FerrariMan's Place

Schumi: No idea of pecking order yet

2010-02-16T19:38:00.001-04:00

Schumi: No idea of pecking order yet - F1 | ITV Sport: "Michael Schumacher says he still has no idea of the pecking order heading into the 2010 Formula 1 season after the second week of testing.

This week's Jerez sessions were interrupted by rain on several days, and with mid-race refuelling now banned, teams are testing with a variety of fuel loads to cover everything from fully-laden opening stints to ultra-light qualifying laps."

Michael Schumacher quells fitness doubts

2010-02-16T19:26:00.001-04:00

Michael Schumacher quells fitness doubts | Mercedes | Formula 1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1: "'He was in Valencia to do some checks, as he has been with me very often in the past,' Schumacher told F1's official website. 'We wanted to make sure I am best prepared, and obviously I am, as we both didn't see the"

Schuey-mania hits again

2010-02-04T16:47:00.001-04:00

Motorsport.com: News channel: "As many people in Formula One already predicted, with the return of Michael Schumacher, the Schuey-mania is also back, and it is in full swing already. Schumacher will return to the Formula One grid on March 14 during the Bahrain Grand Prix, exactly 1240 days after he drove his last race for Ferrari during the Brazilian Grand Prix at Sao Paulo in 2006."

Fernando Alonso plays down Ferrari dominance in Valencia

2010-02-04T16:43:00.001-04:00

Fernando Alonso plays down Ferrari dominance in Valencia | Ferrari | Formula 1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1: "Fernando Alonso has played down Ferrari's dominance at the Valencia test this week, after the Italian team topped the timesheets on all three days."

Michael Schumacher -'I don't expect to be winning right from the start'

2010-02-04T16:42:00.001-04:00

Interview: Michael Schumacher -'I don't expect to be winning right from the start' | Mercedes | Formula 1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1: "Are you happy after two days back in the car?
Michael Schumacher: Yes I am indeed happy. I had a good first day, a rather shortish run on Monday, but today we had a full day. We had a little hydraulic leak that stopped us at the end, but all in all, very positive feedback. The car is running very smoothly and very nicely. I am looking very positively at the season."

Mercedes off the pace at Valencia test

2010-02-04T16:41:00.001-04:00

Mercedes off the pace at Valencia test - Ross Brawn | Mercedes | Formula 1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1: "Mercedes team principal Ross Brawn has admitted his new car is not as fast as some of its competitors, but is hoping to iron out its minor faults before the next test in Jerez."

New Ferrari ‘very different’ from ‘09 car

2010-01-28T17:04:00.001-04:00

New Ferrari ‘very different’ from ‘09 car - F1 | ITV Sport: "Ferrari design chief Nikolas Tombazis says the Maranello squad’s latest car is fundamentally different from its unsuccessful 2009 challenger.

Despite relatively stable technical regulations, Tombazis revealed at Ferrari’s launch on Thursday that the F10 design is not an evolution of the F60 but a significant departure."

Ferrari launches new F10 car in Maranello

2010-01-28T17:02:00.001-04:00

Ferrari launches new F10 car in Maranello | Ferrari | Formula 1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1: "Ferrari became the first team to launch its 2010 car, unveiling its new F10 challenger in Maranello on Thursday morning.

The car was due to get its first run on Ferrari's Fiorano test track the same afternoon, but this was called off due to the track being covered in ice. After a lacklustre performance last year, which saw the team score just one victory, it decided to scrap the development of its 2009 car mid-season and focus on the F10."

Schumacher wanted to drive for Ferrari - Luca di Montezemolo

2010-01-28T17:01:00.001-04:00

Schumacher wanted to drive for Ferrari - Luca di Montezemolo | Ferrari | Formula 1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1: "The team asked Schumacher to replace the injured Felipe Massa last year, but the seven-time champion had to decline the offer due to a neck injury. Di Montezemolo claims it was this that sparked Schumacher's interest in an F1 comeback and that he would have chosen Ferrari over Mercedes if it had been possible. Labelling Schumacher's switch as a 'misdeed', di Montezemolo added that he was not concerned about Schumacher taking any technical information from Ferrari to his new team."

Schumacher could stay in F1 after his three-year contract runs out

2010-01-27T16:44:00.001-04:00

Schumacher could stay in F1 after his three-year contract runs out | Mercedes | Formula 1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1: "He will make his return to Formula One this year, after signing a deal to race until the end of 2012 with the German team. He has admitted that it might take some time before he is back at his best, and told German newspaper Bild that he might stay in F1 beyond the length of his current contract."

All smiles so far for Rosberg and Schumacher at Mercedes

2010-01-26T17:14:00.001-04:00

All smiles so far for Rosberg and Schumacher at Mercedes - Action Shots - Photographs - F1 | ITV Sport: "All smiles so far for Rosberg and Schumacher at Mercedes"

Schumacher snaps at media

2010-01-26T17:12:00.001-04:00

Schumacher snaps at media | Mercedes | Formula 1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1: "Questions over the manner he won his seven world championships got under the skin of Michael Schumacher at the Mercedes launch on Monday.

