10.28.2010

VIDEO // ROBERT KUBICA @ RALLY ANTIBES



In the video featured above, ride along with Formula One driver Robert Kubica as he competes in this year's Rally Antibes Côte d'Azur, the tenth round of the European Rally Championship. At the wheel of his Renault Clio Super 1600, watch as Kubica navigates the narrow roads that make up Special Stage 14 // [comment]



NEWS // DTM RACING IN U.S. CONFIRMED FOR 2013

NEWS // DTM TO VISIT SHANGHAIIt's official, Grand-Am and NASCAR will partner to bring a 12 race, U.S. based Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft (DTM) series to the states starting in 2013. The decision to pair the DTM series with Grand-Am and NASCAR makes more sense than you might think. NASCAR events draw huge crowds and the potential overlap would mean additional promotion for both the DTM series and NASCAR.

Now the real question: where will the new series find its drivers? Well, according to our sources, the U.S. based DTM series (which will consist of all three major German automakers: Mercedes-Benz, Audi and BMW) will be made up of 'satellite' teams supported by the German operations. That said, there are possibilities however for American drivers to get into DTM cars, with both NASCAR and Grand-Am racers being taken into consideration. #TedAnthonyJr. #JoeyAtterbury #AdamChristodoulou

Click here for additional information via SpeedTV // [comment]


GEAR // WILLIAMS-TOYOTA FW31 ADDED TO iRACING



Starting today, the Williams-Toyta FW31 Formula One car will be available on iRacing for $35.00, and comes bundled with the Silverstone and Zandvoort F1 circuits. Click here for additional information // [comment]


VIDEO // RED BULL DRIVES THEIR X1 AROUND THE RING

VIDEO // RED BULL DRIVES THEIR X1 AROUND THE RINGEarlier this week Red Bull unveiled their X1 Prototype, a one-off design available in Polyphony Digital's forthcoming driving simulator, Gran Turismo 5. Powered by a gas turbine that produces 1,483 horsepower and 527 lb-ft of torque, the Red Bull X1 could (theoretically) reach 249 mph. In the video featured below, watch as Sebastian Vettel tests the Red Bull X1 Prototype at the Nürburgring Grand Prix Circuit.

Follow the link for a look... [read more]



Photo and Video: Red Bull
Editorial: Justin W. Coffey


NEWS // AT&T WILLIAMS CONFIRM ABU DHABI TEST LINEUP

37594The AT&T Williams F1 team have announced that they will run Pastor Maldonado and Dean Stoneman during the young driver test days in Abu Dhabi on 16 and 17 November 2010.

Venezuelan Pastor Maldonado recently took championship honours in the 2010 GP2 series, while Briton’s Dean Stoneman took the title in this year’s FIA Formula Two Championship... [read more]

The team also confirmed that Valtteri Bottas will remain as the team’s test driver in 2011.

Frank Williams, Team Principal of the AT&T Williams team, commented, "We are delighted to have the two reigning champions of the two strongest feeder series for Formula One in the FW32 for these two test days. Valtteri fought hard for his third place in this year's Formula 3 Euroseries, taking two wins and six podiums in a very competitive year. He also set a record with his second consecutive victory in the Formula 3 Masters. He has worked hard both on and off the track and learnt a great deal. We continue to see talent, discipline and dedication and are happy to help foster that further in 2011."

Image and Info: AT&T Williams


NEWS // HORNER DEFENDS WEBBER OVER KOREAN GP CRASH

NEWS // HORNER DEFENDS WEBBER OVER KOREAN GP CRASHRed Bull team principal Christian Horner has publically defended Mark Webber over the claim by Gerhard Berger that the Australian deliberately tried to take out another competitor in the aftermath of his recent race ending Korean GP shunt. The former F1 driver had claimed that he thought Webber's actions of crossing the track with a badly damaged car were deliberate and an attempt to collide with one of the Australian's World Championship rivals namely the following Lewis Hamilton or Fernando Alonso. The 51yr old Austrian said ""Yes, I think that's very clear. He goes off and he knows it's over. In this moment you're frustrated and a thousand thoughts go through your head... [read more]

"It's very obvious, you can see his wheels are not locked up. Perhaps he had a brake problem, but I don't think so. He took out Rosberg but it was the wrong one. I think in his mind he would have preferred [his main rivals, Alonso or Hamilton."

Horner reacted angrily to the claims commenting "As with every incident in Formula One, opinions will always be made without all the facts. Just to be absolutely clear – Mark's intention was not to take out another driver after his crash in the Korean Grand Prix and it's ridiculous to suggest otherwise.

"After Mark's impact with the wall, it was clear on the TV and from the data that his car was badly damaged. However, the natural and immediate instinct of any competitive driver is not to give up and to keep going.

"In the atrocious conditions, Mark made the snap decision to continue as every driver would in that situation – it's absurd to suggest that Mark would ever deliberately take out another driver. Mark accepted immediate blame for this incident, which in itself deserves credit."

Photo/Editorial: Neil Tozer


10.27.2010

NEWS // CASWELL TO BUILD BAJA BIMMER @ SEMA

NEWS // CASWELL TO BUILD BAJA BIMMER @ SEMADIY enthusiast turned WRC racer, Bill Caswell, will join the Miller Electric Mfg. Co. at this years SEMA show in Las Vegas, Nevada, to completely overhaul his E30 BMW, transforming it into a Baja vehicle. Caswell will complete the transformation from Miller booth #23913 in the Racing and Performance pavilion, performing all of the necessary welds in just four days to prepare his car for the upcoming SCORE Baja 1000, which will take place November 17–21... [read more]

NEWS // CASWELL TO BUILD BAJA BIMMER @ SEMA“Bill’s passion for racing combined with his desire to create fits nicely with our vision of empowering auto enthusiasts through the Power of Blue,” said Tim Swanson, vice president of marketing for Miller Electric. “Rally and Baja racing requires a diverse skill set, from detailed fabrication and welding to high-speed driving. We’re looking forward to watching Bill build and race the Miller car.”

Formerly a finance banker from Chicago, Caswell left his job in 2009 to focus on rally racing. Caswell made a name for himself in March of this year by placing third in the Rally America class of Rally Mexico, an FIA-sanctioned event run concurrently with the World Rally Championship in Corona, Mexico.

Racing alongside professional cars valued at more than $400,000, Caswell (and co-driver Ben Slocum) competed in a 1991 BMW 318i that he bought off Craigslist for $500.

NEWS // CASWELL TO BUILD BAJA BIMMER @ SEMAIn November, Caswell will take his BMW to the Baja Peninsula to compete in the Sportsman class of SCORE Baja 1000.

“I grew up watching the Baja 1000 race, and actually running it has been a lifelong dream of mine,” said Caswell. “Welding is probably the most critical part of prepping the car for a Baja race, and I’m excited to finish the car and get underway.”

As part of the Baja 1000 BMW build, Caswell will fabricate the following components during the course of the SEMA trade show.

Day One: Main Roll Cage
Day Two: Front Cage and Suspension
Day Three: Rear Cage and Suspension
Day Four: Accessories including complete main cage structure, front brush guard, fuel cell, light bar, safety gear and exhaust.

To see more of Caswell’s story, and to catch live reports and updates from the show, click here.

Images and Info: Caswell Motorsport
Editorial: Justin W. Coffey


VIDEO // MOUTON PREPARES FOR THE RALLY DU MAROC



Michele Mouton, the only woman to win the World Rally Championship, recently got back behind the wheel in preparation for the Rallye International du Maroc (October 9-16). In the video featured above, watch as Michele pilots her vintage Porsche 911 and discusses her storied career, at speed // [comment]



10.26.2010

NEWS // PORSCHE UNVEILS NEW 911 GT3 CUP CAR

NEWS // PORSCHE UNVEILS NEW 911 GT3 CUP CARPorsche has just unveiled the latest iteration of the 911 GT3 Cup car. Based on the GT3 RS production car, the new Cup car is powered by a 3.8-liter flat-six with 450 horsepower, 30 more horses than the outgoing model courtesy of 200cc of added displacement. The new GT3 Cup also looks more like the RS, with an aggressive aero package and LED lighting, and will make its racing debut at the opening round of next season's Porsche Carrera Cup GB Championship.

