Track Day Online

2012 FIA Formula 1 calendar

2011-12-08T13:41:00.003-06:00

Round	Race Title	Grand Prix	Circuit	Date
1	Australian Grand Prix	Australian GP^[55]	Albert Park, Melbourne	18 March
2	Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix	Malaysian GP^[56]	Sepang International Circuit, Kuala Lumpur	25 March
3	UBS Chinese Grand Prix	Chinese GP^[57]	Shanghai International Circuit, Shanghai	15 April
4	Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix	Bahrain GP^[58]	Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir	22 April
5	Gran Premio de España Santander	Spanish GP^[59]	Circuit de Catalunya, Barcelona	13 May
6	Grand Prix de Monaco	Monaco GP^[60]	Circuit de Monaco, Monte Carlo	27 May
7	Grand Prix du Canada	Canadian GP	Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Montreal	10 June
8	Grand Prix of Europe	European GP^[61]	Valencia Street Circuit, Valencia	24 June
9	Santander British Grand Prix	British GP^[62]	Silverstone Circuit, Silverstone	8 July
10	Großer Preis Santander von Deutschland	German GP^[63]	Hockenheimring, Hockenheim	22 July
11	Eni Magyar Nagydíj	Hungarian GP^[64]	Hungaroring, Budapest	29 July
12	Shell Belgian Grand Prix	Belgian GP^[65]	Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, Spa	2 September
13	Gran Premio Santander d'Italia	Italian GP^[66]	Autodromo Nazionale Monza, Monza	9 September
14	SingTel Singapore Grand Prix	Singapore GP^[67]	Marina Bay Street Circuit, Marina Bay	23 September
15	Japanese Grand Prix	Japanese GP^[68]	Suzuka Circuit, Suzuka	7 October
16	Korean Grand Prix	Korean GP^[69]	Korean International Circuit, Yeongam	14 October
17	Airtel Grand Prix of India	Indian GP^[70]	Buddh International Circuit, Greater Noida	28 October
18	Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix	Abu Dhabi GP	Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi	4 November
19	United States Grand Prix	United States GP	Circuit of the Americas, Austin^[2]	18 November
20	Grande Prêmio do Brasil	Brazilian GP	Autódromo José Carlos Pace, São Paulo	25 November

USGP will hit in Austin in 2012

2011-12-08T13:12:00.004-06:00

The United States Grand Prix will commence as scheduled on Nov. 18, 2012.

Circuit of the Americas, Formula One Management and the FIA announced the 20-race 2012 Formula 1 calendar on Dec. 7, which includes the inaugural race in Austin, Texas.

Circuit of the Americas pushed the deadline, but delivered a check of $25-30 million and the signed original contract at the last minute to Formula 1 Boss Bernie Ecclestone at the FIA's World Motorsport Council Meeting in India.

“We want to thank the fans who supported us, the local officials and businesses who have encouraged us, the State of Texas, Circuit of The Americas staff and Bernie (Ecclestone) himself,” said Red McCombs, chairman of McCombs Enterprises and founding partner of Circuit of The Americas.

Circuit of the America's President Steve Sexton expressed his confidence in the project, and said construction would resume Monday Dec. 12. He also said the the track would be completed well in time for the November race.

"Now it's time to make it happen," Sexton said. "We never did run out of gas. We may have slowed down and tapped the breaks a little, but now we're at full speed."

Sexton said COTA will continue to pursue funding from the State of Texas' Major Events Trust Fund, but will not dot do so until after completion of the inaugural race.

The 10-year contract with F1 is said to be near $300 million. State funding should be procured if the race is a success, ensuring the 10-year deal is seen through.

Stay tuned to Track Day Online for more news and information on COTA. We'll have a live Twitter and Facebook feed from the track on Monday morning.

Ellis Goodwin

Editor-in-Chief

Update: F1 extends COTA contract deadline

2011-11-30T14:50:00.003-06:00

Ecclestone: "I'd rather see the race happen than not."

Formula 1 boss Bernie Ecclestone has extended Circuit of the America's contract deadline one more week.

Today, Nov. 30, was the deadline set by the 81-year-old Briton, but COTA Founding Partner Bobby Epstein and President Steve Sexton met with Ecclestone this week in London, and the date was pushed back, according to AutoWeek.

“The deadline hasn’t been met, so we are still trying to make it happen,” Ecclestone told the Associated Press on Wednesday. “They need to get some money and a pen. They are struggling to get the financial side sorted out.”

COTA has been quiet throughout the process, except for a Thanksgiving Day news release announcing they do have funding, but are trying to rework the contract. The release said there were some "unrealistic" expectations from Ecclestone and his partners.

Sexton and Epstein undoubtedly find themselves between the wants and needs of their investors and the wants and needs of Ecclestone.

Ecclestone will get his way, or the USGP in Austin will not be on the schedule in 2012, and New Jersey is lining up to take its place.

It is no secret that Ecclestone has a strangle hold on the revenue streams and COTA would be getting whatever it could from ticket sales and hospitality.

Formula 1 was never going to be the sole money maker for COTA, but it is the lynch pin that everything else rides on.

Without Formula 1 it is doubtful the track will be completed, which will certainly kill any deals with MOTO GP, Australian V8 Supercars, or any other series that was interested in the venue.

Nothing but road blocks have come up since the F1 in Austin idea was implemented in May of 2010. The local city and county governments threw as many monkey wrenches in the cogs as they could, but the track forged ahead.

Now, push has come to shove. It is time for COTA to put their money where there mouth is and simply pay up.

Ecclestone owns the sport. He doesn't need Austin, but he does need the U.S. market if he wants to remain profitable. Ecclestone wants this race as long as COTA can put up the money and accept the terms that 19 other venues have agreed to.

"They are trying to do it. It would be a loss to everyone (if it didn't happen)," he said. "They would like the race to take place. I'd rather see the race happen than not,"

For now, we've got our fingers crossed in anticipation.

Ellis Goodwin

Editor-in-Chief

Update: USGP back on track

2011-11-26T09:42:00.003-06:00

Circuit of the Americas announced on Thanksgiving Day that the track is ready to pay the Formula 1 sanctioning fee and then some, but F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone said he isn't so sure.
Before Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix the 81-year-old Ecclestone said he doesn't know exactly what is happening. He confirmed that COTA has a contract, but said they have yet to sign the deal nor pay the fees.

I thought COTA had taken the necessary actions to make the race happen next year, but the case is not yet closed.
COTA Founding Partner Bobby Epstein said the contract presented by Ecclestone had some unrealistic clauses, and the track has submitted a counter offer.
The situation and decision is in the control of Bernie Ecclestone, who has been very pessimistic until this point.
However, he did not say it would not happen like he has at past races. Ecclestone is a savvy kryptic. We could assume that the race will go as scheduled if COTA actually has the cash, which they claim to have, and the parties can meet in the middle.

We'll know for sure on Dec. 7 if the U.S. Grand Prix will be in Austin next year. I don't trust assumptions and won't feel comfortable until I see the race on the schedule. Truth be told, I won't truly believe it until cars are on track in Austin.