During the course of a media session, Schumacher was asked if he was returning to F1 to prove he could win without resorting to questionable tactics. He replied frostily: 'Ninety-one victories, seven titles, you win only in a bad way … yeah, you're right, I need to prove [myself] now.'"

Schumi eager for pre-season to begin

2010-01-21T20:13:00.001-04:00

Schumi eager for pre-season to begin - F1 | ITV Sport: "The 41-year-old legend, back on the grid this year after a three-year hiatus, prepared for his return to F1 track action next month by spending three days in a GP2 development car at Jerez, with the outing allowing him to test his fitness levels in a single-seater for the first time since last August."

Superstitious Schumacher given Nico's number

2010-01-21T20:12:00.001-04:00

Superstitious Schumacher given Nico's number | Mercedes | Formula 1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1: "Mercedes GP's first signing was Rosberg, and as such he was entered with the FIA under the No.3. This meant that Schumacher was due to take No.4, but a Mercedes spokeswoman confirmed the team and the FIA have approved the switch.

'Michael has a preference for odd numbers,' she said. 'He asked if he could be the odd number and we were happy to accept.'"

Schumacher named US driver of the decade

2010-01-18T17:35:00.001-04:00

Schumacher named US driver of the decade | Formula 1 | Formula 1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1: "In a public vote, Schumacher, the seven-times world Formula One champion, edged out Jimmie Johnson, the only man to win four consecutive NASCAR Sprint Cup championships. Moto GP legend Valentino Rossi was third with Sebastien Loeb, the winner of six consecutive World Rally championships, in fourth."

Michael Schumacher Driving Style

2010-01-14T19:15:00.000-04:00

Michael Schumacher Second Race Test

2010-01-14T18:48:00.000-04:00

Michael Schumacher's First Race Test - On Track

2010-01-14T18:43:00.000-04:00

Alonso: Schu return is extra motivation

2010-01-14T16:41:00.001-04:00

Alonso: Schu return is extra motivation - F1 | ITV Sport: "Fernando Alonso has admitted the return of old title rival Michael Schumacher has created an extra source of motivation for him ahead of the new season, as he attempts to follow in the legend’s footsteps at Ferrari."

Schumacher wraps up GP2 test

2010-01-14T16:40:00.001-04:00

Schumacher wraps up GP2 test | Mercedes | Formula 1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1: "'I could really drive a lot on this last day of testing and it worked out perfectly,' he said. 'I am very happy with the way testing went here: we worked well, times and consistency went well, we could do everything we had scheduled to do. I feel fit, I felt comfortable immediately back in the car - hey, let's go for it!'"

Ferrari launch date announced

2010-01-13T16:28:00.001-04:00

Ferrari launch date announced | Ferrari | Formula 1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1: "Ferrari will launch its new car at its Maranello base on January 28.

The car will be known as the 281 and the team is launching it in time for the first F1 test of 2010 at Valencia's Ricardo Tormo circuit on February 1. Felipe Massa, who is currently relaxing with his new team-mate Fernando Alonso at a Ferrari media event in the Italian Dolomites, will be the first to drive the car."

Schu encouraged despite rain-hit test

2010-01-12T17:12:00.001-04:00

Schu encouraged despite rain-hit test - F1 | ITV Sport: "With the returning seven-time champion unable to get back in F1 machiney until the testing ban is lifted at the start of February, his new team Mercedes GP managed to get permission from the FIA for the 41-year-old to carry out three days worth of track testing in the GP2 Series’s next-generation car at Jerez this week."

Mercedes hunger impresses Schu

2010-01-11T16:32:00.001-04:00

Mercedes hunger impresses Schu - F1 | ITV Sport: "After spending two days at the team’s Northamptonshire base this week, the seven-time champion was buoyed by the vibe he picked up.

“I have been in the factory in Brackley now for two days and spent the time to get to know the engineers and the structures a bit better, and I am extremely positively surprised about how motivated everybody is,” he wrote on his website."

Schumacher to test GP2 car

2010-01-11T16:31:00.001-04:00

Schumacher to test GP2 car | Mercedes | Formula 1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1: "Reports in the newspapers Blick and Bild reveal that, despite the current F1 testing ban, the FIA has approved the test which will take place between Tuesday and Thursday this week. Schumacher hasn't driven a high-powered single seater since testing a two-year-old Ferrari F1 car ahead of his aborted return to the sport last season. He is now set to make a comeback with Mercedes and visited the factory last week to check on his new team's preparations. Bild said the GP2 car will be provided by the British team Super Nova."

Schumacher sells kart track to brother Ralf

2010-01-09T15:52:00.001-04:00

Motorsport.com: News channel: "Michael Schumacher has reportedly sold his kart track at his birthplace Kerpen to his younger brother Ralf.

Germany's Sport Bild reports that the name of the venue will however remain 'Michael Schumacher Kart and Event Center'."

US F1 set for first test in Alabama

2010-01-09T09:13:00.001-04:00

US F1 set for first test in Alabama - F1 | ITV Sport: "The new US F1 team will test its 2010 car for the first time at a circuit in Alabama at the start of next month, its sporting director Peter Windsor has revealed."

