half Season Rankings

Red Bull: Another strong half season from the former Stewart & Jaguar team, a strong lead in the championship and with two excellent front running drivers. The team are definite favourites for both championships.
Mercedes: Not as strong as a year ago and Schumacher has not been able to perform as well but a resurgent performance in Germany has put Rosberg 2nd in the championship and a better second half could see the team threaten top 3 in the constructors.
Williams: A strong driver partnership which a good car has seen Williams able to be amongst the frontrunners, a well overdue win in China was a nice reward for such a hardworking team.
McLaren: Form has slipped in the last few races, however it is expected for them to be near the top if doubtful if either of their former champions have it in them to take the fight to Red Bull on a consistent basis in 2012.
Arrows: A good car, strong engine has been let down by two drivers that have little future in Grand Prix racing. One strong point is Sutil being revitalised after Le Mans and capable of getting the best out of the package.
Lotus: Reliability issues with the Renault engines have meant that the car has not delivered a shame as when it has been reliable, regular points are possible.
Randle BMW: There were concerns of second season syndrome; however Adam Randle has driven fantastically with good support from Heidfeld. It will be an exciting battle with Williams to be the best of the rest.
Force India: Inconsistent and Monaco DNQ a lowlight but been mostly in the Midfield, will take a lot of luck for more points to be achieved.
Marussia: When qualified for races, they have performed well but been caught out be prequalifying Lottery quite often. They will need to improve for the team to stop being backmarkers and by trying to get attention from more than the 60 minutes of prequalifying a weekend for sponsors.
Toleman: Have slipped from battling with Best of the Rest to struggling for the leftovers from when other teams have reliability issues.
HRT: Surprised to still be going and their drivers seem to have lost all motivation, this team is not expected to be still solvent in 2013 or even finish the season. Highlight would be the double finish in Spain but that is really it.
Minardi: Seem to be struggling and the Ferrari V12 is appearing to be more of a hindrance then a help. A couple of DNQs has meant the team have struggled to be in strong positions that even prequalifying is a possibility for 2013.
Ligier Prost: Will feel satisfied as Grosjean has performed well, Montagny has even improved from last season, and the French team can feel confident of a place in the Top 11 which will bring extra funds at the end of the season.
Ferrari: Started well but development of other teams have seen them drop to 3rd even 4th overall but too far ahead to drop even lower. Talent of Alonso and Massa are getting results the car perhaps does not deserve.
Sauber: Done well since swapping engines and have had some good results, Perez is proving that he deserves a move into the top 5 teams.
Super Aguri: Underfunded but have performed reasonably well but have not achieved the results a strong engine should give them. Prequalifying will be difficult as other teams have had chance to prepare.
Modena: Have underperformed due to a temperamental package, a decent driver pairing with a bit of luck should see the team get back into the vital top 13/14 places as prequalifying will hit the low budget team hard.
Stefan Lola: Hard to say as team just not had the one lap pace to get passed prequalifying, a good package could be there but this year may have to wrote off as a learning curve with focus on 2013.
ART: Bianchi has dragged this team into positions where the car should not be, could even be a possibility to escape prequalifying for 2013 if his talent continues.

Driver Rankings

40. L. DiGrassi: a complete waste of time and that Arrows car should be qualifying comfortably; fortunately it looks like he will not be back in an F1 car for the rest of the season.
39. S. Bourdais: Did the right thing and made way for Bianchi, ART will make improvement now due to this decision.
38. M. Winkelhock: Has tried to perform but not helped that ART struggles to give 2 cars the time they need. Has not had the chance to show his talents and time may be running out as it will be hard to show critics that he deserves a second season.
37. C. Pic: Started well but lack of expertise at Stefan has meant that prequalifying has been impossible. The driver may get lucky and be given a seat elsewhere as brings decent sponsorship to a team in need of funds.
36. K. Chandhok: Has had to cope with a horrible situation, which sadly may be the end of a short and trying F1 career.
35. V. Liuzzi: Will be happy of the Minardi deal that means he will be saved from the Hispanic nightmare that 2012 has been.
34. P. De La Rosa: Has used his experience from testing and racing to perform well in races and dragged the package to decent places.
33. P. Maldonado: Like with DiGrassi is perhaps the most undeserving driver on the grid with what is a decent package. Is really only being maintained because of Venezuelan money which could be better spent.
32. B. Senna: Been average but has given the small team some joy on weekends. Will need to improve if Super Aguri will get back out of prequalifying and back on the grid permanently.
31. A. Sutil: Has done more in two races then the other drivers had done for the team, a brilliant co drive in the winning Le Mans car should extend his F1 career further. A good second half of the season and this driver will be quite highly valued.
30. G. Ricci: Hs been hampered by the car not being at its best, but has still shone that he deserves to be in Formula One.
29. T. Glock: An enigma seems to be done with Formula One but will then perform solidly to aid Marussia and get the car ahead of stronger teams.
28. F. Leimer: Has performed well in race appearances but needs to ensure regular participation or will go unnoticed by a busy paddock.
27. S. Coletti: Hard to say but that drive for 13th in Monaco was sublime and showed that he can do well, if the car qualifies.
26. D. Ricciardio: Generally done ok but not spectacular, will have to improve if any chance of getting permanent Red Bull seat for the future.
25. J. Bianchi: Astonishing driver has seen him finish ahead of better cars and has put ART in a strong position to develop as a team, surely will be one for the future.
24. J. Trulli: Been incredibly unlucky but it looks like he is done with F1 after 15 years, will be surprising if he lasts the season as seems to be unmotivated.
23. F. Montagny: Scored a point but has been generally Mr Invisible on weekends and some have forgotten he still has the second seat at Ligier.
22. J. E. Vergne, a tough start to his F1 career that the Minardi car has not helped but has shown some promise. Is very much a wait and see if it will improve for the rest of the season.
21. P. DiResta: Been consistent if unspectacular, will hope for better as been overshadowed by Buemi.
20. V. Petrov: The Toleman duo has struggled with the car this year, however has managed to deliver some good results, especially 5th at the European Grand Prix. Petrov will be disappointed that Williams, Sauber and Randle BMW drivers are increasing the gap for him to play a role in Toleman being the best of the rest.
19. J. Alguersuari: Has generally out qualified and outraced his teammate but has had trouble getting the car into the Midfield for points as 2 12th place finishes are his best results this season. As other cars develop will need to find extra performance to ensure Minardi do not have to prequalify on his terms, which he is capable of doing.
18. K. Kobayashi: Has done well and been able of getting points for Sauber, problem though has been that his teammate is getting the best of him and delivering better results which has raised the standard for the team. More results like the 5th in Spain will help aid his career development but needs to improve to be the focus for Sauber.
17. S. Buemi: Looks more likely than his teammate to get points for Force India and has been the better driver so far, however a little more consistency would help the team progress.
16. R. Grosjean: Has slaughtered his teammate in performance and outscored, outraced and performs better in qualifying, some fine performances this season will likely have opened drives for higher up the grid. Doing brilliantly in an average car and team, has the ability for it to continue.
15. H. Kovalainen: Has been hampered by unreliability, but has done well when the car manages to finish. Best performance was 10th and a point despite in teammate’s car and starting last on the grid in Jerez. Has been consistent with finishes to suggest he is pushing the car behind its capabilities.
14. N. Heidfeld: Has found it hard to keep up with a teammate that is doing so well for the team, a little more hunger and desire to challenge for the number 1 spot in the team is needed otherwise will now be seen as the understudy to the young contender. Otherwise, the German has been reliable with the car development and bringing the car home. This has helped Randle BMW do well in the constructors.
13. R. Kubica: Has tried his best in a very frustrating car, all but one of his finishes have been in the points, so there is a nice foundation to build on for the rest of the season. Qualifies well most of the time so should be able to keep Toleman in the battle for points.
12. J. Button: A little disappointing considering he has done well in some races needs to qualify better as it is leaving him too much to do in the race. Overall has done decently enough to ensure continued McLaren contract but needs to compete with Hamilton more.
11. M. Schumacher: Has had some horrible luck and is now playing back up to Rosberg in the team, but 3 out of his 4 finishes have been top 6 and two of those were podiums, so a bit more good fortune and is capable of delivering results despite being 43.
10. F. Massa: Is driving very well this season and has shown with some good results, however has not done enough to suggest he should be on equal footing with Alonso.
9. N. Hulkenberg: Has been consistent in both qualifying and race finishes, done well to maintain strong top 8 finishes. Just needs a little more race pace to move on from that basis and could do with upgrades to help one lap pace in qualifying.
8. S. Perez: Has impressed in his second season and has achieved consistent points in all of his finishes that have seen the chequered flag. Has managed to drag Sauber into a position where it can challenge the Williams/Randle BMWs and even dice with Ferrari, Mercedes and McLaren on some occasions. Doing very well for the team and may get a move to the top 4 if there is several driver changes there.
7. L. Hamilton: Has seen a small slump in recent races, however has performed decently that a championship fight can be made in the rest of the season. Will need unreliability more regularly in the Red Bulls and to maximise his races in order for the gap to close but it is possible for that.
6. K. Raikkonen: Has performed very well for a driver who has not been in the series for two years, with a brilliant win in China to show for it. Been consistently in the top 10 for qualifying as well means that Williams is showing very good ability to push on and be close to the best of the rest behind the top 4.
5. S. Vettel: Has managed to be consistent if not at his very best, seems to be lulling everyone into a false sense of security which may be unleashed soon. Is still in the championship hunt and him and Webber seem to be unstoppable if the car has no problems on a race weekend.
4. F. Alonso: Done very well and has shown that the car can be very fast but has struggled in some of the races. Alonso will be happy to still be in with a chance of the championship but it will require his best driving for it to happen as the car has its limits.
3. N. Rosberg: The car is not near the standards that McLaren and Red Bull drivers can enjoy but due to Rosberg’s brilliant talent it has managed to achieve two wins, which have meant that it is possible to win the championship. Needs a few more podium finishes if it does not win outright as it can lose ground in what is a tight battle in the championship.
2. A. Randle: Has been outstanding and has shown brilliance that was rewarded with a dominant Le Mans win and rumours of a Ferrari drive for 2013. Has been unlucky to not be a 2 time race winner this season especially so close in his home race, a win is definitely overdue and if successful this season, has a brilliant chance of top 3 in the championship.
1. M. Webber: Has driven so well and consistently that by midseason has a 57 point lead over the second place driver. If he continues driving like this, it will result in a second world championship as apart from a 4th place all of his finishes have been top 2.

23rd July 2012 FIA
With the revised changes to prequalifying, the following entrants will participate in all remaining prequalifying rounds of the championship

Cars: 17 & 18 Marussia Virgin Racing
Cars: 21 & 22 Hispania Racing Team
Cars: 35 & 36 Lola Stefan Grand Prix
Cars: 37 & 38 ART Grand Prix

The following entrant will only participate at the Hungarian, Italian, Singapore, Japanese, and Brazilian Grand Prix prequalifying sessions

Cars 31 & 32 Shell Super Aguri Grand Prix

Only the top 4 placed teams in prequalifying will make it into main qualification for the Sunday’s race.

24th July 2012 FIA
The following is the provisional 2013 Formula One World Championship race schedule. The World Motorsport Council will decide after the 2012 Italian Grand Prix the final race calendar. All dates are TBC and some races are still to be confirmed, in the event a race cannot go on, a French GP at Paul Ricard, a San Marino GP at Imola or a European GP round at Barcelona or Brands Hatch may be considered as a replacement.

March 17: Australia (Melbourne)
March 24: Malaysia (Sepang)
April 14: China (Shanghai)
April 21: Bahrain (Sakhir)
May 12: Spain (Jerez)
May 26: Monaco (Monte Carlo)
June 9: Canada (Montreal)
June 16: America (New Jersey) *
June 30: Britain (Silverstone)
July 21: Germany (Nurburgring)*
July 28: Hungary (Hungaroring)
Sep 1: Belgium (Spa)
Sep 8: Italy (Monza)
Sep 22: Singapore (Marina Bay) *
Oct 6: Japan (Suzuka)
Oct 13: Korea (Yeongam) *
Oct 27: India (Buddh International Circuit)
Nov 3: Abu Dhabi (Yas Marina)
Nov 17: United States (Austin)
Nov 24: Brazil (Interlagos)

25th July 2012 Autosport
Alfa Romeo will test their 2013 car at the Imola Circuit shortly after the grand prix; it is expected 4 drivers to do the testing as the team looks set to be the 20th entrant for 2013. In other news despite Di Grassi’s recovery, Arrows have confirmed his contract has been ended and Sutil will be alongside Maldonado for the rest of the season. The Brazilian has been seen talking to HRT, Modena, Stefan Lola and surprisingly Team Lotus for a drive for the rest of the season.

25th July 2012 F1Fanatic
Raikkonen confirms to continue to drive for Williams in 2013, as rolling contract extended. The deal will see him with an option for 2014 if both feel happy with progress next year. In other news Ferrari end rumours of a new driver in the 28 car by confirming Massa will enter his last year of his contract with the Marenello team.

26th July 2012 Hungarian Grand Prix Prequalifying
Prequalifying was now expected to be a very close battle for the remaining 4 places in main qualification, as most of the teams were evenly matched it would provide one of the closest sessions of the season as less than one second covered all 10 entrants. ART would get two cars into main qualifying for the first time and Leimer in the Super Aguri and the Lola of De La Rosa narrowly qualified ahead of Liuzzi in the HRT and Senna in the other Super Aguri.

1. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth, (38) (M), 1:21.787
2. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda, (32) (M) 1:21.809
3. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda, (35) (P) 1:21.853
4. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth, (37) (M) 1:21.917
5. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 1:21.989
6. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda, (31) (M) 1:22.213
7. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth, (18) (G) 1:22.247
8. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (17) (G) 1:22.308
9. C. Pic, Lola Honda, (36) (P) 1:22.357
10. K. Chandhok, HRT Cosworth, (21) (M) 1:22.651

28th July 2012 Hungarian Grand Prix Qualifying

1. N. Rosberg, Mercedes (4) (M) 1:16.989
2. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault (2) (G) 1:17.121
3. F. Alonso, Ferrari, (27) (G) 1:17.221
4. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault (1) 1:17.303
5. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes, (7) (M) 1:17.369
6. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes, (8) (M) 1:17.454
7. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, (19) (P) 1:17.515
8. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth, (5) (G) 1:17.610
9. F. Massa, Ferrari, (28) (G) 1:17.722
10. M. Schumacher, Mercedes, (3) (M) 1:17.771
11. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth, (6) (G) 1:17.808
12. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes, (15) (M), 1:17.851
13. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari, (30) (G), 1:17.909
14. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P), 1:18.057
15. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault, (26) (M), 1:18.184
16. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G), 1:18.231
17. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault, (25) (M), 1:18.350
18. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault (20) (P)
19. A. Randle, Randle BMW, (13) (G)
20. A. Sutil, Arrows BMW, (9) (P)
21. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes, (16) (M)
22. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari, (29) (G)
23. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth, (38) (M)
24. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault, (11) (P)
25. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P)
26. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda, (35) (P)
27. D. Ricciardio, Modena Lamborghini, (33) (P)
28. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini, (34) (P)
29. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth (37) (M)
30. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda (32) (M)
31. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari (23) (P)
32. J .Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari, (24) (P)

29th July 2012 Hungarian Grand Prix 70 laps

The day of the race was warm and sunny and this meant that with no worry of wet weather conditions, Rosberg was confident of adding another win to his tally for the season. Bianchi further impressed the paddock by qualifying his ART in 23rd place and De La Rosa Lola made a rare appearance in the main grid by qualifying 26th. The tight twisty circuit had suited some of the V8 powered cars while some of the V12 engine powered cars had struggled in qualifying. As the circuit was one where the power of engine was limited it meant some of the other teams could have a strong chance of good races. Randle starting in 19th knew it was going to be a tough race to get points but with good form he had been showing, the driver felt confident that it was possible. The first turn with 28 cars trying to get round would be risky for those in the midfield as the lightest of contact could put the drier in the gravel and unlikely to continue. The teams lined up for the start of the race and the 70 laps that would follow, as the lights went out Rosberg was able to lead from Webber and Hamilton who had made strong started followed by Alonso and Vettel who had dropped back. The majority of the drivers were able to get through the tricky first corner without incident apart from a tangle between Perez in the Sauber and Heidfeld in the Randle BMW had put both out. The incident caused a tangle with the other Randle BMW of Randle who had to pit after the first lap for a new nosecone after the collision and had wiped out his front wing. Fortunately there was no suspension damage to the chassis and the car would continue but adrift in 26th place after lap 1.

Apart from the opening lap first corner incidents, the race would be pretty uneventful for the first 20 laps. Some of the midfield runners were doing well such as Buemi, Kovalainen and Montagny who were battling for the lower points positions. The rest of the championship contenders were happy on lap 26 when the championship leader Webber retired with a rare retirement. What had caused it was a stuck gear on his gearbox which meant the car would only stay in second gear, as the broken gear was likely to break the engine. The car was wisely pitted into retirement. This was some good fortune for the other title contenders as it meant his points lead could be closed by him scoring 0 points at this round. Hamilton was now putting pressure on Rosberg as a series of strong laps but the driver on the back of Rosberg’s Mercedes and lapping faster. Towards the back, the last remaining Randle BMW had managed to make it to 16th position but was now a lap down and some 45 seconds from the top 15. A tyre delaminating and the resulting damage to the chassis would spell the end of Maldonado’s race on lap 30. This had been another disappointing race for the Venezuelan who had been having a trying season in what experts felt was a competitive package. The lower point’s position was a brave battle between Kovalainen, Buemi, Raikkonen and Montagny as the drivers exchanged fast lap times before the scheduled pit stops about halfway through the race.

By having pitting earlier in the race due to front wing damage it meant that the Randle BMW of Randle had switched to a one stop for new tyres on lap 50. Having spent almost 40 laps on the tyres that had been looked after well, the gap to the top 15 had now dropped to 20 seconds. The team were hoping to past a few who were stopping, as their rivals tyres were beginning to show signs of wear. This was then helped when the cars in 6th and 7th place, that of Alonso and Hulkenberg both suffered mechanical faults, when the Ferrari Engine and the driveshaft on the Williams both broke on lap 39. By lap 43 after a few cars had stopped, the plucky driver in the No. 13 car had managed to get into 12th position, still a lap behind the leaders but now 10 seconds behind the car in 10th that was pitting two laps later. The Randle BMW team could not believe their luck when on lap 45 a big smash from Grosjean in the Ligier on the exit of turn 6 would bring out the safety car. The dash of cars to the pits would mean the Englishman would unlap himself and make a pit stop just as the safety car exited the pit lane and for the leaders to be behind it. The gamble had worked and with a set of new tyres that only had to last 23 laps at most, it meant that strong points were possible for the team as the car was in 9th place. The safety car came in on lap 49 leaving a 21 lap sprint to the finish with the top 10 before the safety car pitting being 1. N. Rosberg (4), 2. L. Hamilton (7), 3. J. Button (8), 4. S. Vettel (2), 5. F. Massa (28), 6. R. Kubica (19), 7. M. Schumacher, (3), 8. K. Raikkonen (5), 9. A. Randle (13), 10. S. Buemi (15)

As soon as the safety car pitted Rosberg and Hamilton broke away from the cars behind them, both of them would build a 2 second gap on that lap alone. Randle had done well on new tyres to be 7th after passing Raikkonen and Schumacher in a brilliant move over 2 corners in a row. Kubica would then be passed 3 laps later on lap 53 as the Randle BMW outbraked the Polish driver into the final turn to overtake at the start of the start finish straight. Vettel, Button and Massa were 6 seconds up the road from the Randle BMW as they had attempted to try and catch the leading pair. Laps 59 and 60 would see the final two retirements from the race as De La Rosa’s Lola who was 2 laps down would retire with a broken suspension sustained from running wide on a kerb and bouncing in the air. The final non classified runner would be Montagny in the second Ligier who had been running 12th and would end the race in the tyre barrier on turn 10 after running wide and spinning out into the gravel trap. Lap 61 would see Randle move into 5th when he was able to slipstream passed Button on the main straight. This was unfortunate for Button who had dropped from 3rd to 6th in two laps due to unable to reply to strong pressure and fast laps that had been produced by the drivers around him. Raikkonen would end up out of the points on lap 63 when a spin would see Buemi and Kovalainen pass the Williams into 9th and 10th respectively. On this same lap Hamilton would make an attempt to pass Rosberg for the lead but by overshooting into turn 1, the McLaren driver had blown the attempt and would have to now settle for 2nd as he had wrecked the tyres. This meant he would drop back with Vettel and a now 4th place Randle gaining on the driver.