Ellis Goodwin

Editor-in-chief

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 24, 2011

Circuit of The Americas™ Ready to Pay Sanctioning Fee and Offering More
Proposal Satisfies 2012 Request, Accelerates Payments for Subsequent Years

AUSTIN, Texas – November 24, 2011 – Circuit of The Americas has responded to Formula One Management’s contract requirements by agreeing to an immediate cash payment of the sanctioning fee for the 2012 United States Grand Prix (USGP). In addition, Circuit of The Americas has offered to establish an advance payment schedule for USGP races beyond 2012.
The offer comes after several weeks of talks, and once accepted, will secure the USGP on the Formula 1 race calendar.

“We have been ready to send Mr. Ecclestone a sanctioning fee check for some time now,” said Bobby Epstein, founding partner of Circuit of The Americas. “He hasn’t received it yet because the new contract presented to us two weeks ago contained unrealistic and unfeasible demands. We have signed and returned a contract similar to what we anticipated receiving. This race
should be a reality, but if we are going to make the 2012 race date, we must receive a countersignature in the coming few days. We believe the teams, fans, sponsors and local business share our enthusiasm and hope that their voices will be heard.”

About Circuit of The Americas

Circuit of The Americas will be a world-class destination for performance, education and business. It will be the first purpose-built Grand Prix facility in the United States designed for any and all classes of racing, from motor power to human power.

The Circuit of The Americas master plan features a variety of permanent structures designed for business, education, entertainment and race use. Its signature element will be a 3.4-mile (5.5-km) circuit track. Other support buildings will include a medical facility, 14 executive meeting suites, a conference center, and a banquet hall, as well as an expansive outdoor live music space.

Future proposed amenities include a driving/riding experience, a motorsports driving club, kart track, grand plaza event center and tower, and a trackside recreational vehicle park.

For more information and downloadable video, audio and photos, visit: www.CircuitofTheAmericas.com.

# # #

Next year's USGP on the ropes

2011-11-21T14:10:00.003-06:00

It's not official yet, but the U.S. Grand Prix is in all likelihood dead in the water.

Construction has been halted, and Formula 1 czar Bernie Ecclestone and management at the Circuit of The Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas have not reached an agreement.

Ecclestone has given the venue until Sunday to sort out its financing and pay for the rights to have the race.

"We don't have a contract," Ecclestone said in an interview with F1 Live Racing. "If (COTA) want to come back to us, if it's not signed before the end of next week, I suppose it won't be on the calendar next year."

The dispute is the result of a split between Tavo Hellmund and COTA's management. Hellmund has expressed an interest in promoting the event, but not running the venue. Hellmund and COTA split, and the contract for F1 went with Hellmund.

COTA's President Steve Sexton responded on Nov. 17 to Ecclestone's comments. He implied that negotiations for 2012 were being pushed back to 2013.

"We have been excited for and working towards a 2012 USGP race and now understand that Mr. Ecclestone is interested in moving the Austin race to 2013," Sexton said. "We know the U.S. market is important to the teams and their sponsors and 2013 certainly allows time for the Circuit of Americas to be ready."

COTA has been in talks with Ecclestone, but they have yet to fix their issues and present Formula 1 with a check.

Construction was halted last week until the matter is resolved. At the same time COTA lost state funding, and has yet to be annexed by the City of Austin.

It is looking bleak for COTA and the 2012 F1 race, but Hellmund believes the issue could be resolved and the race would resume if COTA puts up the cash.

"More than anything this project needs to meet its financial obligations to F1," Hellmund told F1 Live Racing. "It's just that simple. There's a solution if Mr. Ecclestone and FOM get their money, there's a grand prix next November."

R. Ellis Goodwin

Editor-in-chief

Ecclestone questions F1 in Austin

2011-11-14T14:24:00.004-06:00

Supporters of the U.S. Grand Prix in Austin, Texas can either breathe a sigh of relief or continue to speculate.

In one year the traveling circus that is Formula 1 is supposed to hit the stage at Circuit of the Americas' (COTA), but recent skepticism has crept up after Formula 1boss Bernie Ecclestone said there was an internal struggle with the company.

When asked about his thoughts on the Austin race, the 81-year-old Britton said:

"Austin? I wouldn't want to put my money down that that will happen," the F1 chief executive said in Abu Dhabi.

However COTA's top brass expressed confusion, not concern.

"There is no question that if he wants the USGP race to happen here in 2012, it certainly will," COTA President Steve Sexton said in the Austin American Statesman.

"Our funding is secured, and construction is on schedule, so we don't understand Mr Ecclestone's comments. He has expressed great interest in the Austin race and in expanding the F1 brand into the United States."

Track designer, Herman Tilke, also has given his full confidence in the project.

"We are working on it," he said. "There are a couple of hundred workers on the site, a lot of machines, and everything is on schedule up to now."

Travis County officials also issued permits on Oct. 28 to begin construction of the grandstand, pit area, team garages, as well as the media and medical centers.

Ecclestone is known to make cryptic and cynical comments. I don't always agree with the man, but he owns the sport. If he has doubts they surely should be validated.

That being said, if Formula 1 does not come to Texas the track will still be built. Moto GP and V8 Supercars may even offer a greater level of excitement over the long-term. Also, there is the prospect of Grand-Am, the American Le Mans Series, or even DTM coming to Texas.

So breathe a sigh of relief, but be weary. At this point I am hopefully optimistic. How do you feel?

Ellis Goodwin

Editor-in-chief

Who knew Luxembourg had drivers like this?

2011-11-14T14:15:00.002-06:00

Ever heard of racecar driver Yves Faber?

You have now. He is from Luxembourg, and can drive the hell out of a Fox body mustang. Check out his video called Uphill Thrash.

You've got to love big pushrod V8s and solid rear axles, and Faber makes driving one at the limit easy.

Ellis Goodwin

Editor-in-chief

F1’s two-way street in America

2011-10-31T13:45:00.003-05:00

What a surprise to learn that Formula 1 will be coming to the United States at two separate venues: the first, a purpose-built circuit in Austin, Texas in 2012 and the second, a temporary street-circuit along Port Imperial in Weehawken, New Jersey in 2013.

Polar opposites in nature, each race will take on its own personality.

The United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin will carry all the characteristics of a modern day racing facility. Its wide, smooth tarmac will allow these machines to stretch their 200-mph legs and carve through the landscape with tremendous lateral forces. Copious amounts of elbow room will afford fans the opportunity to leisurely explore the grounds and view the spectacle from multiple positions.

The signature piece on this 3.4-mile, counter-clockwise circuit is predicted to be its steep uphill run along the pit straight towards a tight hairpin, but with multiple points on the circuit paying homage to Silverstone Circuit, Hockenheimring, and Istanbul Park, it’s anyone’s guess.

The Grand Prix of America, starting in 2013 on a road course at Port Imperial will put on quite a different show. With the Manhattan skyline and a yacht-filled port as the backdrop, these tight and winding public roads will show the chaotic side of Formula 1.

This course has been compared to the Australian street course Albert Park, and for

good reason. The clock-wise layout of the New Jersey track is not nearly as tight or winding as Monaco, but more lozenge-shaped with long straights and fast-paced sweepers through the famed Hudson Palisades. One particular element that will be quite similar to Monaco will be the presence of money, big money. No doubt Wall Street’s

power players and Fortune 500 companies will be chompin’ at the bit to get their clients to join them at such a fantastic sporting event.

During all the hype of these recent announcements, I have but one wish to ask, both from the F1 community and of the United States: embrace each other. It will do no good for the sport if the nation does not become inspired by the 780-hp, 200-mph, 5-lateral-g, purpose-built open-wheeled racecars wielded by some of the most tremendous athletes alive today.