Mansell: Age no barrier for Schumi

2010-01-09T09:12:00.000-04:00

Mansell: Age no barrier for Schumi - F1 | ITV Sport: "Mansell is confident that Schumacher's comeback will be a great success - largely because he will be reunited with Ross Brawn at Mercedes.

'He has been presented with a wonderful opportunity: he's back with Ross Brawn and with the team that has just won both the drivers' and constructors' championships,' said Mansell.

'If the package is right, there will be no problems with motivation."

Hamilton excited by Schumacher return

2009-12-24T11:32:00.000-04:00

Hamilton excited by Schumacher return - F1 | ITV Sport: "Lewis Hamilton has hailed Michael Schumacher’s return to Formula 1 as “brilliant news” and is looking forward to competing against him for the first time.

Hamilton joined the F1 grid in 2007, the year after Schumacher retired, so – like several of F1’s younger generation of drivers – has never raced against the seven-time world champion."

Bernie Ecclestone tips Michael Schumacher for the title

2009-12-24T11:30:00.000-04:00

Bernie Ecclestone tips Michael Schumacher for the title | Mercedes | F1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1: "'Forget about winning races - I have him on my bill for winning the championship,' Ecclestone said. 'He will be of immense value for the team to push the development of the car. We have all seen in the past that he was never satisfied unless the car was in perfect condition. With his drive for the optimum and his deep technical understanding he will save the team precious time. Nico Rosberg will be the one who will directly benefit from all this.'"

Corinna Supports Michael's Decision

2009-12-24T11:08:00.001-04:00

Michael Schumacher - Official Website - presented by Motorsport-Magazin.com: "'It's true that Michael's decision to compete in Formula One races again is very unexpectedly turning our family life upside down. When he told me that Ross had called, however, I immediately felt that he was on fire again. As a matter of fact, Michael's passion for racing is enormous and without this deep passion all that would not have been possible. This passion made Michael who he is today."

Schu confirms F1 return with Mercedes

2009-12-23T08:11:00.001-04:00

Schu confirms F1 return with Mercedes - F1 | ITV Sport: "After speculation reached fever pitch in recent days, the comeback plan was confirmed in a press conference at the team’s factory on Wednesday morning.

The deal reunites the German with Ross Brawn, the man who masterminded all seven of his world titles with Benetton and Ferrari and who runs Mercedes GP having saved the Brackley-based squad from closure in a management buyout last winter."

Schumacher is 'super-fit' - manager

2009-12-22T17:19:00.000-04:00

Motorsport.com: News channel: "A recent medical check with his sports doctor Johannes Peil showed Michael Schumacher to be in a high state of health, the German's manager Willi Weber has revealed.

Intense rumours suggest the seven time world champion is on the cusp of announcing his return to the grid next year with Mercedes GP."

Michael Schumacher fit to race in 2010

2009-12-21T20:08:00.001-04:00

Michael Schumacher fit to race in 2010 | Formula 1 | F1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1: "However, his return now appears to be set after his manager Willi Weber told the Cologne newspaper Express that his driver is 'super-fit' and that the 40-year-old's doctor is pleased with his progress."

Ferrari boss had concerns over Alonso

2009-12-19T18:56:00.001-04:00

Ferrari boss had concerns over Alonso | Ferrari | F1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1: "'I spoke about [his doubts] with [Stefano] Domenicali maybe 1,000 times, not 100, 1,000 times, and I spoke with Alonso. I told him: 'If you come to drive for us, you drive for a team, you drive for a group, you don't drive for yourself. If you want a team, then you do your own team, fantastic, like John Surtees . In Ferrari we want to put you in the best condition to win. If not, we will never hire you'.'"

Schumacher comeback almost certain says Ferrari boss

2009-12-19T18:55:00.001-04:00

Schumacher comeback almost certain says Ferrari boss | Ferrari | F1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1: "Betraying signs of bitterness at the possibility of Schumacher severing his long-standing links with Ferrari for the first time, di Montezemolo indicated he did not understand the logic of his return. 'There must be another one who looks like him. He is German, has the same name, same age, 40 or 41, and has decided to try again. I like this person but he is another Michael. The one I know confirmed to me he would finish his career at Ferrari."

Bernie: Schumacher return looks likely

2009-12-17T15:26:00.001-04:00

Bernie: Schumacher return looks likely - F1 | ITV Sport: "Bernie Ecclestone says he would “be surprised” if Michael Schumacher isn’t now on the grid with Mercedes in 2010, as speculation surrounding a comeback for the German legend continues to gather pace."

Ferrari would allow Schumi switch

2009-12-15T16:59:00.001-04:00

Ferrari would allow Schumi switch - F1 | ITV Sport: "And while neither the Schumacher camp nor Mercedes have failed to either confirm or deny the growing rumours, any return for the German legend with Mercedes would mean he would have to cut his official ties with Ferrari after 14 fruitful years – the 40-year-old having continued to act as an advisor to its F1 and road car programmes since retiring at the end of 2006."

Fry hints Schumacher return is on

2009-12-15T16:57:00.001-04:00

Fry hints Schumacher return is on | Mercedes | F1 news, live F1 | ESPN F1: "Speculation that Michael Schumacher will return to Formula One hit its highest point yet after Mercedes CEO Nick Fry hinted Schumacher was at the top of his list to partner Nico Rosberg at the German team.