Rosberg would take fastest lap on lap 67 with a 1:20.798, he would complete a brilliant race by taking the chequered flag for his third win of the season, he sadly missed out on a Grand Chelem as the period before the safety car had seen Button lead for 2 laps when all the cars pitted. Some 12 seconds behind Randle capped off a brilliant race drive by holding onto 4th and the Randle BMW team were jubilant as it looked like their race weekend had been ruined by the lap 1 collisions. Hamilton managed to maintain 2nd place ahead of Vettel who had kept a fast Randle behind him in the closing laps

Classification
1. N. Rosberg (4) 1hr 38mins 45.756s 25pts
2. L. Hamilton (7) + 10.132s 18pts
3. S. Vettel (2) + 10.987s 15pts
4. A. Randle (13) + 12.354s 12pts
5. F. Massa (28) + 17.987s 10pts
6. J. Button (8) + 25.987s 8pts
7. R. Kubica (19) + 28.717s 6pts
8. S. Buemi (15) + 32.546s 4pts
9. M. Schumacher (3) + 35.654s 2pts
10. H. Kovalainen (12) + 42.765s 1pt
11. A. Sutil (9) + 45.312s
12. K. Raikkonen (5) + 45.876s
13. K. Kobayashi (29) + 49.235s
14. P. DiResta (16) + 51.002s
15. V. Petrov (20) + 53.342s
16. J. Bianchi (38) + 55.987s
17. D. Riccardio (33) + 1.01.465s
18. J. Trulli (11) + 1.03.765s
19. G. Ricci (34) + 1 lap
20. F. Montagny (26) 60 laps Spun Off
21. P. De La Rosa (35) 57 laps Suspension
22. R. Grosjean (25) 45 laps Accident
23. N. Hulkenberg (6) 39 laps Driveshaft
24. F. Alonso (27) 39 laps Engine
25. P. Maldonado (10) 30 laps Chassis
26. M. Webber (1) 26 laps Gearbox
27. N. Heidfeld (14) 0 laps Collision
28. S. Perez (30) 0 laps Collision

F. Lap: N. Rosberg (4) 1:20.798 on lap 67
DOTR: A. Randle, brilliant strategy and pace to utilise the safety car and get a top 4 from a first lap smash and having qualified 19th on a circuit that the BMW V12 powered car could have had difficulties on. Perhaps the drive of the season so far and surely has shown that a win is almost overdue for the young driver
ROTR: Trulli, Petrov and DiResta. Teammates score strong points while these 3 were nowhere near the pace and if not for a safety car should have been a few laps down.

Championship
1. M. Webber (1) 152pts
2. N. Rosberg (4) 120pts
3. L. Hamilton (7) 111pts
4. S. Vettel (2) 106pts
5. A. Randle (13) 100pts
6. F. Alonso (27) 92pts
7. J. Button (8) 83pts
8. F. Massa (28) 62pts
9. K. Raikkonen (5) 59pts
10. M. Schumacher (3) 40pts
11. N. Heidfeld (14) 37pts
12. R. Kubica (19) 33pts
13. N. Hulkenberg (6) 30pts
14. S. Perez (30) 29pts
15. R. Grosjean (25) 15pts
16. V. Petrov (20) 13pts
17. K. Kobayashi (29) 12pts
18. S. Buemi (15) 6pts
19. A. Sutil (9) 4pts
20. H. Kovalainen (12) 3pts
21. P. Maldonado (10) 2pts
22. P. DiResta (16) 1pt
= F. Montagny (26) 1pt

Constructors
1. Red Bull Renault 258pts
2. McLaren Mercedes 194pts
3. Mercedes 160pts
4. Ferrari 154pts
5. Randle BMW 137pts
6. Williams Cosworth 89pts
7. Toleman Renault 46pts
8. Sauber Ferrari 41pts
9. Ligier Prost Renault 16pts
10. Force India Mercedes 7pts
11. Arrows BMW 6pts
12. Team Lotus Renault 3pts
13. Minardi Ferrari 0pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= ART Cosworth 0pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Modena Lamborghini 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Marussia Cosworth 0 pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Super Aguri Honda 0 pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= Stefan Lola Honda 0pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= HRT Cosworth 0pts (Best Pos. 15th)

[gnrpoison]

30th July 2012 BBC
Randle can be a future world Champion, former F1 and CART champion Nigel Mansell proclaims. ‘A drive of that standard in the Hungarian Grand Prix, not only reminded me of my race there back in 1989. It was one of the best drives I have seen in all my time of racing, a performance like that can only be performed by those who will reach the highest platform in the sport.’

31st July 2012 F1Fanatic
HRT closing early for the summer break is fuelling speculation that the team have folded. Bernie Ecclestone reckons it is highly unlikely the team will show up for the Belgian Grand Prix, as rumours of Liuzzi and Chandhok leaving the team are reported on twitter.

1st August 2012 Sky sports
Marussia will retain Stefano Coletti and he will be partnered by Jerome D’Ambrosio for the 2013 season. Goodyear tyres will be maintained but engine for next year still to be announced. Cosworth V8 will be most likely despite rumours of a switch to Ferrari contract that Minardi has.

2nd August 2012 BBC
Valtteri Bottas confirms F1 drive for 2013, Williams, Sauber, Toleman and Ligier most likely destinations.

3rd August 2012 The Sun
Hulkenberg will not be driving for Williams in 2013 after confirming rolling 12 month Sauber contract. The contract is rumoured to have a clause saying it can be terminated if Ferrari, Mercedes or McLaren want to recruit the German. Williams announced the news as Bottas is confirmed in the Number 6 car which confirms the first ever all Finish driver line up in Formula One.

4th August 2012 F1Fanatic
HRT apparently will run Lucas DiGrassi for rest of the season after accepting the pay-driver. The Brazilian will bring much needed funds to the team which should see them continue the rest of the season.

5th August 2012 The Times
Ford to make big announcement regarding Formula One after the Italian Grand Prix, rumours of reacquisition of Cosworth are speculated.

6th August 2012 Birmingham Mail
Heidfeld will leave Randle BMW at the end of the 2013 season, the team based in Redditch have confirmed. ‘We would like to thank Nick for his contributions and hope he has a pleasant future should he continue to stay in F1.’ Team Principal Geoff Randle spoke to our reporters on the issue.

7th August 2012 Autosport
Honda will not be supplying Stefan Lola next season as it will be looking to run turbo V6 for 2014 and will only supply Super Aguri with its V10 and will divert resources to 2014 engine. Rumours continue of linkup with McLaren, Williams or Team Lotus in 2014 or 2015

8th August 2012 BBC
Renault will continue to supply a V10 for Toleman, Ligier alongside Red Bull for 2013; deal expected to run for 2014 season as well for these teams but will stop supplying Team Lotus after 2013.

9th August 2012 F1 Fanatic
Lewis Hamilton will be racing for Mercedes next season after announcing he is leaving the team he has been with since 1998 as member of their young drivers program. McLaren will announce his replacement after Italian Grand Prix.

10th August 2012 FIA.com
List of Provisional Entries for 2013 season, the following have given their intent and agreement to participate in the 2013 FIA Formula One World Championship with two entered constructed cars each. 1.5 litre Turbocharged engines will be permitted in V configuration with 6 cylinders will be permitted for the first time since 1988. Normally aspirated engines allowed in V configuration in 8, 10 and 12 cylinder format and 3.5 litres only. All entrants are to pay entrance fee by 31st November to confirm place in next year’s championship. Final confirmation will be announced on 2nd December 2012 of the entry list and car numbers.

1. Alfa Romeo SpA
2. ART Grand Prix
3. Benetton Toleman Formula
4. Canon WilliamsF1 Team
5. Equipe Ligier Prost F1 Team
6. European Minardi F1 Team
7. Hispania Racing Team*
8. Infiniti Red Bull Racing
9. Lola Stefan Grand Prix
10. Marussia F1 Team
11. Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team
12. Mettis Randle Racing F1
13. Orange Arrows Team F1
14. Sahara Force India F1 Team
15. Sauber F1 Team
16. Scuderia Ferrari
17. Super Aguri Honda Grand Prix
18. Team Lotus
19. Team Modena Lamborghini
20. Vodafone McLaren Mercedes

*TBC

11th August 2012 BBC
A strong test of the new V6 1.5l Alfa Turbo engine and 213T chassis around Imola confirms Pirelli contract for 2013 and Jaime Alguersuari as lead driver for the Italian Team. President John Elkmann is happy with the result of the test and hopes the team to be able to prequalify well. With still no confirmation of HRTs decision to race in 2013, the Italians have requested their numbers should the team not appear next season, otherwise will race with 39 and 40.

12th August 2012 Autosport
Mercedes will announce configuration of 2014 engine at the Italian Grand Prix, as the team confirms V8 power will be used in 2013 and continued suppliers of McLaren.

13th August 2012 F1Fanatic
Karun Chandhok will cease driving for Hispania after Italian Grand Prix after dispute with team over sponsorship, may not even run in Belgian Grand Prix

14th August 2012 Autosport
Red Bull will be committed fully to Formula One until at least 2018 after agreeing private terms alongside Ferrari, McLaren, Williams, Mercedes and Randle BMW with head of Formula One Group Bernie Ecclestone. The discussions will conclude the new Concorde Agreement that will come into place in 2013, increase of prize money for qualifying expected to be added as well as clear regulation on fuel limits for turbo engine cars. Engine manufacturers Lamborghini, Honda and Alfa Romeo are in their own discussions regarding hybrid technology in 2014 and 2015. Cosworth’s position to be announced in the future when it releases its options for 2013 in Italy.

15th August 2012 BBC
Eddie Jordan reckons 20 two car entrants next year will be fantastic for the sport as it means more driver seats available and more sponsors in the sport. Also feels sport is entering a golden age not seen since the 1980s as costs are stabilising making it easier for teams to compete. ‘While a few teams are still to announce title sponsors and driver line ups for next season, I have faith that we will not be losing any team over the winter. Question marks have been raised over HRT’s entry but I feel that will be sorted out.’

16th August 2012 Sky Sports
HRT boss Colin Kolles confirms Dallara will not supply the 2013 car and the team are planning to upgrade the F112 as B spec car for next season. Rumours of TATA exit would harm these ambitions.

17th August 2012 BBC
UPN will step down as title sponsor for 2013 for Team Lotus, as the delivery firm announce that 3 year deal will not be renewed. In other news Team Lotus hoping Kovalainen will stay and partner Petrov next season despite rumours of Toleman switch.

18th August 2012 RTL
Jean Eric Vergne will stay at Minardi for 2013, the team announces and will partner Liuzzi in the 23 and 24 numbered cars.

19th August 2012 BBC
The last day before the enforced 1 week factory close downs, is busy as final updates are completed ready for the cars to be sent to Spa for the race practices and prequalifying on the 30th August.

27th August 2012 Sky Sports
Rain predicted all weekend for qualifying and the race, HRT confirm it will be Chandhok’s last race with the team, Liuzzi still expected to see out season at the team.
28th August 2012 BBC
The requirements for prequalification at circuits are unlikely to change for 2013 with plans to continue 2012 structure of classification. The second American Grand Prix at New Jersey is likely to allow 30 starters, which is the maximum permitted by FIA rules. Jean Todt has claimed should grid numbers drop so prequalifying not necessary and less than 30 entrants for a qualification session, 107% time would likely be reintroduced. However with the FIA recently turning down extra entrants from Nova Racing and Prodrive for 2014, it seems F1 next season will be at its maximum fullness of entrants. The only candidate likely to fold before next season would be HRT, who have yet to fully confirm their participation for 2013 and some have claimed don’t even have a car in its predevelopment stage to pass the safety regulations. ‘Any more than 40 entrants and we cannot confirm the long term stability of some of the circuits on the calendar. As many would not have the infrastructure to support more than 20 modern Formula 1 two car teams. Some even struggle with allowing 15 and have had to go through major and costly upgrades. Monaco for example would be impossible to run a safe race with 26+ modern cars and we feel we could not allow such a prestigious event to be gone from the World Championship due to this.’

29th August 2012 Autosport
HRT dismiss claims that they will not be in 2012, having released photos of the cockpit of their 2013 entrant. Experts have mentioned it looks more of a B spec of the 2012 car then a whole newly constructed unit.

30th August 2012 Belgian Grand Prix Prequalifying
The session was delayed by 2 hours as torrential rain meant it was not safe for the cars to run, when the track did start to dry 30 minutes into the session it provided a very entertaining and unusual session. Bianchi again showed quality lapping the quickest time but it was behind the driver that the conditions had allowed some unexpected results. Chiefly amongst this was both HRTs qualifying in 2nd and 3rd to the delight of the cash strapped team, a rare occurrence in 2012. Liuzzi last to cross the line for a timed lap would push Glock out of qualification while his teammate Coletti would have the last spot in qualification. The Lola Hondas were disappointed to be bottom of the timesheets having 5 mins from the end of the session looked comfortable but for the track to get quicker in dying seconds.

1. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth, (38) (M) 1:45.798
2. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 1:46.587
3. K. Chandhok, HRT Cosworth, (21) (M) 1:46.809
4. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth, (18) (G) 1:47.032
5. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (17) (G) 1:47.112
6. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth, (37) (M) 1:47.387
7. C. Pic, Lola Honda, (36) (P) 1:47.908
8. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda, (35) (P) 1:48.135

1st August 2012 Belgian Grand Prix Qualifying
A rare afternoon of sunshine meant qualifying was able to run in dry conditions for most of the session apart from the last 15 minutes when it began to rain and no more faster times were possible. Only Bianchi out of the 4 pre-qualifiers was able to qualify for the race and he had achieved a respectable 24th position. Hamilton claimed his first pole of the year as McLaren locked out the front row ahead of Heidfeld, the Red Bulls and the Mercedes of Rosberg

1. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes, (7) (M) 1:42.978
2. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes, (8) (M) 1:43.045
3. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G) 1:43.107
4. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault, (2) (G) 1:43.178
5. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault, (1) (G) 1:43.221
6. N. Rosberg, Mercedes, (4) (M) 1:43.315
7. F. Alonso, Ferrari, (27) (G) 1:43.404
8. A. Randle, Randle BMW, (13) (G) 1:43.456
9. F. Massa, Ferrari, (28) (G) 1:43.605
10. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth, (6) (G) 1:43.721
11. M. Schumacher, Mercedes (3) (M) 1:43.876
12. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari (30) (G) 1:43.943
13. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth (5) (G) 1:44.132
14. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault (20) (P) 1:44.190
15. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault (25) (M) 1:44.303
16. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari, (29) (G) 1:44.379
17. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, (19) (P) 1:44.501
18. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P) 1:44.613
19. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes, (16) (M) 1:44.766
20. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault, (26) (M), 1:44.808
21. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault, (11) (P), 1:44.925
22. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P) 1:44.981
23. D. Riccardio, Modena Lamborghini, (33) (P) 1:45.002
24. J. Bianchi, Art Cosworth, (38) (M) 1:45.117
25. A. Sutil, Arrows BMW, (9) (P) 1:45.303
26. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari, (24) (P) 1:45.435
27. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes, (15) (M) 1:45.576
28. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P) 1:45.671
29. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini, (34) (P) 1:45.823
30. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda, (31) (M) 1:45.899
31. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth, (18) (G) 1:45.908
32. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda, (32) (M) 1:46.111
33. K. Chandhok, HRT Cosworth, (21) (M) 1:46.208
34. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 1:46.255

2nd September 2012 Belgian Grand Prix 44 laps
A return of torrential rain would cause the race to be delayed by an hour as the conditions were far too severe to enable 30 cars to safely race around the Spa Francorchamps circuit. The senior drivers of Alonso, Button, Heidfeld, Massa, Schumacher and Trulli had a special meeting with FIA safety delegate Charlie Whiting on what possible action to undertake to ensure the safety of the drivers who were racing in the Grand Prix. It was decided that the race would begin under the safety car and should rain cease then the Grand Prix will be underway under normal conditions. The BBC coverage in the interim would interview Thierry Boutsen, Murray Walker and Alain Prost who all confirmed that the conditions were much worse than the 1991 Australian Grand Prix which was stopped after 14 laps and is classified as the shortest Grand Prix that had ever been ran. It was likely to be close to the 2 hour mark if all 44 laps were to be run.

For 10 laps the F1 cars paraded around the circuit behind the safety car, however the car was in for 2 laps when a big crash involving 6 cars would red flag the race at 26 minutes completed, with 32 laps left to run in a 90 minute time limit. The unlucky drivers who had all managed to escape unhurt but were out of the race were as followed: Bianchi, Montagny, Sutil, Kubica, Kobayashi and Maldonado. The race would have to be restarted with 30 minutes otherwise the race would be classified at under 75% completed and half points would be given. Fortunately 15 minutes after the red flag, the rain had eased and under a safety car start the race was back on, two further entrants would not take part as both had broken down with a hydraulic and steering problem on lap 15, these were the McLaren of Button and the Super Aguri on Senna. The race would properly get underway with the remaining 22 cars on lap 19 and some 47 minutes into the race time. Hamilton was able to get away quickly away from Heidfeld and Webber due to a clear track, the course was still wet but as rain had stopped it was likely intermediates could be possible for the last third of the race.

Lap 21 would see a further retirement when the No. 13 car of Randle would spin off at Les Combes and into the gravel. As the Marshalls recovered the car quickly it meant that another safety car was not needed and the race was uninterrupted. Halfway distance had just come under the 1 hour total race time mark, so as long as there were no more stoppages or safety car periods then the total race distance would be completed. The Williams’ were doing very well in the conditions as both Hulkenberg and Raikkonen had made it to 4th and 6th place on lap 26. The top 10 on that lap were as followed: 1. L. Hamilton (7), 2. N. Heidfeld (14) + 12.687s, 3. M. Webber (1) + 16.543s, 4. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 18.093s, 5. N. Rosberg (4) + 24.876s, 6. K. Raikkonen (5) + 27.980s, 7. S. Vettel (2) + 30.134s, 8. F. Massa (28) + 34.789s, 9. S. Perez (30) +36.586s, 10. M. Schumacher (3) + 38.132s. Tyre stops were expected on lap 28 and with the track drying a little it was expected a change to intermediates would be possible for a few laps. This would be possible because rain was expected to start in the closing stages again as storm clouds were now returning to the circuit. Some of the teams were planning a return to wets or even the race being red flagged at the end if the weather was too severe. On lap 27 another retirement would hit the race when the brakes on Buemi’s Force India would force the driver to park off the circuit at Stavelot and out of the race.

When it did come to the stops, most of the drivers would switch to intermediates as parts of the racing line was now drying but in some sections like at Blanchimont and Pouhon, the rain water had gathered at the bottom of the track. This would cause some aquaplaning and some spins that would plague Petrov in the Toleman and would cause a stalled car and retirement for Championship leader Webber on lap 31. 75% distance was passed on lap 33 and now even if the race was cut short, full points would be awarded to the top 10 finishers. An engine failure would end Vettel’s race on lap 34 and would end a disappointing performance from Red Bull. Team Principal Christian Horner was angry that the race had even been allowed to continue and lambasted officials in post race interview with Sky Sports. Heidfeld would set the fastest lap on lap 36 with a 1:55.365s on a pair of intermediates just as behind him Schumacher made a brilliant overtake on Perez for 7th. The rain did appear again on lap 37 and was still light but was making the circuit very difficult to drive. Two more retirements would bring out the safety car as Vergne’s Minardi crashed as Eau Rouge in a big impact that initially shocked television viewers and personnel in the pits. However the driver escaped without injury. The final retirement of the race befell Heidfeld who spun at Blanchimont and out of second place, hit the barrier and reappeared on the circuit unharmed but in a damaged car. The safety car was kept out for 4 laps at which point the rain was so hard it was decided to end the race 2 laps early on lap 42. Hamilton who had been largely unchallenged all race would take the victory, whereas most of the remaining drivers were happy to remain one piece.

Classification at 42 laps Completed out of 44
1. L. Hamilton (7) 1hr 53 mins 24.546s 25pts
2. N. Rosberg (4) + 1.345s 18pts
3. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 1.763s 15pts
4. K. Raikkonen (5) + 2.586s 12pts
5. F. Massa (28) + 2.980s 10pts
6. F. Alonso (27) + 3.310s 8pts
7. M. Schumacher (3) +3.687s 6pts
8. S. Perez (30) + 5.032s 4pts
9. V. Petrov (20) + 5.434s 2pts
10. P. DiResta (16) + 6.001s 1pt
11. R. Grosjean (25) + 6.543s
12. H. Kovalainen (12) + 7.213s
13. J. Trulli (11) + 7.890s
14. J. Alguersuari (24) + 8.182s
15. G. Ricci (34) + 8.556s
16. D. Riccardio (33) + 9.041s
17. N. Heidfeld (14) 37 laps Spun Off
18. J. E. Vergne (23) 36 laps Accident
19. S. Vettel (2) 34 laps Engine
20. M. Webber (1) 31 laps Spun Off
21. S. Buemi (15) 27 laps Brakes
22. A. Randle (13) 22 laps Spun Off
23. B. Senna (31) 15 laps Steering
24. J. Button (8) 15 laps Hydraulics
25. P. Maldonado (10) 12 laps Collision
26. K. Kobayashi (29) 12 laps Collision
27. R. Kubica (19) 12 laps Collision
28. A. Sutil (9) 12 laps Collision
29. F. Montagny (26) 12 laps Collision
30. J. Bianchi (38) 12 laps Collision

F. Lap N. Heidfeld (14) 1:55.365 on lap 36
DOTR: Hamilton drove well in the rain to take a much deserved victory.
ROTR: Red Bull dropped points and then sounded like throwing toys out of the pram with comments on the race during post race interviews.