It will do no good for the sport if the Formula 1 community holds its nose up in the air as they enter each venue, convinced that Americans can’t comprehend the magnificence of anything but a straight-line drag racer or an oval-track stock car.

Americans loves their racing. Hopefully these two events provide the incentive for Formula 1 and America to finally, and fully, embrace each other.

TAA

Photo: J.F. Musial

Circuit of the Americas preview with Red Bull and David Coulthard

2011-10-03T09:54:00.002-05:00

Can't wait until Circuit of the Americas is concrete and there is a full field of cars racing in Texas? Neither can we, but in the meantime here is a promo video.

Singapore: where my F1 passion began

2011-09-23T12:18:00.002-05:00

The 2011 Formula 1 season is all but wrapped up. Barring an unforeseen catastrophe, Red Bull driver Sebastian Vettel will take the place of Fernando Alonso as the youngest double World Driver’s Champion. But who out there is cancelling their recording schedules on their DVR in anticipation for another season? Who is sleeping in on Sunday mornings, uninterested in the outcome of the drama?

With rain in the forecast for most of the weekend, this tight street circuit will pose many challenges to the drivers. The roads that make up the track are re-opened to the public between sessions, partially negating the rubber transferred from the Pirelli tires. The narrow streets and ominous walls demand respect and precision. The lights that make this venue unique play tricks on the eyes of the driver - casting strange shadows and blinding glare. The safety car will also play it's part. The Marina Bay Street Circuit has seen the safety car on all three of its appearances on the Formula 1 calendar. The championship standings themselves will affect the outcome as well. Some are racing to stay in the fight; one is racing to end it.

My time as a Formula 1 fan is young. The moment that started this obsession was in 2008, F1’s inaugural night race at Singapore. I’m not particularly sure why I decided to record the race, but I’m glad I did. Certain clips of this first race experience are still quite clear in my mind: The beautiful dark metallic red coloration of the Ferrari F2008 under 1,500 lights; the insightful and passionate commentary of Peter Windsor; the gut-wrenching mistake at Massa’s pit stop; the return of the, unbeknownst to me at the time, two-time World Driver’s Champion Fernando Alonso to the top step of the podium. It was quite a spectacle. At race-end I immediately set my DVR to record practice, qualifying, and race coverage for the remainder of the F1 World Championship. The season finale at Interlagos solidified my suspicion about this passion growing within me. I haven’t missed a qualifying session or a race since.

Championship Summary: Vettel must podium to win the 2011 Formula 1 World Driver's Championship at Singapore. However, he cannot clinch his second driver's title if Alonso podiums or Hamilton wins.

-TAA

Vettel wins at Monza, weeps on podium

2011-09-11T11:22:00.003-05:00

Red Bull and Sebastian Vettel took the checkered flag at Monza today, essentially sealing the driver's championship for the young German.

As Vettel accepted his race trophy he wept. One coud only imagine the thoughts in his mind. I am sure he was jubilant, but nostalgia seemed to overcome him.

"This circuit means a lot to me and has been very special," Vettel said. "Obviously my first win here, so when I crossed the line I remembered every single bit, and uh the podium is unbelievable. When you stand up there you feel so blessed...it's just been unbelievable."

We saw Vettel hit the stage with Toro Rosso when he won at a rain soaked Monza in 2008. Since then he has launched to superstardom. He's won a world championship and has another in his sights.

Vettel has the spirit of a champion and his passion is great for the sport.

- Ellis Goodwin

Vettle leads, Schumacher vs. Hamilton = Button in 3rd

2011-09-11T10:15:00.005-05:00

A quarter of the way through the race Red Bull Driver Sebastian Vettel is running off into the distance, but Mercedes Driver Michael Schumacher and McLaren driver Lewis hamilton are keeping the excitement alive.

While Ferrari Driver Fernando Alonso cruises in second place, the McLaren and Mercedes were fighting hard for the third spot.

The two battled for third place since the early stages of the race, but Schumacher drove the tires off the car. The German tried to block Hamilton, and Button shot around taking both his teammate and Schumacher.

Schumacher went into the pits at the end of the lap. Button pit after completing the next lap.

Vettel reassumes lead

2011-09-11T10:12:00.002-05:00

Red Bull Driver Sebastian Vettel has reassumed the lead, and did so in spectacular fashion.

Vettel made his move coming out of the first chicane. Alonso pushed Vettel to the very edge of the track, forcing Vettel to dip two wheels into the grass.

Somehow the German was able to keep the car in a straight line and complete the pass on the Spaniard. Amazing....

-Ellis Goodwin

Alonso assumes lead

2011-09-11T10:07:00.002-05:00

With the might of Italy and the Tifosi behind him, Ferrari driver Fernando Alonso took the lead before turn 1 of the Italian Grand prix.

The Spaniard jumped from fourth to first after a blistering start.

A safety car quickly ensued as Vitantonio Liuzzi spun on the main straight and collected slower cars going through the first chicane.

Alonso made a good start when the safety car went into the pits at the beginning of lap 4. Vettel charged hard, but was unable to immediately retake the first position.

-Ellis Goodwin

Italian Grand Prix Preview

2011-09-09T14:26:00.004-05:00

The Italian Grand Prix at Monza began today, and the top three teams continue to dominate the top of the time sheets.

McLaren driver Louis Hamilton led the morning Practice, while championship points leader Sebastian Vettel led the afternoon practice. Hamilton was only .036 seconds off Vettel's pace. F1 veteran Michael Schumacher was third , .337 seconds off the leader.

After Schumacher's thrilling finish two weeks ago in Belgium, many are anticipating another stellar drive from the veteran.

However, Schumacher played down his charge to the front and has said that Mercedes is the fourth best team and that a seventh or eighth place finish would be their "optimum."

"Look at our ranking and at the moment it's pretty consistent in seventh or eighth - we are the fourth-strongest team and that's what is the optimum," he said. "At Monza straightline speed is good for us. Circuits with less corners seem to be beneficial."But honestly I don't think it's really enough to change our general position because the gap is too big."

Monza proposes a unique challenge to teams vying for the win. Nearly the entire lap is under full throttle. The balance between gearing, aero and mechanical grip has to be perfect. The track is green, and two DRS Zones should facilitate overtaking.

Qualifying starts at 7 a.m. tomorrow on Speed. Enjoy.

FIA announces 2012 Formula 1 schedule

2011-08-31T17:24:00.003-05:00

Today the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) released a confirmed 2012 Formula 1 calendar.

The 20-race season includes the inaugural race at our home Venue in Austin, Texas.

The season begins March 18 at its traditional venue Albert Park, Melbourne, Australia. We won't see Formula 1 stateside until November 18, but we feel that date will be much more pleasant than the original date in June. We believe our record heat wave may have helped in the decision to postpone the race. The new date also pushes the race to the end of the season, allowing for more dramatic races.

The season finale will take place in its usual locale of Interlagos, Sao Paulo, Brazil on November 25.

2012 FIA Formula One World Championship calendar:
03.18 Australia
03.25 Malaysia
04.15 China
04.22 Bahrain
05.13 Spain
05.27 Monaco
06.10 Canada
06.24 Europe
07.08 Great Britain

07.22 Germany
07.29 Hungary
09.02 Belgium
09.09 Italy
09.23 Singapore
10.07 Japan
10.14 Korea

10.28 India
11.04 Abu Dhabi
11.18 United States*
11.25 Brazil

* inaugural race

Vettel wins Belgian Grand Prix

2011-08-30T22:42:00.002-05:00

It seems the chosen DRS zone for Round 12, the Kemmel straight, made a snooze out of passing despite the sheer number passes that took place.

