WRF F1 2007 League 1 - Team Talk

[JoStream]

Welcome to a the inaugural WRF F1 2007 League!

1st Prize: $10 Amazon Gift Certificate

This thread is for us to talk about the latest developments, complaints, problems during the race, expectations and other things :thumbsup:

Remember that there are 2 days between sessions

Lineup:

Cerci (Ferrari)
DriverDB (Ferrari)
JoStream (McLaren)
HaraKimi (McLaren)
Krazy-K (Renault)
Danny (Renault)
Carlis (BMW)
Jean (BMW)
Fahad_H (Honda)
Sultan / Snake (Honda)
Waris (Toyota)
Kareem (Toyota)
Ryan (Super Aguri)
Salty Surprise (Super Aguri)

[Fahad_H]

Thanks Jo,

hope some pro. join me :finishfirst:

[Carlis]

The BMW Sauber has confirmed Carlis as his first driver for the incoming season.

Here are the reactions of this young and promising start:


A new season is always exciting, and to be in such a promising force as BMW makes it even better. I am not promising that we are going to walk away with the victory in all of the races, but if the car is half as good as the simulation results have shown, we are going to be a pain in the butt for more than one driver out there.
I also want to say a warm-hearty thank-you to my family and sponsors, who have joined me all the way through F1. A new chapter of my life begins now in this team, and I hope I can deliver the strong and amazing results I have been delivering in the past.
I also want to make clear that I have all the intention to cooperate with my very talented teammate, in order to secure both championships for our squad.
:finishfirst:

[Driverdb]

The Ferrari team has signed the new up-and-coming promising driver Driverdb for the 2007 season. Driverdb comes directly from the National class field of the Turkish Formula 3 series where he regularly was a top 10 finisher. Prior to that he was a force to be reckoned with in regional folk-race festivals with his brown SAAB 99. The motorsport world has for a long time had his eyes on this talent:

"I've never seen anyone so quick before"

"Wow! He looks good too!"

"He drives like he stole the thing. But I don't think he did."

Jean Todt:
"Driverdb will be a good strong addition to our team. We also welcome his sponsor Mario's Yunkyard who paid us good money for this kid to drive. We look forward to a successful season."

[Carlis]

After the successful shakedown of the new BMW car, emerging superstar Carlis met the journalists for a small Q&A interview

Q: What were your emotions after the first day of practice?
A: It was very exciting: the paddock, the atmosphere, the fans! Heck! I am finally in a F1! The first shakedown came smooth as expected, but we know we are going to be facing several difficulties throughout the session.

Q: Your time in the shakedown was quite impressive... First time in the car, and less than 4 tenths away from the Ferrari...
A: Yes! We were not looking for a time, and we actually find it! Now, when my teammate arrives, I have some tips for him, so I hope he will not test his car before listening to my setup suggestions. Only by working together, we will have a real chance of getting the championship.

Q: The championship? Just one test and you are now thinking of the championship?
A: Sure.... why not? We have the time without trying too hard. We have a strong engine, a strong chassis, strong tires... We will be fighting for it. That is for sure!

[Carlis]

After an eventful day, the promising Carlis has damaged the chassis of his BMW car and the team is now rushing in order to have it ready for the qualifying session.

Apparently, Carlis got distracted by looking at the numbers increase and decrease in the steering wheel, and lose a corner, having a heavy impact that finished his run for the day.

Fortunately, the team has a second car, and with the information gathered by Carlis, the team leader, they should be able to reach an optimal setup in time for the race.

[Fahad_H]

Apparently, Carlis got distracted by looking at the numbers increase and decrease in the steering wheel,

:lol:

I crashed too :(

[JoStream]

Q: So Jo, tell us about your first practice session for McLaren in the new season.
A: We finished the program we intended to complete for today. The car feels great, and I'm optimistic about the remainder of the weekend. Still too early to tell though, but I'm happy.

Q: Any concerns about the reliability?
A: We didn't have any serious problems during winter testing, so I'm not really worried about the reliability of the car.

Q: What do you think of DriverDB?
A: Don't know how quick he is, but I'm sure a top team like Ferrari wouldn't sign someone unless he's really quick.

Q: Carlis said earlier he thinks BMW can grab the title this season...
A: He has a lot of talent, but I'm set on proving him wrong :)

[Waris]

Today, Toyota signed Dutch driver Watson Waterstone.

When asked about how he felt with the new contract, Waterstone made the remarkable comment "Actually I wanted to join with my own team, Team Waterstone, but I don't have any money at all, so I thought I might as well sign with a rich team to become a paid driver! And what's more, Toyota is the BEST brand!"

Waterstone refrained from making any other comments, probably due to the effects of a joy overdose.

[saltysurprise]

The engineer's report is a nice feature....


To bad I didn't notice it until AFTER I'd blown 4 practices! :mad: :lol: :mad: :lol: :rolleyes:

[Ryan]

The engineer's report is a nice feature....


To bad I didn't notice it until AFTER I'd blown 4 practices! :mad: :lol: :mad: :lol: :rolleyes:

lol, you didn't need to use engineer's report. You need only to load my setup and use the ranges I sent you in team talk.:)

For anyone who is unsure of how to get started in this game try reading this help guide: http://batracer.com/-ph?read&40

It taught me everything I needed to know when I started with BATracer.

[saltysurprise]

"Sweeeet" - Eric Cartman

Now I can't wait to get started!:D

[Harakimi]

There is a talented finn on the grid again. McLarens Samuli Leinonen will start to his first F1 gp at Australias Albert Park.

-It is a great thing to start my career in a legendary team. My goal in this season is to be competitive against my team mate and score points at every race as possible, and hopefully some podium finishes also.

McLarens young starlet is known by his tremendous speed at Finnish national kart series, and also this years world championships, where he won the formula a start.

-It will sure be a season for me to learn, but I learn as much in 2 races as many "talented" drivers learn in 2 seasons! You will see.

Many F1-specialists doubt that Leinonen will have any change against his experienced team mate Jo Stream. And also his lack of knowledge driving cars with wings are troubling many drivers on the grid.

"I've competed against him in kart, and I have to say he is really fast." Kimi Raikkonen told to F1-Magazine after Leinonen's contract with McLaren was announced.

Jackie Stewart, a three time world champion isn't convinced.