Follow the link for the official press release... [read more]

Press Release:

NEW PORSCHE 911 GT3 CUP RACE CAR DEMONSTRATES DIRECT LINK FROM TRACK TO RS ROAD CAR

* Based on the iconic Porsche 911 GT3 RS road car, the new 911 GT3 Cup race car is powered by an identical 450 hp flat six 3.8-litre engine and shares distinctive bodywork
* The 911 GT3 Cup is latest edition of the best-selling racing car of all time – over 1,400 sold
* New car will race in the 2011 Porsche Carrera Cup GB, the UK’s fastest single marque sports car Championship

The new Porsche 911 GT3 Cup race car that will make its debut in the 2011 Porsche Carrera Cup GB Championship is the latest edition of the best-selling racing car of all time, having been built in a production series of more than 1,400 units since 1998.

The latest 911 GT3 Cup racer is based for the first time on the 911 GT3 RS road car, with the weight of the motor sport derivative reduced significantly versus the already lightweight road car. The 911 GT3 Cup is designed for racing in the many Porsche Carrera Cup Championships around the globe and the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup that supports Grands Prix, and was based previously on the 911 GT3.

As a consequence of being based on the 911 GT3 RS, this is the first 911 GT3 Cup car to feature the 44-millimetre (1.73″) wider body at the rear, which provides increased space for even larger wheels and slick tyres. Wider front wheel arches also clearly show that the front wheels/tyres are likewise bigger which, combined with other evolutionary changes, has enabled the dynamic performance of the latest car to reach new heights.

Engine capacity is up by 0.2 litres over the prior GT3 Cup car, with power output rising by 30 hp more than before. Thus the rear-mounted 3.8-litre six-cylinder horizontally-opposed power unit develops 450 hp, and drives the rear wheels through a sequential six-speed manual gearbox and limited slip differential.

Emphasising the Porsche ‘track to road’ philosophy which has guided the company since its beginnings in 1948, the power unit featured in the new 911 GT3 Cup is largely identical to the production engine in the 911 GT3 RS – and offers the same output of 450 hp and identical maximum engine speed of 8,500 rpm.

The 911 GT3 Cup race car is designed by the same team based in Weissach, near Stuttgart, Germany, responsible for the iconic Porsche 911 GT3 and RS road cars. In keeping with the lightweight, race-bred credentials that are synonymous with Porsche RS models, the road car weighs 1,370 kg. As befits its single-minded motor sport purpose, the 911 GT3 Cup race car tips the scales at 1,200 kg, resulting in even sharper performance on the circuit.

From the outside, the new 911 GT3 Cup clearly demonstrates its RS road car origins while at the same time maintaining the purposeful appearance of a race car. The striking daytime driving lights come straight from the current generation of the 911 and the front body panels are the same as on the 911 GT3 RS. However, the front spoiler lip is 15 millimetres (approx 0.6″) lower to provide significantly more downforce on the front axle.

Downforce on the rear axle is also increased by the rear wing, that is extended in width from 1.46 to 1.70 metres (57.5 to 66.9″) and now mounted higher up in a development feature reminiscent of that fitted to the even faster 911 GT3 R raced in international FIA GT3 series. The rear bumper valance with its distinctive air vent openings and LED technology rear lights, in turn, come straight from the GT3 RS road car.

The wider front wheel arches and the flared rear wheel housings provide ample space for even wider wheels. The front axle rides on three-piece light-alloy rims measuring 9.5 J x 18 (previously 9 J x 18) and running on 24/64-18 Michelin racing tyres. The width of the three-piece light-alloy rims on the rear axle have increased by one inch, and now measure 12 J x 18 with 27/68-18 tyres.

Additional Unibal joints are featured on the track control arms of the front and rear suspension to permit greater chassis adjustability, and the sword-shaped anti-roll bars fitted front and rear are now adjustable to seven different positions on both sides. Combined, this allows for an even more precise set-up of the car depending on the characteristics of the respective race track.

The cockpit of the new 911 GT3 Cup caters more than ever before for the specific needs of the race driver. An additional vent in the upper part of the front lid, for example, provides the driver with a better supply of fresh air. The controls for the Info Display are now positioned directly on the steering wheel which houses a total of six switches that control a variety of functions including the pit-lane speed limiter, windscreen wipers, and lights. In addition to fore-and-aft adjustment, the steering wheel may now also be adjusted for height, as on the 911 road car.

The new Porsche 911 GT3 Cup costs £94,600 plus VAT and deliveries to customers will begin in early 2011. Next season it will be raced not only in the Porsche Carrera Cup GB, but also in the Porsche Mobil1 Supercup on the occasion of Formula 1 races and many other Cup Championships around the world.


Image and Info: Porsche
Editorial: Justin W. Coffey


VIDEO // FINAL LAPS OF 2010 GOLD COAST 600



Watch as Jamie Whincup tries to hold off rookie driver Shane Van Ginsbergern during the closing laps of last weekends Gold Coast 600, the 11th round of the 2010 V8 Supercar Championship // [comment]


10.25.2010

VIDEO // THREE WHEELS AND ALFA ROMEO'S GTA JUNIOR



I'm not entirely sure when or where this video was taken (the description on YouTube appears to be in Greek), but what I can tell you is that it features the Alfa Romeo GTA Junior and a bit of three wheel action as our favorite Italian does battle with a handful of other classic sports cars, to include the Alpine A110, Ford Escort and BMW 2002. If anyone knows the source of this footage, do share // [comment]


2010 KOREAN GRAND PRIX // RACE RESULTS

2010 KOREAN GRAND PRIX // RACE RESULTSOn Sunday, Fernando Alonso collected his fifth victory of the 2010 season, finishing the inaugural Korean Grand Prix ahead of Lewis Hamilton and his Ferrari teammate, Felipe Massa. The rain soaked grand prix, held at the new Korea International Circuit, started under caution and did not go green until 17 laps had been run behind the safety car. Disaster struck the Red Bull team after just two green flag laps, when Mark Webber lost control of his RB6 and collided with Nico Rosberg. That brought the safety car out once more and allowed Alonso to slot into second behind Vettel, and Hamilton to take third ahead of Felipe Massa.

The top three continued in that order until Vettel's RB6 came to a stop on the approach to turn three, and for the second time this season the young German was robbed of a likely win due to a car failure. In the closing stages of the race tire wear came into play. Alonso seemed to have looked after his tires and by the end of the race was lapping the 3.49 mile circuit some four seconds per lap faster than the cars behind. Shortly thereafter Alonso brought his F10 around the final lap to win the inaugural Korean Grand Prix and claim 25 points on a day when both Red Bull drivers failed to score.

Follow the link for complete results... [read more]

2010 Korean Grand Prix // Race Result:

1 Fernando Alonso Ferrari 55
2 Lewis Hamilton McLaren-Mercedes 55 14.999 14.999
3 Felipe Massa Ferrari 55 30.868 15.869
4 Michael Schumacher Mercedes 55 39.688 8.820
5 Robert Kubica Renault 55 47.734 8.046
6 Vitantonio Liuzzi Force India-Mercedes 55 53.571 5.837
7 Rubens Barrichello Williams-Cosworth 55 69.257 15.686
8 Kamui Kobayashi Sauber-Ferrari 55 77.889 8.632
9 Nick Heidfeld Sauber-Ferrari 55 80.107 2.218
10 Nico Hülkenberg Williams-Cosworth 55 80.851 0.744
11 Jaime Alguersuari Toro Rosso-Ferrari 55 84.146 3.295
12 Jenson Button McLaren-Mercedes 55 89.939 5.793
13 Heikki Kovalainen Lotus-Cosworth 54 1 lap 1 lap
14 Bruno Senna HRT-Cosworth 53 2 laps 1 lap
15 Sakon Yamamoto HRT-Cosworth 53 2 laps 17.333

DNF:

14 Adrian Sutil Force India-Mercedes 46 9 laps 7 laps
5 Sebastian Vettel Red Bull-Renault 45 10 laps 1 lap
12 Vitaly Petrov Renault 39 16 laps 6 laps
24 Timo Glock Virgin-Cosworth 31 24 laps 8 laps
16 Sebastien Buemi Toro Rosso-Ferrari 30 25 laps 1 lap
25 Lucas di Grassi Virgin-Cosworth 25 30 laps 5 laps
18 Jarno Trulli Lotus-Cosworth 25 30 laps 153.453
6 Mark Webber Red Bull-Renault 18 37 laps 7 laps
4 Nico Rosberg Mercedes 18 37 laps 2.487

Drivers’ Championship:

1 Fernando Alonso 231
2 Mark Webber 220
3 Lewis Hamilton 210
4 Sebastian Vettel 206
5 Jenson Button 189
6 Felipe Massa 143
7 Robert Kubica 124
8 Nico Rosberg 122
9 Michael Schumacher 66
10 Rubens Barrichello 47
11 Adrian Sutil 47
12 Kamui Kobayashi 31
13 Vitantonio Liuzzi 21
14 Vitaly Petrov 19
15 Nico Hülkenberg 18
16 Sebastien Buemi 8
17 Pedro de la Rosa 6
18 Nick Heidfeld 6
19 Jaime Alguersuari 3
20 Heikki Kovalainen 0
21 Jarno Trulli 0
22 Karun Chandhok 0
23 Bruno Senna 0
24 Lucas di Grassi 0
25 Timo Glock 0
26 Sakon Yamamoto 0
27 Christian Klien 0

Constructors’ Championship:

1 Red Bull 426
2 McLaren 399
3 Ferrari 374
4 Mercedes 188
5 Renault 143
6 Force India 68
7 Williams 65
8 Sauber 43
9 Toro Rosso 11
10 Lotus 0
11 HRT 0
12 Virgin 0

Image and Info: F1Fanatic
Editorial: Justin W. Coffey


10.23.2010

HISTORY // CLASSIC MOMENTS @ BATHURST (1970-1974)



Our friends at Motorsport Retro posted this video highlighting the golden years of the Bathurst 1000. The video features footage from 1970-1974 and includes the classic 1970 roll over at Skyline, as well as the roll over at the fence in 1971. Additionally, the video features John Goss' win in 1974 and Shivers pit stop problem in 1973, as well as Allan Moffat's spin in the #9 Ford while battling with Peter Brock in 1973 // [comment]


2010 KOREAN GRAND PRIX // QUALIFYING RESULTS

2010 KOREAN GRAND PRIX // QUALIFYING RESULTSSebastian Vettel put his Red Bull RB6 on pole for this weekend's inaugural Korean Grand Prix. The German driver lapped the 3.49 mile circuit in just 1:35.585, followed shortly thereafter by his teammate, Mark Webber. Starting third will be the Ferrari F10 of Fernando Alonso who managed a 1:35.766 lap of the new Korean circuit, some 0.296 seconds faster than the McLaren of Lewis Hamilton who will start fourth.

Follow the link for complete results... [read more]

2010 Korean Grand Prix // Qualifying Results:

1 Sebastian Vettel Red Bull-Renault 1’35.585
2 Mark Webber Red Bull-Renault 1’35.659
3 Fernando Alonso Ferrari 1’35.766
4 Lewis Hamilton McLaren-Mercedes 1’36.062
5 Nico Rosberg Mercedes 1’36.535
6 Felipe Massa Ferrari 1’36.571
7 Jenson Button McLaren-Mercedes 1’36.731
8 Robert Kubica Renault 1’36.824
9 Michael Schumacher Mercedes 1’36.950
10 Rubens Barrichello Williams-Cosworth 1’36.998
11 Nico Hülkenberg Williams-Cosworth 1’37.620
12 Kamui Kobayashi Sauber-Ferrari 1’37.643
13 Nick Heidfeld Sauber-Ferrari 1’37.715
14 Adrian Sutil Force India-Mercedes 1’37.783
15 Vitaly Petrov Renault 1’37.799
16 Jaime Alguersuari Toro Rosso-Ferrari 1’37.853
17 Sebastien Buemi Toro Rosso-Ferrari 1’38.594
18 Vitantonio Liuzzi Force India-Mercedes 1’38.955
19 Jarno Trulli Lotus-Cosworth 1’40.521
20 Timo Glock Virgin-Cosworth 1’40.748
21 Heikki Kovalainen Lotus-Cosworth 1’41.768
22 Lucas di Grassi Virgin-Cosworth 1’42.325
23 Sakon Yamamoto HRT-Cosworth 1’42.444
24 Bruno Senna HRT-Cosworth 1’43.283

Image and Info: F1Fanatic
Editorial: Justin W. Coffey


10.22.2010

2010 KOREAN GRAND PRIX // PRACTICE RESULTS

2010 KOREAN GRAND PRIX // PRACTICE RESULTSRobert Kubica posted the fastest time during yesterday's final practice for this weekend's inaugural Korean Grand Prix. The Polish driver lapped the 3.49 mile circuit in just 1:37.354, but was only a half a second faster than Lewis Hamilton who finished the final session with a 1:37.402 lap time. Finishing the day with the third fastest time was Fernando Alonso, who posted a 1:37.426 lap time, only 0.072 seconds off the pace of Kubica.

Follow the link for complete results... [read more]

2010 Korean Grand Prix // Practice Results:

1 Robert Kubica Renault 1’37.354 15
2 Lewis Hamilton McLaren-Mercedes 1’37.402 0.048 16
3 Fernando Alonso Ferrari 1’37.426 0.072 15
4 Mark Webber Red Bull-Renault 1’37.441 0.087 13
5 Nico Rosberg Mercedes 1’37.629 0.275 12
6 Felipe Massa Ferrari 1’37.955 0.601 16
7 Jenson Button McLaren-Mercedes 1’38.419 1.065 15
8 Nico Hülkenberg Williams-Cosworth 1’38.501 1.147 17
9 Michael Schumacher Mercedes 1’38.630 1.276 12
10 Adrian Sutil Force India-Mercedes 1’38.632 1.278 18
11 Vitaly Petrov Renault 1’38.668 1.314 14
12 Rubens Barrichello Williams-Cosworth 1’38.733 1.379 16
13 Sebastien Buemi Toro Rosso-Ferrari 1’39.058 1.704 21
14 Kamui Kobayashi Sauber-Ferrari 1’39.145 1.791 16
15 Jaime Alguersuari Toro Rosso-Ferrari 1’39.159 1.805 21
16 Sebastian Vettel Red Bull-Renault 1’39.780 2.426 9
17 Nick Heidfeld Sauber-Ferrari 1’40.289 2.935 17
18 Vitantonio Liuzzi Force India-Mercedes 1’41.591 4.237 15
19 Jarno Trulli Lotus-Cosworth 1’41.623 4.269 15
20 Timo Glock Virgin-Cosworth 1’41.853 4.499 17
21 Heikki Kovalainen Lotus-Cosworth 1’42.095 4.741 19
22 Lucas di Grassi Virgin-Cosworth 1’43.111 5.757 19
23 Bruno Senna HRT-Cosworth 1’43.417 6.063 19
24 Sakon Yamamoto HRT-Cosworth 1’43.880 6.526 20

Image and Info: F1Fanatic
Editorial: Justin W. Coffey


10.20.2010

PREVIEW // GOGOGEAR'S HYUNDAI GENESIS "RACE CAR"

PREVIEW // GOGOGEAR'S HYUNDAI GENESIS COUPEThe gentlemen at GogoGear.com Racing will debut their Hyundai Genesis Coupe at this years SEMA show in Las Vegas, Nevada. The car, which appears to be a race prepped Genesis fitted with a set of 20" rims, will feature a Ground Control suspension system, StopTech brakes and produce roughly 330 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. And while we're not fond of the aesthetic, according to our sources the car will compete in next year's U.S. Touring Car Championship, as well as a handful of Time Attack events.

Click here for additional information // [comment]


VIDEO // COLIN McRAE @ 1997 RALLY DE PORTUGAL



Having spent the better part of today learning to drive a rally car at the DirtFish Rally School, I had to post this video of Colin McRae negotiating the 80,000+ fans that were in attendance for the 1997 Rally de Portugal. And I thought avoiding pylons was a pain! My hat is off to you, Mr.McRae // [comment]


NEWS // CTD @ DIRT FISH RALLY SCHOOL



I received a call from my good friend Ted Anthony Jr. yesterday morning inquiring what my schedule looked like for the week. Well, being self employed has its perks and after informing Ted that I was free for the next three days, Ted informed me that he had arranged for me to take part in the DirtFish Rally School's three-day driver training program. What they call their 3-Day Ultimate Rally Experience, the program consists of three full days (8am-5pm) of skid pad, skills development exercises, and stage courses in purpose built rally cars. So with that said, I leave you with a bit of video highlighting the DirtFish Rally School and head east of the city to test my skills at the new Old Mill Rally Park. Stay tuned! // [comment]



GEAR // AUDEMARS PIGUET HONORS JARNO TRULLI

GEAR // AUDEMARS PIGUET HONORS JARNO TRULLISwiss watchmaker, Audemars Piguet, has just released a new chronograph to honor Italian racing driver, Jarno Trulli. What they are calling the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Jarno Trulli Chronograph, the new timepiece has a forged carbon-fiber case, a ceramic bezel, titanium fixtures, red luminous indices and hands, as well as a 59-jewel automatic movement, a 60-hour power reserve and a 22-carat gold oscillating weight that's been covered in anthracite. Only 500 examples will be made, with the first batch being offered at the company's boutique in Tokyo where it was launched during this year's Japanese Grand Prix // [comment]


VIDEO // FERRARI 458 CHALLENGE TESTING @ MONZA



Watch (and listen) as Ferrari's latest purpose-built racing car, the 2011 458 Challenge, laps the Autodromo Nazionale Monza during a test session earlier this month. The 458 Challenge, which is powered by a 570hp 4.5-liter V8, will make its racing debut when the 2011 Ferrari Challenge kicks off next March // [comment]


10.19.2010

GEAR // RED BULL'S X1 PROTOTYPE UNVEILED

GEAR // RED BULL'S X1 PROTOTYPE UNVEILEDBefore the much anticipated Gran Turismo 5 hits store shelves this winter, the gentlemen at Red Bull Racing decided to unveil their contribution to what some are saying is the greatest driving simulator since, well, the last Gran Turismo title. Dubbed the X1 Prototype, Red Bull's X1 is the brainchild of Adrian Newey, the aerodynamicist responsible for much of Red Bull's success in the Formula One arena, with additional input coming from Sebastian Vettel.