Schumacher has been linked to a race drive at Mercedes for 2010 with some sections of the German press saying that a deal is all but signed. On Monday Ferrari President Luca di Montezemolo said that Schumacher was free from his Ferrari contract to seek a drive elsewhere, meaning only the German's neck injury - which ruled him out of a return in 2009 - could prevent him from making a comeback."

Schu's manager hints at Christmas delay

2009-12-09T16:31:00.001-04:00

F1 : Schu's manager hints at Christmas delay - SCHUMACHER - F1-Live.com: "The seven-time World Champion's long-time manager Willi Weber was scheduled to meet on Monday with Schumacher in Stuttgart, although he insisted the location has nothing to do with the proximity of the Mercedes/Daimler headquarters.

But afterwards, Weber said 'I don't know yet' when asked by the Cologne publication Express for more information about Schumacher's plans for next year."

Schumacher/Mercedes rumours continue to grow

2009-12-08T16:35:00.001-04:00

F1 : Schumacher/Mercedes rumours continue to grow - SCHUMACHER - F1-Live.com: "In the absence of a clear denial or an official announcement, speculation that Michael Schumacher is planning to return to F1 next year with Mercedes GP continues to grow.

The 40-year-old seven-time World Champion's father Rolf told the Cologne newspaper Express: 'Michael is training every day like crazy. He's not doing that for nothing.'"

Massa becomes a father

2009-12-02T16:40:00.001-04:00

Ferrari sent its congratulations to the Massa family from the young driver test at Jerez, with team members gathering around a sign that read ‘Benvenuto piccolo Felipe’ (‘Welcome little Felipe’).

Weber keeping the Schumacher rumours alive

2009-11-25T18:04:00.001-04:00

F1 : Weber keeping the Schumacher rumours alive - SCHUMACHER - F1-Live.com: "Weber told the German weekly Bunte that, after the German had to call off his 2009 return to replace the injured Felipe Massa for health reasons, Schumacher is now fit.

'His neck is also completely fine, just like his entire psyche,' Weber said. 'He could drive for victories.'"

Brawn dismisses Schumacher speculation

2009-11-23T19:22:00.001-04:00

F1 : Brawn dismisses Schumacher speculation - MERCEDES - F1-Live.com: "Ross Brawn has shot down intensifying speculation that Michael Schumacher is set to return to Formula One in 2010.

Brawn, who was Ferrari's technical director throughout Schumacher's ultra-successful career with the Italian team, is now the team principal of Mercedes Grand Prix."

Raikkonen to sit out 2010 season

2009-11-18T16:58:00.001-04:00

F1 : Raikkonen to sit out 2010 season - RAIKKONEN - F1-Live.com: "Kimi Raikkonen will be absent from the Formula One grid next season, his manager Steve Robertson announced to the Finnish newspaper Turun Sanomat late on Tuesday."

Button signs with McLaren

2009-11-18T16:57:00.000-04:00

F1 : Button signs with McLaren - BUTTON - F1-Live.com: "McLaren Mercedes has signed Jenson Button to replace Heikki Kovalainen and partner Lewis Hamilton next season. The multi-year deal means that the Woking-based team will retain the number ‘1’ next season having secured the services of the current world champion."

A change in role for Schumacher?

2009-11-16T19:38:00.001-04:00

F1 : A change in role for Schumacher? - SCHUMACHER - F1-Live.com: "It remains to be seen if the apparent change in Schumacher's duties has anything to do with a possible function within the FIA.

When former Ferrari Team Principal Jean Todt was elected President of the sport's governing body a few weeks ago, the Frenchman had indicated that the German would always have a place at his side."

Mercedes take over Brawn GP

2009-11-16T19:36:00.001-04:00

F1 : Mercedes take over Brawn GP - MERCEDES - F1-Live.com: "Confirming rumours that had been in the air for several weeks, Mercedes-Benz parent company Daimler AG announced on Monday that together with Aabar Investments, it will be taking over a 75.1% joint stake in this year's championship-winning team, Brawn GP. The transaction is pending the approval of the relevant European authorities."

Button ups the ante with McLaren visit

2009-11-14T18:24:00.001-04:00

Button ups the ante with McLaren visit - F1 | ITV Sport: "The saga over Jenson Button's future plans has taken a new twist after the world champion reportedly paid a visit to McLaren's headquarters yesterday."

Massa unconcerned over Alonso arrival

2009-11-12T16:39:00.001-04:00

F1 : Massa unconcerned over Alonso arrival - MASSA - F1-Live.com: "Felipe Massa insists he is not worried that Fernando Alonso is set to arrive at Ferrari and dominate the team.

He told Brazil's Jovem Pan FM radio that while he considers Alonso a 'great driver' and 'one of the best in Formula One', he is not worried about having to play second fiddle."

Domenicali: Stars of '09 won't fade

2009-11-09T16:46:00.001-04:00

Domenicali: Stars of '09 won't fade - F1 | ITV Sport: "Ferrari team boss Stefano Domenicali has no doubt that this year's title rivals Brawn and Red Bull will remain part of the championship fight in 2010.