-I afraid he will be a disaster! I don't know what FIA was thinking when they gave him the super lincence.

Allthough Leinonen's speed at winter tests has been promising, just few tenths after Jo Stream's times.

-Yeah, I've managed to keep up with Jo! Laughed Leinonen. Working with setups is more easier than I thought, and I've got lot of help from Jo when examining data. I'm happy with my current speed, but there is still work to do to get the car suit me better, he said and disappeared to McLaren motorhome.

[JoStream]

Q: Jo, tell us about your qualifying...
A: Not ideal, really. I was hoping that the setup changes would be spot-on, but I had a lot of oversteer in the corners.

Q: Surprised by the BMW performance?
A: Carlos did a good job, but it's too early to say who's doing how well.

Q: Your goal for the race?
A: I still think we can win with a good strategy. But as you know, the forecast for tomorrow is rain and with little knowledge of how these new tyres behave in wet conditions, it might be chaotic. Let's wait and see.

[saltysurprise]

I didn't know qualifying had started:mad: :confused: ... I missed out. Does that mean no racing pour moi? Argh!!!

[JoStream]

I didn't know qualifying had started:mad: :confused: ... I missed out. Does that mean no racing pour moi? Argh!!!

That's not a problem, you can still participate in the race. Out of some reason when I started the game it jumped straight to the race :wonder:

[Harakimi]

After promising P7 in fridays practice, Samuli Leinonen managed to wreck his McLaren at turn nine and was left out with no time. It was rumoured on the paddock that team owner Ron Dennis gave him a good lecture.

-No comments on that, it has been very difficult weekend for me. If we will race in wet which is forecasted, then I might have a change for podium added seemingly frustated Leinonen.

[Carlis]

The BMW team started the season in the best possible way, by securing pole position with his lead driver, Carlis. The Colombian ace dominated the field despite his accident on practice, and now is looking with his teammate, the young finn star to secure a strong result for the team.

Carlis was not available for an interview after the qualy, since he was feeling indigested because all the food he had the day before. We expect him to be available shortly.

An Official BMW Press Release

:finishfirst:

[Krazy-K]

With the Australian Grand Prix less than 24 hours away, Renaults young new talent has finally appeared in front of the press. Krazy Kay had avoided the press all weekend long, spending most of his time in the motorhome. "I really don't know what Flavio has to celebrate at the beginning of the season, but it really does leave you with quite a hangover. Anyway performance wise i think we did quite well even though i was aiming for the top three. Fifth is fine for our racing strategy tomorrow. The Ferraris are a bit difficult to catch and i'm assuming that the Super Aguris are cheating :lol: ."

When asked how he got along with Flavio, Kay responded: "As said he has a bit too much to celebrate, and he has two other problems. His accent, and his uncontrollable need to smear his sweat all over you with a big passionate italian hug. Not amusing. But apart from that Flavio's been great." Asked the same question Flavio replied by saying he loves his new talent and gave him a big passionate italian hug.

[Carlis]

Carlis has virtually given up all hopes of winning the race after learning that a wet track is expected for the race. The current pole-sitter said that the car has problems bringing heat to the tyres in a wet surface, and is worry that he and his teammate will struggle. As usual, he promised that he would not go out without a fight, so the BMW camp is already taking bets to see what their drivers are going to do once the red lights turn green.

Carlis was seen recently working harder with the mechanics and his teammate Jean in an intense monopoly game. Apparently, there is nothing they can do with their car right now, and have just decided to relax until the race start.

[Krazy-K]

A day to forget thats what it was for Renaults Krazy Kay. "I don't see why Flavio needs to hug me in a situation like this, we could've made the podium. We had a good setup, I was going for second place with 6 laps to go and then this. If he hugs me again he's going to get some serious damage applied to his face. And about this "driver error" people keep talking about, the cars a piece of trash to drive, don't blame me for it." After beating up three of the reporters around him and breaking the cameras of two TV crews, Kay returned to his motorhome to break some more things in there. The bill was forwarded to Flavio. :mad: :mad:

[JoStream]

Q: You predicted a chaotic race...
A: I did, but I wouldn't say that was difficult to foresee :)

Q: On lap 11 you had a run-in with Jean...
A: Yea that wasn't really necessary. I was a lot faster, so I tried to pass from the inside, but he pulled in and we touched briefly.

Q: Are you going to talk with him about it?
A: Maybe, I still need to take another look at the footage. But I don't see a problem.

Q: How did the race go other than that?
A: The setup was horrible, and with these difficult conditions, it was almost impossible to push. That's why I'm satisfied with fourth place.

Q: How surprised are you about Ryan's win?
A: I always said Ryan's a quick guy, but honestly I didn't expect him to win here today. Congratulations to him and his team :)

[saltysurprise]

My ears are still ringing from hearing myself yell "WHEEEEEE!!!" for 58 laps:lol: ... Now I've got to spend a penny:eek: :lol:

CONGRATS to my team mate RYAN!!! That kid's FAST!!!:finishfirst:

[Carlis]

After a very dissapointing race, Carlis is already gearing up for Malaysia.

The Colombian ace had one of the most horrible races in recent years, but he says he learned from the experience for the future:


My engineer went crazy... this was the first time he had to deal with wet weather in a long time, and he didn't react properly. Also, my experience with this type of conditions is quite poor. I never felt comfortable with the pits, and I did quite a few pitstops hoping for a pacecar to hold the field for me... Unfortunately, that never happened. We were also expecting a drying track... instead, we had a track that was just getting more and more wet every single lap. Not a good race for us, not at all.

We hope that the lessons we learned today as a team, will translate in better results for the future.


We have also learned that Ron Dennis has issued his (usual) protest, as is customary for him anytime his team doesn't win. This time we know that Ron was aiming at Super Aguri's state-of-the-art blue buttons on the steering wheel. The blue tone is so intense that Ron has not been able to reproduced it at the big building with the pool back in England, and is trying to hint that this is the reason on why the car on front was not chrome...

:finishfirst:

[Driverdb]

It was quite a disappointing race for Ferrari's Driverdb.