Championship
1. M. Webber (1) 152pts
2. N. Rosberg (4) 138pts
3. L. Hamilton (7) 136pts
4. S. Vettel (2) 106pts
5. F. Alonso (27) 100pts
= A. Randle (13) 100pts
7. J. Button (8) 83pts
8. F. Massa (28) 72pts
9. K. Raikkonen (5) 71pts
10. M. Schumacher (3) 46pts
11. N. Hulkenberg (6) 45pts
12. N. Heidfeld (14) 37pts
13. R. Kubica (19) 33pts
= S. Perez (30) 33pts
15. R. Grosjean (25) 15pts
= V. Petrov (20) 15pts
17. K. Kobayashi (29) 12pts
18. S. Buemi (15) 6pts
19. A. Sutil (9) 4pts
20. H. Kovalainen (12) 3pts
21. P. Maldonado (10) 2pts
= P. DiResta (16) 2pts
23. F. Montagny (26) 1pt

Constructors
1. Red Bull Renault 258pts
2. McLaren Mercedes 219pts
3. Mercedes 184pts
4. Ferrari 172pts
5. Randle BMW 137pts
6. Williams Cosworth 116pts
7. Toleman Renault 48pts
8. Sauber Ferrari 45pts
9. Ligier Prost Renault 16pts
10. Force India Mercedes 8pts
11. Arrows BMW 6pts
12. Team Lotus Renault 3pts
13. Minardi Ferrari 0pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= ART Cosworth 0pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Modena Lamborghini 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Marussia Cosworth 0 pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Super Aguri Honda 0 pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= Stefan Lola Honda 0pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= HRT Cosworth 0pts (Best Pos. 15th)

[gnrpoison]

3rd September 2012 FIA
The FIA have fined Red Bull $100,000 for bringing the sport into disrepute, with their actions and comments at the conduct of the running of the 2012 Belgian Grand Prix.

3rd September 2012 Autosport
Heidfeld disappointed with spin, that cost the driver a 2nd place finish. ‘We had the speed, the traction and pace to maintain that place. However I hit a wet spot and spun out into the barrier, it was frustrating because we were doing well up until then. The conditions were not great but the car could handle them.’

4th September 2012 BBC
Hamilton’s win and Webber’s retirement blows open the championship battle with 8 races remaining. Ferrari, Randle BMW and Red Bull hoping strong performances in the Italian Grand Prix will bring a strong position to build from in the championship fight.

4th September F1Fanatic
Warm weather and sunny conditions expected for race weekend at Monza, Di Grassi hoping to prequalify for HRT after confirming deal with the team as a pay driver. The money gained from the deal and the success of making it into main qualifying at Belgium has meant the team have now paid staff and suppliers for the team.

5th September 2012 Autosport
New Jersey Grand Prix runs into financial problems claims Bernie Ecclestone. ‘I highly doubt that we will race their next year as it looks like they do not have enough money to provide the costs that it will run. If they do then it will but it may be delayed another year to help get them up to speed.’

5th September 2012 Gazzetta Dello Italia
Sold out Italian crowd hoping for strong Ferrari performances, strong support for Minardi and Modena will be prevalent as well. Alfa Romeo team personnel will be attending the Grand Prix in preparation for a full assault of a turbo engine car in 2013.

6th September 2012 Italian Grand Prix Prequalifying
Ten cars were back in prequalifying as the powerful V10 Honda engine showed its power and advantage over the V8 Cosworth. The V10 Cosworth powered ARTs were able to compete and with Bianchi again prequalifying, Winkelhock cruelly missed out by less than 0.010s from Leimer in the Super Aguri. Charles Pic ensured a Stefan qualified in 3rd place. However less than 1 second covered all the entrants and once again shown how close and how much of a lottery the sessions were beginning to develop.

1. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda, (31) (M) 1:22.757
2. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth, (38) (M) 1:22.821
3. C. Pic, Lola Honda, (36) (P) 1:22.903
4. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda, (32) (M) 1:23.121
5. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth, (37) (M) 1:23.131
6. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (17) (G) 1:23.407
7. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda, (35) (P) 1:23.512
8. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 1:23.554
9. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth, (18) (G) 1:23.634
10. L. DiGrassi, HRT Cosworth, (21) (M) 1:23.688

8th September 2012 Italian Grand Prix Qualifying

Such was the quickness of the circuit and how controlled the tyre wear was, one of the closest ever sessions happened with just less than 2 seconds between all 28 qualifiers. Grosjean would not participate due to food poisoning and so only the Ligier of Montagny would attempt to qualify. In fact 2011 Alonso’s Pole was beaten comfortably by 19 of the drivers such were the speeds recorded, in fact the 2004 lap record was close to being broken and most likely would have if Ferrari or Randle BMW had ran their engines at full power and with reduced weight.

1. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault, (2) (G) 1:20.717
2. F. Massa, Ferrari, (28) (G) 1:20.769
3. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault, (1) (G) 1:20.826
4. F. Alonso, Ferrari, (27) (G) 1:20.873
5. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth (5) (G) 1:20.940
6. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth (6) (G) 1:20.995
7. A. Randle, Randle BMW, (13) (G) 1:21.034
8. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G) 1:21.100
9. M. Schumacher, Mercedes, (3) (M) 1:21.103
10. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari, (30) (G) 1:21.179
11. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari, (29) (G) 1:21.231
12. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes, (7) (M) 1:21.288
13. N. Rosberg, Mercedes, (4) (M) 1:21.401
14. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes, (8) (M) 1:21.546
15. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, (20) (P) 1:21.618
16. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P) 1:21.660
17. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari (23) (P) 1:21.733
18. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari (24) (P) 1:21.809
19. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, (19) (P) 1:21.900
20. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault 1:22.011
21. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda (32) (M) 1:22.214
22. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda (31) (M) 1:22.303
23. D. Riccardio, Modena Lamborghini (33) (P) 1:22.401
24. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault (26) (M) 1:22.487
25. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes (16) (M) 1:22.504
26. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes (15) (M) 1:22.598
27. A. Sutil, Arrows BMW, (9) (P) 1:22.616
28. C. Pic, Lola Honda (36) (P) 1:22.698
29. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth (38) (M) 1:22.715
30. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini, (34) (P) 1:22.832
31. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P) 1:22.947
32. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault, (25) (G) Withdrew Illness

9th September 2012 Italian Grand Prix 53 laps

The grandstands at Monza were packed to capacity as the 28 cars lined up on the grid before the race. The weather was warm and the sun was out with not a cloud in the sky, much speculation was on the futures of a few of the drivers as this would be where behind the scenes, a lot of the drives for next season would be discussed. Personnel from the Alfa Romeo team were around the paddock, speaking to many officials, the team with its turbo engine, the first turbo since 1988 were doing a lot of PR and would be seen discussing with their 2012 lead driver Jaime Alguersuari. The biggest cheer was reserved for Ferrari President Luca Di Montezemalo who received a standing ovation from the tifosi. The Ferraris had been in strong form in qualifying with a brilliant 2nd and 4th. The V12 engine was expected to be at its most advantage on the Monza circuit and this was shown by how quick the times had been and that V12 engine cars were topping the speed trap. All 28 cars pulled off for the formation lap, as their team personnel ran to their garages, the race would soon begin, the crowds were a sea of Ferrari red and while there was support for other teams and drivers, it was clear who the crowd wanted to win.

The lights went out and a huge roar came from the stands as Massa was quick of his grid spot and was able to take the lead at the first chicane. This was even more appreciated as Alonso had such a brilliant start that he was not far behind in 2nd. The Spaniard was able to pass his teammate into the Lesmo Corners as both cars built a lead over the other 26 cars. Webber had a tangle with his teammate and had lost a few places. The Australian was trying very hard to not let McLaren of Button past him to take 10th from the Red Bull driver. Lap 5 would see the first retirement as the race would see its first engine failure and to no one’s surprise it was a Lotus car that had been hit with the mechanical problem. The car of Kovalainen blew its engine before the Parabolica and the Finnish driver would pull into the pits to retire from the race. The two Ferraris at this point had built up a nice lead and were comfortably faster than most of the cars behind the prancing horses. Lap 8 and a tangle at the first chicane between
Hamilton and Perez would cause both to pit for new nosecones, when Perez having overtaken on the straight left no room for the Mercedes to make the corner. The stewards would later give Perez a drive through penalty because of the incident; it had repercussions for Hamilton as it dropped way back into the midfield and out of point contention. Lap 8 would see the retirement of Kubica who had acquired suspension damage from hitting the curb at the Ascari chicane and spinning into the wall on the exit of the corner. At the end of lap 10, the top 10 were as followed 1. F. Massa (28), 2. F. Alonso (27), 3. N. Hulkenberg (6), 4. S. Vettel (2), 5. A. Randle (13), 6. N. Heidfeld (14), 7. K. Raikkonen (5), 8. K. Kobayashi (29), 9. M. Webber (1), 10. J. Button (8)

A quarter into the race and the Ferraris were lapping almost a second a lap on their rivals, some of this was down to fuel saving. This was why the Randle BMWs were a little off the pace of leader as all though the car was efficient with its fuel. The team had prepared to be at maximum power in its V12 engine at the end of the race. As the V12 is a thirsty engine in comparison with the V10s and V8s, it would be vital for the team to not exhaust it strategy too early. The Ferrari V12 in comparison with the BMW V12 was not as powerful on low fuel and so the battle at the end of the race could be down to those components. The Renault V10 in the Red Bulls did not need to fuel save, however on race pace alone was limited in its power output but being lighter and used less fuel. This meant the Red Bulls could have a chance if the Ferraris or Randle BMWs had troubles. Williams were hoping that their drivers could maintain the pace and mix in with the frontrunners as big points were available with McLaren and Mercedes expected to not score a big haul at this round. Red Bull had hoped to cement a lead here but the troubles of Webber and Vettel unable to control the race would mean their lead would take a hit at this round. This was demonstrated on lap 15 when both Randle BMWs had passed the car even in their fuel saving mode and were lapping quicker than the Red Bull could manage.

The Monza circuit being a strong power circuit meant those using the Mercedes V8 were lacking in comparison and had to run lighter cars in an attempt to make up for the loss of horsepower. In comparison the Cosworth V8 ran in several cars that did not qualify for the race was almost 150 BHP down on the BMW V12 which was the most powerful engine in Formula One at 850BHP. Rumours of the Randle Racing team being able to hit 900BHP had been exaggerated; nevertheless the engine would be under its most daunting task at this circuit with only the race at Bahrain an equal challenge on the Engine. The other V12s engines of Lamborghini and Ferrari were able to boast 825 and 837 BHP respectively, this meant that although it was the least fuel efficient engine Modena were able to see its driver comfortably in the midfield and even catching the McLaren of Hamilton. With rumours of lowering the weight limit for non turbos in 2013, many experts were shocked at how fast a car could in theory lap either Monza or Bahrain. The V6 turbocharged Alfa was likely to be a match in power with the V12s; it would be astonishing at what the speeds could be. At the half way mark, the race was down to 20 cars as many had suffered mechanical failures from Gearboxes and Engines. The Randle BMWs now did not have to fuel save and were pushing to close the gap following pit stops for new tyres, the Ferraris might have to pit again at the end of the race as the early speed and extra weight on the tyres had caused the team to pit earlier. The race was building towards a thrilling climax with several battles across the field, the Randle BMWs were closing in on the Ferraris at a fast pace as Alonso had taken the lead from Massa on lap 34. Lap 35 would see the end of a miserable afternoon for Hamilton when he would be in a collision with Raikkonen who was lapping the Mercedes at the Ascari chicane. Championship leader would Mark Webber would have his race ended on lap 40 when a throttle problem led to his retirement, the misfortune would not be able to be capitalised on by Rosberg, who himself had brakes failure a lap later. The top 10 at this point of the race was 1. F. Alonso (27), 2. F. Massa (28) + 3.687s, 3. A. Randle (13) + 12.987s, 4. N. Heidfeld (14) + 15.032s, 5. K. Kobayashi (29) + 45.987s, 6. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 48.766s, 7. M. Schumacher (3) + 56.987s, 8. J. Button (8) + 1:01.543s, 9. S. Vettel (2) + 1:03.654s 10. J. Alguersuari + 1 lap

The two final retirements of the race occurred on lap 42 and 45 respectively when Vettel who had radiator trouble found his Red Bull succumb to overheating and his chance of points was gone. Sadly having moved into 2nd a lap earlier the Randle BMW’s engine of No. 13 A. Randle would blow leaving the car out of the race but still classified in 15th and the last of the classified finishers. It had been a blow to the team as he had set the fastest lap of the race on lap 43 with a 1:23.012. The team on the radio asked Heidfeld to slow for the remaining laps to ensure 3rd as his engine was close to the brink; however it was a well earned podium by last year’s winner. This meant huge cheers for the crowd as it made certain of a Ferrari One – Two at their home track, it had been a difficult year where at times the team could not be as quick as their rivals and had to settle for lesser spoils. Crossing the finish line ahead of Massa, Alonso was almost swamped by manic Ferrari fans that had broken onto the track. In scenes reminiscent of the Mansellmania in Britain, the track was crowded with fans on the slowing down lap, with the cars having to stop at the parabolic to avoid the fans on the track.

Classification
1. F. Alonso (27) 1hr 19 mins 34.675s 25pts
2. F. Massa (28) + 5.987s 18pts
3. N. Heidfeld (14) + 20.663s 15pts
4. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 57.212s 12pts
5. K. Kobayashi (29) + 1.00.123s 10pts
6. M. Schumacher (3) +1.19.543s 8pts
7. J. Button (8) + 1 lap 6pts
8. J. Alguersuari (24) + 1 lap 4pts
9. F. Montagny (26) + 2 laps 2pts
10. J. E. Vergne (23) + 2 laps 1pt
11. S. Buemi (15) + 2 laps
12. B. Senna (31) + 3 laps
13. F. Leimar (32) + 3 laps
14. C. Pic (36) + 4 laps
15. A. Randle (13) + 8 laps Engine
16. S. Vettel (2) 42 laps Overheating
17. N. Rosberg (4) 41 laps Brakes
18. M. Webber (1) 40 laps Throttle
19. K. Raikkonen (5) 35 laps Collision
20. L. Hamilton (7) 34 laps Collision
21. D. Riccardio (33) 25 laps Engine
22. J. Trulli (11) 22 laps Engine
23. V. Petrov (20) 18 laps Engine
24. A. Sutil (9) 16 Laps Gearbox
25. P. DiResta (16) 16 laps Gearbox
26. S. Perez (30) 14 laps Engines
27. R. Kubica (19) 8 laps Suspension
28. H. Kovalainen (12) 5 laps Engine

F. Lap: A. Randle (13) 1:23.012 on lap 43
DOTR: Kobayashi drove well throughout the afternoon to take a strong top 5 finish.
ROTR: Renault Engines Cars with 1 classified runner out of 7 starters

Championship
1. M. Webber (1) 152pts
2. N. Rosberg (4) 138pts
3. L. Hamilton (7) 136pts
4. F. Alonso (27) 125pts
5. S. Vettel (2) 106pts
6. A. Randle (13) 100pts
7. F. Massa (28) 90pts
8. J. Button (8) 89pts
9. K. Raikkonen (5) 71pts
10. N. Hulkenberg (6) 57pts
11. M. Schumacher (3) 54pts
12. N. Heidfeld (14) 52pts
13. S. Perez (30) 33pts
= R. Kubica (19) 33pts
15. K. Kobayashi (29) 22pts
16. R. Grosjean (25) 15pts
= V. Petrov (20) 15pts
18. S. Buemi (15) 6pts
19. A. Sutil (9) 4pts
= J. Alguersuari (24) 4pts
21. F. Montagny (26) 3pts
= H. Kovalainen (12) 3pts
23. P. Maldonado (10) 2pts
= P. DiResta (16) 2pts
25. J. E. Vergne (23) 1pt

Constructors
1. Red Bull Renault 258pts
2. McLaren Mercedes 225pts
3. Ferrari 215pts
4. Mercedes 192pts
5. Randle BMW 152pts
6. Williams Cosworth 128pts
7. Sauber Ferrari 55pts
8. Toleman Renault 48pts
9. Ligier Prost Renault 18pts
10. Force India Mercedes 8pts
11. Arrows BMW 6pts
12. Minardi Ferrari 5pts
13. Team Lotus Renault 3pts
14. Super Aguri Honda 0 pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= ART Cosworth 0 pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Modena Lamborghini 0 pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Marussia Cosworth 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Stefan Lola Honda 0 pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= HRT Cosworth 0 pts (Best Pos. 15th)

[gnrpoison]

10th September 2012 FIA
The following is the 2013 Grand Prix calendar of races and number of entrants allowed into main qualifying and the race. Top 13 placed teams of 2012 will automatically be in main qualifying and 14th and 15th team will be in main qualification at the respective races where 32 and 34 cars will be in main qualifying. All the rest will be in a prequalification session the Thursday before the race where top 4 will progress. Second half of season will be revised after German Grand prix with the same criteria as before. The originally scheduled New Jersey Grand Prix has been delayed for 12 months as the FIA did not feel the race promoters could secure an event worthy of Grand Prix expectations. A French Grand Prix at Paul Ricard will take its place.

1. Australian Grand Prix, Albert Park 17th March 2013
28 Starters, 32 Main Qualifying
2. Malaysian Grand Prix, Sepang 24th March 2013
30 Starters, 34 Main Qualifying
3. Chinese Grand Prix, Shanghai International Circuit 14th April 2013
30 Starters, 34 Main Qualifying
4. Bahrain Grand Prix, Sakhir International Circuit 21st April 2013
28 Starters, 32 Main Qualifying
5. Spanish Grand Prix, Jerez 12th May 2013
28 Starters, 32 Main Qualifying
6. Monaco Grand Prix, Monte Carlo 26th May 2013
26 Starters, 30 Main Qualifying
7. Canadian Grand Prix, Circuit De Villeneuve 9th June 2013
28 Starters, 32 Main Qualifying
8. French Grand Prix, Circuit Paul Ricard 23rd June 2013
28 Starters, 32 Main Qualifying
9. British Grand Prix, Silverstone 30th June 2013
30 Starters, 34 Main Qualifying
10. German Grand Prix, Nurburgring 21st July 2013
28 start, 32 main qualifying
11. Hungarian Grand Prix, Hungaroring 28th July 2013
28 start, 32 main qualifying
12. Belgian Grand Prix, Spa Francorchamps 1st September 2013
30 Starters, 34 Main Qualifying
13. Italian Grand Prix, Monza 8th September 2013
28 start, 32 main qualifying
14. Singapore Grand Prix, Marina Bay 22nd September 2013
28 start, 32 main qualifying
15. Japanese Grand Prix, Suzuka 6th October 2013
28 start, 32 main qualifying
16. Korean Grand Prix, Yeongam 13th October 2013
30 Starters, 34 Main Qualifying
17. Indian Grand Prix, Buddh International Circuit 27th October 2013
30 Starters, 34 Main Qualifying
18. Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Yas Marina 3rd November 2013
30 Starters, 34 Main Qualifying
19. United States Grand Prix, Austin 17th November 2013
30 Starters, 34 Main Qualifying
20. Brazilian Grand Prix, Interlagos 24th November 2013
28 start, 32 main qualifying

11th September 2012 BBC
Ford reacquire Cosworth Brand, all Cosworth Engines to be branded Fords from next season, V10 Cosworth will be replaced with V6 turbo for 2014 alongside the continuing V8 3.0lt engine. ART will have supply of V10 engines for 2013 and so will Lola who are losing Honda engines after one year; they will have the 2012 spec engines with 2013 new engines being given to Williams.

12th September 2012 Sky Sports
Minardi confirm V8 Ford engine for 2013, the team decided to go for cheaper engines to help budget. Ferrari will now supply Marussia with a V12 instead as well as continued Sauber support.

13th September 2012 Autosport
Stefan extend contract with Lola till 2014 as it announces new deal as team expands resources.

14th September 2012 BBC
Au Revoir Alain, as Prost departs Ligier team and withdraws his backing. The team will continue solely as Ligier as owner Guy Ligier completes takeover of team and sole owner.

15th September 2012 the Sun
Romain Grosjean confirms place at Toleman for 2013, the driver is excited to be part of the line up. Kubica is expected to remain alongside the Frenchman, as reports of contract problems are eased.

16th September 2012 F1 Fanatic
Montagny will not be driving for Ligier as Agent confirms ART seat for 2013, driver hoping for No. 1 status within team.

17th September 2012 Autosport
Dry weather expected for Singapore as rainy weekend will not happen, Red Bull hoping to regain lost momentum following a difficult few races.

18th September 2012 F1 Fanatic
Perez, Kubica and surprisingly Max Chilton in the running for 2nd McLaren seat in 2013, the team would like an all British line up and Chilton has been doing well in GP2.

19th September 2012 Gazette Di Italia
Alfa Romeo 2nd driver will be an Italian with Luca Fillipi, Giacomo Ricci and Davide Valsecchi amongst the candidates.