While Brawn and Red Bull battled it out at the front, habitual championship combatants McLaren and Ferrari were left to squabble over third place in the constructors' standings this year."

F1 : Raikkonen eyes lucrative sabbatical in 2010 - RAIKKONEN - F1-Live.com

2009-11-09T16:45:00.001-04:00

F1 : Raikkonen eyes lucrative sabbatical in 2010 - RAIKKONEN - F1-Live.com: "Kimi Raikkonen stands to make more money in 2010 if he takes a sabbatical. Germany's Auto Motor und Sport reports that if the Finn accepts McLaren's current offer, he will earn €15m in 2010, as opposed to €17m if he has a season on the sidelines."

Montezemolo still championing third cars

2009-11-09T16:44:00.001-04:00

F1 : Montezemolo still championing third cars - FERRARI - F1-Live.com: "Ferrari is still pushing hard to arrange a third car for Michael Schumacher to race next year.

With BMW and Toyota now departed, Renault thinking about following suit and the famous Italian team scornful of the sport's new entrants, Luca di Montezemolo has renewed his campaign to have the rules changed."

First day at Ferrari for Alonso

2009-11-09T16:43:00.001-04:00

F1 : First day at Ferrari for Alonso - ALONSO - F1-Live.com: "Fernando Alonso spent his Friday getting acquainted with Ferrari, arriving at 8am for the first of several meetings at the Italian team's Maranello headquarters."

Alonso bullish on Ferrari move

2009-11-09T16:42:00.001-04:00

F1 : Alonso bullish on Ferrari move - ALONSO - F1-Live.com: "Racing with Ferrari is close to a 'guarantee' of success in Formula One, according to the Italian team's new driver Fernando Alonso.

After winning back to back titles in 2005 and 2006, and squabbling with McLaren in 2007, the Spaniard was unable to challenge for the title with Renault in 2008 and 2009."

Vettel and Schumacher take RoC Nations Cup

2009-11-03T17:02:00.001-04:00

F1 : Vettel and Schumacher take RoC Nations Cup - VETTEL - F1-Live.com: "Abu Dhabi Grand Prix winner Sebastian Vettel and seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher, have claimed their third consecutive Race of Champions Nations Cup for Team Germany."

Vettel leads Red Bull 1-2 in finale

2009-11-01T15:19:00.001-04:00

Vettel leads Red Bull 1-2 in finale - F1 | ITV Sport: "Sebastian Vettel scored a resounding fourth victory of the 2009 campaign – clinching the runner-up position in the drivers’ championship in the process – in the Abu Dhabi finale, leading home Mark Webber in a Red Bull 1-2."

Raikkonen all set for final Ferrari start

2009-10-26T17:38:00.001-03:00

F1 : Raikkonen all set for final Ferrari start - RAIKKONEN - F1-Live.com: "Kimi Raikkonen will make his final start as a Ferrari driver this Sunday in Abu Dhabi as the team and rivals McLaren Mercedes battle over third position in the constructors’ championship. Raikkonen, who has yet to conclude a deal to race next season, is keen to end what has been a difficult season on a positive note."

Canadian GP confirmation on the way

2009-10-21T16:48:00.001-03:00

F1 : Canadian GP confirmation on the way - Montreal - F1-Live.com: "Montreal daily La Presse reported on Wednesday that the fiscal issues standing in the way of the Canadian Grand Prix have been settled, thereby green-lighting an official announcement which may come this week."

Raikkonen's pay demands too high for Toyota

2009-10-21T16:47:00.001-03:00

F1 : Raikkonen's pay demands too high for Toyota - TOYOTA - F1-Live.com: "Toyota will not reach a deal with Kimi Raikkonen for next season unless he drops his pay demands, team president John Howett insists."

More than pride on the line for McLaren and Ferrari

2009-10-20T16:45:00.001-03:00

F1 : More than pride on the line for McLaren and Ferrari - ABU_DHABI - F1-Live.com: "Some five million US dollars are reportedly up for grabs as F1 grandees Ferrari and McLaren contest third place in the constructors' world championship at the Abu Dhabi finale next weekend. McLaren moved ahead of Ferrari in Brazil and now hold a one point advantage."

Ferrari primed for big fight over third

2009-10-19T18:27:00.001-03:00

Ferrari primed for big fight over third - F1 | ITV Sport: "Ferrari boss Stefano Domenicali says the battle for third place in the constructors' championship with McLaren remains wide open despite the Italian team being unable to capitalise on its qualifying advantage in Brazil.

McLaren has had the faster car of late and has been steadily closing the points gap on its long-time adversary."

Paris court confirms Briatore action to begin

2009-10-19T18:24:00.000-03:00

F1 : Paris court confirms Briatore action to begin - Briatore - F1-Live.com: "The Crash-gate saga has not yet come to its conclusion, as Flavio Briatore's threat of legal action against the FIA was not an idle one with a spokesman for the Tribunal de Grande Instance in Paris on Monday confirming that papers have been filed."

Vettel blames loss of title on mistakes

2009-10-19T18:23:00.001-03:00

F1 : Vettel blames loss of title on mistakes - VETTEL - F1-Live.com: "Close to tears as his 2009 championship challenge ended, Sebastian Vettel admitted that mistakes marred his push for Formula One's biggest prize.