"I was hoping for more monsoon-like conditions with my setup and when we had a few laps of really heavy rain I just drove away from the other cars with 20 or so seconds. Then the heavy rain stopped and for some reason my mechanics decided it was time for Intermediates. Mechanics are stupid, let me tell you that. It didn't take long before a Super Aguri (of all cars) came by me and then I heard 'Let Alessio through for the championship' in my ears. Not really what I would have expetcted in the first race of the season but I reluctantly let him by on the last lap. Ferrari are paying my bills so I need to obey. A podium is ok I guess, but this was really mine to win."

[Harakimi]

McLarens' Samuli Leinonen was spotted very drunk in a strip bar after GP.

"This wasn't my day. I was all over the place and didn't feel good at any point of the race. I struggled with tyres and of course took wrong option which caused me to drive out of track into sand. Car was pretty fast but I couldn't take an advantage over it. Now leave me alone, I want to get loaded..."

[JoStream]

Official FIA Qualifying Press Conference

Stream has a laugh with Leinonen, then the interviewer begins

Q: Jo a great lap from you too, about half a second quicker than in your first two runs...
A: Yea, the final run went well. On my first outing the circuit was still a bit dusty, then on my second run I lost some time in sector I.

Q: How concerned are you about the gap to Ferrari?
A: I'm not concerned at all. The race is always a completely different story. The Ferraris are clearly very fast, but we're working hard to close the gap.

Q: What do you expect of tomorrow's race and do you think there will be different strategies?
A: I don't know what the others are doing, but I think we have a strategy that will put us in contention for the victory. The hot weather conditions that are expected for tomorrow will increase engine wear and hence reliability will be something all teams will have to watch out for.

[Krazy-K]

Krazy Kay after not being able to take to the circuit due to unknown reasons took it out on the reporters: "This is not how formula 1 works. I think what Renault seems to be forgetting is that formula 1 is based on cars. So if you have no car you can't 'formula 1' around the track. I drive the car, that's my job. The teams job is to provide me with a car. And seeing as the name of the team is a car manufacturer they sure as hell shouldn't have a problem providing me with one that has an engine and tires that spin when you press on the accelerator. Hope this ******** gets sorted out by tomorrow. And Flavio screw your free cigars."

[Harakimi]

Q: Congratulations Samuli, front row in your second gp just ahead your team mate, tell us about your feelings.
A: Thanks. This is where our team should be. Compared to last race I have to say I feel better now (laughter).

Q: What are your plans for tomorrow and do you think you can finish 1-2 with Jo?
A: I start on the dirty side of the track so I hope I get a fantastic start and be the first driver at first corner! There is definetly a change for 1-2 and we will try to go for it, but Ferrari's and also BMW's are looking fast too, we'll see tomorrow

Q: You were seen in famous strip club after last race, any comments on that?
A: You were there too

[JoStream]

Reporters run towards Jo as he walks to his motorhome

Q: Jo, how happy are you with fourth place?
A: How happy do I look? :rolleyes:

Q: Collision with Jean on Lap 31, tell us what happened from your point of view...
A: Well, Jean and I were fighting for P3 for a few laps and then he decided to make another move. I'm not sure whether he was too fast, but he slided outwards and hit my sidepod quite heavily.

I then had to change my strategy and pit right away to fix the damage as much as possible. Of course the car was really heavy then, and the podium was lost.

You know this was absolutely unnecessary, but I'll see now what the stewards of the race say and I'll have a chance to talk to Jean about it.

Q: His team mate Carlis was quite furious and said it was your mistake...
A: I'm glad we're opening up to everybody. Let's get your opinion too while we're at it ;)

Q: A dominant win by Cerci, were you surprised about his pace?
A: A little bit maybe, but the situation can always change very quickly. We're getting new parts for the next race, that should help close the gap.

Q: What do you think about the violent outburst of Krazy-K recently?
A: It's not my way of dealing with things. Kay is a quick driver, but we really can't afford things like that in the F1 paddock.

Jo continues to his motorhome after which he is expected to meet with the stewards of the race

[Balerickid]

Q: Alessio, a dominant win for Ferrari, half a minute ahead of 2nd place, you made it look so easy. How do you feel about securing your 1st grand prix win with Ferrari and taking a lead in the Drivers' Championship?

A: Well, everything just came together this weekend, the car was blindingly fast in Practice and Qualifiying and the race pace of the Ferrari was 2nd to none. It wasn't easy, I know on paper it may look like I dominated but I had to work exceptionally hard for the win and on another day any 1 of the top 4 could have taken the victory.

Q: The Aguri drivers are posing an early threat as Championship contenders, Surprising as that may be, do you fear the Aguri team? Do you think come Interlagos the Aguris will be in the same position as they are now.

A: Well it is a big surprise, the team has came along way and the results are finally paying off, I think it's possible for any team to win the Championship albeit Ferrari, Aguri and McLaren look the most likely to contend for the coveted prize and the Aguri may well be top of the constructors in 7 months time you just don't know with F1.

[Harakimi]

After the race, we managed to catch McLaren's Samuli Leinonen for some questions.

"I had a terrible start, others were just flying pass me. After that I got a message from engineers that there was some problems with the electronics of my car. I allmost spun out at corner 12 at lap 40 or something, tc wasn't working correctly. Hard race for me, really hard. I'm happy that I finished today."

[saltysurprise]

I hope I don't end up with Super Aguri :confused:


Well, it's your home race Fahad, let's see what ya got!

As for Alessio, Andreas and Jo... Bring it on baby! C'mon!

[Fahad_H]

Well, it's your home race Fahad, let's see what ya got!



Too bad my team mate isn't interested in the game, he doesn't test neither set a strategy for the race.

[JoStream]

Too bad my team mate isn't interested in the game, he doesn't test neither set a strategy for the race.

Yea, Krazy-K has the same problem :(

[JoStream]

Qualifying Press Conference

Q: Jo, you put in a great final lap, just missing out on pole by a tenth of a second. How much better is the car this weekend?
A: The car has been great all weekend. We've made a few adjustments since Sepang, so it looks like we're more competitive now.

Q: Should we put our money on you tomorrow?
A: I don't encourage betting, but it might not be a bad decision ;), since Cerci here is going to place his money on someone else :lol:

Jo nudges Cerci and they both laugh

[Krazy-K]

Once again reporters had to deal with a furious Krazy Kay. After being unable to get a decent run during qualifying the young Egyptian stormed down the pitlane shoving reporters away from him.