Much like the long DRS zone at Turkey, the driver being passed was a sitting duck - every time. However, Hamilton reminded us that even an easy pass in Formula 1 requires total focus. Button continues to prove himself as one of the elite drivers in the current formula.Even without changeable weather conditions, or a right wing mirror, he slashed from 13th to 3rd with relative ease.

Schumacher had quite an eventful qualifying session, losing a wheel in Q1. He managed to work his way from last to the fifth. A fantastic result.

Pirelli wasn’t too happy with Red Bull this weekend. Pirelli recommends a specific camber range to insure safety. Red Bull exceeded this range in an effort to improve turn-in. Vettel made 2 stops by lap 15 on his way to victory.

Trent Anderson

Technical Director

Round 12: Belgian Grand Prix

2011-08-25T13:32:00.003-05:00

Round 12: The Belgian Grand Prix. With just eight races left in the 2011 Formula 1 World Championship, the question of the season has not changed: Who can throw Vettel and Red Bull off the top step of the podium? In the meantime, let's enjoy 2007 F1 World Championship driver Kimi Raikkonen put together a fantastic pole lap at this magnificent circuit...

Youtube link

-Trent Anderson

Technical Editor

Circuit of the Americas sets F1 date

2011-08-11T13:31:00.000-05:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 10, 2011

Ecclestone Statement Confirms United States Grand Prix™ in November
U.S. Race Date Among Numerous Schedule Adjustments

AUSTIN, Texas – August 10, 2011 – Formula One’s Bernie Ecclestone was quoted today in the media confirming earlier reports of a revised 2012 F1 schedule, placing the United States Grand Prix on November 18, 2012. The schedule, which contains numerous adjustments from the calendar issued in June by the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile, is not considered official until the World Motor Sports Council ratifies it at its meeting later this year.

“I have been hoping for a late season race date since this project began and see this as a very positive sign from Formula One that it wants its U.S. event to be an over-the-top success,” said Tavo Hellmund, Chairman of the United States Grand Prix. “Mr. Ecclestone has dozens of competing issues to consider when it comes to the race calendar. He has to balance the interests of the teams with those of the promoters and even consider the unique situation of each host country. To put our race near the end of the schedule puts us in a prime spot to welcome the world next year – and I could not be more personally and professionally appreciative.”

In a statement released earlier today, Austin Mayor Lee Leffingwell praised the new race date and Formula One Management for its sensitivity to the area’s environmental quality. The proposed date also allows for an opportunity to optimize the project’s construction staffing and scheduling. “The Mayor’s input regarding Central Texas’ air quality during the summer months was obviously important to Formula One management, and to their credit, they listened and have responded,” said Steve Sexton, president of Circuit of The Americas™.

Sexton also commented on the additional benefits a November date offers, “First and foremost, we want our fans to have a great experience when they come here. The prospect of milder weather makes that more likely. It also gives us time to better prepare our staff and the thousands of volunteers who will be supporting Formula One race week festivities.”

Wayne Hollingsworth, a member of the Circuit Events Local Organizing Committee’s Board commented on the race date by saying, “Our application to the Event Trust Fund is complete and has been submitted. We appreciate the support the Comptroller’s staff has provided to us to make that possible. While we have not fully analyzed the implications of a potential change in race dates, we believe that any such change, if implemented by FIA, will not affect the eligibility of the Formula 1 Event for the Major Event Trust Fund, but would merely affect the timing. And if the event date does in fact change, per the statutory requirements, we will update our application based on the new date and look forward to receiving approval later this year.”

Circuit of the America's promotional survey sent out

2011-07-28T14:11:00.002-05:00

Below is a promotional survey sent out by Circuit of the Americas (COTA). If there is ever a time for fans to provide their opinions on ticket prices and events, now is it. If nothing else, you get a chance to win a swag filled COTA backpack.

Have a great day racers.

-Ellis

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Thanks for staying on track with us at Circuit of The Americas!

Please take a minute to take this brief ticket survey - 10 participants will win a Circuit of The Americas backpack with swag inside!

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Your participation is important as it affects the planning and development of events like the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix™.

After the survey is complete, we will be conducting a random drawing of 10 survey participants as our winners.

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Remaining 2011 Drivers Edge events

2011-07-23T22:18:00.002-05:00

Rick Schwalenberg with The Drivers Edge updated the schedule for 2011 last week. Track Day Online plans to be in attendance at Texas World Speedwa and Houston MSR. We will update you as plans are finalized.

This is the remainder of 2011 for The Drivers Edge events.

*July 30-31 at MotorSport Ranch (1.7ccw warm up for the 3.1ccw)

*Sept 10-11 at MotorSport Ranch (3.1ccw BIG TRACK)

*Oct 08-09 at Texas World Speedway (2.9 mile fast track)

*Nov 05-06 at Houston MSR (2.4 mile)

*Nov 12-13 at MotorSport Ranch (not yet determinded)

*Dec 03-04 at MotorSport Ranch (Christmas event track not yet determined)

Track Day Online is back

2011-07-13T11:33:00.009-05:00

Track Day Online is back after a forced and prolonged hiatus.

A position in the energy news sector forced me to put my labor of love on the back burner for the past year.

I, and our Technical Director Trent Anderson, look forward to bringing you the latest racing information and entertainment.

We are moving Track Day Online to Austin, Texas to serve you from the backyard of Circuit of the Americas.

With Formula 1, Moto GP and Australian Supercars already on the calendar, we at Track Day Online can only anxiously anticipate the opening of this premier venue.

Construction on the Circuit of Americas in Austin, Texas is well under way. I recently took a field trip to the sprawling facility. At least 100 cars were parked in the lot as graders and dump trucks moved earth.

The track has had many hurdles thrown in its way, but F1 boss Bernie Eccelstone is confident the race will happen as scheduled.

Below are some photographs of the track in June 2010 and June 2011. Enjoy!

Formula 1 sets sights on Lone Star State

2010-05-26T15:23:00.002-05:00

• "World-class" facility "purpose-built"

By Ellis Goodwin

Owner/Operator

Racing fans in Texas and the entire Americas were pleasantly shocked to learn that Austin, Texas will host the U.S. Grand Prix, starting in 2012.

Formula One World Championship Limited and Formula One Administration Limited and Full Throttle Productions, LP, promoter of the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, quietly built the the ten season contract which lasts until 2021. Formula 1 CEO Bernie Eccelstone had said he wanted Formula 1 to return to North America, but never disclosed a definitive location until this week.

"It was thirty years ago that the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix™ was last held on a purpose-built permanent road course circuit in Watkins Glen, NY ,1961-1980, which enjoyed great success," Eccelstone said in a news release. "This however, will be the first time a facility is constructed from the ground up specifically for Formula One in the US.”

Eccelstone said that as part of the deal and a "purpose built, world-class" facility will be erected, a first for Formula 1 in the U.S. Throughout the years the U.S. Grand Prix has been run on temporary street circuits at Dallas, Long Beach, Las Vegas, Detroit and Phoenix. Indianapolis hosted the race for eight years, 2000-2007.