Even an impressive run through the field from 16th to fourth at Interlagos - ahead of the new World Champion Jenson Button - could not keep the 22-year-old in the fight as the sport presses ahead to its Abu Dhabi finale in two weeks."

Jenson Button – 2009 world champion!

2009-10-19T18:20:00.001-03:00

F1 : Jenson Button – 2009 world champion! - BUTTON - F1-Live.com: "Jenson Button has joined the elite group of race drivers to have won the world championship. His fifth position in Sunday’s Brazilian Grand Prix was enough to clinch the title from Sebastian Vettel and Rubens Barrichello."

Alonso involved in crash-gate Massa insists

2009-10-15T17:36:00.001-03:00

F1 : Alonso involved in crash-gate Massa insists - ALONSO - F1-Live.com: "Felipe Massa again risked tainting his forthcoming partnership with Fernando Alonso, reiterating that the Spaniard must have known about Nelson Piquet's deliberate crash in Singapore last year.

'Without a doubt he knew it,' Massa told a group of journalists in Sao Paulo on Wednesday. “There is no way he couldn't know it. I'm certain.”"

Schu: Todt wouldn't continue old regime

2009-10-14T16:33:00.001-03:00

Schu: Todt wouldn't continue old regime - F1 | ITV Sport: "Michael Schumacher has outlined why he feels Jean Todt is the best candidate to become the next FIA president in a letter to the FIA membership, stressing the Frenchman would not simply oversee a continuation of Max Mosley’s regime."

McLaren pushing to beat long-time rivals Ferrari

2009-10-14T16:32:00.001-03:00

F1 : McLaren pushing to beat long-time rivals Ferrari - MCLAREN - F1-Live.com: "Ferrari is two points clear from McLaren Mercedes while Toyota are nine and a half points back in fourth position. For McLaren, the final step on the metaphorical championship podium remains a key objective ahead of the final two round of the season."

Schumi: Vettel can still win title

2009-10-13T16:27:00.001-03:00

Schumi: Vettel can still win title - F1 | ITV Sport: "Seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher is rooting for Sebastian Vettel to win this year’s title, and insists his German countryman still has a genuine chance despite his 16-point deficit to Jenson Button."

Massa back behind the wheel

2009-10-13T16:24:00.001-03:00

F1 : Massa back behind the wheel - MASSA - F1-Live.com: "Having spent 79 days recovering from life-threatening head injuries sustained in Hungary, Felipe Massa on Monday morning returned to the wheel of a Formula One car at Fiorano."

Massa admits Abu Dhabi return chances 'low'

2009-10-09T16:18:00.001-03:00

F1 : Massa admits Abu Dhabi return chances 'low' - MASSA - F1-Live.com: "Felipe Massa on Thursday said there is a 'really, really low' chance he could be back up to speed in time for the season finale in Abu Dhabi in three weeks."

Ferrari not committed to F1 beyond 2012

2009-10-08T16:30:00.001-03:00

F1 : Ferrari not committed to F1 beyond 2012 - FERRARI - F1-Live.com: "The head of Formula One's most historically committed team has hinted that it might reconsider its loyalty to the FIA-sanctioned series."

Massa to wave chequered flag for Brazilian GP

2009-10-08T16:29:00.001-03:00

F1 : Massa to wave chequered flag for Brazilian GP - MASSA - F1-Live.com: "Felipe Massa will wave the chequered flag at the end of his home round, the Brazilian Grand Prix.

The Paulista is now back in training after recovering from his serious head injuries sustained in July's Hungaroring qualifying, but his return behind the wheel of a Ferrari at the Interlagos track has been ruled out."

Ferrari appoints new engine chief

2009-10-06T16:51:00.001-03:00

Ferrari appoints new engine chief - F1 | ITV Sport: "Ferrari has appointed 48-year-old Italian Luca Marmorini as head of its engine and electronics department, replacing Gilles Simon."

Ferrari still pushing for third car option

2009-10-06T16:50:00.001-03:00

F1 : Ferrari still pushing for third car option - FERRARI - F1-Live.com: "Stefano Domenicali on Sunday admitted Ferrari is still pushing hard to arrange a third car for Michael Schumacher to race next year.

'A third car for us is still a big topic,' the team's boss told Germany's Bild am Sonntag newspaper. 'We are pushing because we believe that it makes sense, especially for someone like Michael Schumacher.'"

Teams pushing for North American return

2009-10-06T16:49:00.001-03:00

F1 : Teams pushing for North American return - FOTA - F1-Live.com: "'There shouldn't be any doubts about Montreal,' said Whitmarsh regarding Canada. 'North America is a big market. In the past we've messed around with North America so much that we should go there for free if necessary.'"

Massa to test aboard the F2007 next week

2009-10-06T16:47:00.001-03:00

F1 : Massa to test aboard the F2007 next week - MASSA - F1-Live.com: "Last weekend at Suzuka, the stewards gave permission for Massa to soon test the F2007 at Fiorano in Italy. In a media statement issued today, Williams indicated that the session will take place next Monday - although Ferrari has yet to confirm.

'I would like to wish Felipe well with his return to a Formula One car next week,' said Frank Williams."