The X1 is (theoretically) powered by a gas turbine that produces 1,483 horsepower and 527 lb-ft of torque. Simulated performance statistics give the X1 a top speed of 249 miles per hour, and, according to our friends at GT Planet, the prototype lapped the Suzuka Circuit in 1:11.540, nearly 20 seconds faster than Vettel's time in Red Bull's 2009 F1 car. Click here for additional information // [comment]


VIDEO // THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN (AT THE RING)



Our friends at Axis of Oversteer just posted this video from the ninth round of the 2010 Veranstaltergemeinschaft Langstreckenpokal Nürburgring (VLN) championsip held at the famed Nurburgring. Click here for additional videos from last weekends race // [comment]


10.18.2010

CULTURE // THE 50 GREATEST RACE CAR LIVERIES OF ALL TIME

PREVIEW // ROLEX MONTEREY MOTORSPORTS REUNIONThe gentlemen at Marc Ecko's COMPLEX have put together a slideshow of what they consider to be the 50 greatest race car liveries of all time. Amongst those featured in the gallery is the 2010 BMW M3 GT2 Jeff Koons Art Car, the 1980 Porsche 935 K3 Apple Computer and the 1974 Lancia Stratos Alitalia.

Click here for a look at the slideshow // [comment]



NEWS // DTM COMING TO THE STATES IN 2013?

Home Win for Di Resta // DTM Round 7 @ Brands HatchAccording to Autoblog, NASCAR is looking to bring the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) series to the United States in 2013. The German touring car promoter ITM is hoping to run a 12-race calendar in the U.S. in 2013, with six races alongside Grand-Am events and another six alongside NASCAR events. Additionally, it appears the DTM series is looking to expand their entry list, with BMW coming aboard in 2012 and negotiations taking place that might allow the GT500 class of the Japanese AUTOBACS Super GT Series to run according to DTM technical regulations come 2013 // [comment]


VIDEO // A CLOSER LOOK AT THE FERRARI P4/5 COMPETIZIONE



Our friends at 0-60 Magazine just posted a link to this video highlighting the build of James Glickenhaus' Ferrari P4/5 Competizione. Based on the F430 Scuderia chassis, Glickenhaus' one-off race car is being built to compete in next years 24 Hours of Nürburgring and is just one of many custom Ferrari's Mr.Glickenhaus has in his stable. Additionally, the video featured above is just the first in a series that will follow the car from its creation and development to its competition in next years 24 Hours of Nürburgring // [comment]


PREVIEW // 2010 KOREAN GRAND PRIX

PREVIEW // 2010 KOREAN GRAND PRIXThe Korean International Circuit is the fourth new venue the Formula One World Championship has visited since the start of the 2008 season. The FIA gave the new Korean circuit final approval to hold its race on Tuesday, only ten days before the start of practice for the 2010 Korean Grand Prix. The cars will hit the track for first practice one week from today, however there are concerns arising from the delays, among which is the state of the track surface... [read more]



According to our sources, the base layer of tarmac was finished only weeks before the top layer was applied. And considering the final section of tarmac was laid on October 9th, 13 days before the first F1 practice session, it’s clear the delay was in the region of several weeks.



As a comparison, the tarmac for the new section at Silverstone was laid on March 9th ahead of the GT1 World Championship race weekend, which began on April 30th. That allowed almost two months for the surface to cure.

PREVIEW // 2010 KOREAN GRAND PRIXAccording to our friends at F1Fanatic:

"The delay has led to concerns voiced by drivers such as Nick Heidfeld that residual oils left over from the construction process may not have had time to dissipate, leaving the track surface at Korea very slippery. Essentially, the track will not have ‘rubbered in’ and dust from the surrounding construction work is likely to exacerbate the shortage of grip."

The Korean International Circuit was designed to be a dual-purpose facility, with most events being held on the short version of the track which does not include the start/finish area used at the Grand Prix weekend. In regard to the F1 portion of the new Korean facility, the 5.6km 18-turn circuit is similar to most modern F1 venues, with the usual mix of long straights followed by sharp hairpins intended to encourage overtaking. According to Mercedes, an average lap speed of 197kph can be expected, however the brass at Bridgestone say 205kph, putting lap times in the region of 1:38.7 to 1:42.7.

Click here for additional information.

Images and Info: F1Fanatic
Editorial: Justin W. Coffey


MotoGP // STONER GIVES BLOWOUT PERFORMANCE IN AUSTRALIA

MotoGP // STONER GIVES BLOWOUT PERFORMANCE IN AUSTRALIAPhillip Island, Australia is one of a handful of really special tracks on the MotoGP calendar. It’s been around in one form or another since the 20s but has only hosted GP racing since 1989. Much of the track was made up of natural roads so the track has a natural, flowing feel to it. It is also quite fast. Therefore, it rewards not only the brave but also the more creative riders. It’s no coincidence that Valentino Rossi has been on the podium twelve of the thirteen races previous to this weekend. Some of his most memorable races have been won here. Similarly, Casey Stoner has won Phillip Island the last three years in a row. It is a thing of true beauty to watch him slide both tires coming out of some of the track’s huge, sweeping turns... [read more]

After Jorge Lorenzo taking the title one week ago in Sepang, all the attention is now focused on who will come in second place. Dani Pedrosa occupied that spot coming into the weekend by a margin too large for him to lose it just yet. Dani, fresh off a nasty collarbone break in Japan, actually flew all the way to Australia and took part in practice but ultimately felt he was not up to the task of racing. Rossi, Stoner and Dovizioso are all mathematically eligible for the runner-up spot and probably breathed a sigh of relief at the news Pedrosa was out.

In all three practice sessions, the man to beat was undoubtedly Stoner. He topped all sessions except for the very first (very wet) practice session on Friday, where Lorenzo beat him by 0.334 sec. Lorenzo was the only person who would qualify within a second of Stoner in the end. Valentino Rossi struggled through every practice, he never placed any higher than seventh place. He would qualify in eighth, just in front of Andrea Dovizioso. If they were going to mount an attack on second in the standings, they would have a mountain to climb. The wet/dry/wet/dry oscillations kept most riders from really nailing in their settings, frankly. All except Casey Stoner, who was maddeningly (for everyone else) always fast, no matter what the weather was like. The final starting order was: Casey Stoner, Jorge Lorenzo, Ben Spies, Marco Simoncelli, Colin Edwards, Nicky Hayden, Randy De Puniet, Valentino Rossi, Andrea Dovizioso, Marco Melandri, Aleix Espargaro, Mika Kallio, Hiroshi Aoyama, Alvaro Bautista and Hector Barbera.

Casey Stoner surprised absolutely nobody by tipping into turn one in first place. Jorge Lorenzo thought he was right behind him but Ben Spies had the line and narrowly edged him. It didn’t last long as Lorenzo put in a tough pass going into the very next turn, forcing Spies to stand up and lose three places instead of just the one. Unsurprisingly, Stoner had built up a visible lead halfway through lap one, he crossed the line for the first time 1.5s clear of Lorenzo. They were followed by Hayden, Simoncelli, Dovizioso, Spies, Edwards, Melandri, Rossi and De Puniet rounding out the top ten.