Surprisingly he stopped at one point grabbed a microphone and commented: "See, i'm usually a very calm person. I try to let things go. I really do even though people like Jo say otherwise. Speaking of which, I respect what Jo has to say i really do, but at the same time i dont care, i really dont. How i run things with my crew is none of anybodys business, let Jo take care of his own issues before commenting on mine. This is Formula 1, not Oprah. Now to my team. We need to pull ourselves together if we want to get up on the podium and be competitive. There's no reason for us to miss the first session. It comes to no surprise the setup was horrible for the qualifying, no research no setup. To top it off really not even my teammate been around. It's all going down the drain, and it looks like the race is going to be nothing to smile about either. We need to pull ourselves together, things can't continue on this level. Now piss off."

[JoStream]

Reporter catches Jo before he gets into his SLR to drive to the hotel...

Reporter: Jo, Krazy-K said he doesn't care what you say and that you should take care of your own business before commenting on his...

Jo: Good. Cause I don't care either, you're the one who asked. There are event officials who deal with security here in the paddock.

But if Renault and Krazy-K think that punching each other before and after the race makes the car faster, that's great. Interesting philosophy, maybe I'll sleep over it to see whether I want to use it before the race tomorrow :lol:

[Harakimi]

As both of our cars seem to be very fast this weekend here at Bahrain, it is sad to notice that reliability of the car is not on the same level. We saw excellent performance by Jo, being on the front row, but at the same time we see our other driver forced to park his car in the middle of the track after mechanical failure. Nevertheless, we are looking forward for a win by Jo tomorrow, and Samuli to score as high points as possible.

[JoStream]

Jo Stream jumps get out and stands on the car, waving to the fans. He then is received by Norbert Haug and Ron Dennis who congratulate him. He is the first Swiss to win a Grand Prix since Clay Regazzoni in 1979.

Post-Race Press Conference

Q: Jo, a perfect race and your first win of the season. How does it feel?
A: It's my first WRF F1 win, and I'm really happy after working so hard with the team :D

Q: How crucial was it to get by Cerci at the start?
A: I don't think it was decisive but it helped, because as it turned out we came in on the same lap for our first stop. We were the fastest cars on the track today and Samuli also did a great job coming from all the way back the grid.

Q: Before your first pitstop you had a lead of about 12 seconds and after stopping you only had 6 seconds left. Did you have a problem somewhere on the track?
A: No, the pitstops were not perfect. I'm not sure what happened, but we'll look at that to make sure it doesn't happen again.

Q: Will we see a different picture in Barcelona, or do you expect to be as competitive as you were today?
A: We've added some new parts to the car here, which made a difference. That's why I don't see a reason for the picture to change in Barcelona, especially since we've tested there two months back. Continuous development is what counts, and keeps you in front :)

[Harakimi]

Samuli Leinonen, McLaren (4th), (Qualifying - 13th)

"Finally I was able to push a good result! After the qualify I was bit frustrated because I knew that the car was fast and I had to start from the back of the grid. I had a good start, picked few spots right on the start and after that I was just overtaking on almost every lap untill my first pitstop and made the fastest lap of the race! On the last stint I was closing for Hizam's P3 but then I lost my 5th gear and I thought oh my god, is this it? Few laps later my clutch started to slip and it slowed me a bit too much so I couldn't overtake Hizam, the laps just ran out! We have to make improvements to our reliability, because there seems to be alot problems in that area, well atleast in my car."

[saltysurprise]

Q: Not exactly the way you would have liked to race is it?
A: Well that's a stupid question now isn't it? No, no it's not. We were pretty confident going in because of how the cars have been so well behaved up until today. Nothing major, we'll have it figured out by Barcelona.

Q: You had some pretty good battles with Carlis today, and even traded paint on lap 29. Anything we should read into this?
A: Hell no! Carlis is a great competitor. I don't know him that well but I'm sure he loves a challenge as much as I do. No hard feelings.

Q: Any reports on damage to your car?
A: It's mearly a flesh wound... I finished the race didn't I? DUH!

Q: You've been criticized by some for your trash talk before the race.
A: Well it certainly backfired now didn't it? Everyone I called out placed better than us. I like to have everyone motivated and fired up to RACE. Me, my team mate, and even my competitors. If you're not motived, enthusiastic and competitive, why the hell show up? Stay home... It's racing for crying out loud!

[Fahad_H]

Fahad Hizam, HONDA (3rd), (Qualifying - 3rd)
Sultan AlRubaiea, HONDA (6th), (Qualifying - 9th)

I am happy with our results, I started 3rd and finished 3rd, I had the ability to fight for winning but I was very careful in my home race, it's better to finish on the podium than to crash.

My team mate did well, which he also was on the safe side.


for the next race we will start with a faster strategy and we should both finish on the podium. :finishfirst:

[saltysurprise]

Glenn runs into Jo in the pits during practice in Spain... Let's take a look...


Salty: Hey Jo!... Don't go so fast! You'll give yourself a heart attack.:lol:

Jo: *smiles*, *flips Glenn the bird*:lol:

[JoStream]

A journalist alleges to have seen Jo flip the bird at Salty, and decides to ask him

Q: Jo, why did you flip the bird at Salty?
A: I didn't flip the bird at salty. It was a thumbs up :)

Q: Are you sure?
A: Wait let me check...Yes I'm sure, now stop wasting my time :mad:

[saltysurprise]

Live from WRF News channel 7...

Reporter1: Just moments away from qualifying, there are reports of Stream making rude jestures to a smart alec comment made by Suprise. Let's go to the replay...

Reporter2: It's really tough to tell from all angles, but being the classy guy Jo is, I seriously doubt he'd stoop so low. If he did, I'm sure it's all in fun.

Reporter1: You've got that right, I'm sure Salty's just playing mind games with the other racers to try and throw them off. There isn't alot of pressure when you're the underdog, and often this strategy can pay off. Other times it'll ruin it for you.

[JoStream]

Qualifying Press Conference

Q: Jo, a great lap and your first pole position of the season. It was very exciting to watch the last three minutes of the session, when Cerci and yourself gave it one more shot. What went through your mind?
A: We've done great work all weekend, and I knew that we would be very competitive. My first two runs didn't go very well, but I pushed very hard on my last lap. It was very, very close in the end and it shows that we did an amazing job as a team today. I'm very happy :D

Q: Do you expect Cerci to be a threat tomorrow?
A: I've said before that Cerci (Balerickid) is very quick, and based on the close finish today it's obvious that he is in contention for tomorrow's win. It might rain tomorrow, which could shuffle up things a bit.

