Hockenheim // Back Again

The gentlemen of Formula One are headed back to Hockenheim. A nearly flat race track with little to no elevation gain, Hockenheim is a fan favorite, as the last six turns before the start/finish are known for their immense seating and visibility, and the track itself has a 120,000 spectator capacity. The last place Jim Clark drove (having crashed in a GP2 car), Hockenheim represents an interesting mix of new and old. The German Grand Prix was run here in 1970 after the drivers decided to boycott the Nururgring unless major changes were made. Drivers returned to the Nurburgring the next year, but from 1977 through 2006, Hockenheim replaced 'the ring' on the Formula One calendar. In 2007, the big guy, Bernie Ecclestone, decided that there was to be only one German Grand Prix each year, and that its location would alternate between Hockenheim and the Nurburgring. With tensions high amongst all teams, a three way tie for the top spot and the grandeur of the venue, Hockenheim looks like it could be an interesting race this year. If you missed it, be sure and check out our coverage of BMW's Procar series that will be running next weekend at Hockenheim as well. Stay tuned // 07.14.2008