Lorenzo did a good job of keeping himself clear of the fighting pack behind him while at least making an attempt at sticking with Stoner. Rossi, in the opening laps, languished around where he began the race, he was keen to change that however. As of lap three, Rossi began to claw his way through the pack, much as he did one week ago in Sepang. At the same time, Andrea Dovizioso began to go backwards fast. He had a problem with his steering which would eventually put him out of the race. By lap four a battle was forming for third place between Hayden and Simoncelli which would soon also draw Spies and the ascendant Rossi into its orbit. This would comprise the most exciting action of the entire race. Going into lap six, Rossi passed Simoncelli going into the scarily fast turn one, he was now in fifth place. One lap later Rossi passed Hayden going into turn ten with a move that was tough, but not unsportsmanlike. Hayden did his best to keep his composure but Simoncelli squeaked through on him as he was regrouping. Rossi wasted absolutely no time in going after Spies, he passed him, again into the treacherous turn one.

As the three behind Rossi re-grouped and shuffled around, Stoner and Lorenzo continued to clear out. As boring as Stoner’s march at the front could be, the camera would sometimes cut to him sliding through the turns, obviously having fun. It was good consolation. Meanwhile, going into lap ten, Nicky Hayden had gathered himself and passed Simoncelli down the front straight to take fourth and hunt down Rossi. He seemed intent on avenging Valentino’s move on him a few laps earlier. The laps ground down, Nicky shadowing Rossi closely, but on lap twenty Hayden turned it up a bit and began to look to threaten to take third in a real way. Spies and Simoncelli had dropped back but they were in a similar battle to the two in front of them, Spies took fifth, down the straight again, going into lap 23. He would pull away and keep the spot til the end. On lap 25, Hayden finally made his move on Rossi, at the turn four hairpin, and made it stick. Valentino also refused to be gapped and shadowed Hayden immediately, sniffing around for a pass but unable to put one together. Rossi stuck to his rear for two more laps as fans breathlessly waited for him to make another move. It finally happened, again at turn four, when Rossi stuck it up the inside of Hayden and forced him wide, enabling Valentino to sneak past. Hayden tried valiantly to repay the favor but narrowly missed the podium, again.

Casey Stoner’s fourth straight victory in Australia was yet another demonstration of just how dominant he can be when he is on his game. It begs the question of his unevenness though. He started 2009 and 2010 strong, dropped off precipitously and then came back with some decisive wins. His move to Honda next year is a gamble for sure but he has proved over and over that he can beat anyone when it’s his day. Jorge Lorenzo has been phenomenal all year, winning the title and only finishing off the podium twice. He is also the only rider to score points in every race this season. However, he has not won a race since Brno, back in August. While this has no bearing on the title, Jorge will be keen to clock one more win before the season’s end, just to put an exclamation point on his amazing season. Finally, there is Valentino Rossi. He has had the toughest season of his career so far and he is still within a shout of second place. More importantly, keep in mind that almost every thrilling battle of this season (not to mention the last decade) have involved the Italian, who some regard as being past his prime. Add Dovizioso, Spies (who clinched the “Rookie of the Year” title Sunday) and Simoncelli, who have all been in great form, to this and next year is looking pretty rosy. Despite the dwindling grid numbers, that is.

2010 Australian Grand Prix // Complete Results:

1. Casey Stoner
2. Jorge Lorenzo
3. Valentino Rossi
4. Nicky Hayden
5. Ben Spies
6. Marco Simoncelli
7. Colin Edwards
8. Aleix Espargaro
9. Marco Melandri
10. Randy De Puniet
11. Mika Kallio
12. Alvaro Bautista
13. Hiroshi Aoyama
14. Hector Barbera

Photo: MotoGP
Editorial: Jeff Winterberg


10.13.2010

NEWS // PLATO SECURES 2010 BTCC TITLE

NEWS // PLATO SECURES 2010 BTCC TITLEJason Plato secured his second British Touring Car title at the weekend after a totally dominant performance at Brands Hatch. Plato led both the first two races of the day from start to finish to claim the prestigious crown in front of a record crowd of 42,000 at the Kent venue... [read more]

The RML driver, who last took the title back in 2001 enthused “The BTCC is one of the very best championships in the world so to win it is a very magical feeling. Everyone in my team, Chevrolet and RML who prepare the car, are the best in the business and also a great family of people so it’s a very joyous experience winning it for them.”

Plato celebrated as he reached the pitlane by climbing on top of his Chevrolet Cruze to the delight of his watching family and the Silverline Chevrolet squad.

The experienced 42 year old from Oxford, who began his career aided by his father Tim in Junior Karting has now joined the legendary all time Touring Car great Andy Rouse on sixty BTCC race victories.

NEWS // PLATO SECURES 2010 BTCC TITLEPlato reflected further on his second title commenting " “When I first started in the BTCC in 1997 with the Renault team I knew we had a fantastic car and it duly won the championship that year. Mid-way through this season when we unlocked all the secrets of the Chevrolet Cruze I got that same feeling again. It has been a phenomenal car to race but, like I say, that’s very much down to the people at Chevrolet and RML. Personally, I am of course delighted. I've been runner-up three times in the last four years so to finally get that second crown probably means I won't be such a pain in the backside to live with now!"

Editorial/Photos: Neil Tozer


10.12.2010

VIDEO // RAC TT @ 2010 GOODWOOD REVIVAL

VIDEO // RAC TT @ 2010 GOODWOOD REVIVALThe Royal Automobile Club (RAC) held it's annual TT Celebration race during this years Goodwood Revival, an event that took place September 17-19 at the celebrated West Sussex motor circuit. The race, which featured closed-cockpit GT cars from 1960-1964, is considered by many to be the highlight of the weekend.

Follow the link for a bit of video... [read more]



Video: Motoring con Brio
Photo: Sports Car Digest
Editorial: Justin W. Coffey


VIDEO // COULTHARD'S CRASH @ 2010 BATHURST 1000



Fabian Coulthard, no relation to former F1 driver David Coulthard, had a rather serious crash on the opening lap of this years Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000 at the Mount Panorama Circuit. And although his Holden Commodore rolled some six times, Coulthard managed to walk away without a scratch // [comment]



10.11.2010

GEAR // TAG HEUER MONACO TWENTY FOUR

GEAR // TAG HEUER MONACO TWENTY FOURFeatured above is Tag Heuer's new Monaco Twenty Four Calibre 36 Chronograph. What we find to be a perfect balance of vintage inspiration and modern-day engineering, the timepiece is powered by Tag Heuer’s 36 Calibre movement (which operates at 36,000 vibrations per hour), is coated with black titanium carbide and protected by a dynamic absorption system that utilizes four shock-absorbing arms made of aircraft grade polymers, literally suspending the movement within the 40.5mm case. The blue and orange stripes are inspired by the Gulf Porsche 917K driven by Steve McQueen in the movie Le Mans. An exhibition back and black alligator strap with orange stitching complete the package // [comment]


VIDEO // WINTERBOTTOM'S POLE LAP - 2010 BATHURST 1000



Featured above is video of Mark Winterbottom's qualifying lap at the wheel of his Ford Performance Racing V8 Supercar. Mark managed to secure pole position for Sunday's race with a 2:07.5 lap time // [comment]


BAJA 1000 // STARTING POSITIONS ANNOUNCED

BAJA 1000 // STARTING POSITIONS ANNOUNCEDVeteran desert racer Roger Norman has received the first starting position during Saturday’s computerized drawing for November’s 43rd Tecate SCORE Baja 1000 desert race. While the 2008 race winner will pilot his No. 8 Norman Motorsports Ford F-150 SCORE Trophy-Truck (above), starting first among the motorcycle and ATV classes will be Gabriel Williams, of Provo, Utah, on a Honda CRF450X motorcycle. A total of 207 vehicles officially entered in time for Saturday’s computerized drawing held at SCORE International’s headquarters in Los Angeles, and with nearly 300 entries expected before the green flag drops, entries will be accepted up to race morning... [read more]

43rd Annual TECATE SCORE BAJA 1000:

SCORE TROPHY-TRUCK (35)
8 Roger Norman
21 Gus Vildosola Jr.
97 B.J. Baldwin
31 Andy McMillin
84 Nick Vanderwey
71 Rick D. Johnson
9 Mark Weyhrich
23 Mark McMillin
59 Craig Potts
1 Robby Gordon
35 Jason Voss
74 Rob Bruce
2 Pete Sohren
47 James Bult
16 Cameron Steele
3 Mark Post
94 Steve Strobel
22 Damen Jefferies
13 Ed Stout
61 Josh Hall
24 Adam Householder
45 Gary Magness
49 Troy Herbst
88 Jerry Whelchel
19 Tim Herbst
54 Jesse James
7 Scott Steinberger
48 Jimmy Nuckles
27 Dave Crinklaw
73 John Harrah
86 Mike Jenkins
20 Rob MacCachren
76 Jesse Jones
30 Robbie Pierce
95 Scott Whipple