[Krazy-K]

"It seems my friends that we are back in the race", beamed a cigar smoking, confident Krazy Kay in an interview. "6th in Qualification is not bad considering that a big chunk of the team hasn't been helping in the setup. We did a couple of test runs before the race and we've got a good setup for rainy conditions. The speed is there, now we need to make use of it."

Asked to comment on Streams response Krazy Kay smiled and stated: "This isn't the first and wont be the last time people comment on my honesty. Unlike many other teams that cover up indecent gestures by bribing reporters and stating they never did anything offensive, I like to be very honest and open about my thoughts. I stand behind my actions. Sugar coating things doesn't get you anywhere. If some teams work that way, hey maybe ill consider it. Who knows maybe kissing all the mechanics and getting each a bouquet of flowers will make my pitstop just a bit faster. :lol: "

[Harakimi]

Q: Samuli, second time on P2 this season just behind your team mate Jo Stream, congratulations to you. McLaren is looking strong right now since you captured the first row. You were very fast on your last run, did fastest times on sector 1 and 2, but what happend on third?

A: Yes I was going for pole I'm pretty sure, but there was little bit of traffic and that was it. I will get my first pole later. And yes, defineteley we are the team to beat right now. We have to keep pushing so we can achieve both championships.

Q: Behind you on the grid there is the championship leader in his Ferrari, do you feel any pressure?

A: Not really, I know Alessio's abilities as a race driver and also the fact that Jo is his main rival for championship. To win the race tomorrow he has to get by me and I promise that won't be an easy thing to do! :lol:

[Harakimi]

Samuli Leinonen, McLaren (6th), (Qualifying - 2nd)

"What can I say, we made a huge mistake with tyre choices today. We exepted track to dry up pretty soon after start but it didn't. When I got to my pitstop to get intermediates, the game was pretty much lost. It seems that I'm learning things with the hard way."

[Carlis]

After a magnificient drive in tricky conditions, the colombian star Carlis was seen having a few drinks with his friends at a local adult club in the city... We managed to get a few words from the dominant winner of the Spanish GP.


Well, the race went surprisingly fine for us. I did a minor mistake in my second pitstop, but I am frankly surprised of seeing how my car went... I must confess that I had room to be more aggressive and to lap even faster, but considering how unfortunate I usually am under wet conditions, I decided to run a conservative strategy today... and it paid out!!!


After a minor struggle with one of the bar attendants, the BMW camp managed to deliver the following statement:


This was our most difficult weekend, because one of our two drivers seems to be experiencing some difficulties, so we have to rely on the information of Carlis alone for the whole event. The problem is that his inexperience during testing stills costing him valuable time in the setup of his car, so we are not hopefull we would see another pole position any time soon. The victory, as usual, has make everyone happy in the team, but if Jean doesn't get better soon, I doubt we will be able to repeat our (lucky) performance today!


:finishfirst:

[saltysurprise]

Q: You retired on lap 35 today, what happened?

A: Well it was a great job by Ryan today to keep us in the points running. My hat's off to him.
As for me,I'm really disappointed with myself. We worked really hard on getting these cars set up, and were very confident both of us could make the podium. I came into Renault corner a little hot and lost the front end. I really wanted to win this race today and just pushed to hard.

Now if only the mechanics could get it together! I can't BUY a clean pit! It's very frustrating... I gotta go, I have to see if I can't catch up with Carlis at the Peeler Bar.

[Harakimi]

Drivers: 1st Samuli Leinonen (McLaren), 1:13.163; 2nd Salty Suprise (Super Aguri), 1:13.400; 3rd Alessio Cerci (Ferrari), 1:13.425.

Q: Samuli, a pole position in legendary Monaco Grand Prix, and at the same time your first pole position in F1, you must be happy?

A: Yes, I had a good run on that last lap, gave my everything and here I am. I told you I will get a pole this season, and to get that in Monaco is amazing.

Q: It surely will help you tomorrow, tell us about overtaking in monaco?

A: I've competed here only once, few years ago in Porsche Cup and allthough overtaking here is very difficult, it is still possible. Being on the front makes things alot easier of course.

Q: What are your predictions for tomorrow?

A: Hopefully not rain! :lol: Well to be serious I except Super Aguris to be very light and I believe that there will be McLaren's and a Ferrari on the podium.

Q: And in what order is that going to be?

A: We'll see.

[saltysurprise]

Headline on the WRF Evening Post:

"McLarens, Aguris, Ferraris... OH MY!"

[JoStream]

Q: Jo, your expectations for the race tomorrow after coming in fifth in qualifying?
A: It's not ideal, but I'm definitely aiming for a win here. It'll be a tough battle, and probably a really exciting race to watch :)

[saltysurprise]

A clearly upset and dejected Suprise is approached by reporters.

Q. This must be very frustrating for you, 2 retirements in 2 consecutive races.

A. Thanks for reminding me! Look, I know this is a tight course, and it is very difficult to pass. But for Samuli to defend that agressively, hit me and knock me out of the race without completing HALF A LAP?!? That's just uncalled for. We'll be taking this to the higher-ups.

No more questions.

-

After several pints in his trailer, Salty is overheard yelling 'ala City Wok guy from South Park'

"I're git you Samruri! If it's da rast ting I e'be doooo!":lol:

[JoStream]

Q: Jo, a turbulent race for you. After a good start, it looked like you were stuck behind Ryan
A: Yea I got off well, but Ryan was holding me up at a rate of about three tenths a lap. That wasn't enough to really put him under pressure. It's really frustrating because the car was very quick today.

Q: What was the problem with the first pitstop?
A: I'm not sure, but it seemed like there was some confusion. I still haven't had a chance to talk to the team about it.

Q: What happened on the last lap?
A: I had some problems with the tyres in the closing laps of the race, and that's why my lap times went into the cellar. This gave Leinonen (Harakimi) an advantage he made use of.

Q: Are you happy with fourth place?
A: No, I'm not. But considering that I lost almost half a minute in traffic and pitstop troubles, it's the best I could do today.

[Ryan]

Q: Ryan, good race today. How was it from your veiw? You must be pleased with 2nd.