20th September 2012 Singapore Grand Prix Prequalifying

1. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth (38) (M) 1:45.987
2. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda (31) (M) 1:45.993
3. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth (17) (G) 1:46.132
4. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda (32) (M) 1:46.208
5. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth (37) (M) 1:46.223
6. C. Pic, Lola Honda, (36) (P) 1:46.301
7. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth (18) (G) 1:46.465
8. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda (35) (P) 1:46.516
9. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 1:46.798
10. L. Di Grassi, HRT Cosworth (21) (M) 1:47.432

22nd September 2012 Singapore Grand Prix Qualifying

1. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault (2) (G) 1:43.876
2. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes (8) (M) 1:43.943
3. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault (1) (G) 1:44.045
4. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes (7) (M) 1:44.120
5. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth (6) (G) 1:44.221
6. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth (5) (G) 1:44.354
7. M. Schumacher, Mercedes, (3) (M) 1:44.457
8. A. Randle, Randle BMW, (13) (G) 1:44.512
9. N. Rosberg, Mercedes, (4) (M) 1:44.598
10. F. Alonso, Ferrari, (27) (G) 1:44.625
11. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, (19) (P) 1:44.643
12. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari, (30) (G) 1:44.717
13. F. Massa, Ferrari, (28) (G) 1:44.749
14. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW (14) (G) 1:44.836
15. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault (25) (G) 1:44.901
16. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault (26) (G) 1:44.980
17. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes, (16) (M) 1:45.032
18. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes, (15) (M) 1:45.079
19. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari, (29) (G) 1:45.154
20. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P) 1:45.204
21. A. Sutil. Arrows BMW (9) (P) 1:45.307
22. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P) 1:45.465
23. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P) 1:45.515
24. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari, (24) (P) 1:45.531
25. D. Ricciardio, Modena Lamborghini (33) (P) 1:45.598
26. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth (38) (M), 1:45.616
27. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini (34) (P) 1:45.687
28. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda (32) (M) 1:45.690
29. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda (31) (M) 1:45.808
30. T. Glock Marussia Cosworth (17) (G) 1:45.851
31. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault (20) (P) Disqualified*
32. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault (11) (P) No Time**

*Missed Weight Check and so all times deleted included fastest lap of 1:45.287.
** Concussion sustained in first qualifying run accident meant no time was recorded.

23rd September 2012 Singapore Grand Prix 61 laps
The race was a processional event and would feature a season high of 22 finishers in a rare show of mechanical reliability. The cars of those that did not finish the race were the following drivers: Kobayashi, Maldonado, Kubica, Sutil, Massa and Kovalainen who again had a Renault engine failure. Vettel would lead from start to finish and he would achieve his second win of the season, this was then helped when a problematic gearbox for Webber would drop him from 2nd to 7th on the last lap. This would be appreciated by his championship contenders as Hamilton, Alonso and Rosberg would finish in front of the championship leader. Hulkenberg would achieve a brilliant 2nd in the Williams and give the team much celebration as team leader Raikkonen had fought from a bad start and a collision on the opening lap to finish in the points having dropped to last on the opening lap. A brilliant pass on Grosjean on final corners would give him the vital 10th place finish, last of the point scorers. Vettel would be robbed of a grand slam at this event when Hulkenberg beat his fast lap 2 laps from the end to take the fastest lap 2 years in a row with a 1:47.023 on lap 59. The F1 circus and fans would hope for better entertainment at the next race Suzuka in Japan.

Classification
1. S. Vettel (2) 1hr 56mins 55.789s 25pts
2. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 15.713s 18pts
3. J. Button (8) + 21.575s 15pts
4. N. Rosberg (4) + 23.201s 12pts
5. L. Hamilton (7) + 26.064s 10pts
6. F. Alonso (27) + 31.314s 8pts
7. M. Webber (1) + 34.848s 6pts
8. A. Randle (13) + 37.115s 4pts
9. M. Schumacher (3) + 50.876s 2pts
10. K. Raikkonen (5) + 1:04.243s 1pt
11. R. Grosjean (25) + 1:05.423s
12. N. Heidfeld (14) + 1:20.765s
13. F. Montagny (26) + 1:35.132s
14. P. DiResta (16) + 1:42.687s
15. J. E. Vergne (23) + 1 lap
16. S. Perez (30) + 1 lap
17. D. Riccardio (33) + 1 lap
18. S. Buemi (15) + 1 lap
19. J. Alguersuari (24) + 1 lap
20. F. Leimer (32) + 1 lap
21. J. Bianchi (38) + 1 lap
22. G. Ricci (34) + 2 laps
23. H. Kovalainen (12) 47 laps Engine
24. F. Massa (28) 43 laps Battery
25. A. Sutil (9) 37 laps Gearbox
26. R. Kubica (19) 31 laps Throttle
27. P. Maldonado (10) 24 laps Collision
28. K. Kobayashi (29) 7 laps Steering

F. Lap: N. Hulkenberg (6) 1:47.023 on lap 59
DOTR: Vettel drove excellent to claim 2nd win and reignite title challenge
ROTR: Perez had a poor race with a healthy car and finished low down amongst teams Sauber have been quicker then.

Championship

1. M. Webber (1) 158pts
2. N. Rosberg (4) 150pts
3. L. Hamilton (7) 146pts
4. F. Alonso (27) 133pts
5. S. Vettel (2) 131pts
6. J. Button (8) 104pts
= A. Randle (13) 104pts
8. F. Massa (28) 90pts
9. N. Hulkenberg (6) 75pts
10. K. Raikkonen (5) 72pts
11. M. Schumacher (3) 56pts
12. N. Heidfeld (14) 52pts
13. S. Perez (30) 33pts
= R. Kubica (19) 33pts
15. K. Kobayashi (29) 22pts
16. R. Grosjean (25) 15pts
= V. Petrov (20) 15pts
18. S. Buemi (15) 6pts
19. A. Sutil (9) 4pts
= J. Alguersuari (24) 4pts
21. F. Montagny (26) 3pts
= H. Kovalainen (12) 3pts
23. P. Maldonado (10) 2pts
= P. DiResta (16) 2pts
25. J. E. Vergne (23) 1pt

Constructors
1. Red Bull Renault 289pts
2. McLaren Mercedes 250pts
3. Ferrari 223pts
4. Mercedes 206pts
5. Randle BMW 156pts
6. Williams Cosworth 147pts
7. Sauber Ferrari 55pts
8. Toleman Renault 48pts
9. Ligier Prost Renault 18pts
10. Force India Mercedes 8pts
11. Arrows BMW 6pts
12. Minardi Ferrari 5pts
13. Team Lotus Renault 3pts
14. Super Aguri Honda 0 pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= ART Cosworth 0 pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Modena Lamborghini 0 pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Marussia Cosworth 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Stefan Lola Honda 0 pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= HRT Cosworth 0 pts (Best Pos. 15th)

[gnrpoison]

24th September 2012 BBC
Sauber confirm Kobayashi will not drive for them next year, as place in team will be given to Esteban Gutierrez who is promoted from test driver. The announcement comes hours after McLaren announced that Perez will be given the seat alongside Button at McLaren for 2013.

25th September 2012 Autosport
Red Bull will increase sponsorship at Modena after renewing deal to continue Ricciardio driving for the team in 2013. It is rumoured a strong performance will get Daniel a promotion to a Red Bull seat in 2014. Ricci will continue to drive for the team as well

26th September 2012 Canal+
Ligier have offered Charles Pic a drive in the team. The driver who had tested for the team last season was determined for a French driver to be in the team for 2013 after both Montagny and Grosjean had gone elsewhere.

27th September 2012 BBC
It had been expected but Porsche stop development of F1 engine and possible link up with Williams for World Endurance Championship return and attempt at Le Mans for 2014. The engine that had been progressed on will be converted to WEC rules and specifications. This explains why Williams have continued with Ford Cosworth power after Porsche had exited talks as an engine supplier.

28th September 2012 Autosport
As BMW, Toyota, Nissan, Audi, Peugeot, Ferrari and Mazda are all entering 3 car factory teams for the new season in 2013. It should be a competitive championship for the manufacturers as it will be the most contested between Manufacturers since the Group C days of the eighties. It is still early days of who will triumph and with Jaguar and Lancia entering entries for Le Mans next year. Expect a strong championship full of entertainment and with Porsche entering in 2014 with full schedule entries from Jaguar and Lancia; it could be a championship to rival Formula One popularity as Sports car racing goes from strength to strength.

29th September 2012 Fuji Television
Kobayashi has been offered seats at Stefan Lola and Super Aguri as the driver will bring sponsorship which would aid both budgets.

30th September 2012 BBC
Trulli will leave Team Lotus after the Korean Grand Prix and will sit out the rest of the season after confirming exit talks. Chandhok has been offered seat for Indian Grand Prix and will be in the running against Giedo Van Der Garde for permanent seat for the rest of the season and possibly 2013. As both bring money from sponsors it will be a welcome addition for the development budget as the team currently do not have a title sponsor for 2013.

1st October 2012 Autosport
Kubica confirms BMW drive in WEC for 2013 after losing out on McLaren seat. The Polish driver was quoted as saying ‘I wanted a competitive drive for 2013 and was not going to settle at a backmarker team, I feel a year out in Sports Cars will put me in an attractive position for 2014 and beyond.’ In other news Honda will have new engine developments for Super Aguri team as it hopes for a strong homecoming at Suzuka, with rain expected only in qualifying, some upsets could be on the cards

2nd October 2012 Sky Sports
Kovalainen returns to Enstone team for 2013 after leaving in 2007 for McLaren. The Finn will essentially swap with Petrov who already has a drive at Team Lotus in 2013. The driver alongside Romain Grosjean provides Toleman a strong and consistent partnership to make gains on Williams and Randle BMW who have developed better then the team this year.

3rd October 2012 F1 Fanatic
Pedro De La Rosa will retire at the end of the season and will stay at Stefan in a testing role for 2013. The Spaniard will likely be given another team role as the squad expands for 2013 and build on the small gains of 2012.

4th October 2012 Japanese Grand Prix Prequalifying
Honda’s home grand prix meant the Super Aguri’s were quickest amongst the prequalifiers, with Senna’s first timed lap being good enough to qualify, he would improve as both cars were a whole second quicker then the next successful qualifiers, Marussia almost had both cars through with Coletti being beaten by Bianchi by a close margin. No updates for Stefan and HRT meant both were off the pace. No spare car for HRT meant both drivers had to do conservative runs as the team could not afford to bring extra baggage for the costly trip. For many in the paddock, several wondered why they had even bothered to come such was their lack of pace. Di Grassi full of sarcasm was quoted as saying his Virgin car in 2010 would have comfortably beaten the HRT in pace.

1. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda (31) (M) 1:31.903
2. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda (32) (M) 1:31.979
3. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth (17) (G) 1:33.104
4. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth (38) (M) 1:33.312
5. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth (18) (G) 1:33.365
6. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth (37) (M) 1:33.408
7. C. Pic, Lola Honda, (36) (P) 1:33.718
8. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda (35) (P) 1:34.032
9. L. Di Grassi, HRT Cosworth (21) (M) 1:36.551
10. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth (22) (M) 1:37.456

6th October 2012 Japanese Grand Prix Qualifying
Torrential rain had delayed qualifying for 2 hours and the track was partially wet for most of the session, except for the final 10 minutes as it started drying. Such was the erratic lap times that the grid was mixed up and had a few surprises that missed the qualifying cut. Most hit were both Minardi’s who lost out the most dropping from top 10 positions to bottom of the cut as the track dried very quickly. Excellent timing from Red Bull would see them lock out the front row as both Vettel and Webber were the last cars to post times, having switched to dry tyres while most of the others were on inters. A strategic decision from Ligier would see them lock out the 5th row, while ART’s Bianchi were in a bizarre 13th, Kovalainen in 6th and the Super Aguri’s locking out row 8.

1. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault (1) (G) 1:38.987
2. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault (2) (G) 1:39.112
3. M. Schumacher, Mercedes (3) (M) 1:39.789
4. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari, (29) (G) 1:39.911
5. A. Randle, Randle BMW, (13) (G) 1:39.920
6. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P) 1:40.102
7. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes, (8) (M) 1:40.133
8. N. Rosberg, Mercedes, (4) (M) 1:40.207
9. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault (26) (M) 1:40.351
10. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault (25) (G) 1:40.404
11. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G) 1:40.567
12. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, (20) (P) 1:40.641
13. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth, (38) (M) 1:40.728
14. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes, (7) (M) 1:40.831
15. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda, (31) (M) 1:40.896
16. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda, (32) (M) 1:40.925
17. D. Ricciardio, Modena Lamborghini, (33) (P) 1:41.037
18. F. Alonso, Ferrari, (27) (G) 1:41.141
19. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (18) (G) 1:41.277
20. F. Massa, Ferrari, (28) (G) 1:41.302
21. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari, (30) (G) 1:41.515
22. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth, (5) (G) 1:41.678
23. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth, (6) (G) 1:41.703
24. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, (19) (P) 1:41.850
25. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes, (15) (M) 1:41.973
26. A. Sutil, Arrows BMW, (9) (P) 1:42.204
27. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault, (11) (P) 1:42.386
28. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini, (34) (P) 1:42.563
29. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW (10) (P) 1:42.608
30. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari (23) (P) 1:42.651
31. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes (16) (M) 1:42.708
32. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari (24) (P) 1:42.901

7th October 2012 Japanese Grand Prix 53 laps
The sun was out for the year’s running of the Japanese Grand Prix; the previous day’s qualifying had seen some unexpected results. Red Bull would be hoping to pull away at the start as most of their rivals were behind slower cars and so it was expected that they would be able to take advantage as Hamilton, the Ferraris of Massa and Alonso and the two Williams negotiated traffic. A good start by Schumacher, Kobayashi and Randle could see those drivers build enough of a gap to the cars below to ensure that strong points finishes would be achievable. With some good seats still unfilled, a performance from Kamui could guarantee a decent drive for next season. With Arrows, Lotus and Ligier still having not announced a full line-up, the Japanese driver could be given a seat there or even with his Toyota connections a race winning drive in the World Endurance Championship for 2013. Honda officials were very pleased with Super Aguri’s efforts as they had performed well. The coverage the team would get had helped them get a few more sponsors for which as they were low funded would be a big help for their ambitions. The rookie Jules Bianchi had many in the paddock predicting future success as he had took the lowly funded and underdeveloped ART chassis to an amazing 13th place, in what was regarded as one of the underdog performances of the year.

The lights went out and a strong start by Vettel saw him lead into the first corner, Randle had a similar one and was on Webber’s tail as they began the Esses section. The Ferrari’s of Alonso and Massa found how troubling the midfield can be at the start as both were punted out of the race by colliding with Riccardio’s Modena. The incident put all three out and the Safety Car was brought into the race as the Lamborghini car tried in vain to make it to the pits, however with broken rear suspension, the Australian’s race was over. Replays showed that he was not at fault despite Ferrari’s protestations and the incident was that of a racing incident. Three laps later the Safety Car was in and Vettel led from Webber, Randle, Kobayashi and Schumacher. Hamilton who at the start had made it to 9th was under attack from Grosjean who was determined to keep the progress from his strong qualifying. The problem for most cars was Kovalainen in 7th and Bianchi in 12th who were keeping cars stuck behind them as traffic formed. It meant that in 3 laps Rosberg in 6th had built 10 seconds over the 7th placed Lotus and those immediately behind him. Relief was found for those in the train when as usual the engine in the Lotus destroyed itself for what appeared to be an alarming regularity. Not amused where Team Lotus officials who must have wondered why in the last few days they had made a deal to continue using the engines in 2013, when in 3 races they had 4 engine retirements in the races. Kobayashi showed why Sauber were a bit foolish in not continuing with his services next season when he passed Schumacher at the spoon curve. The move propelled him into 4th and a large roar came from the stands, next would be Webber who had been passed by Randle in an even more tantalising overtake on the outside of 130R. Both overtakes would certainly be candidates for move of the season and happened seconds after each other on lap 13. The top 10 on lap 15 were 1. S. Vettel (2), 2. A. Randle (13) + 3.254s, 3. M. Webber (1) + 5.354s, 4. K. Kobayashi (29) + 8.215s, 5. M. Schumacher (3) + 11.564s, 6. J. Button (8) + 23.897s, 7. N. Rosberg (4) + 25.365s, 8. L. Hamilton (7) + 31.543s, 9. N. Heidfeld (14) + 35.786s, 10. R. Grosjean (25) + 38.465s

Lap 17 saw some cars pit that were on two stop strategies, with another stop expected around lap 34 – 36 to take them to the end of the race. Those on one stop would pit around laps 27 – 30. For the Williams stuck in the midfield both decided to switch to one stops as traffic had meant that even on full weight of fuel on the tyres, the wear on them had been slowed enough for to attempt almost 30 laps on the harder tyre. The Suzuka circuit is normally very punishing on Gearboxes and Engines as it pushes both to the limits, this was shown on lap 20 when a Gearbox broke on the Mercedes of Schumacher who had been driving well in the points. 3 laps later this was followed by the Gearbox on Hulkenberg’s Williams expiring. This had been a shame as the pace of the German had meant that he was nearing point’s positions and had been in 12th position. With strong pace with those around him, the one stop strategy might have gained a few places when he would have pitted on lap 30. At the front just before both of their pit stops, Randle had put in a strong set of laps just before the end of his tyres to pass Vettel for the lead at the Hairpin. Sadly at the round of pit stops 2 laps later, a rare mistake by Randle BMW mechanics would see the Red Bull have the quicker stop and Vettel had emerged back in the lead. An anonymous drive by Glock in the Marussia was ended on lap 26 when the driver suffered a clutch problem. The driver amazingly had his first retirement of the year, however as this was only his 5th start out of 15 racing after not qualifying or prequalifying for the others; it was not a stat to boast about. Lap 29 would see disappointment for the ART team after the brilliant starting position of 13th and briefly running in 10th for a few laps, the Cosworth V10 blew putting Bianchi out of the race. Nevertheless the team could be proud with their performance and would probably find it quite hard to keep the Frenchman for 2013 as his overall race weekend performance had alerted many of the teams to the drivers potential.

With most of the one stoppers pitted and with some of the frontrunner left with one pit stop that would take effect in laps 35 – 43, it meant that by now Vettel could control the race ahead of a chasing Randle, who determined to undo the team error at his pit stop and claim a much overdue first win. Webber in 3rd was some distance behind them and had to contend with a charging Kobayashi determined to leave the race with a podium finish in front of the home crowd. The driver made a strong claim for that when at the chicane he was able to pass Webber as the fans in the stands cheered, the move had been possible as Webber had attempted to lap ironically a Super Aguri on the bridge section, the Sauber sensing an overtake closed up through 130R and out braked Webber into the chicane. Toleman’s continued a disappointing few couple of races when on lap 37 an oil leak put paid to Petrov’s race and 3 laps later a broken throttle ended his teammate Kubica’s race. Lap 39 Vettel pitted giving Randle the lead of the race, his times being quick enough that when the Randle BMW driver pitted on lap 41, the Englishman was in the lead of the race. Vettel by now struggled to match the times as with the weight lessened from the fuel, the tyres heated to optimum temperature, the extra Horsepower from the V12 was able to power the car away from the chasing Vettel. Fate though would play a cruel hand on the Randle BMW though when on lap 46, 7 laps from home, the Gearbox missed a gear and spun the car out at the Degnar Curve and into the gravel trap. Beached it was all over and a clearly frustrated Randle was left wondering how long it would be till he could stand on the top step of the podium. The last retirement of the race would sadly fall to Leimer in the Super Aguri on lap 49, having been lapped twice; the Swiss driver had just about covered enough distance to be classified in last place when a failed Alternator ended his race.

For the Japanese crowd the joy of seeing one of their home drivers in 2nd place was a wondrous sight in the final few laps, sadly it was short-lived as Webber managed to regain his 2nd place. However with Kamui being a long way ahead Button in 4th a podium was guaranteed, for Red Bull it had been a hard but pleasing race. A popular Button would claim the fastest lap on lap 49 with a 1:35.043 and close the gap to the Sauber; however it was not enough to put significant pressure in the closing laps. Vettel overjoyed and relieved to see the chequered flag gave Red Bull a first and second when laps early it looked like damage limitation. However it would still raise the question from journalists of which driver will be given backing for the title and when will team orders be given with both drivers so close together. The Randle BMW team were left amazed and gobsmacked at how a race win had slipped out of their hands. Heidfeld brought the car home in 6th after a last lap manoeuvre on Hamilton, which was a small consolation for the team. With Williams and Ferrari not scoring, it gave the team something to consolidate in the constructors standings. Sutil fought off a closing Raikkonen to score Arrows a precious point.

Classification
1. S. Vettel (2) 1 hr 26 mins 34.563s 25pts
2. M. Webber (1) + 15.365s 18pts
3. K. Kobayashi (29) + 19.474s 15pts
4. J. Button (8) + 35.765s 12pts
5. N. Rosberg (4) + 45.876s 10pts
6. N. Heidfeld (14) + 59.993s 8pts
7. L. Hamilton (7) + 1:00.947s 6pts
8. S. Perez (30) + 1:20.032 4pts
9. R. Grosjean (25) + 1:33.453s 2pts
10. A. Sutil (9) + 1 lap 1pt
11. K. Raikkonen (5) + 1 lap
12. F. Montagny (26) + 1 lap
13. J. Trulli (11) + 1 lap
14. B. Senna (31) + 2 laps
15. G. Ricci (34) + 2 laps
16. F. Leimer (32) + 6 laps Alternator
17. A. Randle (13) 46 laps Spun Off
18. R. Kubica (19) 40 laps Throttle
19. V. Petrov (20) 37 laps Oil Leak
20. S. Buemi (15) 33 laps Spun Off
21. J. Bianchi (38) 29 laps Engine
22. T. Glock (17) 26 laps Clutch
23. N. Hulkenberg (6) 23 laps Gearbox
24. M. Schumacher (3) 20 laps Gearbox
25. H. Kovalainen (12) 10 laps Engine
26. D. Ricciardio (33) 0 laps Suspension
27. F. Alonso (27) 0 laps Collision
28. F. Massa (28) 0 laps Collision

F. Lap: J. Button (8) 1:35.043 on lap 49
DOTR: Kobayashi, brilliant performance to take a well deserved podium in a week when his race future became uncertain
ROTR: Ferrari, bad qualifying and opening lap collision put the seal on an appalling weekend for the team.