Raikkonen wants 2010 contract by season's end

2009-10-06T16:46:00.001-03:00

F1 : Raikkonen wants 2010 contract by season's end - RAIKKONEN - F1-Live.com: "Kimi Raikkonen's manager has revealed he is seeking a signature on a 2010 contract for the Finn by the time F1 disbands for the season in Abu Dhabi early next month."

Michael: Welcome, Fernando!

2009-10-01T17:21:00.000-03:00

Michael Schumacher - Official Website - presented by Motorsport-Magazin.com: "Fernando with Ferrari, that's something I like a lot. I was involved from the very beginning in this decision, and I always liked the idea. I am sure Fernando will feel well with us, and I can only say: Welcome, Fernando!"

No concerns about Massa for 2010

2009-10-01T17:19:00.001-03:00

No concerns about Massa for 2010 - F1 | ITV Sport: "Ferrari has no concerns whatsoever about putting its 2010 driver line-up in place before Felipe Massa has received medical clearance to return next year, according to team boss Stefano Domenicali."

Formula One returns to Suzuka

2009-10-01T17:18:00.001-03:00

F1 : Formula One returns to Suzuka - F1 - F1-Live.com: "With the championship very much on the line, the Japanese Grand Prix will be critical for both leader Jenson Button and Brawn Mercedes team-mate Rubens Barrichello. Sebastian Vettel meanwhile still has a mathematical chance of becoming champion, while Brawn Mercedes can clinch the constructors' championship.

As ever, the drivers are all optimistic ahead of the 53-lap grand prix with weather forecasts predicting rain on Friday."

Raikkonen's services in demand

2009-10-01T17:16:00.001-03:00

F1 : Raikkonen's services in demand - RAIKKONEN - F1-Live.com: "'Several teams are interested in Kimi and are talking with him,' Steve Robertson is quoted as saying by the Finnish broadcaster MTV3. 'McLaren is one of his options.”

Speaking from Suzuka, Raikkonen made his plans clear: 'I'm not going to go to a small team, my only aim is to have a chance with a team that can fight for the world championship. Otherwise there is no point of staying in F1.'"

Raikkonen unsure on his 2010 plans

2009-10-01T17:15:00.001-03:00

F1 : Raikkonen unsure on his 2010 plans - RAIKKONEN - F1-Live.com: "After agreeing to forgo his 2010 contract with Ferrari, Kimi Raikkonen is on the move and widely expected to return to his team of 2002-2006, McLaren.

However, speaking with reporters at Suzuka on Thursday, he would not even confirm that he will be in Formula One next year."

Ferrari scoffs at rumoured cost of Alonso deal

2009-09-30T17:10:00.001-03:00

F1 : Ferrari scoffs at rumoured cost of Alonso deal - FERRARI - F1-Live.com: "Ferrari has denied media reports about the impressive terms of Fernando Alonso's new contract.

Some Spanish reports this week suggested that the 28-year-old double World Champion will earn 25m euros per year, which is less than the retainer enjoyed since 2007 by the man he replaces, Kimi Raikkonen."

Alonso signs three-year Ferrari deal

2009-09-30T17:09:00.001-03:00

F1 : Alonso signs three-year Ferrari deal - FERRARI - F1-Live.com: "Today Ferrari has announced a three-year deal starting next season with 2005 and 2006 World Champion Fernando Alonso. The confirmation of such an agreement has been widely expected for several weeks.

Kimi Raikkonen, although his contract covered the 2010 season, will no longer be a Ferrari driver."

Alonso could earn 150m euros at Ferrari

2009-09-29T16:35:00.001-03:00

F1 : Alonso could earn 150m euros at Ferrari - ALONSO - F1-Live.com: "Fernando Alonso's new Ferrari contract could see him race for the famous Italian team until the end of the 2015 season and earn him 150 million euros, according to reports on Tuesday in the Spanish press."

Massa tests kart in Brazil

2009-09-29T16:34:00.001-03:00

F1 : Massa tests kart in Brazil - MASSA - F1-Live.com: "Felipe Massa this week returned to a race track for the first time since sustaining serious head injuries at the Hungaroring in July.

The Ferrari driver drove a competitive go-kart at a circuit in Sao Paulo but stopped when it began to rain, the German news agency SID reports."

Ferrari not ruling out early Massa return

2009-09-28T16:50:00.001-03:00

Ferrari not ruling out early Massa return - F1 | ITV Sport: "Stefano Domenicali has refused to totally rule out the possibility of Felipe Massa making a surprise return to Formula 1 before the end of the season – although he stressed that Ferrari won’t be taking any risks with the Brazilian’s fitness."

Ferrari to announce Alonso ahead of Suzuka

2009-09-28T16:48:00.001-03:00

F1 : Ferrari to announce Alonso ahead of Suzuka - FERRARI - F1-Live.com: "Fernando Alonso will this week be confirmed as a Ferrari driver for 2010 and beyond, according to reports.

Auto Motor und Sport claims the deal will be announced by the Italian team on Thursday at the Suzuka circuit in Japan."