A: Yeah, it was a good race, unspectacular but good. I got into 2nd after Leinonen and my teammate got together at St. Devote. It was clear Salty had the line going in and was viciously cut off. But nonetheless I capitalized and took 2nd, and then it was just a case of keeping it off the barriers. The car wasn't quick enough for the win but ran well. A case of champagne to the Aguri boys, they did great work this weekend.

Q: Stream says you held him up that first stint, what's your take on that?

A: I think he's just sour about being beat by an Aguri :cool: . He was very close that first stint but not once did he try and make a move or even get a run on me.

"Thanks Ryan"

"You're welcome, anytime"

[Harakimi]

"Spectacular Monaco Grand Prix was held today. We saw some serious 'on the limit' driving by race winner Alessio Cerci and our interviewee Samuli Leinonen. We were able to talk with McLarens Finnish flash at the well known Monaco night club, the Jimmy'z"

You weren't too happy at the press conference, P3 wasn't good enough?

"No it was not. I had ok start, got to the first corner inside and noticed that Salty is going to try something hopeless. There was no room for me to avoid the contact and Salty just hitted my side pod with his front tire, flying himself to the wall and ruined his race. Well I know Aguri boys are trying to say that it was my fault but c'mon, everyone can look at the replay and see what really was going on."

But you didn't damage your car, right? Atleast you were the fastest man on track with Cerci?

"Yeah, luckily I didn't! It's a shame that I didn't got a change to fight with Alessio today, he is so fast. I had some problems with overtaking Hizam but I don't think that made the difference, or neither my slight disappointing pit stops. Nevertheless it was nice to notice our race pace as good as Ferrari's"

You overtook your team mate in the last corner, he looked bit angry after the race, how are the things between you guys?

"Heh, surely he didn't except that and left some room for me. I don't know why he was lapping so slowly, maybe he was allready thinking our party we planned for tonight :lol: We shaked hands after the race. The overtake was riskless, tho I don't remember anyone done that in Rascasse before. I think Ron (Dennis) got his blood pressure up there but it was fun!"

All eyes on Montreal now, you have two weeks break now, how are you going to spend it?

"How I'm going to spend it? Look, I'm having nice time here with these ladies (squeezes 2 hotties around him) , maybe I spend some time at my yacht. There is no new parts coming to the next race from us, but I except us to be at the front there! However, if you see Salty tonight tell him to come to my yacht, I'm lacking shark baits."

[saltysurprise]

The paparazzi catch a glimpse of Samuli and his entourage, en route to his 'Yacht'

[Harakimi]

Drivers: 1st Samuli Leinonen (McLaren Mercedes), 1m12.834s; 2nd Carlos Caicedo (BMW Sauber), 1m13.482s; 3rd Ryan Esch (Super Aguri), 1m13.679s.

Q: Samuli, your second consecutive pole today, you seem to be excited about it?
SL: Yeah, we had hard time to get setups right for qualify. The car is far from perfect so I'm happy that the gap was so big!

Q: Over 6 tenths to Carlos, do you think you have lighter car than opponents around you?
SL: Absolutely not, I'm sure that I'm one of the heaviest in first 2 rows.

Q: Weather conditions have been very different on each day here. It seems that the race is going to be held in bone dry, has it been hard for you to setup the car right?
SL: A bit yes, and like we can see from the session timing lists, I am not the only one. I think Honda, oh sorry I mean Super Aguri is going to be strong tomorrow but of course I'm going to win.

[JoStream]

Q: Jo, you had an incredible start, what's your secret?
A: Hehe :lol: , you just do what you need to do. I got off the line really well and was able to pass from the inside before the first corner. I think I moved up seven positions :)

Q: You had a heated fight for P3 after that...
A: Yea that was a bit frustrating. I was a lot faster, but Carlis kept blocking me. By the time I got by I was behind by 18 seconds or so.

Q: But you closed the gap after a great second stint...
A: It's very motivating when you're car feels and drives well. I closed the gap, but it wasn't enough to come out ahead of Saltysurprise during the second set of pitstops. But I went by a few laps later.

Q: You were closing the gap on Ryan in the last 10 laps of the race, and we were expecting a grand finish, but suddenly you fell back behind your team mate. What happened?
A: I had a problem with the throttle and could not push anymore. These things shouldn't happen, but I am confident that we will learn from this. I picked up some important points and I am looking forward to a better result in Indy :cool:

[Harakimi]

Q: What a dramatic race for you Samuli, what happend at the start?
SL: I'm not sure, there was some problem with the clutch. We have to study the data to see if it was my or car's fault. Luckily everyone was awake and no one hitted me.

Q: You fought yourself back with series of amazing overtakes, in lap 9 you overtook 3 cars. At closing laps you got into Ryan's tail, how close was the win today?
SL: Not so far away :lol: I was closing him for about 0.5 seconds per lap so...To be honest I lost my changes at the start and I felt I had nothing to lose, that's why I pushed to the very end.

Q: Next race will be held in Indianapolis Speedway track, how do you think McLaren will perform there?
SL: We will have an aerodynamic package update there so I think we will be great! The track is not familiar to me so I think Jo might have a little advantage there, unless he forgets empty beer cans into his cockpit and they go under his throttle pedal again :thumbsup:

[Ryan]

Peter Windsor: Congratulations on winning you home race today Ryan, You and the Super Aguri team made it look easy.

Esch: Yes, it was a good win, I have to thank the whole Super Aguri team for this one. Their work this weekend has been spectacular. Stream was catching me quickly in the final laps but he appeared to have some kind of mechanical problem and dropped back. I felt I was in the clear so I backed off, it looked like the McLaren of Leinonen was going to make a race of it at the end, but I had enough in the car to be able to hold any challenge from him. My team mate had an excellent race as well, he led confidently. It's only a matter of time until he's the one on the top step.

PW: You appeared to make an error at Turn 1 on lap 43. What happened there?

Esch: I was just pushing very hard trying to stay out of the grasp of the McLaren's and just ran wide and across the sand trap. I think I tweaked something in the suspension because it never felt the same after that. I was slightly slower, but not enough to greatly affect my race.

PW: It must been a fun time in the opening laps, with the Aguri's running away from the field.