Championship
1. M. Webber (1) 176pts
2. N. Rosberg (4) 160pts
3. S. Vettel (2) 156pts
4. L. Hamilton (7) 152pts
5. F. Alonso (27) 133pts
6. J. Button (8) 116pts
7. A. Randle (13) 104pts
8. F. Massa (28) 90pts
9. N. Hulkenberg (6) 75pts
10. K. Raikkonen (5) 72pts
11. N. Heidfeld (14) 60pts
12. M. Schumacher (3) 56pts
13. K. Kobayashi (29) 37pts
= S. Perez (30) 37pts
15. R. Kubica (19) 33pts
16. R. Grosjean (25) 17pts
17. V. Petrov (20) 15pts
18. S. Buemi (15) 6pts
19. A. Sutil (9) 5pts
20. J. Alguersuari (24) 4pts
21. F. Montagny (26) 3pts
= H. Kovalainen (12) 3pts
23. P. Maldonado (10) 2pts
= P. DiResta (16) 2pts
25. J. E. Vergne (23) 1pts

Constructors

1. Red Bull Renault 332pts
2. McLaren Mercedes 268pts
3. Ferrari 223pts
4. Mercedes 216pts
5. Randle BMW 164pts
6. Williams Cosworth 147pts
7. Sauber Ferrari 74pts
8. Toleman Renault 48pts
9. Ligier Prost Renault 20pts
10. Force India Mercedes 8pts
11. Arrows BMW 7pts
12. Minardi Ferrari 5pts
13. Team Lotus Renault 3pts
14. Super Aguri Honda 0 pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= ART Cosworth 0 pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Modena Lamborghini 0 pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Marussia Cosworth 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Stefan Lola Honda 0 pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= HRT Cosworth 0 pts (Best Pos. 15th)

[gnrpoison]

8th October 2012 BBC
Randle Racing confirms 50p washer snapping was the reason for the gearbox failure that caused A. Randle to spin out of the race and retire with a broken gearbox. The clearly frustrated driver went straight in the motor home after the race and did not take part in any post race obligations.

9th October 2012 Autosport
Rumours of Ligier offering No 1 seat to Kobayashi, comes after Japanese drivers brilliant 3rd place at Suzuka. Toyota Sports car team rumoured to try and top any offer an F1 team gives in order to lure Kamui to the WEC for 2013.

10th October 2012 FIA
Wet weather expected all weekend and likely to affect prequalifying, practice and qualifying sessions.

10th October 2012 F1Fanatic
It is an end of an era as Trulli enters his final grand prix, the former Monaco Grand Prix winner proud of achievements in Formula One and looks forward to competing in WEC next season. Team Lotus will wear special Trulli t shirts to mark the occasion and as qualification is likely, the Italian will leave with a record of 267 starts in 272 entries.

11th October 2012 Korean Grand Prix Prequalifying

As it was fairly dry for most of the session before the monsoon conditions hit the final 15 minutes. It meant the track would have its fastest times all weekend; HRT would see Liuzzi qualify fastest, the driver managing to wring a lap time out of the car that was not expected. The ARTs and Pic’s Lola would be the others that would make it through the session

1. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 1:36.043
2. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth, (38) (M) 1:36.142
3. C. Pic, Lola Honda, (36) (P) 1:36.207
4. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth, (37) (M) 1:36.318
5. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (17) (G) 1:36.404
6. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth, (18) (G) 1:36.508
7. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda, (35) (P) 1:36.672
8. L. DiGrassi, HRT Cosworth (21) (M) 1:37.214

13th October 2012 Korean Grand Prix Qualifying
A wet session would see times slower than last year, a rare error from Red Bull in set up would see them off the pace for the session and deep in the midfield, a strong wet weather time from Hamilton would see him take pole. ART were very close to having both cars into the race for the first time, however an accident by Winkelhock would see the driver just miss out as the team could not provide a spare for him with little time remaining. In the last 5 minutes of the session Pic’s Lola bumped the German out of the race start. Trulli performed well to take 15th in his final race and separating the Red Bulls on the grid.

1. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes, (7) (M) 1:57.354
2. N. Rosberg, Mercedes, (4) (M) 1:57.589
3. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes, (8) (M) 1:57.707
4. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, (19) (P) 1:57.788
5. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari, (30) (P) 1:57.808
6. F. Massa, Ferrari, (28) (G) 1:57.818
7. M. Schumacher, Mercedes (3) (M) 1:57.990
8. A. Randle, Randle BMW, (13) (G) 1:58.121
9. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth (5) (G) 1:58.223
10. F. Alonso, Ferrari (27) (G) 1:58.374
11. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari (29) (G) 1:58.515
12. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth, (6) (G) 1:58.708
13. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes, (15) (M) 1:58.788
14. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault (1) (G) 1:58.844
15. J. Trulli, Lotus Renault, (11) (P) 1:58.859
16. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault, (2) (G) 1:59.045
17. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, (20) (P) 1:59.132
18. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P) 1:59.303
19. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G) 1:59.365
20. A. Sutil, Arrows BMW, (9) (P) 1:59.415
21. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes, (16) (M) 1:59.507
22. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault, (25) (M) 1:59.680
23. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P) 1:59.851
24. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault, (26) (M) 1:59.994
25. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P) 2:00.345
26. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari, (24) (P) 2:00.513
27. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth, (38) (M) 2:00.665
28. C. Pic, Lola Honda, (36) (P) 2:00.801
29. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini, (34) (P) 2:00.859
30. D. Ricciardio, Modena Lamborghini, (33) (P) 2:01.015
31. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth, (37) (M) 2:01.204
32. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda, (32) (M) 2:01.351
33. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda, (31) (M) 2:01.567
34. V. Liuzzi, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 2:02.980

14th October 2012 Korean Grand Prix 55 laps
The large field of 30 cars lined up on the grid after the formation laps, the weather was dry but cloudy, and rain would be a possibility towards the end of the race. The lights went out and Hamilton lead from a strong starting Kubica in the Toleman, the 30 cars managed to make it through safely the tight first corner and stormed down the straight to turn 3. As the midfield made it round the turn a collision between Randle and Schumacher would be damaging enough that it would 3 laps later after a lengthy pit stop, both cars would retire from the race. Those would be the first of 14 retirements that would not finish the race, the majority of these would be mechanical as with enough tarmac run off, mistakes such as late braking and spins would not be heavily punished by the circuit. The race would be fairly processional with the pit stops seeing several strategies being made that saw cars changing position. The battles for lead between the cars of Hamilton, Massa and Rosberg would entertain the small crowd that had turned up for the race. Kubica had been enjoying a strong start to the race but would see that end when a Renault engine failure would see the Toleman exit the race despite putting in a strong performance in 3rd place.

Randle BMW’s race was over on lap 22 when the gearbox broke on the remaining Randle entrant of Heidfeld. The poor qualifying from Red Bull had seen the team pull off a daring strategy that would see the cars battle from the midfield but able to gain on the top 3 by the end of the race. Sadly for Webber on lap 31 when lapping the cars of Ricci and Bianchi, a mistake by the Modena would cause a collision between all 3 that would see all retire with suspension damage. The car of Vettel would make up for his poor qualifying when 2 laps before the end he was able to pass Massa and Rosberg for 2nd. For Rosberg it had been tyre problems that had seen the drop from 1st on lap 50 to 6th by lap 55. The car was closing on Hamilton as the clouds had blackened and small drops had started on the last lap, fortunately it was not sever enough to ruin the race. Massa would take the fastest lap by making a 1:35.980 on lap 54, it would help the Brazilian cement the final podium place and ensure some vital points were earned for Ferrari as Alonso would finish 4th ahead of a chasing Hulkenberg. Hamilton had run a good race and would take the victory for McLaren, the result would see the gap between the leading drivers in the championship close up with 4 races remaining. Trulli would exit Formula one with a points finish as his swansong, it had been a difficult season for Him and Lotus and with having lost Kovalainen to another engine failure earlier in the race were relieved to have scored points with a good 9th finish.

Classification
1. L. Hamilton (7) 1hr 32 mins 57.689s 25pts
2. S. Vettel (2) +15.897s 18pts
3. F. Massa (28) +17.243s 15pts
4. F. Alonso (27) +19.354s 12pts
5. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 21.462s 10pts
6. N. Rosberg (4) + 23.543s 8pts
7. K. Kobayashi (29) + 29.460s 6pts
8. S. Buemi (15) + 49.003s 4pts
9. J. Trulli (11) + 1:04.132 2pts
10. A. Sutil (9) + 1:20.354 1pt
11. V. Petrov (20) + 1 lap
12. J. Alguersuari (24) + 1 lap
13. J. E. Vergne (23) + 1 lap
14. D. Riccardio (33) + 1 lap
15. R. Grosjean (25) + 1 lap
16. F. Montagny (26) + 1 lap
17. S. Perez (30) 43 laps Engine
18. J. Button (8) 41 laps Clutch
19. C. Pic (36) 36 laps Engine
20. K. Raikkonen (5) 35 laps Tyre
21. M. Webber (1) 31 laps Collision
22. G. Ricci (34) 30 laps Suspension
23. J. Bianchi (38) 30 laps Suspension
24. H. Kovalainen, (12) 27 laps Steering
25. N. Heidfeld, (14) 22 laps Gearbox
26. R. Kubica, (19) 19 laps Engine
27. P. Maldonado, (10) 17 laps Suspension
28. P. DiResta, (16) 15 laps Driveshaft
29. M. Schumacher (3) 3 laps Collision
30. A. Randle (13) 3 laps Collision

F. Lap. F. Massa, Ferrari (28) 1:35.980 on lap 54
DOTR: S. Vettel, overcame a poor qualifying to put serious pressure on other title rivals and may have a shot of beating teammate to a second world championship
ROTR: R. Grosjean followed up a points finish in Japan with a drive that was woefully off the pace and the track gave Ligier a lot of problems.

Championship (* can still win title)
1. L. Hamilton (7) 177pts *
2. M. Webber (1) 176pts*
3. S. Vettel (2) 174pts *
4. N. Rosberg (4) 168pts *
5. F. Alonso (27) 145pts *
6. J. Button (8) 116pts *
7. F. Massa (28) 105pts *
8. A. Randle (13) 104pts *
9. N. Hulkenberg (6) 85pts *
10. 10. K. Raikkonen (5) 72pts
11. N. Heidfeld (14) 60pts
12. M. Schumacher (3) 56pts
13. K. Kobayashi (29) 43pts
14. S. Perez (30) 37pts
15. R. Kubica (19) 33pts
16. R. Grosjean (25) 17pts
17. V. Petrov (20) 15pts
18. S. Buemi (15) 10pts
19. A. Sutil (9) 6pts
20. J. Alguersuari (24) 4pts
21. F. Montagny (26) 3pts
= H. Kovalainen (12) 3pts
23. P. Maldonado (10) 2pts
= J. Trulli (11) 2pts
= P. Di Resta (16) 2pts
26. J. E. Vergne (23) 1pt

Constructors (* can still win title)
1. Red Bull Renault 350pts *
2. McLaren Mercedes 293pts *
3. Ferrari 250pts *
4. Mercedes 224pts *
5. Randle BMW 164pts
6. Williams Cosworth 157pts
7. Sauber Ferrari 80pts
8. Toleman Renault 48pts
9. Ligier Prost Renault 20pts
10. Force India Mercedes 12pts
11. Arrows BMW 8pts
12. Minardi Ferrari 5pts
= Team Lotus Renault 5pts
14. Super Aguri Honda 0 pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= ART Cosworth 0 pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Modena Lamborghini 0 pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Marussia Cosworth 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Stefan Lola Honda 0 pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= HRT Cosworth 0 pts (Best Pos. 15th)

[gnrpoison]

15th October 2012 BBC
9pts separate top 4 drivers in the championship; with 100pts still remaining it is likely the championship will go to the wire in Brazil. As Ferrari look strong for India, it may even bring Alonso back into the fold who is 32pts off the top spot, Webber will hope for another performance when he won in 2011 to help rebuild the gap to the runners behind him as he has not driven well in the last few races.

16th October 2012 F1Fanatic
Michelin will not supply tyres for HRT next year as it has announced its duties will be for McLaren, Mercedes, Ligier, Super Aguri, ART and in new deals with Team Lotus and Williams, who leave Pirelli and Goodyear respectively.

17th October 2012 Autosport
Liuzzi has left HRT and will no longer race for the team, although moving to Minardi for 2013, the driver has ended his participation for the rest of the season and it will allow Narain Karthikeyan who last drove in 2005 to bring much needed funds to the Spanish team for the rest of the season. It is likely with no more updates that qualification may be beyond them, with still no update on drivers for 2013 or tyre contract it is likely the team will not race next year.

18th October 2012 BBC
Team Lotus will run Giedo Van Der Garde permanently after Indian Grand Prix, as Chandhok is a one off appearance; the Team confirm 2013 line up of Petrov and Van Der Garde with Chandhok as test driver.

19th October 2012 Sky Sports
Further problems for HRT as negotiations with Pirelli over tyre contract for 2014 stall, as it is reported that Michelin were not paid last instalment. The news is not good as French tyre manufacture threaten to withhold tyres for India. Italian company Pirelli thinking of supplying cash strapped team rumoured to have ended negotiations.

20th October 2012 F1Fanatic
Still some question marks over which drivers will drive for teams as 10 entrants are still to be announced as FIA published list of Entrants for 2013. All engines are naturally aspirated unless specified.

Infiniti Red Bull Racing (Renault V10) (Car Numbers TBC)
Sebastian Vettel
Mark Webber

Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team (Mercedes V8) (Car Numbers TBC)
Lewis Hamilton
Nico Rosberg

Canon Williams F1 Team (Ford V10)
5. Kimi Raikkonen
6. Valterri Bottas

Vodafone McLaren Mercedes (Mercedes V8) (Car Numbers TBC)
Jenson Button
Sergio Perez

Orange Arrows F1 Team (BMW V12)
9. Adrian Sutil
10. TBA

Team Lotus (Renault V10)
11. Vitaly Petrov
12. Giedo Van Der Garde

Mettis Randle Racing (BMW V12)
13. Adam Randle
14. Nick Heidfeld

Sahara Force India F1 Team (Mercedes V8)
15. Sebastian Buemi
16. Paul DiResta

Marussia F1 Team (Ferrari V12)
17. Jerome D’Ambrosio
18. Stefano Coletti

Benetton Toleman Formula (Renault V10)
19. Romain Grosjean
20. Heikki Kovalainen

Hispania Racing Team (Ford V8)
21. TBA
22. TBA

European Minardi F1 Team (Ford V8)
23. Jean Eric Vergne
24. Vitantonio Liuzzi

Equipe Ligier F1 Team (Renault V10)
25. TBA
26. Charles Pic

Scuderia Ferrari (Ferrari V12) Car Numbers TBC
Fernando Alonso
Felipe Massa

Sauber F1 Team (Ferrari V12)
29. Nico Hulkenberg
30. Esteban Gutierrez

Super Aguri Honda Grand Prix (Honda V10)
31. TBA
32. TBA

Team Modena Lamborghini (Lamborghini V12)
33. Daniel Riccardio
34. Giacomo Ricci

Team Lola Stefan Grand Prix (Ford V10)
35. TBA
36. TBA

ART Grand Prix (Ford V10)
37. TBA
38. F. Montagny

Alfa Romeo Spa (Alfa Romeo V6 turbocharged)
39. J. Alguersuari
40. TBA

21st October 2012 BBC
Ecclestone twists the knife for Stefan Grand Prix and HRT by making a prediction that both teams will not make it for 2013. ‘I think those two are the ones most in danger as a lot of speculation and rumour is rife regarding their future.’

22nd October 2012 FIA
HRT F1 team will not participate at Abu Dhabi, unless Michelin receives payment for tyres, as preparation and tyres to teams have already been flown for Indian race, a small deposit has been sent in order to secure the tyres needed for the prequalification session. Stefan Grand Prix hopes of competitive action have been threatened after bailiffs were seen at teams headquarters and removing equipment for unpaid debts.

23rd October 2012 Autosport
Warm and Sunny weather expected for race, ART are confident of 2 cars qualifying after problems with Stefan and HRT preparations meant that both teams will not be at full strength and not likely to run many laps.

24th October 2012 F1Fanatic
HRT announce redundancies for many non essential race preparation staff as it loses some of it sponsors. The car will be quite bare for India and expected to not run at all in prequalifying, however DiGrassi has managed to get sponsors to cover Michelin debt for Abu Dhabi but it is still uncertain if team will even make the race weekend.

25th October 2012 Indian Grand Prix Prequalifying
It was a fairly straightforward session for teams going through, HRT only sent out Karthikeyan and DiGrassi for one run as to keep mileage on engines and gearboxes to a minimum, they did not even attempt to set a competitive time and were dead last by a large margin. Stefan were closer to the cut but themselves limited to only a few runs with one car meant De La Rosa was 2 seconds from making it with Pic a further 4 seconds behind. Marussia and ART as a result both easily qualified, with a battle in main qualifying with Super Aguri and Modena to make the race.

1. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth (38) (M) 1:26.345
2. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth (17) (G) 1:26.414
3. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth (18) (G) 1:26.607
4. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth (37) (M) 1:26.756
5. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda (35) (P) 1:28.898
6. C. Pic, Lola Honda (36) (P) 1:32.687
7. N. Karthikeyan, HRT Cosworth, (22) (M) 1:36.897
8. L. DiGrassi, HRT Cosworth, (21) (M) 1:37.234

27th October 2012 Indian Grand Prix Qualifying

1. F. Alonso, Ferrari (27) (G) 1:23.576
2. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault (2) (G) 1:23.613
3. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault, (1) (G) 1:23.698
4. F. Massa, Ferrari (28) (G) 1:23.745
5. N. Rosberg, Mercedes (4) (M) 1:23.767
6. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth (6) (G) 1:23.821
7. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes, (8) (M) 1:23.869
8. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes, (7) (M) 1:23.970
9. M. Schumacher, Mercedes, (3) (M) 1:23.991
10. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, (20) (P) 1:24.113
11. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth, (5) (G) 1:24.208
12. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari, (30) (G) 1:24.276
13. A. Randle, Randle BMW, (13) (G) 1:24.303
14. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G) 1:24.371
15. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, (19) (P) 1:24.502
16. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault, (25) (M) 1:24.618
17. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari, (29) (G) 1:24.717
18. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P) 1:24.790
19. A. Sutil, Arrows BMW, (9) (P) 1:24.925
20. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P) 1:25.132
21. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes, (15) (M) 1:25.208
22. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari, (24) (P) 1:25.311
23. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth, (38) (M) 1:25.404
24. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes, (16) (M) 1:25.590
25. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P) 1:25.768
26. K. Chandhok, Lotus Renault, (11) (P) 1:25.933
27. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault, (26) (M) 1:26.044
28. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini, (34) (P) 1:26.233
29. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth, (18) (G) 1:26.349
30. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (17) (G) 1:26.408
31. D. Ricciardio, Modena Lamborghini, (33) (P) 1:26.516
32. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda, (31) (M) 1:26.609
33. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth, (37) (M) 1:26.717
34. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda, (32) (M)

28th October 2012 Indian Grand Prix 60 laps

The grand prix had seen a late surge of tickets, with the knowledge that two Indian drivers would be entered in their home event. For HRT’s Narain, he must have wondered if it was even worth attempting when due to the team’s money trouble, a slow run was made in prequalifying. For Chandhok who had been stuck in the Hispania nightmare earlier in the season it was a chance to show the F1 crowd what he was capable of. Although over a second slower then teammate Kovalainen, he had comfortably qualified for his home race. Marussia had celebrated for the first time since the 2011 Chinese Grand Prix of achieving two of their cars qualifying for a race. For Button, Massa and Randle, it was really their last chance to make an attempt to stay in the championship hunt. The Randle BMW team were not realistically expecting a late championship surge as all developments had now gone to their 2013 car. The team had endured a strong second year and were unlucky to not have won a few of the races as their driver Adam had led some races in the season. 29 cars would line up for the grid with a blown engine for Montagny on the formation lap meant the Frenchman would not start the race.