None of those facilities were "purpose-built," and Indy in the only track that can currently be considered "world-class." Eccelstone's choice of words is interesting and exciting for racing enthusiasts in Texas and throughout the region. If the facility is anything like Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Singapore or Malaysia, F1's newest tracks designed by Herman Tilke, Austin's facility will be nothing short of amazing. But, rumor has it that the project will be privately financed.

Tavo Hellmund, Managing Partner of Full Throttle Productions LP, said the deal took years to negotiate, but all parties are confident that they can succeed in bringing Formula 1 back to the U.S.

“It has been a shared vision and monumental task to reach this agreement. We realize that over the last 30 years there have been one or two missing pieces from the previous editions of the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix™. We have a tremendous opportunity at hand to do it right - to feature Austin as the backdrop and produce the Formula 1 United States Grand Prix as one of the great sporting events in the world,” stated Hellmund

Hellmund noted that Austin's reputation as one of the "it" cities in the U.S. made it possible for the deal to be struck, but the funding source has yet to be announced.

In the coming weeks we should know more about the return of the U.S. Grand Prix.

Stay tuned to Track Day Online for racing news.

Texas to host Formula 1

2010-05-26T12:14:00.003-05:00

Big news for racing fans in Texas. Austin, TX, known for live music and hippies, will host the U.S. Grand Prix from 2012 to 2021. A "purpose built" facility will be erected within close proximity to downtown.
This means two things. 1) No longer do we as fans have to travel ungodly distances to witness the pinnacle of motorsports. 2) With a purpose built facility, we as racing enthusiasts and track day participants may find ourselves racing at a world class facility.
Much more news to come in the coming hours

Video from MSR Cresson 5/15 & 5/16

2010-05-20T12:13:00.002-05:00

Hello friends,

Video from MSR Cresson is now available. I want to thank Dave, driver of the grey Nissan 350z, for providing the links below.

http://www.vimeo.com/11858238

http://www.youtube.com/user/4wheelnfool

If you would like to share any videos feel free to e-mail them to me at e.goodwin@live.com, and I will get them posted as promptly as I can.

At future events, my associates and I will provide various video packages to you. We can shoot, edit and produce DVDs for your enjoyment. We can incorporate multiple shots and agles, giving you a seamless and dynamic track video. Stay tuned for announcements and pricing.

I'm writing to you from North Carolina. After Sunday's event I packed a U-Haul with my sister's things and hit the road for the east coast. We took I-30 to I-40, hitting Little Rock, Memphis and Nashville in the first day. On day two, we pushed over the Smoky Mountains into North Carolina, through Charlotte and all the way to Jacksonville.

While traversing the mountains I learned that a 12,000 pound truck can be challenging and exhilarating to drive. I am used to driving on flat terrain, and mountain driving was a welcome change.

Thanks again Dave. I look forward to seeing you all at the next event.

From the heart of NASCAR country,

Ellis Goodwin

Track Day Online

Owner/Operator

MSR Cresson 5/16-5/16

2010-05-12T13:38:00.003-05:00

Rick Schwalenberg and his crew at The Driver's Edge are hosting an event at Harris Hill Raceway in New Braunfels this weekend.
The Driver's Edge always does a great job with their events. They spare no expense to provide their drivers with the best experience possible.
I have not been to MSR Cresson, but I have heard the facility is the premier club racing destination in the state. The entire 3.1 mile circuit is like two tracks in one. The eastern side of the track, turns 11-16 and around turn 1, is a free flowing high speed section. After slingshotting out of 1 down the front stretch, turns 2-11 become a twisting technical section with no true straights. Some drivers have said it is hard to gain a rhythym on the 3.1 mile course, but once mastered it is an absolute blast to drive.
Sadly the weather gods have not been too kind to our friends at The Driver's Edge. The past couple events that I have been to have been hit by showers, and storms are imminent this weekend.
The rain will scare off those on racing slicks, but for everybody else it can be the most frightening and exhilarating experience of your life. It also could be your most educational experience behind the wheel.
Rain or shine Track Day Online will be there to take pictures and network with in the community. I look forward to seeing you all there

Eagles Canyon track day recap and photographs

2010-05-09T14:20:00.003-05:00

Community,

Drivers at Eagles Canyon Raceway could not have asked for a better Saturday to drive their cars on the undulating 2.5 mile road course.

The warm weather of earlier in the week cooled, and a brilliant blue sky was the backdrop to a great day of racing.

Many great cars and drivers came out from all parts of the region, some came from as far away as Florida and Colorado. I have covered many forms of motorsports, and no matter where you go, racers are racers.

Drivers' smiles were evidence of their satisfaction with their own performance and the assistance provided by their instructors and track officials. My hat goes off to Eagles Canyon Raceway for hosting a great event.

This was the inaugural event for Track Day Online as a burgeoning community. We hope that with your help our site can flourish. With more than 50 cars in attendance yesterday, and numerous other groups of racers around the region, I believe that there are more than enough enthusiasts willing to share their experiences, wisdom and multi-media with others who share a passion for motorsports.

We at Track Day Online hope to facilitate discussion and generate information and entertainment online. We are in the intitial phases of TDO, but plan to have a fully functioning online community by the end of the year. Look for a Beta version of our site later this summer at www.trackdayonline.net.

For all available photographs visit Track Day Online on Facebook.

See at the next event,

Ellis Goodwin

Owner/Operator

Track Day Online

Eagles Canyon Raceway Mothers' Day Weekend

2010-05-04T01:09:00.001-05:00

Get yourself ready for one of the premier tracks in Texas. Eagles Canyon is a challenging track that has 11 corners of various types. Want a decreasing radius, off camber and over a hill corners? Eagles Canyon is your place.
The 2.5 mile track is built into a small canyon, with straights on the high sides. With more than 70 feet of elevation change, ECR provides many challenges to drivers of all skill levels. The long straights lead into heavy braking zones (this track is notoriously hard on brakes) and fairly tight corners.
I especially like the blind approach to turn 6. Here you rocket down the second longest straight into a blind braking zone. You crest the hill, and as soon as your car settles, it's hard on the binders and a down shift to make the turn.
ECR is conveniently located an hour northwest from DFW airport. The track has many amenities including a locker room, grill, gas and a garage for repairs.
Hopefully the rain holds off, and we can have a great Mothers' Day weekend at ECR.

See you there,

Ellis Goodwin
Owner/Operator
Track Day Online

Grand Excitement indeed

2010-04-24T15:58:00.002-05:00

Scott Pruett and Memo Rojas took their third straight win at Virginia International Raceway.

The TelMex Ganassi team took the pole position in qualifying, and could not be caught the entire race. In the final laps Burt Friselle tried to catch Pruett in the Pacific Mobile Ford Riley, but Pruett was too good.

Drama ensued in the final laps as a botched restart caused mayhem in the Daytona Prototypes and GT winner Andy Lally faught hard in his TRG Porsche against Bill Auberlein in the BMW M6.

"I have all the respect for him in the world," Lally said of Auberlein after the race. "Unfortunately we touched."

Auberlein was catching Lally for many laps in the big BMW. While the Porsche was more nimble through the esses and undulatations of VIR, the BMW was trimmed out and rumbled down the straights.

Auberlein caught Lally at the end of the main straight, moved to the outside and had a clean pass. However, Lally locked up and was unable to keep from drifting wide into Auberlein's door.