CLASS 1 (17)
101 Steve Appleton
102 Kory Halopoff
103 Daniel McMillin
104 Josh Rigsby
105 Cameron Thieriot
106 Dale Lenk
107 Dan Martin
108 Armin Schwarz
109 Eric Chase
110 Juan C. Flores
111 David Greenhill
112 Armin Kremer
113 Rudy Cortez
114 Todd Romano
115 Paul Keller
116 Conan Barker
117 Ikuo Hanawa

CLASS 1-2/1600 (8)
1601 Jay Reichert
1602 Wes McKenzie
1603 Harry Curtin
1604 Arturo Velazco
1600 Hiram Duran
1647 Arnoldo Ramirez
1648 Luke McMillin
1649 Daniel Lopez

CLASS 3 (1)
301 David Moore

CLASS 5 (5)
501 Cody Kellogg
500 Kevin Carr
503 Drew Belk
518 Vince Wavra
519 Tom Bird

CLASS 5/1600 (4)
551 Dennis Webb
552 Trevor Anderson
553 Sergio Moreno
579 Enrique Zazueta Jr.

CLASS 6 (5)
601 JT Taylor
602 Marc Burnett
603 Fernando Manzo
600 Heidi Steele
619 Dave Caspino

CLASS 7 (2)
701 Jackie Husmann
700 Dan Chamlee

CLASS 7SX (1)
741 Norman Turley

CLASS 8 (4)
800 Clyde Stacy
801 Sam Stahl
802 Noah Ostanik
839 Francisco Monroy

CLASS 10 (5)
1001 Peter Hajas
1002 Lars Ferry
1003 Jesus Gonzalez
1004 Sergio Salgado
1005 Jon Walker

SCORE LITE (10)
1201 Justin Davis
1202 Perry McNeil
1203 Zack Langley
1204 Samuel Araiza
1205 Jose Cervantes Jr.
1206 Lee Banning
1207 John Padgett
1208 Dave Wert
1209 James Marquez
1200 Brent Parkhouse

CLASS 11 (2)
1101 Alfonso Lacarra
1100 Eric Solorzano

STOCK FULL (2)
861 Sam Edgar
879 Joe Bacal

STOCK MINI (2)
778 Ivan Stewart
760 Gavin Skilton

PROTRUCK (4)
1360 Nils Castillo
1340 Chelsea Magness
1313 Paul Perrizo
1301 Troy Vest

CLASS 17 (3)
1700 Mike Shaffer
1701 Eric Filar
1702 Perry Coan

BAJA CHALLENGE (7)
BC1 Mike Cassling
BC2 John McInnis III
BC3 Dr. Steven Funk
BC4 Christian Hammarskjold
BC5 Bud Brutsman
BC6 Brian Valentine
BC19 Nick Baldwin

CLASS 2 (2)
201 James Kirby
202 Mark Stevens

CLASS 4 (1)
401 John Langley

CLASS 7-2 (2)
721 Fawn Finchum
722 Reid Rutherford

M-TRUCK (3)
M1 Glenn Harris
M2 Donald Verhoff
M3 James McAvoy

PRO MOTORCYCLES

CLASS 22 (8)
2x Gabriel Williams-S
3x A.J. Stewart
4x Junpei Saito
5x Steve Corrie
1x Kendall Norman
7x David Pearson
8x Colton Udall
9x Francisco Arredondo

CLASS 21 (2)
101x Sol Saltzman
102x Adam Neuwirth

CLASS 20 (1)
151x Jason Trubey

CLASS 30 (6)
301x Javier Henandez
302x Steve Garnett
303x Jonathan Jessy
304x Markus Saarinen
305x Ace Nilson
306x Francisco Septien

CLASS 40 (7)
401x Tom Vogt
402x Lloyd Andrew
403x Boo Custer
404x Louie Franco
405x Mike Prunty
406x Andrew Wilkins
449x Terry Peregoodoff-S

CLASS 50 (2)
501x Jim Dizney
500x Jim O’Neal

CLASS 60 (2)
600x Donald E. Lewis
619x Bill Nichols

PRO ATVS

CLASS 25 (4)
2a Felipe Velez
3a Scott Chandler
1a Wayne Matlock
5a Josh Edwards

CLASS 24 (4)
101a Shawn Robins
102a Brandon Brown
103a Tom Wright
104a Natanael Morron

CLASS 26 (1)
201a Reid Rutherford

SPORTSMAN

SPT CAR (2)
1401 Dan Kolenich
1400 Peter Lang

SPT TRUCK (2)
1501 Randy Swink
1502 Bill Wolford

SPT UTV (3)
1800 Thomas Graves
1801 Kevin Fuller
1802 Chris Koch

SPT M/C 250< (5)
201x Edd Price
202x Michele Bergman
203x Matt Ladendorf
204x Greg Willitts
205x Fred Sobke

SPT M/C 250> (32)
251x Tom Lajoie
252x Don Gentry
253x Mike Frick
254x Mike Mensinger
255x Barry Van Fossan
256x Oscar Fazz
257x Donald Hatton
258x Lance Kane-S
259x Carl Westphal
260x John Legate
261x David Smoljan-S
262x Craig Anstine
263x Yoshiyuki Imai
264x Peter Hardy-S
265x Chuck Shortt
266x Tibi Imbuzan-S
267x Tom Buikema
268x Nobuyuki Oguri
269x Go Onodera
270x Makoto Mitsuki
271x Anthony Nicodemo
272x Paul Lopez
273x Ulises Fierro
274x Salvador Sainz
275x Michael Korenwinder
276x Sanjay Shanbhag
277x James Avery
278x Tomoki Hayashi
279x Timothy Schimke
280x Andrew Tweedle
281x Keith Ciampa
282x Thierry Mas-S

SPT ATV (1)
99a Gustavo Ameca

S-Indicates Solo Rider

Image and Info: SCORE International


VIDEO // GARTH TANDER AVOIDS WILDLIFE @ BATHURST 1000



Watch as Australian V8 Supercar driver Garth Tander avoids hitting a kangaroo at speed during this weekend's 2010 Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000 // [comment]


MotoGP // LORENZO TAKES TITLE IN MALAYSIA

MotoGP // LORENZO TAKES TITLE IN MALAYSIAMalaysia has seen a number of title-deciding races over the years because it sits so late in the season. As a result, the absolutely punishing heat and humidity are often compounded by the tension of a title-deciding race. What’s worse is the ever-present threat of torrential downpour which can render all the weekend’s careful preparation useless. This happened last year and threatened to screw up Valentino Rossi’s plans royally. This year, it was Jorge Lorenzo, chasing his first-ever premier class title, who would have to play Sepang just right... [read more]

Dani Pedrosa, the only person still mathematically capable of beating Lorenzo to the title, was out for the second race in a row with a broken collarbone. This meant Jorge only had to place ninth or higher and he would take the title. However, Valentino Rossi made it absolutely clear one week ago that he didn’t plan to cede his crown to Lorenzo without proving he still has the ability to battle any rider and come out on top.

Toward that end, Rossi came out strong, topping Friday’s practice session, after that, his riding seemed to falter some. When qualifying came, he could manage no better than sixth place. To counter Rossi’s unevenness, Lorenzo was never out of the top three in any practice. He also stood at the top of qualifying for much of the session. He took the top spot from Stoner early on, was deposed by Ben Spies and then quickly landed on top again. Then, from nowhere, Nicky Hayden stole provisional pole from sixth place with less than five minutes left in the session. Lorenzo wouldn’t take defeat so easily and bested Hayden with less than a minute to go. No other rider had any answer, so the starting grid was: Lorenzo, Hayden, Dovizioso, Spies, Stoner, Rossi, Edwards, Bautista, Capirossi, Melandri, Simoncelli, Espargaro, De Puniet, Aoyama, Barbera and Kallio.

Lorenzo maximized on his pole position by being first into turn one. He seemed eager to try and get away safely at the front but Dovizioso decided to tag along with him. Rossi had a terrible start, he sunk as low as eleventh place in the opening few corners. Lorenzo then fought off Dovizioso through the final hairpin to narrowly complete lap one in first. At the same moment, Casey Stoner took himself out of contention when his front end slipped out on him, as it has far too many times this season. Lorenzo began to pull away from everyone except for Dovizioso, who shadowed Jorge’s every move and appeared ready to pounce at any second. Meanwhile Valentino Rossi had been methodically clawing his way back up the order with some genuinely ambitious overtaking. By the middle of lap four he passed Marco Simoncelli to take third place. Rossi now went to work on catching the two leaders by clocking the fastest laps of the race so far.