The lights went out and Alonso led from Vettel and Massa, a bad start by Webber would see him stuck in the midfield. Fortunately for him on the exit of turn 2 he missed the collision between Rosberg and Hulkenberg that ended both German’s races. The incident would involve a 3rd car that of Hamilton who would suffer a damaged front wing and what would be suspension damage that was unnoticed by the team. The McLaren would complete 6 laps before the car became terminal. For Alonso, Webber and Vettel this could mean pulling away from their fallen rivals if they could keep their early race pace. This was aided by the Toleman of Petrov, who having made a strong start was keeping faster cars behind that were losing almost 2 seconds a lap to the top 3. For Massa this was infuriating as having slowed to avoid the first lap collision, the driver was stuck in 7th and losing ground on the cars in front. For 10 laps until lap 17, Petrov was able to keep the cars behind him, a mistake running wide on turns 6 and 7 meant Button, Schumacher, Massa and Raikkonen were able to pass him. A lap later a gearbox failure for Randle would confirm the end of his championship hopes as being stuck in 3rd gear meant the car had to crawl into the pits and out of the race. It had been a trying few races for the driver as reliability had hit the GR02 and while it was a fast and easy car to drive. Its mechanical problems were starting to stop the driver from achieving the podiums the car was capable of. A third into the race on lap 20 the top 10 were as followed, 1. F. Alonso (27), 2. S. Vettel (2), 3. M. Webber (1), 4. J. Button (8), 5. M. Schumacher (3), 6. V. Petrov (20), 7. K. Raikkonen (5), 8. S. Perez (30), 9. N. Heidfeld (14) and 10. F. Massa (28)

Massa had lost some ground as problems with tyres saw the Brazilian drop back, an early scheduled stop on lap 23 was to help remedy the situation. It managed to help as the car was back performing well and with no stop again till lap 47 it meant the driver could push hard to regain the lost positions. By lap 24 it had become apparent that Gearboxes were struggling on the circuit as over the next four laps, the cars of Buemi, Ricci and Coletti would exit the race with the problem. On lap 29 a stuck gear for Raikkonen would cause the Williams No. 5 to drop out of the points, fortunately several laps later the problem was able to fix itself but not after a lengthy pit stop that realistically ended the 2007 champions hopes of a strong finish. The focus on a few laps was that down in the places aiming to have a chance of points between Kubica, Grosjean, Kovalainen and Sutil. Glock, Chandhok and Maldonado would have the honours of fighting for scraps in the last places and now almost 2 laps down. For home race hero Karun the Lotus T129 had been a trying car to learn and had been given reduced power from its Renault engine. The team who over the season had seen a lot of engines breaking from unreliability had instructed to the Indian to not push hard as with many top drivers not finishing, the battle for those in 11th – 14th a strong points finish would shake up the fight for guaranteed places in qualifying. Back at the front and by laps 35, Vettel and Alonso had pulled away from Webber at their pit stops, Vettel currently the fastest on track was able to pass Alonso for lead of the race on lap 34. Now in control of the race and aiming for a 4th win of the season, he was able to put pressure onto Webber who was now in danger of giving the momentum to his teammate and rival.

The anonymous race for Force India was completed, when DiResta who had been not doing much down in 18th, apart from trying to stop Bianchi from embarrassing him and making Vijay Mallya regret his decision to not promote the Frenchman from test to main driver for next season at the expense of the British drivers place, would retire the car with a broken radiator on lap 39. Bianchi would not have the last laugh though as 2 laps later the Cosworth V10 decided to expire and finish the driver’s race. The 2 final non classified retirements would happen on lap 46, when Sutil in the Arrows steering went and the Ferrari engine of Alguersuari would blow up, leaving the driver to spray oil all over the track just before the final corner, 3 laps later on lap 49. This would ultimately decide who would win the race as Vettel would spin off at the corner, allowing Alonso through on lap 55 to take the lead. Problems for Red Bull were further compounded when Gearbox problems saw both cars stuck with out 4th and 6th gear. Fortunately both were far ahead of Button in 4th that it did not drop them out of the points, who had posted the fastest lap on lap 59 with a 1:25.134, for Massa and Raikkonen, car problems would see them drop to last places 4 and 6 laps down having stopped on the circuit on the last lap with Driveshaft and throttle problems

Classification
1. F. Alonso (27) 1 Hr 25 mins 57.980s 25pts
2. S. Vettel (2) + 37.356s 18pts
3. M. Webber (1) + 58.901s 15pts
4. J. Button (8) + 1:10.465s 12pts
5. M. Schumacher (3) + 1 lap 10pts
6. N. Heidfeld (14) + 1lap 8pts
7. S. Perez (30) + 1 lap 6pts
8. V. Petrov (20) + 1 lap 4pts
9. R. Kubica (19) + 1 lap 2pts
10. K. Kobayashi (29) + 2 laps 1pts
11. R. Grosjean (25) + 2 laps
12. H. Kovalainen (12) + 2 laps
13. J. E. Vergne (23) + 2 laps
14. P. Maldonado (10) + 3 laps
15. K. Chandhok (11) + 3 laps
16. F. Massa (28) + 4 laps Throttle
17. T. Glock (17) + 4 laps
18. K. Raikkonen, (5) + 6 laps Driveshaft
19. J. Alguersuari, (24) 49 laps Engine
20. A. Sutil, (9) 46 laps Steering
21. J. Bianchi, (38) 41 laps Engine
22. P. DiResta, (16) 39 laps Radiator
23. S. Coletti, (18) 27 laps Gearbox
24. G. Ricci, (34) 26 laps Gearbox
25. S. Buemi (15) 24 laps Gearbox
26. A. Randle (13) 18 laps Gearbox
27. L. Hamilton (7) 6 laps Suspension
28. N. Hulkenberg (6) 0 laps Collision
29. N. Rosberg, (4) 0 laps Collision
30. F. Montagny (26) DNS Engine

F. Lap: J. Button (8) 1:25.134 on lap 59
DOTR: Alonso, drive well to take 3rd win of the season and has a chance of taking the title with problem affecting the other contenders.
ROTR: P. DiResta was slow and uninspiring all weekend in the team’s home race. Will need to improve if has a chance of challenging Buemi for team leader next season.

Championship (* Can Still win title)
1. S. Vettel (2) 192pts *
2. M. Webber (1) 191pts *
3. L. Hamilton (7) 177pts *
4. F. Alonso (27) 170pts *
5. N. Rosberg (4) 168pts *
6. J. Button (8) 128pts *
7. F. Massa (28) 105pts
8. A. Randle (13) 104pts
9. N. Hulkenberg (6) 85pts
10. K. Raikkonen (5) 72pts
11. N. Heidfeld (14) 68pts
12. M. Schumacher (3) 66pts
13. K. Kobayashi (29) 44pts
14. S. Perez (30) 43pts
15. R. Kubica (19) 35pts
16. V. Petrov (20) 19pts
17. R. Grosjean (25) 17pts
18. S. Buemi (15) 10pts
19. A. Sutil (9) 6pts
20. J. Alguersuari (24) 4pts
21. F. Montagny (26) 3pts
= H. Kovalainen (12) 3pts
23. P. Maldonado (10) 2pts
= J. Trulli (11) 2pts
= P. DiResta (16) 2pts
26. J. E. Vergne (23) 1pt

Constructors (* Can Still Win Title)
1. Red Bull Renault 383pts *
2. McLaren Mercedes 305pts *
3. Ferrari 275pts *
4. Mercedes 234pts *
5. Randle BMW 172pts
6. Williams Cosworth 157pts
7. Sauber Ferrari 87pts
8. Toleman Renault 54pts
9. Ligier Prost Renault 20pts
10. Force India Mercedes 12pts
11. Arrows BMW 8pts
12. Minardi Ferrari 5pts
= Team Lotus Renault 5pts
14. Super Aguri Honda 0 pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= ART Cosworth 0 pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Modena Lamborghini 0 pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Marussia Cosworth 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Stefan Lola Honda 0 pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= HRT Cosworth 0 pts (Best Pos. 15th)

29th October 2012 Autosport
Pastor Maldonado will race for Ligier, next season after ending contract with Arrows. The move comes after Arrows announced that Max Chilton will race for the team in their second car. While Arrows will suffer a shortfall in budget, it is believed Chilton’s personal sponsors will help make any deficit and keep the team competitive.

30th October 2012 BBC News
Jules Bianchi will remain on loan to the ART team for 2013, as Ferrari confirmed his contract with the French team. This has also sparked rumours of Ferrari V12 deal in 2014 after Ferrari have allowed some of their sponsors to appear on the car as well for next season. Alfa Romeo has now confirmed Italian and 2012 GP2 champion Davide Valsecchi will drive the second car for the team. In other news Sauber have announced Team Founder and Principal Peter Sauber will be stepping down at the end of the season. His replacement Monisha Kaltenborn will be his successor and the first female team principal in Formula One History.

31st October 2012 FIA
Due to recent budget problems, the Hispania Racing Team have asked for their 2013 entry fee to be returned to the team so they can complete the season. The team have also announced their attention to withdraw from the 2013 championship citing no tyre contract, formal engine plans or finances to either build a new car or update the 2012 F112 after Dallara pulled their backing. The contracts for 2013 for Lucas DiGrassi and Dani Clos have become null and void.

1st November 2012 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Prequalifying
With the news of HRT’s liquidation come the end of the season, the team did as little as possible for the session. Karthikeyan and DiGrassi were sent out at the start of the session for one timed lap and then the team pitted both. Most predicted that they would not enter the last two races of the season, as after his run Di Grassi was seen leaving the circuit. This left prequalifying to be fought between the Marussia and ART, with De La Rosa attempting to get the Stefan Lola in after Pic’s problems in the pits meant no lap was recorded. To everyone’s amazement De La Rosa prequalified ahead of a surprised Timo Glock, whose last run had been squandered with a spin at the exit of turn 17.

1. J. Bianchi ART Cosworth (38) (M) 1:39.034
2. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth (18) (G) 1:39.254
3. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth (37) (M) 1:39.356
4. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda (35) (P) 1:39.890
5. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth (17) (G) 1:40.012
6. L. DiGrassi, HRT Cosworth (21) (M) 1:44.678
7. N. Karthikeyan, HRT Cosworth (22) (M) 1:46.089
8. C. Pic, Lola Honda (36) (P) No Time

2nd November 2012 BBC
Effective immediately Lucas Di Grassi will no longer race for HRT , his exit means that HRT may only run one car in Austin and Interlagos races. Pirelli will support Force India, Minardi, Modena, Stefan Lola and Alfa Romeo in 2013. Arrows and Toleman will run Goodyear tyres in 2013. Stefan announce Timo Glock will move to the team and Super Aguri confirm Fabio Leimer seat with them Japanese team.

3rd November 2012 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Qualifying

1. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes, (7) (M) 1:35.673
2. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes, (8) (M) 1:35.723
3. N. Rosberg, Mercedes, (4) (M) 1:35.818
4. F. Massa, Ferrari, (28) (G) 1:35.879
5. M. Schumacher, Mercedes, (3) (M) 1:35.945
6. F. Alonso, Ferrari, (27) (G) 1:36.071
7. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari, (30) (G) 1:36.113
8. A. Randle, Randle BMW, (13) (G) 1:36.143
9. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault, (1) (G) 1:36.233
10. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault, (2) (G) 1:36.304
11. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth, (5) (G) 1:36.414
12. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari, (29) (G) 1:36.578
13. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth, (6) (G) 1:36.700
14. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G) 1:36.912
15. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault, (25) (M) 1:37.167
16. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes, (16) (M) 1:37.345
17. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes, (15) (M) 1:37.469
18. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P) 1:37.600
19. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, (20) (P) 1:37.821
20. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P) 1:37.991
21. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, (19) (P) 1:38.221
22. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault, (26) (M) 1:38.341
23. A. Sutil, Arrows BMW, (9) (P) 1:38.502
24. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari (24) (P) 1:38.555
25. G. Van Der Garde, Lotus Renault (11) (P) 1:38.623
26. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth (38) (M) 1:38.749
27. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini (34) (P) 1:38.882
28. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari (23) (P) 1:39.020
29. D. Riccardio, Modena Lamborghini (33) (P) 1:39.113
30. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth (18) (G) 1:39.146
31. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda (32) (M) 1:39.302
32. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth (37) (M) 1:39.315
33. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda (31) (M) 1:39.401
34. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda (35) (P) 1:39.703

4th November 2012 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 55 laps
A fairly mild weather condition for the evening race at the Yas Marina circuit, the grandstands although not sold out were at least partially full. A lot of attention would be on who will take the momentum entering the final 3 races. Hamilton setting a strong pole in the Saturday qualifying session was his way of showing that he was going to fight for it. Red Bull having qualified both drivers on the 5th row would be looking at damage limitation, however a strong race for both would reduce the amount of contenders drastically down with 50 points available in the last 2 races. In the press conference Red Bull principal Christian Horner announced both Webber and Vettel would be given equal support in these vital races. This was shown by both having spare cars available and with no updates needed on the RB8 as all development was now on the RB9, it meant the car was the exactly the same for both. McLaren realising Button’s chance was slim had now put all their efforts behind Hamilton, for Jenson it was do as much to support Lewis as possible. Rosberg in the Mercedes and Alonso in the Ferrari had that luxury for a few races as they attempted to not fall out of contention.

The Lights went out and Hamilton had a brilliant start, Massa working brilliantly to delay Schumacher and Rosberg meant that Alonso was able to narrowly be behind Button in the first corner; he made light work of him and went into 2nd. Webber and Vettel enjoying decent but not excellent starts were able to keep hold of their grid positions. Hamilton and Alonso were able to build a gap in the early quarter of the race as Button and Massa worked hard to hold the cars behind them. Rosberg on lap 11 was able to get 3rd but having lost 2 seconds a lap to the front was 21 seconds behind 2nd place Alonso. Webber and Vettel in a mini battle for 8th with Perez and Raikkonen had dropped further away. Any support Schumacher could offer to Rosberg was in vain when on lap 12 he retired from the race with clutch problems.
The circuit with its large runoff areas would have a high amount of finishers with 22 classified to take the flag and 23 finishing overall when Sutil’s BMW engine expired with the driver having completed 51 laps, in fact engine failure had taken 4 other drivers with Kobayashi, Raikkonen, Massa and Bianchi all suffering from the problem over the grand prix on laps 21, 35, 43 and 45 respectively. The other two retirements would both be mechanical with Grosjean suffering from an overheating car on lap 24 and Vergne suffering from suspension damage on lap 32.

Overall the race had a few exciting battles in the midfield as Red Bull attempted to move up as much as possible, but it was an easy win for Hamilton for his 4th of the season and the lead in the championship. Alonso 2nd with Rosberg 3rd, Vettel 6th and Webber 7th meant the championship was going down to the last two races. A gearbox problem for Button would see him drop from 5th to 8th in the last 2 laps, it would have been more had he not been lapped by Hamilton at the final section of the track, the car pulling off just after the pit exit after the chequered flag and needing to walk back. It would mean he would be now out of contention for the race, down to 5 contenders separated by 19points with 50 available in the last two races. As both would benefit the V10 Renault and the V12 Ferrari engine, it meant the V8 Mercedes in Hamilton and Rosberg would be at a disadvantage, for Hamilton it meant damage limitation, for Rosberg it meant a lot of luck would be needed to take the championship. He would be the outsider with Vettel, Webber and Alonso the favourites, the Randle BMW team would hope for a strong finish to the season as Randle took 4th and fastest lap of the race with a 1:38.930 on lap 53. With 86 points in the Constructors remaining, Red Bull had it almost won with a 63 point lead over McLaren. 24 points won between their drivers in the next 2 races would seal victory for the 3rd year running.

Classification
1. L. Hamilton (7) 1hr 34mins 23.564 seconds 25pts
2. F. Alonso (27) + 15.654s 18pts
3. N. Rosberg (4) + 37.987s 15pts
4. A. Randle (13) + 1:15.987s 12pts
5. S. Perez (30) + 1:30.254s 10pts
6. S. Vettel (2) + 1:33.465s 8pts
7. M. Webber (1) + 1:35.354s 6pts
8. J. Button (8) + 1 lap Gearbox 4pts
9. N. Heidfeld (14) + 1 lap 2pts
10. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 1 lap 1pt
11. P. DiResta (16) + 1 lap
12. H. Kovalainen (12) + 1 lap
13. S. Buemi (15) + 1 lap
14. V. Petrov (20) + 1 lap
15. R. Kubica (19) + 1 lap
16. P. Maldonado (10) + 2 laps
17. F. Montagny (26) + 2 laps
18. D. Riccardio (33) + 2 laps
19. G. Ricci (34) + 2 laps
20. G. Van Der Garde (11) + 2 laps
21. J. Alguersuari (24) + 3 laps
22. S. Coletti (18) + 3 laps
23. A. Sutil (9) + 4 laps Engine
24. J. Bianchi (38) 45 laps Engine
25. F. Massa (28) 43 laps Engine
26. K. Raikkonen (5) 35 laps Engine
27. J. E. Vergne (23) 32 laps Suspension
28. R. Grosjean (25) 24 laps Overheating
29. K. Kobayashi (29) 21 laps Engine
30. M. Schumacher (3) 12 laps Clutch

F. Lap: A. Randle (13) 1:38.930 on lap 53
DOTR: Hamilton, brilliant dominant performance to put pressure on title rivals in the championship.
ROTR: J. Alguersuari, slow and invisible all weekend, had not been due to lack of end race pace by Coletti would have been last.

Championship (* Can Still Win Title)
1. L. Hamilton (7) 202pts *
2. S. Vettel (8) 200pts *
3. M. Webber (1) 197pts *
4. F. Alonso (27) 188pts *
5. N. Rosberg (4) 183pts *
6. J. Button (8) 132pts
7. A. Randle (13) 116pts
8. F. Massa (28) 105pts
9. N. Hulkenberg (6) 86pts
10. K. Raikkonen (5) 72pts
11. N. Heidfeld (14) 70pts
12. M. Schumacher (3) 66pts
13. S. Perez (30) 53pts
14. K. Kobayashi (29) 44pts
15. R. Kubica (19) 35pts
16. V. Petrov (20) 19pts
17. R. Grosjean (25) 17pts
18. S. Buemi (15) 10pts
19. A. Sutil (9) 6pts
20. J. Alguersuari (24) 4pts
21. F. Montagny (26) 3pts
= H. Kovalainen (12) 3pts
23. P. Maldonado (10) 2pts
= J. Trulli (11) 2pts
= P. DiResta (16) 2pts
26. J. E. Vergne (23) 1pt

Constructors (* Can Still Win Title)
1. Red Bull Renault 397pts *
2. McLaren Mercedes 334pts *
3. Ferrari 293pts
4. Mercedes 249pts
5. Randle BMW 186pts
6. Williams Cosworth 158pts
7. Sauber Ferrari 97pts
8. Toleman Renault 54pts
9. Ligier Prost Renault 20pts
10. Force India Mercedes 12pts
11. Arrows BMW 8pts
12. Minardi Ferrari 5pts
= Team Lotus Renault 5pts
14. Super Aguri Honda 0 pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= ART Cosworth 0 pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Modena Lamborghini 0 pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Marussia Cosworth 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Stefan Lola Honda 0 pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= HRT Cosworth 0 pts (Best Pos. 15th)

[HawkAussie]

This will be an interesting final round. I hope that Webber can take the victory and the title.

[gnrpoison]

This will be an interesting final round. I hope that Webber can take the victory and the title.

Yep 2 rounds to go, I have not even worked out who will win it. Have an option for all the remaining leaders, hope you enjoyed the first year one where Webber won the title. I have plans for 2013 as well so hopefully that will not take me as long to write as this one. (A year with a broken laptop did not help).

[gnrpoison]

5th November 2012 BBC
The championship is getting tense as Red Bull struggle, while Hamilton dominated in the Middle East to take 4th win of the season. British driver’s odds at bookmakers fall as performance show he may be the driver to beat.

6th November 2012 Autosport
Lola confirm no new car for Stefan Grand Prix for 2013, the team will run a revised B spec for 2013. However Stefan is hoping to update the 2012 car in time for the new season, with DiGrassi likely to be given second driver seat alongside Timo Glock.

7th November 2012 F1Fanatic
Karthikeyan confirms HRT departure after only 2 races, with no drivers announced for the final 2 races. The team is likely to announce it’s not competing in the final 2 races; rumours sparked after equipment seen not leaving Abu Dhabi after all the other teams packed up.

8th November 2012 Sky Sports
Stefan Grand Prix owner Zoran Stefanovic rumoured to be purchasing assets of HRT team to merge with existing struggling Stefan GP outfit.

9th November 2012 Motorsport News
Remaining HRT staff laid off, as team misses shipping deadline for the USA grand Prix and Brazilian Grand Prix. As the team was closing at the end of the season it essentially means the team has ended.

10th November 2012 FIA
The No. 21 and No. 22 entrants of the Hispania Racing Team will not be competing in the final two rounds of the season. The motorsport council can verify the immediate liquidation of the assets of the Formula One operation. Therefore only 36 entrants will attempt to qualify for the United States Grand Prix and Brazilian Grand Prix respectively. Prequalifying is still required at both races due to 30 and 28 race starters only.

11th November 2012 BBC
Bruno Senna will move to Indy cars next season with Chip Ganassi racing as 2 year contract with Super Aguri has ended, the Brazilian wishes the team luck for 2013.

12th November 2012 Birmingham Mail
Randle Racing will allow driver and 2012 Le Mans winner Adam Randle to compete in the 2013 Indianapolis 500 race on the 18th May 2013; he will drive No. 13 in the KV Racing Technology team alongside its No. 11 and No 78 cars. The driver was personally invited by Indy car president Derrick Walker and offers the opportunity of winning the prestigious triple crown of Le Mans, Indy 500 and the Monaco Grand Prix within 12 months. The driver will miss the Spanish Grand Prix in order to compete in the race preparations.

13th November 2012 BBC
Weather sunny and warm all weekend for first United States Grand Prix since 2007, the race in Austin Texas is sold out and a large crowd of 150,000 spectators is expected.

14th November 2012 F1Fanatic
Ferrari looking strong for the win, as track and weather will suit the car very well. Hamilton is hoping to be as close to the other contenders as possible.

15th November 2012 United States Grand Prix Prequalifying
HRT’s exit from the sport meant 6 cars were trying for 4 spots to prequalify, Stefan Lola were hoping of at least one car making it through as it was desperate for some good fortune. They achieved this by both cars making it through at the expense of Coletti in the Marussia and Winkelhock in the ART. The session had been close with only Bianchi guaranteed of prequalification with 10 minutes left of the session, his second best time of 1:38.208 was not beaten by 2 of the remaining prequalifers.

1. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth (38) (M) 1:38.034
2. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth (17) (G) 1:38.113
3. C. Pic, Lola Honda (36) (P) 1:38.251
4. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda (35) (P) 1:38.304
5. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth (18) (G) 1:38.454
6. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth (37) (M) 1:38.515

17th November 2012 United States Grand Prix Qualifying

1. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault (1) (G) 1:33.756
2. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes (7) (M) 1:33.912
3. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes (8) (M) 1:34.217
4. A. Randle, Randle BMW (13) (G) 1:34.407
5. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault (2) (G) 1:34.659
6. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW (14) (G) 1:34.814
7. F. Alonso, Ferrari (27) (G) 1:34.898
8. F. Massa, Ferrari (28) (G) 1:34.919
9. N. Rosberg, Mercedes (4) (M) 1:35.088
10. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault (19) (P) 1:35.211
11. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari (30) (G) 1:35.322
12. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth (5) (G) 1:35.354
13. A. Sutil, Arrows BMW (9) (P) 1:35.408
14. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault (25) (M) 1:35.553
15. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth (6) (G) 1:35.610
16. M. Schumacher, Mercedes (3) (M) 1:35.867
17. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P) 1:35.992
18. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari, (30) (P) 1:36.023
19. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P) 1:36.278
20. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes, (15) (M) 1:36.376
21. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P) 1:36.514
22. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault, (26) (M) 1:36.608
23. G. Van Der Garde, Lotus Renault, (11) (P) 1:36.776
24. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth, (38) (M) 1:36.808
25. D. Ricciardio, Modena Lamborghini, (33) (P) 1:36.998
26. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, (20) (P) 1:37.158
27. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes, (16) (M) 1:37.126
28. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda, (35) (P) 1:37.389
29. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari, (24) (P) 1:37.443
30. C. Pic, Lola Honda, (36) (P) 1:37.602
31. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth, (17) (G) 1:37.776
32. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda (31) (M) 1:37.814
33. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini, (34) (P) 1:37.987
34. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda (32) (M) 1:37.989

18th November 2012 United States Grand Prix 56 laps

The grandstands were filled, the weather was warm and sunny, and the grid was filled with 30 cars all ready to take part in the first grand prix in the USA since 2007 and the first in Texas since the farcical Dallas Grand Prix in 1984. A strong qualifying had seen Webber and Hamilton lock out the front row, with Vettel in 5th it meant a strong start would be needed as the championship was almost at its conclusion, a non finish by a championship contender would see them eliminated. With this in mind, it was anticipated that many would not take risks, this meant the Randle BMW driver Adam Randle may have a chance of a first victory as such risks would not be as severe to the driver. Having qualified 4th and with a strong car, this would be a possibility. When the lights went out, a strong start by the driver occurred and he took first from the 2 McLarens. Vettel had made no places up although had passed Heidfeld on the outside, however Alonso and Rosberg had pushed both down the grid into the midfield. Alonso then passed Webber for 3rd at turn 10 and cemented his strong start after Button was passed by both in the same corner. The opening lap did go without incident as the track left plenty of room for all 30 cars to safely race, Randle led Hamilton, Alonso, Webber, Button, Rosberg, Vettel, Heidfeld, Massa and Schumacher. Towards the back a brilliant first lap from Schumacher saw the driver in 11th. For the first third of the race a gap built from Randle to the rest of the top 7 and a gap between those and positions 8th – 12th. A couple of retirements happened in this period on laps 9, 12 and 17, these would be the collision of Maldonado and Vergne putting both out of the race. A gearbox breaking on Perez’s Sauber and an overheating issue with Kubica’s Toleman that had seen the Polish driver drop down the field from the first lap. A collision between Bianchi and Kobayashi which would result in a new wing for Kamui had put some debris on the track on lap 21. Unfortunately this would give a puncture to the race leader Randle who had been leading by 7 seconds from Alonso in 2nd. This meant having to change a strategy and as the team were taken by surprise it would drop the driver down to 6th by the time the pit stop was complete. Also taking on a puncture but having to retire as it spun him off the track and a stalled engine would end the race of Montagny in the Ligier Prost on lap 22.

With the action having taken Randle out of the lead, the battle for the lead was between the remaining title contenders as a series of gearbox glitches had caused Button to drop back. With new tyres for Randle, he was able to past the driver for position on lap 26, these problems for Button would be terminal on lap 28 when he had to pit in at his garage and retire from the race. The frontrunners would pit for the first of a two stops on laps 25 to 28; many would take the softer medium having started on hards. With a final stop expected around laps 39 – 47 depending on tyre choice, this meant the race moved into an interesting phrase as the frontrunners would try to put in strong laps for what was expected to be a final and very fast few laps at the end of the race. Although in November it was still very warm conditions, this was putting a bit of stress on some of the cars and would see retirements from the cars of Bianchi on lap 31 with a stuck throttle, a broken wheel bearing from Massa on lap 33 and a steering failure from Raikkonen on lap 36. Minardi afternoon would be over a lap later when the engine of Alguersuari blew and meant neither car would finish the race. Frustration for Heidfeld would occur on lap 41 when lapping the backmarker of Pic in the Lola would see the backmarker brake test the Randle BMW at turn 12 and cause a collision putting both cars out of the race. The German was seen angrily arguing with the driver after both were out of their cars, causing a marshal to intervene and separate the two. His teammate Randle having recovered from the earlier puncture was not in 4th having passed Rosberg for the position on the track just after the incident with Heidfeld. This meant on lap 42 the top 10: 1. F. Alonso (27), 2. M. Webber (1), 3. L. Hamilton (7), 4. A. Randle (13), 5. N. Rosberg (4), 6. S. Vettel (2), 7. M. Schumacher (3), 8. A. Sutil (9), 9. N. Hulkenberg (6), 10. R. Grosjean (25). Vettel in 6th had taken a gamble on lap 40 for hard tyres to take the driver to the rest of the race, with the others on mediums it meant the final laps could go in his favour.

Arrows were ruing bad luck on lap 43 when Sutil being the final retirement of the race would exit 7th place and the chance of strong points when his steering gave out on turns 5 – 9. The driver having to pull onto the side of the road was visibly agitated at this lost opportunity. A brilliant couple of laps from Vettel on lap 50 would see him take fastest lap of the race with a 1:36.911 and coupled with the lack of end race pace of Hamilton and Webber take third behind a jubilant Alonso in 1st and Randle in 2nd. The momentum had swung away from Hamilton when on the last lap he was over taken by Webber for 4th; fortunately he was able to keep Rosberg away for 6th. A 4th win of the season for Alonso meant it would go down to the final race of the season, the Randle BMW were left thinking what might have been had their driver not had a puncture but 2nd for a nice consolation for the team. For Rosberg it was almost over for his charge as he would need to win the final race with all the others failing to go over 215pts. An engine blow for Petrov on lap 20 would see him classified in 17th; the driver had been in contention for points before that retirement. The result for Red Bull would give them a third constructor’s championship and the team celebrated the result. However with 6 points between the top 4 it was going to go down to the last race of the season for the championship. If one of the top 4 were in first they would be champion due to the 7 points difference between 1st and 2nd.

Classification

1. F. Alonso (27) 1hr 31 mins 45.687s 25pts
2. A. Randle (13) + 10.543s 18pts
3. S. Vettel (2) + 12.568s 15pts
4. M. Webber (1) + 17.978s 12pts
5. L. Hamilton (7) + 19.032s 10pts
6. N. Rosberg (4) + 20.013s 8pts
7. M. Schumacher (3) + 58.980s 6pts
8. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 1:20.357s 4pts
9. R. Grosjean (25) + 1:27.986s 2pts
10. H. Kovalainen (12) + 1 lap 1pt
11. K. Kobayashi (29) + 1 lap
12. P. DiResta (16) + 1 lap
13. S. Buemi (15) + 1 lap
14. D. Ricciardio (33) + 2 laps
15. G. Van Der Garde (11) + 2 laps
16. P. De La Rosa (35) + 3 laps
17. V. Petrov (20) + 6 laps Engine
18. A. Sutil (9) 43 laps Steering
19. N. Heidfeld (14) 41 laps Collision
20. C. Pic (36) 40 laps Collision
21. J. Alguersuari (24) 37 laps Engine
22. K. Raikkonen (5) 36 laps Steering
23. F. Massa (28) 33 laps Wheel bearing
24. J. Bianchi (38) 31 laps Throttle
25. J. Button (8) 28 laps Gearbox
26. F. Montagny (26) 22 laps Puncture
27. R. Kubica (19) 17 laps Overheating
28. S. Perez (30) 12 laps Gearbox
29. J. E. Vergne (23) 9 laps Collision
30. P. Maldonado (10) 9 laps Collision
F. Lap: S. Vettel (1) 1:36.911 on lap 50
DOTR: A. Randle, drove well despite a puncture to take 2nd when a win would have been possible without the incident that caused him to pit early.
ROTR: C. Pic, a stupid brake test on Heidfeld ended both of their races and cost the Randle BMW driver a good point’s haul as the car was performing well in 7th. Also cost Stefan a finish and a costly repair job just as the team look to be running low on funds.

Championship (* Still in contention)
1. S. Vettel (2) 215pts (*)
2. F. Alonso (27) 213pts (*)
3. L. Hamilton (7) 212pts (*)
4. M. Webber (1) 209pts (*)
5. N. Rosberg (4) 191pts (*)
6. A. Randle (13) 134pts
7. J. Button (8) 132pts
8. F. Massa (28) 105pts
9. N. Hulkenberg (6) 90pts
10. K. Raikkonen (5) 72pts
= M. Schumacher (3) 72pts
12. N. Heidfeld (14) 70pts
13. S. Perez (30) 53pts
14. K. Kobayashi (29) 44pts
15. R. Kubica (19) 35pts
16. R. Grosjean (25) 19pts
= V. Petrov (20) 19pts
18. S. Buemi (15) 10pts
19. A. Sutil (9) 6pts
20. J. Alguersuari (24) 4pts
= H. Kovalainen (12) 4pts
22. F. Montagny (26) 3pts
23. P. Maldonado (10) 2pts
= J. Trulli (11) 2pts
= P. DiResta (16) 2pts
26. J. E. Vergne (23) 1pt

Constructors
1. Red Bull Renault 424 pts Champions
2. McLaren Mercedes 344pts
3. Ferrari 318pts
4. Mercedes 263pts
5. Randle BMW 204pts
6. Williams Cosworth 162pts
7. Sauber Ferrari 97pts
8. Toleman Renault 54pts
9. Ligier Prost Renault 22pts
10. Force India Mercedes 12pts
11. Arrows BMW 8pts
12. Team Lotus Renault 6pts
13. Minardi Ferrari 5pts
14. Super Aguri Honda 0 pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= ART Cosworth 0 pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Modena Lamborghini 0 pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Marussia Cosworth 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Stefan Lola Honda 0 pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= HRT Cosworth 0 pts (Best Pos. 15th)

[gnrpoison]

19th November 2012 BBC
Championship still to up for grabs as F1 enters the final round, Red Bull are confidant of a dominate weekend and have ensured both Webber and Vettel have an equal chance as it sends out all necessary team personnel and extra spare cars and parts for the drivers.

20th November 2012 Sky Sports
Schumacher will have special livery for last ever race, the car has been repainted in a number of liveries of teams he has drove for. The 7 time champion will next season take a managing and consultant role next season in order to help Rosberg and Hamilton help Mercedes to be a force in the championship.

21st November 2012 Autosport
There is still speculation over the 2 remaining seats on the grid regarding drives for Super Aguri and Stefan. Rumours are doing the rounds of a possible merger between the two as details on Stefan’s 2013 car are still unconfirmed, while Super Aguri’s car is in its early development stages but is lacking funding as Honda are looking to sell some of its shares in the team. Team Principal Aguri Suzuki has been seen in private conversations with the Stefan outfit, reporters were unable to confirm merger talks. As both this season have had Honda power it would be quite a seamless joining between the two.

22nd November 2012 Brazilian Grand Prix Prequalifying
The final qualifying would see 8 cars take part in order to make the 32 car cut for qualifying, with Super Aguri rejoining prequalifying. As it was Senna’s last race and his home he dominated prequalifying with the fastest time. With Super Aguri so dominate it left 2 spaces for the remaining teams, with Bianchi making it in 3rd and Coletti in the Marussia putting in a brilliant final lap to get through and push out Winkelhock from prequalifying in his final appearance.

1. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda (31) (M) 1:12.576
2. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda (32) (M) 1:12.608
3. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth (38) (M) 1:12.855
4. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth (18) (G) 1:12.954
5. M. Winkelhock, ART Cosworth (37) (M) 1:13.132
6. P. De La Rosa, Lola Honda (35) (P) 1:13.455
7. T. Glock, Marussia Cosworth (17) (G) 1:13.545
8. C. Pic, Lola Honda, (36) (P) 1:13.608

24th November 2012 Brazilian Grand Prix Qualifying
A sunny qualifying session would bring a few surprises as a problem for Bianchi’s ART meant he could not qualify the car for only the second time in his career, also a DNP from DiResta’s Force India due to a crash in practice on Friday meant he was not cleared to race. Vettel put in a brilliant time for pole position and give himself the best chance in tomorrow’s race. The Arrows of Maldonado was found to be underweight and the driver was disqualified from the session and had his time of 1:11.880 that had seen him qualified 16th deleted, as well as his other times.

1. S. Vettel, Red Bull Renault (2) (G) 1:10.003
2. M. Webber, Red Bull Renault (1) (G) 1:10.114
3. J. Button, McLaren Mercedes, (8) (M) 1:10.303
4. M. Schumacher, Mercedes, (3) (M) 1:10.351
5. F. Alonso, Ferrari, (27) (G) 1:10.502
6. N. Rosberg, Mercedes (4) 1:10.657
7. L. Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes (7) (M) 1:10.712
8. A. Randle, Randle BMW (13) (G) 1:10.758
9. F. Massa, Ferrari, (28) (G) 1:10.922
10. K. Raikkonen, Williams Cosworth, (5) (G) 1:10.968
11. N. Heidfeld, Randle BMW, (14) (G) 1:11.102
12. R. Kubica, Toleman Renault, (19) (P) 1:11.233
13. N. Hulkenberg, Williams Cosworth, (6) (G) 1:11.440
14. S. Perez, Sauber Ferrari, (30) (G) 1:11.677
15. H. Kovalainen, Lotus Renault, (12) (P) 1:11.711
16. V. Petrov, Toleman Renault, (20) (P) 1:11.891
17. K. Kobayashi, Sauber Ferrari, (29) (G) 1:11.955
18. F. Montagny, Ligier Prost Renault, (26) (M) 1:12.107
19. A. Sutil, Arrows BMW, (9) (P) 1:12.221
20. S. Buemi, Force India Mercedes, (15) (M) 1:12.404
21. R. Grosjean, Ligier Prost Renault, (25) (M) 1:12.545
22. J. E. Vergne, Minardi Ferrari, (23) (P) 1:12.614
23. B. Senna, Super Aguri Honda (31) (M) 1:12.678
24. F. Leimer, Super Aguri Honda (32) (M) 1:12.703
25. G. Van Der Garde, Lotus Renault (11) (P) 1:12.788
26. J. Alguersuari, Minardi Ferrari, (24) (P) 1:12.955
27. D. Ricciardio, Modena Lamborghini, (33) (P) 1:13.234
28. G. Ricci, Modena Lamborghini, (34) (P) 1:13.331
29. S. Coletti, Marussia Cosworth (18) (G) 1:13.455
30. J. Bianchi, ART Cosworth (38) (M) 1:17.465
31. P. Maldonado, Arrows BMW, (10) (P) Disqualified
32. P. DiResta, Force India Mercedes (16) (M) Withdrew Injury

25th November 2012 Brazilian Grand Prix 71 laps

The final race of the season would be sunny throughout and have one of the highest amounts of challengers for the title in the final race in F1 history. Red Bull was satisfied with qualifying both on the front row and had been the fastest in the prerace warm up session. Modena was hoping for a 12th place finish as it would mean not having to prequalify for half of the 2013 season. It had been a troubling 2nd year for the team as development of their car and engine had seen them drop back towards the lower teams. The increased funding from both Red Bull and Lamborghini’s would aid the Italian team for 2013 as with new competition from Alfa Romeo and a revitalised Minardi will ensure a strong fight to be Italy’s best 2nd team behind Ferrari. A 12th row lockout for Super Aguri was pleasing for the small Japanese team as question marks had been raised of how funded they will be for 2013. The lights went out and the 28 cars all stormed through the Senna S chicane, Button had made a brilliant start ahead of Vettel and was able to squeeze Webber onto the grass that lost a lot of places into the midfield. This would be to the benefit of Alonso, Hamilton and Rosberg who were able to pass him and put pressure on Schumacher for 3rd. The German then passed Vettel for 2nd going into Descida do Lago, Webber stuck behind the Sauber would recover to 10th by lap 2. Vettel was just about hanging onto the speed that Button and Schumacher were setting in this early stage of the race. Surprisingly all 28 had managed to make it through the first lap without incident, only the first corner off by Webber and Van Der Garde being the major issues. Lap 5 would see the first retirement as a problem in Kubica’s Toleman would see him pit in with a hydraulic problem. Vettel was now under pressure from Alonso and Hamilton; this resulted in a brilliant and astonishing overtaking manoeuvre into the Senna S as Vettel dropped to 5th after going three abreast into the corner.

Lap 10 would see another retirement as Sutil would suffer a BMW engine blowing and it would spray oil onto the track of it pulled off before the final two corners at Juncao. This would cause a problem two laps later when the Randle BMW of Randle hit some of it and crashed out with a big impact into the barriers; the driver was slightly injured with a damage back disc and was taken to hospital. The crash brought out the safety car as a lot of debris was on the track, the race would start 5 laps later on lap 17 and Button was able to remain in the lead, ahead of Vettel who had passed Schumacher and Hamilton at the restart. Hamilton attempting to overtake Schumacher would catch his back tyre on the wing of the Mercedes. This resulted in a puncture for Hamilton and a broken front wing for Schumacher dropping both down the field. Button would only have the lead till lap 21 when a Vettel after setting a sequence of fast laps was able to take the lead into the Senna S. Button had slowed to pass the car of Grosjean who had been suffering with fuel injection problems since the restart and had exited the race at the pit exit. Vettel seizing the moment passed Button for the lead and to put himself into a position to control the championship. With Alonso in 4th, Webber 7th, Rosberg in 8th and Hamilton in 15th almost a lap down, it meant that he could secure the championship barring mechanical problems. Kovalainen on lap 25 would see his Renault engine break yet again this season; engine problems had plagued the team all year as the problems had seen the team lose out on points due to the engines being very fragile. Hamilton on new tyres was coming back through the field by lap 30 and was back in the top 10. The puncture had meant a change of strategy and it was decided one more stop on lap 49 for a tyre stop would be enough to have sufficient pace to the end of the session. Lap 31 would be the end of one driver’s championship hopes, having battled to 2nd Alonso race and fight was over when his Ferrari suffered a gearbox problem that saw it stuck in 2nd gear. Unable to fix it, the team took the hard decision to retire the car. A lap later would see the end of a legendary career when the Mercedes of Schumacher would also see a gearbox fault and the German decided to pull off at turns 4 and 5. The driver received applause from the grandstands and although it was not how he would have liked to have finished his final race, the German was not upset at the race events. At the halfway stage of the race the top 10 was: 1. S. Vettel (2), 2. J. Button (8) + 8.765s, 3. F. Massa (28) + 14.987s, 4. K. Raikkonen (5) + 15.678s, 5. M. Webber (1) + 16.717s, 6. N. Rosberg (4) + 20.135s, 7. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 23.785s, 8. N. Heidfeld (14) + 27.654s, 9. L. Hamilton (7) + 31.221s, 10. S. Perez (3) + 35.165s.

The remaining championship hopefuls were having a strong battle with the other drivers in the top 10, Hamilton had closed on Hulkenberg and Heidfeld, while in 2 laps Webber would pass Massa and Raikkonen for 3rd. Massa not willing to lose a podium in his home race would retake the position a lap later. What had become clear was that it meant Vettel could pull away and control the race as a large gap had formed in time for his pit stop on lap 41, he was able to appear in front of Webber and when Button stopped, the German would retake the lead on lap 45. On lap 50 Hamilton’s strategy had worked and he was now ahead of Rosberg in 6th position and would easily catch Massa and Raikkonen in the remaining laps. This would be wasted though as on lap 55, he made a mistake and spun out of the race. He was visibly annoyed and it was rumoured that he did not speak to many people over the following days. As Rosberg would need to win and have both Red Bull’s not finish it was practically now between Cars No. 1 and No. 2 for the championship. Webber had caught Button for 2nd but was now some distance behind Vettel on worse tyres. An engine misfire would end Button and McLaren’s race on lap 59 as he became the final retirement of the race. Massa gave the home crowd a cheer on lap 65 when he would take the fastest lap of the race with a 1:13.919. However the biggest celebrations were reserved for Vettel who would take the win and his 2nd World Championship having driven brilliantly, a gallant Webber who had fought from a bad start would have to contend with a runner’s up spot in the final table. Although the defending champion had not been successful in retaining his championship, he was gracious in defeat and was the first driver to congratulate Vettel. An 11th and 12th for Modena would mean they would escape from Prequalifying for the first half of 2013

Classification
1. S. Vettel (2) 1 hr 42 mins 53.143s 25pts
2. M. Webber (1) + 20.642s 18pts
3. F. Massa (28) + 45.876s 15pts
4. K. Raikkonen (5) + 52.987s 12pts
5. N. Rosberg (4) + 1:01.987s 10pts
6. N. Hulkenberg (6) + 1 lap 8pts
7. N. Heidfeld (14) + 1 lap 6pts
8. S. Perez (30) + 1 lap 4pts
9. F. Montagny (26) + 1 lap 2pts
10. J. Alguersuari (24) + 1 lap 1pt
11. D. Ricciardio (33) + 1 lap
12. G. Ricci (34) + 2 laps
13. B. Senna (31) + 2 laps
14. J. E. Vergne (23) + 3 laps
15. F. Leimer (32) + 3 laps
16. J. Button (8) 59 laps Engine
17. S. Buemi (15) 57 laps Suspension
18. L. Hamilton (7) 55 laps Spun Off
19. V. Petrov (20) 42 laps Radiator
20. K. Kobayashi (29) 40 laps Spun Off
21. G. Van Der Garde (11) 37 laps Steering
22. M. Schumacher (3) 32 laps Gearbox
23. F. Alonso (27) 31 laps Gearbox
24. H. Kovalainen (12) 25 laps Engine
25. R. Grosjean (25) 20 laps Fuel Injection
26. A. Randle (13) 12 laps Accident
27. A. Sutil (9) 10 laps Engine
28. R. Kubica (19) 5 laps Hydraulics

F. Lap: F. Massa (28) 1:13.919 on lap 65
DOTR: Vettel drove excellently to achieve the win and confirm his 2nd World Championship
ROTR: Kobayashi was nowhere near his teammate and made too many mistakes that meant he missed a big point’s haul.