Lally did nothing wrong. Auberlein is a great driver and that was an aggressive move. Every driver knows a pass on the outside is the hardest to accomplish, especially at the end of the race on spent tires. Lally said it best, it was "unfortunate" for the Turner Motorsports team. That being said, only four races into Grand-Am, they are sniffing close at a race win.

Race stewards deemed the contact a "racing incident." Lally will not be penalized.

Grand Excitement

2010-04-24T13:10:00.004-05:00

I have got to say that Grand Am racing is potentially the most exciting racing in the country.

The Daytona Prototypes are built like tanks, and the GT cars are little different than the cars we drive every track day.

Case in point. At the start of today's race from Virginia International Raceway, Jon Fogarty leapt from fifth to second going into turn one. He made a bold move around the outside of Mark Wilkins in his Pacific Mobile Riley prototype, got bumped to the edge of the track and slammed his way back into the racing line.

I especially like this move because is gets the Lewisville based Gainsco Bob Stallings boys closer to the championship, led by Scott Pruett and the TelMex Ganassi team.

Two and a half hours to the checker, but the battle will be the most exciting racing on TV. I hate to say it, but Grand Am's format does more for me than even the likes of Formula 1.

MSR Houston track notes

2010-04-14T11:54:00.003-05:00

These track notes were provided by lead instructor and Spec-Miata racer Brett Gabriel. These detailed instructions should prove to be useful for any first-time visitor to MSR Houston, myself included.

Courtesy of Brett Gabriel Drivers Edge Instructor and Racer and great all around guy.

The track is 2.4 miles long, has 17 turns, is mostly flat, with the exception of a little hump called the “launch” that is important because it comes right before a corner in the clockwise direction. The surface is mostly asphalt with a few concrete patches, and overall very smooth and pretty easy on tires. It’s fairly grippy even when wet. Runoff areas are pretty safe, and in the clockwise direction, the wall along the front straight is pretty much a non-issue. The turns are numbered in the counterclockwise direction, and some have names. So let’s do a lap.

Coming down the start-finish straight, otherwise known as the Pit Straight, there will be a wall on the left edge of the track, and it is literally the edge of the track. Speed will be high here, probably fourth gear. Set up for the first right hander track left against the wall. Hard braking and a downshift will lead to the double apex turn 17-16 complex known as “Sugar and Spice”. It is taken as one radius, with the second apex as the focus. There’s plenty of room to the outside at mid-corner, and there is low curbing that can be driven over, but there is a lot of klag out there. Best to be early on throttle for the second apex as a long straight with a flat out kink follows.

After track out hold some steering input to work the car in a natural flow track right to the curbing there which will be the apex of a shallow right bend turn 15. This is more or less also the turn in for the left kink turn 14 “Gut Check” which is a pretty easy flat out in this direction. An upshift will be called for in this area. After the kink, there is a fast straight toward the turn 13 “Launch”. It is a right hander with the apex blind and on the other side of the hump. Set up mid-track on the approach and with the car pointed slightly to the right, execute some straight line braking before the launch, how much will be dependent on the car. Do very little with the controls over the top of the launch, as it will be very floaty. Any significant steering or braking input during this short transition will be ill-advised as most track cars are not well suited for agricultural activity.

When the chassis reloads on the other side it’s hard on the brakes and a downshift. If the attitude of the car was proper over the top, it will put the car right at the apex, hold track right for a moment, then it’s a quick left for turn 12, then back right for turn 11, which starts the “key hole”. This is a mini-carousel to the right. It has a concrete lane on the inside that is wicked grippy, stay on it all the way around, then keep right to set up for the next left turn 10. There’s lots of track out here, if you drop a wheel, no biggy. Work the car back left in the short chute to turn 9, which is the right hander in a quick right-left “Bus Stop”. Set up as far left as possible, there is curbing here, use it. Don’t overcook this one, apex late and stay right to set up properly for the second half of the Bus Stop turn 8. This is a slow left hander that leads to a fast long straight so early throttle for a good exit is critical. Track out is wide, and there is a patch of pavement over there so use it, but be aware that it ends somewhat abruptly, so hustle back onto the regular track.

Whew, made it through the Miata playground, time to run the ponies!

After the exit of the Bus Stop, it’ll be up through the box as the car naturally tracks past the apex of the right sweeper turn 7 to track out on the left. Accelerate along the left side down the Back Straight toward another right sweeper turn 6. This corner can be taken quite fast, but in most cars it will be necessary to scrub off a little speed before turn in. Apply maintenance throttle past the apex, and allow the car to drift out track left and prepare for a very hard braking zone and probably two downshifts for entry to the Diamond’s Edge complex. This is a double apex right hander of turns 5 and 4 followed by the turn 3 left hander. The entry needs to be slow and calm to allow for aggressive throttle at exit onto the long Front Straight. Take turns 5 and 4 as one continuous radius, the track out will be the apex of the left kink turn 3. It’s then up through the gears again working track right to set up for the left hand turn 2 Carousel.

This corner is LONG, and pace through this corner dictates exit speed. It can be taken quite fast, and light braking may be prudent on approach, depending on the car and testicular fortitude. Under maintenance throttle at turn in, gradually work the car left to the inside curbing to apex about halfway around. Squeeze in throttle after the apex and allow the car to drift back track right past the pit entrance on the left. The radius of the corner actually opens up near the end, but it’s best to hold steering input just long enough to bring the car back track left to set up for the right hand turn 1. This is a fairly tight and narrow corner, so some braking will be necessary here, and maybe a downshift in some cars. There is some weird rounded curbing on the left that seems to pinch off track out. It can be driven over, but be mindful of the pit wall that looms a little way to the left. Now it’s hard to throttle down the Pit Straight working track left across the start-finish to end a good lap, and set up for another faster one.

Disclaimer: form Brett...If these notes suck, don’t blame Brett Gabriel. He races a Spec Miata, and therefore is not a well person.

Readying for Houston

2010-04-14T11:44:00.003-05:00

This week has been hectic for me. I am finishing my last week with The Express-Star in Chickasha, Oklahoma. This for me is a welcome transition, because I am taking the time to pursue my true passion; racing.

This weekend I will participate in an event with The Driver's Edge at MSR Houston. I have been to the track before, but that was to drive their rental DD2 karts. On a side note, the DD2s are fast. They have a 150 cc 2-stroke motor from Italy. I got the chance to see them in action at the Rotax Nationals last September in Norman, OK.

Now that I have the chance to get on the big track I thought I might study first. Below are some track notes, prepared by The Driver's Edge and famous racing coach and author Ross Bentley.

When driving a track for the first time there are some steps many professional drivers take to make the learning process faster. The following information is derived from Ross Bently’s book, Speed Secrets 6.

Preparation:

Prior to getting to the track review any information you can find such as track maps, track notes, in-car video (going the same direction), and computer simulation games. Search the tracks website for this information, you tube, or general Google searches.

The main objective in this step is to learn how the track flows and any reference points you can use. Many track notes will mark the most dangerous corners and give tips on where you want to be on the track and where you don’t want to be. The objective of this lesson is not to set things in stone but to pick up a basic understanding of the flow of the track and any spots that may require extra attention. Remember when you are watching in car footage braking points, turn in points, and levels of acceleration are different for every driver and every car.