As the laps ticked on, Rossi miraculously bridged the chasm to the front two and left little doubt he was going to become a factor at the front before the end. Sensing this, Dovizioso made his move at the beginning of lap nine; he out-braked Lorenzo into turn one and led for the first time. Mid-way through the next lap, Rossi would pass Jorge going into turn nine and commence his hunt for Dovizioso, who he passed in the exact same spot on the next lap. Andrea retook the lead going into turn one with five laps to go but Rossi got him back, again at turn nine. Lorenzo refused to be dropped, he had been hanging onto the front two the entire time. Jorge had wisely learned his lesson from Motegi and refused to take part in any real battle but remained ready to pounce if the opportunity presented itself. As the laps wound down, Dovizioso stayed with Rossi but never was able to mount a pass, Valentino crossed the finish line only 0.224 seconds in front. Jorge Lorenzo backed off his pace, figuring third place with a world title beats tempting fate by pushing too hard, the gap back to him had grown to six seconds. Valentino had produced a masterpiece designed to take as much spotlight away from Jorge’s title as was possible. While Rossi did well, nothing really trumps a title-winning race, not even a spectacular win.

Further down the order, Ben Spies took a respectable fourth place after passing Simoncelli going into lap fifteen. The battle for fifth place raged hard in the final laps with Bautista, Simoncelli, Aoyama and Hayden swapping that spot multiple times. Bautista won that battle with Nicky Hayden following him. Hiroshi Aoyama took seventh and his best finish of the season after fending off some seriously hard riding from Simoncelli (it looked like their race here last year). Aoyama did this after having qualified all the way back in fourteenth, good stuff for someone who broke a vertebra this year.

So the 2010 MotoGP title has been settled. Jorge Lorenzo is only the second Spaniard to win the title (after Alex Criville, in 1999) and the first to win 250cc and MotoGP. Many congratulations to Jorge for the achievement. Now that the pressure is off his shoulders, we can only hope to see him tangle with Rossi unfettered for the last three races. It would also be nice to see Andrea Dovizioso win a dry race as he has been painfully close to the “aliens” all year. The next race is only one week away at Philip Island, Australia. It’s an amazing track that both Stoner and Rossi do well at. Let’s hope there are still some great battles left in the year.

It’s worth noting that the Moto2 title was settled Sunday after Toni Elias took fourth place aafter his only title challenger, Julian Simon, fell and rejoined the race but was unable to finish in the points. It’s Elias’ first title, surprisingly enough, and he was so overcome by emotion that he could barely speak in the press conference. He dedicated the title to pretty much his entire family and to Shoya Tomizawa, whose number 48 was on Elias’ special celebratory leathers. He ran a fantastic year, paving the way for an expected return to MotoGP next season. If anyone doubts Elias’ worth, go back and watch Estoril 2006. It was a fantastic performance and also the last time a satellite bike has won a MotoGP race. Big congratulations to Toni.

2010 Malaysian Grand Prix // Complete Results:

1. Valentino Rossi
2. Andrea Dovizioso
3. Jorge Lorenzo
4. Ben Spies
5. Alvaro Bautista
6. Nicky Hayden
7. Hiroshi Aoyama
8. Marco Simoncelli
9. Marco Melandri
10. Randy De Puniet
11. Hector Barbera
12. Mika Kallio

Photo: MotoGP
Editorial: Jeff Winterberg


BTCC // PLATO CLAIMS POLE @ BRANDS HATCH

BTCC // PLATO CLAIMS POLE @ BRANDS HATCHIn a titanic qualifying battle at Brands Hatch Jason Plato out paced his championship rivals to take pole position for Sundays first race of the 2010 series finale. Despite carrying 45kg of (championship success) ballast, Plato edged out the two Team Honda Civics of Matt Neal and Gordon Shedden with only 0.144 of a second covering all three title aspirants... [read more]

Plato who gains an extra championship point for the pole commented “My first pole of the season – I couldn’t have timed it better! It’s been a fantastic qualifying – not just the session but the way everyone has prepared for it and gone about today. We were fastest in both practice sessions this morning and gain now. To do that with maximum ballast in the car is very pleasing.”

The other driver of the four still in with a chance of claiming the prestigious title Tom Onslow-Cole didn't fair so well and will line up in tenth spot on the grid after a frustrating session which saw the youngster from New Malden fail to replicate his free practice pace after going the wrong way with the Focus's set-up.

Ben Collins (aka "The Stig") had a nightmare day in the third Airwaves BMW with the former sportscar driver failing to set a time in qualifying after a electrical fault with the 320si's ECU caused gearbox cooling pump failure.



Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship Brands Hatch Saturday 9th October 2010.

Qualifying Results:

1. Jason Plato Silverline Chevrolet Cruze 48.647secs

2. Matt Neal Team Honda Honda Civic 48.780secs

3. Gordon Shedden Team Honda Honda Civic 48.791secs

4. Alex MacDowall Silverline Chevrolet Cruze 48.830secs

5. Tom Chilton Team Aon Ford Focus ST 48.871secs

6. Mat Jackson Airwaves BMW 320si 48.885secs

7. James Nash Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra 48.902secs

8. Sam Tordoff Triple Eight Vauxhall Vectra 48.947secs

9. Paul O'Neill sunshine.co.uk Honda Integra 49.100secs

10. Tom Onslow-Cole Team Aon Ford Focus ST 49.110secs

11. Andrew Jordan Pirtek Racing Vauxhall Vectra 49.171secs

12. Tom Boardman Special Tuning (UK) SEAT Leon 49.173secs

13. Robert Collard West Surrey Racing BMW 320si 49.190secs

14. Steven Kane Airwaves BMW BMW 320si 49.249secs

15. Andy Neate West Surrey Racing BMW 320si 49.540secs

16. Arthur Forster Forster Motorsport BMW 320si 49.788secs

17. Lea Wood Central Group Racing Honda Integra 49.841secs

18. Martin Depper Forster Motorsport BMW 320si 49.960secs

19. Martin Johnson Boulevard Team Racing Vauxhall Astra 50.010secs

20. John George sunshine.co.uk Honda Integra 50.116secs

21. Shaun Hollamby AmDMilltekRacing.com Volkswagen Golf 50.129secs

22. Ben Collins Airwaves BMW BMW 320si No time

23. James Kaye WRC Developments with Barwell Honda Integra No time

24. Dave Pinkney Pinkney Motorsport Vauxhall Vectra Withdrawn


Editorial/Photo: Neil Tozer


10.06.2010

VIDEO // FIRST TIME OUT: LOTUS & FORD @ DUTCH GP



Check out this wonderful short film produced by Ford called First Time Out. Watch as Formula One legends Graham Hill and Jim Clark debut their 410 horsepower Ford DFV powered Lotus 49s at the infamous Zandvoort circuit. Hill was on pole but it was Jim Clark that drove his Lotus 49 to victory.

Video comes to us courtesy of MotorsportRetro // [comment]


BTCC // BATTLE OF BRITAIN @ BRANDS HATCH

BTCC // BATTLE OF BRITAIN @ BRANDS HATCHThis weekend (9th/10th October) sees Britain's most popular race car series come to the boil with the final rounds of the 2010 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship.

The short Brands Hatch Indy circuit plays host to the last chapter of yet another extremely competitive season with four drivers still in the hunt for the 2010 title... [read more]

After thrilling the crowds around the UK since round one at Thruxton back in April the BTCC has yet again consistently provided arguably the closest racing in the country and with four drivers and 3 very different types of racecar set to do battle in 3 races around the natural amphitheatre of the Kent circuit the 52nd season of the BTCC looks set to end in fine style.

Current championship leader Jason Plato (RML Chevrolet Cruze) leads the standings but just 24 points separate all four title contenders. With 52 points in total up for grabs at Brands all four drivers will still be in contention starting race two whatever the race one result.


BTCC Drivers’ Points (After 9 of 10 Rounds):

1. Jason Plato, 224
2. Matt Neal, 207
3. Gordon Shedden, 203
4. Tom Onslow-Cole, 200
5. Tom Chilton, 171
6. Steven Kane, 152
7. Mat Jackson, 143
8. Robert Collard, 122
9. Paul O’Neill, 117
10. Andrew Jordan, 79

BTCC // BATTLE OF BRITAIN @ BRANDS HATCH"The Title Favourite"
Jason Plato
RML Silverline Chevrolet Cruze.