Esch: Yes, Leinonen stalled his McLaren and I was just able to avoid him, and on lap 2 I passed the BMW to move into 2nd. Luckily the BMW then held up all the others and we were able to break away, and build up the gap we needed to win.

[JoStream]

Q: Jo, are you alright?
A: Yea, I'm fine :)

Q: What happened?
A: I'm not sure, we need to look at the data. On my second outing the car had a little bit of oversteer, but I was still quick. Just before the end of the lap, I went into Turn 13 and I lost it.

Q: P5, what's possible tomorrow?
A: I'm aiming for a win, but the weather might complicate things a bit. It should be a fun race :)

[saltysurprise]

Post Indy with Salty

Q. What on earth was going on out there?

A. Beats me!?! It was more like a demolition derby out there today:lol: I'm happy to place third today, considering half the field didn't finish the race. The weather was inconsistent making it tough for many. Tyre choice was critical but the weather seemed to change with every couple of laps or so:confused:

Q. What's next?

A. Well try to solve the McLaren team. Both are obviously very skilled drivers and their cars are VERY fast.

[JoStream]

Post-Race Press Conference

Q: Jo, you seemed like you had the win all sorted out today, until another safety car phase was called in on lap 53 ...
A: Yea that kind of changed things didn't it? I was very quick in the second stint and pulled away from Harakimi (Leinonen). I gambled with the setup for a dry race, while my team mate went for a more wet setup. So when he came up behind me during the safety car period I knew it would be very difficult to keep him behind me. I tried, but at that point in time he was the quicker man.

Q: How happy are you with second place?
A: I would have preferred to win, but congratulations to Harakimi (Leinonen), and of course the entire team for a job well done. We got the best possible result today :D

Q: A close race for the championship with Esch and Cerci, but neither of them finished today. How do you see your chances for the rest of the season.
A: We might be the three topping the table at the moment, but the championship is still wide open. Harakimi (Leinonen), Saltysurprise, Carlis and DriverDb can still have a word in this, although BMW has been having difficulties lately.

[Harakimi]

"It always feels good to be on the middle. Weather made the race very difficult. When the first safety car came out I went in and took slick tyres, which was the wrong choice obiviously and it looked like Jo is going to win. I think he had about 30 seconds gap to me when I got back to intermediates, safety car really helped me out today. To get first 1-2 for many years for McLaren is great amd I'm looking forward to get more wins this season. As the season is at it's midway, it looks like the championship is going to be tight for both titles, and I want to win both!"

[JoStream]

Post-Race Press Conference

Q: Jo, not a good day for you is it? It's your worst finish since the start of the season...
A: It's not been going well for me lately. Wrong tyres all day, didn't have a chance to really fight up front.

Q: Why did you choose the wrong tyres?
A: The conditions were changing all the time, and I kept hoping for more wet conditions, but instead it dried up a little bit.

Q: Your team mate has overtaken you in the standings, and now it's a four-way race for the title. Are you worried?
A: I think it's great Harakimi (Leinonen) won today. These are very important points to the team, and now the driver championship race is even more exciting. I'm not worried at all, I know what I'm capable of. But we're half way through the season, so I think it's a bit early to say it's a 'four-way race'. Everybody still has a chance, and in F1 you should never underestimate your competitors :)

[Harakimi]

Q: Second win of the season, and at the same time you enrolled youself to the championship battle. It looked that you got this one easily?
SL: Well I pushed the opening laps as hard I can and after first pitstops there was some gap to Carlos so I just controlled the race.

Q: Championship table looks pretty interesting now and you have won two last races. Where did you find your speed after difficult start of the season?
SL: We tweaked my car abit after Barcelona and since then I've felt confident in the car. I wasn't too happy to the balance at the beginning of the season, but now it's all about maximum attack!

Q: Next race will be held at Silverstone, do you like the track?
SL: Most definetly! Silverstone is one of my favourite tracks. Driving through Magotts, Becketts and Chapel is so fun that I could do it all day long. I hope that the weather will be sunny but I'm sure we will see a thrilling race, and my third win! :D

[JoStream]

Q: Jo, a great set of laps for you, all within two tenths of each other.
A: The car's been fantastic all weekend. I love the circuit here too, so to have a car that drives well and allows you to push is very exciting.

Q: Who do you expect to be a threat tomorrow?
A: If it stays dry, I'm confident we can finish the same way we stand here today :) . It won't be easy, but we have proven that we are quick in long runs too.

[Harakimi]

Q: You wrecked your McLaren on your second run, what happend?
SL: Heh, there was some problem with rear tyre wheel nut and cause of that the wheel was loose, forcing me to spin and hit the barrier. The mechanics have a long night ahead them...

Q: You still managed to put a good laptime on your first run, tell us about that.
SL: Our car is really strong now, I didn't even push on that lap. Luckily it was fast enough for front row but not fast enough to beat Jo.

Q: On practice sessions McLaren has been very fast on longer runs how do you see the race is going to be tomorrow?
SL: Yeah, the car is exceptional fast on longer runs, even better than in qualify. We just have to be sure that everything goes well without problems and get the maximum result here, we will see what happens.

[Carlis]

We have found Carlis, alone in the bar, sad and depressed... this was all that we managed to get from him:

Carlis: Yeah, it sucks! We do have the car to be fighting in front, but since my teammate is apparently sick, or was recruited to fight in Iraq, one of those two, now all the weight of the development lies on my shoulders... and, honestly, I am not good (at all) doing that. I just hope to have one more reason to smile before the end of the season, but with my moronic mechanics, and my unexisting teammate, all that I have now is this empty shot glass asking to be filled... :cry:


After that, Carlis got lost into a world of flying pink animals and only beautifull women.

[JoStream]

Q: Jo, a very exciting race from start to finish. Many anticipated today that it would be a close battle, You lost your position at the start and Harakimi (Leinonen) was able to pull away a bit during the first stint.
JS: It was a very hard fight from start to finish. I'm sure many of you saw that on the grid we had different tyres, I was running on Hard while my team mate decided to go for soft. Fresh softs are always faster, and that's why he was able to get off the line better and pull away. I kept pushing as hard as I could.