Be a Sponge:

During your first sessions try to soak up as much information as possible. If possible parade lap the track, or ride along with other drivers prior to your session. If you can’t get on track with another driver before your first session go before your second. As a passenger you will have the opportunity to see the track from a different perspective. Do not focus too much on how the driver is driving but try to focus on how you would be driving.

Download:

After each session make notes on a track map of every detail you can remember of what you are doing on track. Shift points, where you begin braking, where you end braking, turn in points, where you are back to full throttle….also note all the reference points you’ve soaked up. Cracks in the pavement, bad off track areas, difficult corners, corner worker stations, changes in track surface, shape and placement of curbs, tire walls or concrete.

Mental Imagery:

After driving the track for a session or more take all the information you know about the track from your preparation and first session and replay it in your mind. The more repetitions you do during your mental imagery sessions the more effective it will be. You can do this by memory with your eyes closed if you know the track well enough or you can follow a track map. As difficult as it is to believe your mind does not know the difference between what you are visualizing and what is real. Use visualization to practice exactly what you want to happen.

Drive the car not the track.

Once your preliminary steps are complete it is time to stop thinking about the track and focus on simply driving the car to your best ability. At this point you should not have to focus intently on your reference points or the flow of the track, you need to trust your mental preparation and preliminary work and focus on driving.

Wow, it's been awhile

2010-03-19T11:41:00.002-05:00

Hello world,

It has been a long time since I have found the time to work on my true passion. I have been so weighted down with work at the newspaper that I haven't felt the desire to write for my own personal happiness/sanity. So, after 10 months of stress caused by a small town newspaper, I will write about whatever I feel. I rarely write in first-person, but today will be an exception.

In recent months my need to make a foray into racing has become apparent. I have spent much time at racetracks around Oklahoma and Texas, and I can no longer ignore my passion. This blog was meant to be the foundation for an online community geared towards road racers, but I have failed up until this point. Now, with a new season of Formula 1 underway, NASCAR driving forward and Grand-Am as exciting as ever, I am ready to express my love and knowledge of racing.

The Formula 1 season did not start the way that I had hoped. I knew that USF1 was struggling, but I hoped they could at least make it to Bahrain. They did not. They weren't even close, and to make matters worse the FIA has not granted them an automatic seat in 2011. The history of the team is up in the air.

USF1 could not sign any drivers that would drive money into the team. American advertisers want a face that is recognizable, and Jose-Maria Lopez couldn't offer that. If USF1 is to survive they need to find a driver that is willing to make a change from NASCAR, IRL, ALMS or Grand-Am.

There is some young talent out there, but can they drive revenue?

Without a US team, Bernie Eccelstone no longer has any reason to think about having another US Grand Prix. I think he's still a little miffed about the American revolution (he's that old). He never even gave USF1 any chance.

That being said, I think the rule changes that he and the FIA created have made racing quite good.

I am watching NASCAR Sprint Cup practice at Bristol. I really like the short tracks. The cars are so big and powerful, that it must be a challenge to get any speed in 1/2 mile. Yet, they are averaging over 117 mph. Scott Speed just ran the second fastest lap, he sits 11th in the points and is quickly showing that he is a talented driver. As long as he keeps his nose clean and his hair wild colors he has a good chance to win a race this year.

Speed seems to be a likely choice for USF1, and I'm sure they went after him. However, I would bet that Speed turned them down without much thought. He is still sponsored by Red Bull and is probably making more money in NASCAR. He would have to give that up if he went back to F1.

Le Mans; a battle on the soul

2009-06-14T13:23:00.004-05:00

After watching as many hours of the 24 Hours of Le Mans as I could possibly manage, I finally realized the effect racing has on the soul.

Racing 24 hours at speeds topping 200 mph has become the ultimate feat in sports car racing. In a single day a team's spirits and car can be crushed, or all their hard work and late night dreaming can bring them to tears of joy simply by finishing.

A record crowd turned out to the Circuit de La Sarthe in northern France to watch a heavily favored Peugeot topple Audi's decade long dynasty. Audi finished third, behind two Peugeots, the second of which was driven across the finish by Sebastian Bourdais, Frenchman and Formula 1 Driver for Scuderia Toro Rosso.

As for the soul, even the thought of finishing drove Patrick Dempsey to tears. After eight years of racing at Le Mans, C6-R Crew Chief Dan Binks welled up as he watched the yellow Corvette take it's final victory in the GT1 category.

"It's amazing. I've been coming here, this is my eighth time, and I haven't won one," he said with tears of joy streaming down his face. "I've won 15 championships and this is the hardest thing I've done, amazing."

Binks' reaction summed up why I love racing, and especially the 24 Hours of Le Mans. I've watched the 24 Hours at Daytona and it is great, but nothing lives up to the passion and history of Le Mans. The mechanical exhertion on the cars and the mental and physical exertion on drivers inspires fans to stay up all night, drink beer and celebrate their beloved motorsport.

Congratulations to Peugeot, they deserve it. A changing of the guard only means Audi will come back with a better R15, and who knows what Aston Martin and the other petrol powered prototypes can do in the next year.

My goal for next year is to spend this weekend in France, where I too can feel the pain and passion of a 24 hour race. Even if it is from the infield.

photo: http://www.lemob.org.uk/resources/24HRS+PANEL+3$3A150$3A12.jp

Indy Drivers looking at F1?

2009-06-05T15:32:00.003-05:00

With the inception of USGPE into the Formula 1 teams list for 2010, the question remains who will pilot the U.S. based formula cars.

Team Principals Ken Anderson and Peter Windsor have listed a fair number of potential American Drivers, including three drivers from the IndyCar Series.

Danica Patrick, Graham Rahal and Marco Andretti have been mentioned as potential candidates, but with USGPE only in the ground breaking phase it is doubted any driver will make a decision in the coming weeks.

"I’ve heard a bit from those guys…I think it will be great to have a team based from the U.S., but I think they might struggle a bit to get their spot, which is unfortunate, Rahal said.

“I want to make sure it’s the right opportunity. An opportunity where I can be successful. I don’t want to go just to go, I want to be competitive.”

Rahal said he is comfortable in IndyCar, and sees his immediate future there. He said he is focused on winning more races, and winning multiple Indy 500s and championships before he moves to another series. But, he hasn’t ruled out making a change in his career.

Patrick, who is in a contract year, feels differently than Rahal. She is actively searching for a ride in NASCAR, but many feel a move to F1 is a more natural step. During a press conference Thursday at the Texas Motor Speedway, Patrick said she prefers to race in the U.S. and doesn't think a U.S. based F1 team is right for her.

"I'll be exploring all kinds of options in the next year," Patrick said. "It really comes down to driving for a top team over there...I've lived in England, I've been in Europe before, and I have to say I prefer being in the United States."

Patrick said it is good to see new team atop the podium, but she is still skeptical about leaving Indy. Even if it is a transition to NASCAR.

As for Andretti, his father Michael Andretti and principal of Andretti Green Racing said neither the team nor Marco are looking to a move across the pond.

"We haven't looked at it at all,"Michael Andretti said. "I don't think he's really looking at it either."

Andretti tested a BMW in 2006, but failed to impress any teams in Formula 1 at that time. It is still early, but when USGPE is on better footing this fall any of the three could make a leap into F1. Also under consideration for driving a USGPE are NASCAR's Kyle Busch and Scott Speed, and a number of other drivers.