Final Championship
1. S. Vettel (2) 240pts Champion
2. M. Webber (1) 227pts
3. F. Alonso (27) 213pts
4. L. Hamilton (7) 212pts
5. N. Rosberg (4) 201pts
6. A. Randle (13) 134pts
7. J. Button (8) 132pts
8. F. Massa (28) 120pts
9. N. Hulkenberg (6) 98pts
10. K. Raikkonen (5) 84pts
11. N. Heidfeld (14) 76pts
12. M. Schumacher (3) 72pts
13. S. Perez (30) 57pts
14. K. Kobayashi (29) 44pts
15. R. Kubica (19) 35pts
16. R. Grosjean (25) 19pts
= V. Petrov (20) 19pts
18. S. Buemi (15) 10pts
19. A. Sutil (9) 6pts
20. J. Alguersuari (24) 5pts
= F. Montagny (26) 5pts
22. H. Kovalainen (12) 4pts
23. P. Maldonado (10) 2pts
= J. Trulli (11) 2pts
= P. DiResta (16) 2pts
26. J. E. Vergne (23) 1pt
27. D. Ricciardio (33) 0pts
= B. Senna (31) 0pts
= G. Ricci (34) 0pts
= J. Bianchi (38) 0pts
= F. Leimer (32) 0pts
= S. Coletti (18) 0pts
= P. De La Rosa (35) 0pts
= C. Pic (36) 0pts
= L. DiGrassi (9/21) 0pts
= K. Chandhok (21/11) 0pts
= G. Van Der Garde (11) 0pts
= M. Winkelhock (37) 0pts
= T. Glock (17) 0pts
NC S. Bourdais (38)
NC N. Karthikeyan (22)

Final Constructors
1. Red Bull Renault (G) 467pts
2. McLaren Mercedes (M) 344pts
3. Ferrari (G) 333pts
4. Mercedes (M) 273pts
5. Randle BMW (G) 210pts
6. Williams Cosworth (G) 182pts
7. Sauber Ferrari (G) 101pts
8. Toleman Renault (P) 54pts
9. Ligier Prost Renault (M) 24pts
10. Force India Mercedes (M) 12pts
11. Arrows BMW (P) 8pts
12. Minardi Ferrari (P) 6pts
= Team Lotus Renault (P) 6pts
14. Modena Lamborghini (P) 0pts (Best Pos. 11th)
= Super Aguri Honda (M) 0pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= ART Cosworth (M) 0pts (Best Pos. 12th)
= Marussia Cosworth (G) 0pts (Best Pos. 13th)
= Stefan Lola Honda (P) 0pts (Best Pos. 14th)
= HRT Cosworth (M) 0pts (Best Pos. 15th)

[gnrpoison]

Full Season Rankings
NC: Narain Karthikeyan, Giedo Van De Garde
40. (40) L. Di Grassi: Was very poor in a decent Arrows package, rightly sacked and then had a second chance at HRT where he preceded to be the slowest in prequalifying and not help a team that was on its last legs.
39. (39) S. Bourdais: Did not really have a chance in a car that stretched ART’s resources and rightly stepped down so his successor could help the cars potential.
38. (38) M. Winkelhock: Was not really cut out for Formula One and once overshadowed by teammate, lacked the enthusiasm to improve. Only qualified once in 20 attempts and will enjoy being a test driver for ART next season then a main race driver.
37. (29) T. Glock: As Marussia reduced its attention to 2012, he seemed to slip backwards and found it harder to make the main qualifying session. Should have done better given a rookie teammate, however was hampered by low budget and the willpower to make the most out of the equipment.
36. (37) C. Pic: Was not terrible when he would make the grid, however such was the rarity that he was very often unnoticed in the main race. Is lucky to have another chance next year in a stronger team, which should be able to have more judgment on his ability.
35. (35) V. Liuzzi: Had a nightmare with HRT and found some weekends a very frustrating time, will be happy with a seat at Minardi next season. At times dragged the car to places where it should not have been and outdrove the car the majority of the time. Lack of money for updates meant prequalifying became impossible.
34. (36) K. Chandhok: Had a terrible season driving the hopeless HRT and managed very little success in that car. Highlight of the season would be the strong drive for Lotus in the Indian Grand Prix that saw the driver achieving a solid 15th position. Overall did not have the machinery to regularly display strong drives.
33. (34) P. De La Rosa: It was a tricky first season for the Stefan team as funds started to run out by the end of the season. The Lola customer car was decent and the Honda engine was a decent package if it could have been regularly updated, De La Rosa did well to get a 14th and 3 16th places from the car when developments elsewhere made it harder to get on the grid. If the team survives the winter his testing role should be a benefit for the team’s second year.
32. (33) P. Maldonado: Disappointing driver, as the Arrows package was one of the better in the lower midfield, the car should have had no problem qualifying for every race. However a series of erratic errors meant the car could not fulfil its potential. He has to improve next season in order to dissuade critics on his suitability in Formula One, otherwise it will be a waste of an opportunity.
31. (27) S. Coletti: A strong drive at Monaco was the highlight in a difficult campaign, either was close to making the race or was nowhere near it at times in the season. Did reasonably well with his limitations and will hope for more success in 2013.
30. (28) F. Leimer: Will be pleased overall with his first season in F1, at times drove stronger then was thought possible and matched his teammate quite regularly. Certainly will not be down to lack of ability if his seat goes at Super Aguri in 2013, as his lack of funding may end his career prematurely if rumours of a Honda selling the team are true.
29. (30) G. Ricci: Difficult second season at Modena, as the car and engine proved problematic over the year. Did get outraced by his teammate a little too frequently and this meant that he may not get the full team’s attention in 2013.
28. (32) B. Senna: Achieved some respectable drives over the season and did give Super Aguri a bit help with sponsorship. It will be hard to see if he gets a chance at seat in 2014 as he leaves for other motorsport pursuits.
27. (24) J. Trulli: Did the best thing and retired when he had lost desire to race in the Lotus that seemed to suffer every mechanical problem in 2012. A fine drive in his last race meant he left the series on a high.
26. (21) P. DiResta: Struggled a bit over the season and found himself stuck in the lower midfield, he should be confident of improving for 2013 as the car did let him down on a few occasions when a good finish was possible. Despite that tended to be in the 11 – 15th places on a regular basis and suffered due to the high competition for the low points places.
25. (22) J. E. Vergne: Did ok but was hampered by the package which lead to a few DNQs, quite regularly beaten in Qualifying and Race did not help his season. However he will be pleased with his 10th place in Italy that should help Minardi avoid prequalifying at all in 2013.
24. (23) F. Montagny: A much better second season for the driver and he was a lot more consistent with where the car should be, however was thrashed by his teammate and clearly 2nd best at Ligier. It will be hard to match his 2012 results in a worse car in 2013 and against a younger and hungrier teammate.
23. (31) A. Sutil: A part in BMW’s Le Man’s win gave the German confidence to get the most out of the Arrows car and this resulted in some deserved points finishes. Was revitalised in a different team to his Spyker/Force India outfit he had spent so long at. He should be able to make Arrows move up the grid in 2013, as he has the experience and desire to do so.
22. (26) D. Ricciardio: Drove well in a team with an uncompetitive package and a pit stop delay meant he could have scored points for the team in Brazil. With Modena being given more backing from Red Bull then he might be a surprise in 2013.
21. (19) J. Alguersuari: Not bad overall, as the Minardi was quite difficult to drive and engine problems meant it could not utilise the chassis and engine to its best. Those 2 DNQs in Germany and Hungary will frustrate the driver as it meant the season was not as successful at it may have been.
20. (17) S. Buemi: Did ok but not enough to be noticed regularly, will be happy that he performed better than his teammate as he scored the bulk of the teams points. The Monaco DNQ was unfortunate as he was generally in the top 26 over the season in qualifying.
19. (20) V. Petrov: A frustrating year as the Toleman package could not keep up with the developments of Randle BMW Sauber and Williams. With the top 7 teams effectively filling the top 10 places it meant points were hard to come by and at times he lost out with some bad mistakes.
18. (25) J. Bianchi: Some strong drives brought a lot of much needed focus and extra sponsorship for ART. Has shown a lot of talent and composure in his qualifying pace and race ability definitely will be one to watch in 2013.
17. (16) R. Grosjean: Generally did very well again this season and was dominant against his lesser teammate. He achieved some strong results and made some errors, the move up the grid to Toleman will benefit him next season.
16. (15) H. Kovalainen: At times could not do well in races due to mechanical problems, however when the car made the finish, he would achieve at least a 12th or 13th. By talent alone he was able to get points for the Lotus. He should be able to help Toleman next season and Lotus will be weaker for him no longer driving for the team.
15. (18) K. Kobayashi: Achieved some strong points scoring for the team, with 3rd in Suzuka a highlight. However was outmatched by Perez in qualifying and generally over the season, a year out will probably do him well as he did have some good offers for 2013.
14. (13) R. Kubica: Did very well with a limited package, although at times the car was unreliable, only 2 of his finishes were not in the points. He may have missed his chance at a place in the top teams due to being stuck in the midfield over the season.
13. (14) N. Heidfeld: A solid driver throughout the season and did well on some race weekends, however was beaten by his younger teammate on a regular basis. His two third places were well done, however it came on weekends when he teammate either achieved a better place or would have if not due to reliability.
12. (11) M. Schumacher: Did not have luck throughout the season and had to settle as number 2 to Rosberg’s unsuccessful title challenge. However when the car did well, he finished in the points in all but one of his race finishes. He will relish a role mentoring Hamilton and Rosberg next season as the team try to break into the top 3.
11. (6) K. Raikkonen: The season started well for Raikkonen and this was shown by a strong drive in China to take a win, however as the season progressed seem to struggle as teammate improved and challenged him for No.1 in the team. Has to be more consistent in 2013 and with a young Finnish protégé in Bottas alongside him, it might push him to challenge the Randle BMWs and Mercedes more regularly.
10. (8) S. Perez: A strong second season for the Mexican driver, he was able to make the most out of the Sauber car and get it regularly into the points. He will be annoyed that it was his teammate that achieved the sole podium for the team. He has some big shoes to fill next season as Hamilton’s replacement in McLaren.
9. (12) J. Button: Over half of his finishes were in the top 4 and generally was reliable for the team, a run of 2nd. 3rd and 1st was a highlight. However did not produce consistent enough results to be a championship contender. He will have a lot to prove next season as with a new teammate, he should be able to have an easier fight for the No. 1 seat.
8. (9) N. Hulkenberg: Although lacking in the qualifying battle with his teammate, he generally performed very well against his former world champion teammate. The move to Sauber will hopefully be at worst a sideward move rather than a backwards step down the grid. Pressure will be on him to outperform his rookie teammate next season, however as long as the team is competitive; he should do well at Sauber.
7. (10) F. Massa: Only 2 finishes were outside the top 5 and did very well on some weekends. However it was obvious to many the gap between him and team leader Alonso was quite big as he almost finished 100 points behind his teammate. If Ferrari were to aim for the title in 2013 he would need to step up a little to aid his teammate’s title challenge.
6. (3) N. Rosberg: Seemed to be hampered as Mercedes develop stalled in the second half of the year. 3 wins was a good return but will be disappointed with the lack of podiums in the final third of the season. He will not have an easier challenge next season when his new teammate joins the team. However this should help Mercedes be closer to the front as Schumacher struggled at times and was probably the weakest driver in the top 4 teams.
5. (7) L. Hamilton: Was very determined to win a second championship and produced some strong performances to take it to the final round. 2013 may be a learning year as he settles into a new environment; however it has potential to achieve success if the new car and engine produces a strong package.
4. (2) A. Randle: Did very well in 2012, a well deserved Le Mans win did produce a small slump for a few races. However 5 podiums were well deserved and was unlucky to not have a won a race this year as the pace was there to achieve it. Scored most of the team’s points and generally out qualified his teammate and showed that he could be very successful if the reliability was there.
3. (4) F. Alonso: 4 good wins and 3rd in the championship is a very good return considering how quick the Red Bull became during the year. He delivered consistent results that meant he could maximise any opportunity that came his way. Will be disappointed he was not able to fully take advantage of the car’s speed on some of the tracks but overall it was a strong year for the Spaniard.
2. (1) M. Webber: He had started the season very well and had a strong lead at the halfway point of the season. However a series of underperforming races meant others were able to challenge his supremacy. He will feel like he gave the championship away rather than being beaten for it. Out of his 10 top 3 finishes 7 were achieved in the first half of the season and only 2 finishes were not top 4 positions. 2 wins over the season will be seen as a disappointment as he was capable of more and had reliability been better it certainly would have been. It will be interesting how he responds next season to this as it will surely be demoralising how the season ended to where he was at the end of July.
1. (5) S. Vettel: 61 points behind his teammate and the championship leader at the halfway point, 44pts behind his teammate with 7 races to go. He put on an absolute master class in those final races to make the most of drivers taking points off each other. By the final race he was in complete control on the championship, this had taken a lot of ability and self belief to accomplish. He is now a 2 world champion and may have permanently damaged his teammates morale for next season in what again could be the best package on the grid.

Team Assessment

Red Bull: With a combination of a powerful and compact engine with a well designed chassis, the team were able to achieve 6 wins and a load of podiums consistently. With other teams being more competitive Red Bull were able to have strong weekends even if they were slightly off the pace. 11 retirements in 40 entries is not a bad return either and this meant they were able to regularly points. Only in Belgium and Italy did they not score points due to double DNFs in those races. It will be very hard for any team to match them in 2013 on a regular basis as with arguably the best driver line up and continuity will only aid the team.
Mercedes: 2012 was not as successful for the tea as 2011 had been, however in Rosberg they have a driver whose promise and talent is starting to show and next season will be very strong with Hamilton joining from McLaren. This might mean 2nd or even champions will be possible if the car is good enough. It will be interesting how long the team sticks with a V8 as it has meant at certain tracks they did not have the power to fight Ferrari, Renault and BMW engine cars due to the lack of horsepower.
Williams: Managed to score a win. However was not able to consistently deliver in races and sometimes were overshadowed by Sauber and others in the midfield. It had been expected for them to be in more of a battle between themselves and Randle BMW for that 5th best of the rest spot in the championship, however the team could not match the speed and talent of the Randle team despite having an ex world champion and a driver who some have said is a future race winner. Did better in 2012 but will need to ensure development next season as they could fall behind a revitalised Toleman in 2013.
McLaren: Another strong campaign and well run championship, the two drivers did well and helped the team get the better of Ferrari and Mercedes. However this may be as good as it gets from the team as with losing the stronger driver next year and with a promising yet inconsistent young driver filling the void. It may be too much to ask from him to get the team to perform better. The team will also need to watch out on developments from Randle BMW, Williams and Toleman as those teams try to break into the top 4.
Arrows: Had a strong package but did not have the drivers early on to the fully utilise it, this improved when Sutil joined the team and he was able to give the team some good finishes. It will be interesting if in 2013 they can make the most of what they have as a good team is starting to be found in the outfit.
Lotus: Did not have a lot of luck with reliability in 2012 and it saw the team lose a lot of its momentum from 2011. Were still easily the best 2010 new entrant but had fallen behind all the 2011 debuts as those teams grew from their debut year. Having to take on drivers with lesser ability who bring more funds will probably see them slip further next season unless they can sort out the reliability side. They may not be able to qualify as easily as they did in 2011 and 2012 as a result.
Randle BMW: Built on a strong debut year to remain in the top 5, they were even able to reduce the gap to 4th place and had some weekends where victories were possible. They will need to be more prepared to take more advantage of this opportunity in 2013. Keeping the same driver line up will aid the team as long as other distractions from Indy Car and Sports Cars do not interfere with F1 too much.
Force India: Only scored 1 more point in 2012 then 2011, however such was the competitive nature at the front of the grid, this was enough to move them from 13th to 10th in the final standing. The team should be ok in 2013 but it is hard to see them being able to battle with Sauber, Arrows and Ligier for that lower midfield position as points could be rarer for those at the back in 2013.
Marussia: A disappointing year for this team as they could not regularly qualify for races. Only HRT did not have as many race starts as this team, it will be hard in 2013 for them and they may disappear altogether as 2 years of little to no success has meant opportunities are disappearing. Monaco was a highlight and the line up for next season should bring a bit more funds. However will it simply be too little too late as the team falls further back as those that regularly qualify increase the gulf.
Toleman: Disappointment for the team as they fell from being worthy challengers to Williams and Randle BMW to a distant 8th. They were not really challenged to drop down any further but will hope for a rejuvenated 2013 as two promising drivers should push the team back up. With Sauber and Williams likely to not be as strong that gap can be reduced.
HRT: With 15 race starts out of 80 entries over 2 years and 34 out of 99 successful qualifying attempts in their history, it was always going to be very hard for the low funded team. No one was surprised when they folded before the end of the season, with only 4 14th place finishes in their whole history as a reward for 3 years of hard work from the team. The former owners are rumoured to be starting again in Sports Car racing and hopefully they will find more success there then they did in Formula One. Almost beat Coloni’s record of DNPQs as well which is probably all they will be remembered for from their time in the sport.
Minardi: The Ferrari engines seemed to not help the team as they suffered in 2012 with a slightly heavier engine that lacked the power that Sauber were able to enjoy. A return to Ford next season might be able to help them make a better attempt in 2013. They should have no danger at dropping into prequalifying if they can design a good car.
Ligier Prost: Did better than their comeback season and had a strong platform to build on, it will be interesting if with more money from Maldonado and Pic, if it can match the raised expectations.
Ferrari: Did well and diverting attention back to the 2012 car meant they were able to rescue the championship, how this will impact on 2013 is uncertain but with an unchanged driver line up, it will take a huge loss of form for them to slip next season.
Sauber: Another team that improved from 2011 and this was seen with a brilliant podium in the Japanese Grand Prix. The team were able to use the customer Ferrari V12 and combine it with their car and it produced a capable car of regular points for their drivers. Hulkenberg will aid the team next season however losing two promising drivers in Perez and Kobayashi will likely see a big gulf between their two drivers.
Super Aguri: The team were low funded and this meant the efficient and reliable car could not be updated regularly. When the car qualified the team did reasonably well and with that extra funding may have been able to score points. With only one Did Not Prequalify the team can take confidence that it could make it through the lottery on a regular basis. There is concern that the budget will be even lower next season as Honda reduces support for the team. Hopefully this will be resolved so the team does not fold and leave the sport, it does not help that a second driver is still to be announced.
Modena: The team regressed in 2012 after some spectacular results in 2011; overall the car was decent but had not developed enough to be regularly competitive. With Red Bull increasing funding in 2013 and Lamborghini promising a stronger engine, this team may be able to battle the lower midfield and backmarkers on a more consistent basis.
Stefan Lola: This team were perplexing in 2012, a strong chassis, and decent engine; with two relatively good drivers meant the team should have done very well in its first year. However it became apparent that the investors were not putting much into the team. The car barely developed over the season and this started to show when they could not get out of prequalifying. The debacle at Abu Dhabi did not help either and it will be surprising if they return in 2013.
ART: The other debutant did well and have produced a decent package that enabled them to develop over the season. The debut of Bianchi and his talents meant the car regularly saw action, however it became clear that all efforts was going to him over his teammate who could only qualify once. With the problems to HRT and Stefan it meant the car was easily able to prequalify in the last few races. This will help the team in 2013 as they will have to prequalify again.

ROTY: Lucas Di Grassi, the Arrows he was lucky to be driving was a very good car and should have easily prequalified. For the team to have 2 DNPQs and 2 DNQs in 8 attempts was insulting to the team. He was rightly given the sack despite a bad accident, finding only refuge in HRT who badly needed funds to make it on a race by race basis, he was regularly the slowest or in the bottom 3 of the prequalifying times. He will be lucky if he is able to buy a seat in the top category of motorsport in the future.

1. L. DiGrassi
2. M. Winkelhock
3. Marussia

Honourable Mentions: S. Bourdais, Stefan Lola and HRT

There we go 2012 is now finished, sorry it has taken so long, I am hoping 2013 and 2014 will not take 2 and a ¾ years to finish. It will be debuted very soon I hope you have enjoyed this.