McLaren preparing the ground for Raikkonen

2009-09-28T16:47:00.001-03:00

F1 : McLaren preparing the ground for Raikkonen - MCLAREN - F1-Live.com: "McLaren are refusing to directly confirm that Kimi Raikkonen is set to return next year, but team members are dropping lots of hints."

Button on the brink?

2009-09-28T16:45:00.001-03:00

Jenson Button’s five wins from the first seven races of the championship gave the Brawn Mercedes racer a huge early advantage in the championship standings. While more recent races have not gone the way of the British driver, he heads to Suzuka this week with a statistical chance of wrapping up the championship with two rounds remaining.

Ferrari says drivers did their best

2009-09-27T16:42:00.001-03:00

Ferrari says drivers did their best - F1 | ITV Sport: "Ferrari boss Stefano Domenicali said drivers Kimi Raikkonen and Giancarlo Fisichella were not to blame for the team's awful performance in the Singapore Grand Prix.

The duo qualified 13th and 18th, and finished 10th and 13th, having spent the whole race in midfield traffic jams."

Renault admits Alonso will be missed...

2009-09-27T16:41:00.001-03:00

F1 : Renault admits Alonso will be missed... - ALONSO - F1-Live.com: "The only thing now missing from Fernando Alonso's move to Ferrari for next season is the official press release.

As the speculation steadily becomes fact, Renault's new managing director Jean-Francois Caubet on Sunday all but confirmed that the 27-year-old Spaniard is now set to depart the French-owned team.

'We will miss him but he will miss us,' he told French television TF1 in Singapore."

Penalties give Hamilton an easy ride in Singapore

2009-09-27T16:40:00.001-03:00

F1 : Penalties give Hamilton an easy ride in Singapore - SINGAPOUR - F1-Live.com: "Lewis Hamilton dominated the 61 lap Singapore Grand Prix to take the chequered flag ten seconds clear of Timo Glock on a day when his main race rivals eliminated themselves from contention after making mistakes."

Santander to pave the way for Raikkonen move?

2009-09-26T20:08:00.001-03:00

F1 : Santander to pave the way for Raikkonen move? - RAIKKONEN - F1-Live.com: "Ferrari team boss Stefano Domenicali, who has Raikkonen under contract for 2010, on Friday admitted that 'the situation has changed... in the last couple of days'.

At the same time, Alonso revealed that he has made his mind up about his plans for next year, while the Raikkonen camp admitted that contracts can be broken.

Sport Bild now reports that mutual team sponsor Santander, keen to make room at Ferrari for Alonso, has agreed to pay McLaren €25m if it will give Raikkonen a race seat next year."

Barrichello shunts as Hamilton take Singapore pole!

2009-09-26T20:00:00.001-03:00

F1 : Barrichello shunts as Hamilton take Singapore pole! - SINGAPOUR - F1-Live.com: "Lewis Hamilton claimed pole position for the Singapore Grand Prix on his first of two scheduled runs in the final round of qualifying . Rubens Barrichello ended the session prematurely as he lost control of his Brawn Mercedes at turn five, ran wide and made contact with first the tyre retaining wall and then the concrete barrier."

Vettel leads Alonso in Singapore practice

2009-09-25T16:22:00.001-03:00

F1 : Vettel leads Alonso in Singapore practice - SINGAPOUR - F1-Live.com: "Red Bull Renault is well aware that they need to throw caution to the wind and go for wins if they are to challenge Brawn Mercedes and go for championship glory. The second practice session of the Singapore Grand Prix weekend saw Sebastian Vettel set the pace with a best lap of 1:48.650s in his Red Bull, while team-mate Mark Webber pushed too hard and crashed his RB5 and was forced to miss most of the session."

Contracts can be broken admits Raikkonen’s manager

2009-09-25T16:21:00.001-03:00

F1 : Contracts can be broken admits Raikkonen’s manager - RAIKKONEN - F1-Live.com: "The signs are increasing that Kimi Raikkonen is set to leave Ferrari after November's 2009 season finale.

The Finn remains under contract for the 2010 season, but it is believed that the Italian team would prefer Fernando Alonso to be Felipe Massa's team-mate next year."

Title sponsor ING axes Renault backing

2009-09-24T17:04:00.001-03:00

F1 : Title sponsor ING axes Renault backing - RENAULT - F1-Live.com: "Renault's title sponsor ING late on Thursday said it has terminated its contract with the French team 'with immediate effect.'

Mere hours after Spanish insurance backer Mutua Madrilena pulled its logos from the R29 for the same reason, the Dutch bank ING said it has also decided to end its association with Renault because of the Crashgate scandal."

Alonso hopes to know 2010 employer 'soon'

2009-09-24T17:03:00.001-03:00

F1 : Alonso hopes to know 2010 employer 'soon' - ALONSO - F1-Live.com: "Fernando Alonso on Thursday revealed he has made his mind up about his employer for the 2010 season, but not yet signed a contract with that team.

It is now perpetually speculated that the Renault driver will move to Ferrari next year to replace Kimi Raikkonen."

Distraught Briatore to fight back?

2009-09-22T16:27:00.001-03:00

F1 : Distraught Briatore to fight back? - Briatore - F1-Live.com: "Some sections of the media believe Monday was the end of the crash-gate scandal, but a scorned Flavio Briatore may be now readying to hit back."