Not News: But we gotta pay the bills somehow

2009-04-30T12:05:00.007-05:00

   Since I haven't driven a 240sx in a few years I decided it's about time to get my stock wheels and tires out of the garage. I have four S14 SE five star rims.
   They are 16x6.5 inch 5-lug, with Nissan center caps and lug nuts. The wheels are all 100% true and balanced, when on my 240 they felt tons better than my 17 inch Einkis. Two of the wheels have slight curb rash around the edge, but it is minimal. I'm from Texas and the car never saw corrosive road salts or sand, leaving the painted finish in spectacular condition.
   The tires are Dunlop SP Sport 5000 205/55r/16 Z-rated. They have 75-80 percent tread left. I bought them as back ups and rarely used them.
   I am asking $300 OBO. Price is negotiable. These are a great set of wheels, and would be perfect as daily drivers or as a backup.

FIA proposes 2010 budget cap

2009-04-30T08:40:00.007-05:00

The FIA released the preliminary cost budget for the teams involved in the 2010 Formula One World Championship.

This budget, now increase to $59.4 million (£40m) from the previously projected value of $44.6 million (£30m) , will include developmental expenditures of the racecar and exclude engine costs.

The cap itself will cover development in 2010, yet no more than 50% of that cap value can be spent in the current season to develop the next generation car. Those opting for this voluntary regulation will benefit from unlimited in-season testing.

To read more about the FIA's reasoning behind the budget cap and proposed regulation methods, visit http://f1.gpupdate.net/en/news/2009/04/30/fia-explains-full-reasons-behind-cost-cap/ .

Trent Anderson

Technical Director

Restricted wrecks fire-up drivers

2009-04-29T12:48:00.005-05:00

Going into the final turns of the Aaron's 499 at Talladega Super Speedway Carl Edwards was leading, but ended up in the catch fence and running across the finish line.

Brad Keselowski had been pushing Edwards and made a move for the lead. Edwards blocked and was inadvertently clipped by the 09. Edwards car turned backwards became airborne, was clipped again by Ryan Newman and crashed into the safety fence upside down. Seven race fans were injured. Keselowski was the eventual race winner.

After running across the finish, a la Ricky Bobby, Carl Edwards spoke out about the perils of restrictor plate racing.

"We'll race like this until we kill somebody," Edwards said Sunday. "Then [NASCAR] will change it."

Talladega has long been known for having "the big one." Restrictor plate racing may keep speed down, but it bunches the field and causes cars to go three and four wide. In order to get a lead, you must push cars around the track, reducing available reaction time while increasing the likelihood of a massive pile-up.

Jimmy Johnson has also spoke out against restrictor plate racing at Talladega and Daytona. He even suggested redesigning the tracks. Talladega and Daytona banking are some of the steepest in NASCAR at just over 30 degrees.

NASCAR has become safer as of late, but will the governing bodies listen to drivers or is "The Big One" too powerful as a marketing scheme. Even Edwards running across the finish line is comical. He may have simply wanted to finish the race, but in a sport driven by cash flow and sponsors rough economic times can make you do just about anything.

I personally would like to see NASCAR do away with restrictor plates all together. NASCAR is already tough to watch on TV. Left turns do get boring, and I don't want to see a parade to the finish. Formula 1 was like that, new rules for 2009 have created better all around racing and one of the most exciting seasons in years.

Ellis Goodwin

Editor-in-Chief

Super diffusers and confusing the rules

2009-04-27T15:54:00.009-05:00

The FIA's decision to allow the use of the multi-level diffusers may have nullified the effort to improve close racing in Formula 1. The three teams that initially took advantage of this ill-defined technical aspect of the racecar earned this innovation. Yet, with teams eager to capatilize on this now legal part in order to maintain the pace of the rest, close racing seen thus far could quickly vanish.
The diffuser on the rear underside of a modern F1 car works to stabilize the transition between the low pressure underneath the car, and the ambient pressure around the car. High speed air creates a low pressure area under the reference plane. The ambient air pressure around the car is significantly higher than beneath, providing a drastic pressure boundary at the extents of the car. The diffuser works to stabilize this transition by provided a gradual increase in pressure. The volume increase of the diffuser, largest at the rearmost edge, provides a visible reference of this. The vertical slats also stabilize the air's move from low to high pressure by providing directional flow paths. As this volume increase, the air speed slows, thus bringing the air pressure to ambient.
The rules for 2009 dramatically reduce how efficiently the diffuser can operate simply by limiting its size. The diffuser works on principals of fluid dynamics - namely the relationship between a fluid's speed and its associated pressure. The faster a diffuser can pressurize airflow, the more downforce it permits. However, the limited size can only diffuse a certain amount of air before it is saturated.
To combat this, AT&T Williams, Brawn GP, and Toyota have designed diffusers with multiple chambers. Maintaining the letter of the technical regulations, these teams provide their diffusers with more space, albeit levels, in which the air can further slow and pressurize. Providing links or holes in the bottom or sides of the conventional diffuser allows this air the bleed into these levels and increase downforce production.
These innovative ideas do come at an expense -not to the car using them, but to the car following. First hand accounts from drivers reveal how similar the loss of downforce is when closely following a competitor to previous generation cars. These multi-level diffusers punch the same sized hole in the air as they did pre-2009, making the air similarly dirty as before, reducing the downforce for the following racecar. The work of the Overtaking Work Group may have been in vain.

Trent Anderson

Technical Director

Williams' updates endplates

2009-04-27T15:19:00.006-05:00

AT&T Williams has developed a new rear wing with extended end-plates, following the design of Adrian Newey's Red Bull RB5 and Scuderia Torro Rosso's STR4. These extended plates are rumored to act as turning veins, as well as increasing airflow through the multi-level diffuser. For detailed pictures visit http://www.formula1.com/news/technical/2009/807/649.html

Sound change in revs remains unknown

2009-04-27T15:08:00.003-05:00

The question remains: What is that weird sound that resembles a drop in revs?

It was first believed to have something to do with KERS, but it can also be heard on non KERS cars.

The latest indication was that it was a technological anomaly in the on-board-camera, but Bob Varsha and Steve Matchet squelched that rumor during Bahrain practice.

I believe the sound is produced by the driver switching between fuel maps. They often change the map going into long straights to give them more top-end power. During China's practice session on SPEED TV, Vettel was shown entering the long straight and pushing buttons on the wheel. At that exact moment the rev signature changed. I first thought it must be KERS, but the RB5 isn't using the technology.

The verdict is still out. What do you think?

From clouds and rain to sun and sand

2009-04-23T17:34:00.004-05:00

After four races in the Formula 1 the points table from last year has been turned on its head, but teams like Ferrari and McLaren are picking up speeed.

Button and Brawn lead in driver and constructor points, with Sebastian Vettel and Red Bull close behind. Ferrari and Kimi Raikkonen finally scored their first points of the season, with a sixth place finish in Bahrain and Ferrari is no longer in dead last. Massa may have won the last two races in Bahrain, but he has yet to capitalize in 2009.

As we look ahead to Barcelona, McLaren, Renault, Force India and others are catching up to the trick diffuser teams. They have interim aero trim, keeping them within a second of each other and the trick or super diffuser teams.

Bahrain was a good test for teams trying to catch up, but once the series returns to Europe and their home offices development will increase even further. Many questions are yet to be answered by the powerhousesWill Ferrari's yet to be seen aero upgrades stabilize the twitchy

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