Lives: Oxford, UK.
Date Of Birth: 14/10/67
BTCC Starts: 333
Previous Best BTCC Championship Position: CHAMPION (2001)
2010 Results: 5 Wins

Plato started the year as "Title Favourite" although the season began with rather modest results. Along with the ultra experienced RML team gradually developed the Cruze (New this year to the BTCC) to suit the all new Dunlop tyres coming on strong in the second half of the season despite ballast. Showed true champions form at last round (Donington Park) with fighting drives in races two and three after race one shunt. Love him or hate him he is one of the BTCC's biggest crowd pullers. Often criticised for forceful driving style which seems to have been tempered down somewhat this season. Famously collected all three race wins at Brands Hatch series finale 2009.

He Says:

"I’m happy with a 17-point lead because I’d rather have a handy cushion than be going to Brands Hatch playing catch-up. We just need to make sure we have done our homework leaveing no stone unturned and make absolutely sure we take nothing for granted.”

BTCC // BATTLE OF BRITAIN @ BRANDS HATCH
"Mr Experience"
Matt Neal,
Honda Racing Team Dynamics Honda Civic

Lives: Shenstone, UK
Date Of Birth: 20/12/66
BTCC Starts: 432
Previous Best BTCC Championship Position CHAMPION (2005/2006)
2010 Results: 5 Wins
Neal is the most experienced man in this years field having started over 400 BTCC races. Champion with Team Dynamics back in 2005 and 2006 the 43yr old will be out to make it a hatrick of titles. The Honda Civic has suffered aerodynamically this season on the faster tracks with it being a hatchback but it is renowned for its handling around the tighter circuits. Always outspoken with an aggressive style the double champion has been matched for pace this season by team mate Gordon Shedden. With both Neal and Shedden in title contention this arguably could well hinder either of them catching Plato.


He Says:

“Jason holds all the aces but he’ll have two Hondas to worry about – there are no team orders between Gordon and I and we’ll be coming at Jason from all directions. But he’s been there before and so have I so we both know the score. The Honda’s big strength is its handling and Brands Indy is a twisty circuit so it’s game on.”

BTCC // BATTLE OF BRITAIN @ BRANDS HATCH"The Scott"
Gordon Shedden
Honda Racing Team Dynamics Honda Civic

Lives: Fife,UK
Date Of Birth: 15/02/79
BTCC Starts: 132
Previous Best BTCC Championship Position: 3rd (2006)
2010 Results: 5 Wins

Scotsman Gordon Shedden has matched the pace of more experienced team-mate Matt Neal this year and goes into the title finale just 4 points behind his team-mate. Questions will be asked over how the amiable 31yr old will handle the intense pressure should he still be in contention come the final race of the day. Showed signs of feeling the heat at Silverstone with a forceful post race discussion with Rob Collard after an on track incident in race three.


He Says:

“It’s all to play for and Jason will have two Hondas to worry about. Then again, I think all three cars, the Chevrolet, the Honda and the Ford will be very evenly-matched at Brands. I’m relaxed about it, I’ve nothing to lose so it’ll be maximum attack. My mindset is that I have absolutely nothing to lose and everything to gain.

"Saturday’s qualifying session could really have an affect on what happens in the three races on Sunday – Brands Indy is a short lap and it’ll only take a tenth of a second to make the difference between starting on the front row and row five. Bear in mind Jason in particular will have a lot of success ballast in that Chevrolet. That could be those vital fractions of a second…”


BTCC // BATTLE OF BRITAIN @ BRANDS HATCH
"The Underdog"
Tom Onslow-Cole
Team Aon Ford Focus ST

Lives: New Malden,UK
Date Of Birth: 16/05/87
BTCC Starts: 99
Previous Best BTCC Championship Position: 6th (2008)
2010 Results: 4 Wins

After having spent the winter working with Mountune on the all new LPG powered Ford Duratec engine Team Aon's decision to run the unit triggered controversy during the early races of the season as rival teams raised questions over the top speed of the turbo powerplant. Restrictions were imposed by series organisers TOCA curbing the Ford's advantage but the car remains a force to be reckoned with due to its extra torque. Onslow-Cole, who is by far the youngest of the title contenders has shown awesome pace this season in seeing off more experienced team-mate Tom-Chilton. Questionable and bizarre in-house team tactics cost Tom two victories at Silverstone which may well make the title realistically just too far out of reach.

He Says:

“I’m the absolute outsider so have no other option but to go for it. We had some strong results with the Focus on the Brands GP circuit earlier this year but the Indy circuit is a very different animal. I’m in a situation where I need to take the risks and stick my nose in a bit. I’ve not knocked people about this year whereas maybe the others have got involved in a few tangles, so hopefully I’ve got a few more friends out there on the track.

“I think I can play with these guys and take it to them. But above all, it’s just fantastic to be coming into the final round in with a shout of what is one of motor sport’s most coveted titles.”


For Tickets and Timetable click here

Photos: BTCC and Neil Tozer
Editorial: Neil Tozer


TRIVIA // SCHECKTER AND THE FERRARI 312T4

TRIVIA // SCHECKTER AND THE FERRARI 312T4Unfortunately, the only person to answer this weeks trivia question correctly, did so under an 'anonymous' profile, so it looks like we'll have to save the CTD schwag for next week. That being said, the photo featured yesterday is of Jody Scheckter driving the Ferrari 312T4 and was taken at the 1979 German Grand Prix which was held on July 29th 1979 at the Hockenheimring // [comment]


VIDEO // FERRARI 599 GTO @ THE NURBURGRING



Enjoy a lap around the famed Nürburgring in Ferrari's new 599 GTO. And while it seems the driver wasn't pushing the Italian touring car to its limits, he did manage to hit 182mph on the back straight // [comment]



10.05.2010

EYE CANDY // ASTON MARTIN DP214 @ SPA

EYE CANDY // ASTON MARTIN DP214 @ SPAThis photo of an Aston Martin DP214 was taken by our friend Julien Mahiels at this years 6 Heures Historiques de Spa. The DP214 was a prototype sports car developed by Aston Martin for use in GT racing, to include the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Only two DP214s were built in 1963, with one surviving today // [comment]


RUMOR(S) // PORSCHE WILL RETURN TO FORMULA ONE?

RUMOR(S) // PORSCHE WILL RETURN TO FORMULA ONE?Rumor has it that Porsche might return to Formula One thanks in part to new FIA rules regarding turbocharged powerplants. The new regulations are scheduled to go into effect in 2013 and according to Porsche’s new CEO Matthias Mueller, Volkswagen wants to enter either Porsche or Audi into the FIA Formula One World Championship, while allowing the other car maker to pursue another racing series. And seeing as how Audi has been rather successful in Le Mans Series racing these past few years, we'd guess the brass at VW would look to Stuttgart for their F1 effort. More when we know more // [comment]


TRIVIA // WHO, WHAT, WHEN AND WHERE?

TRIVIA // WHO, WHAT, WHEN AND WHERE?Can anyone tell us who is featured in the photo above? Better yet, can you tell us when and where the photo was taken, and what they are driving? First person with the correct answer will win themselves some CTD schwag (assuming you provide a mailing address) Good luck! // [comment]


NEWS // SEBASTIEN LOEB COLLECTS 2010 WRC TITLE

NEWS // SEBASTIEN LOEB COLLECTS 2010 WRC TITLESebastien Loeb secured his seventh World Rally Championship title last weekend following an impressive win at the Rallye de France. This was Loeb's 60th career win and gave the Frenchman 226 championship points with just two rallies left on the schedule. Additionally, the Citroën team pulled off a one-two win at the French rally with Loeb's teammate Dani Sordo finishing second overall. Taking the third and final step on the podium was was Peter Solberg, who is currently fourth place in points.

Follow the link for a bit of onboard footage with Loeb... [read more]




Image and Info: Autoblog
Editorial: Justin W. Coffey


10.04.2010

EYE CANDY // ALFA ROMEO GIULIA SPRINT GTA @ SPA 6 HEURES

EYE CANDY // ALFA ROMEO GIULIA SPRINT GTA @ SPA 6 HEURESThe photo featured above, which comes to us courtesy of Motoring Con Brio and Julien Mahiels, was taken at this years 6 Heures Historiques de Spa, a vintage motoring festival held at the famed Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium. Click here for additional Eye Candy from Spa // [comment]