Q: You came out just ahead of Harakimi (Leinonen) after the first pitstop and you stayed very close together all the way to the second set of pitstops. Coming in a lap before your team mate, did you expect to hold on to the lead?
JS: The team told me that Carlis had overtaken Harakimi (Leinonen) and I got a second or two of air. I knew that Harakimi (Leinonen) would not be able to make up a lot of time, because his second stint was long and the tyres must have been fairly worn out. At least it wasn't as close as the first set of stops.

Q: Harakimi (Leinonen) was very quick in the last stint. When he was close enough, he went for an opportunity and you touched briefly, yet you were still able to hold on to the lead.
JS: Yea :lol: , he was very quick and that was the challenge throughout the race, keeping him behind me when his tyres were fresh. I fought for my position, and although we touched, it was still very fair racing from both of us. I don't think there was any damage to either car.

Q: A 1-2 victory for McLaren on home soil and the third consecutive for McLaren. It's very different than what we saw at the beginning of the season, yet still it's one of the closest championship fights in history.
JS: We had a turbulent start to the season, and the reason the drivers' championship is so close is because Esch and Cerci did a better job than we did in the first half of the season. It just shows you how quickly things can change in Formula 1, and the same can happen over the next few GPs. I'd like to thank the team for the great job they've done, and I hope we can keep this up until the end of the season :)

[Harakimi]

Q: You didn't quite make it today, and you collied with your team mate at closing laps. It seems that you don't have any team orders to freeze the situation?
SL: Hehee, it sure was a heart freezing moment when we touched with Jo! I knew that he is slight faster than me so I gambled with softer slicks. The gap wasn't big enough to keep Jo behind me after 1st pitstops, so I was just trying to drive as close to him as possible during my second stint, because I knew that on the last stint I'll be faster. I was bit opportunistic on that move and our tyres touched. At that moment Ron (Dennis) started to scream to my radio, I have no idea what he was saying but I decided to score P2 today at that point. :lol:

Q: You are holding second position at championship table, just one point after your much experienced team mate, did you believe this at the beginning of the season?
SL: Absolutely not. I thought that maybe I could score points regulary, and get few podiums but being on the top of the list feels just great. Anything can still happen so now we just have to keep doing good work to the end of the season!

[Balerickid]

Q: Alessio, 3rd in qualifiying, good or bad?

A: I'd have to say it's a good qualifiying outing, the media and the team expected as high as 5th would be our best but as usual I proved them wrong by out qualifiying my expectations.

Q: A Ferrari targeting 5th in qualifiying? How come, are the tifosi out for damage limatations or gun-ho for the victory?

A: Well of course every race is a race that you want to win but that's not always possible. Championships aren't decided by who wins the most races, it consistency that is the key and despite not being at our best in recent races, we're certainly keeping up the pressure on the McLarens and Aguris and it will not be long before we start winning races again and breaking our bad streak.

Q: Despite throwing away your championship lead in the last few races, your most certainly not out of it, infact you only trail by 1pt with 8 races remaining. It's tight at the top with the top 4 drivers seperated by only 4 pts, is it tough for you considering that the Ferrari fans are relying on you to bring home the gold?

A: Most definitely, It's tough at the top, something I've always said. The McLarens are on form and certainly look like the team to beat and the Aguris have been impressing in each and every race it will be no easy feat to beat any of those respective teams but I'm remaining confident. It's unfortunate Anders isn't up battling for the title but he still has an important role to play in the championship and hopefully he can help me along the way.

Q: Last words Alessio, confident for tomorrow's race?

A: Yes, without a doubt I'm confident of a podium finish. Of course I'll like to win it but at the end of the day a finish is all that matters.

[JoStream]

Q: Congratulations Jo, your third pole position this season, even though you were only able to do one run. What was the problem?
JS: My first run was fine, although you don't drive too close to the limit, because if you loose the car you'll start from all the way back the grid. When I was leaving the pits for my second run, a mechanical part connected to the drive shaft broke and it couldn't be fixed in time. It was enough though :)

Q: With Saltysurprise and Cerci right behind you, how do you see the race developing tomorrow?
JS: I think we are in good shape for tomorrow's race. The car drives very well, we've worked really hard on the setup. I hope I can pull away at the start, as it will be key to a good strategy. It will be exciting for us drivers, as it is a very close fight. We'll see how it goes. :)

[Harakimi]

McLarens Finnish Flash was very frustrated after the qualify. Both of McLarens seemed to have some kind of problem in second qualify. This is what Leinonen answered to our journalist at the pit lane before the race.

"To get good position for race, first you have to qualify. I did only one lap and was pushing too hard and made few mistakes. I tweaked my front wing for the second run, started up the engine, revved and bang! I've told that the problem was same with Jo, something to do with drive shaft or such. We got new shafts from the factory for race so I hope this doesn't happen again since DNF in this stage of championship would be fatal. I just wanna give a warning to Jo, look out of Salty! He is a sneaky bastard and will do any dirty trick to be the first car out of turn one! 6th Grid is not too bad, my target is to be on the podium"

[Harakimi]

As the race was held at Nurburgring, we saw another battle with McLaren driver Leinonen and Super Aguri superstar Suprise. This is what "Harakimi" told the press after finishing 5th.

"I had exceptionally good start and was immediately able to pick Esch, Carlos and Cerci. I braked a little too late to the 1st corner and Suprise closed the door, breaking my barge board and it was game over for Salty. I told you before the race that he is aggressive, but this was my fault also."

"This slowed me for about 1-1.5 second per lap and I was just trying to keep my position and score as many points I could. Driving was very hard because the lack of aerodynamics and I made small mistake here and there. After the second pitstop the gap was about 30 seconds to drivers around me, so I just cruised home. Grats to Jo for scoring a win today, but I still rather win myself. Important points for me anyways."

[saltysurprise]

We catch up with Salty *look out!* showing symptoms of explosive rage disorder.

I can't *bleep*ing believe this happened again. It's like *bleep*ing deja-vu! The moral around the team is the *bleep*s!

I wanted and needed this win badly. We've been slipping badly when it matters the most. So much for a great start to the season. I'm not going to pin all the blame on 'kimi' for how it all went down. I wanted the front. Period. It was a risky move and it didn't pay off. Can't blame a guy for pulling out all the stops for a chance to win.

[saltysurprise]

The press catch up with Aguri's Surprise after the Hungaroring.

Q. Pardon my frankness, but what seems to be the trouble with your race starts of late?

A. You tell me! Harakimi and I are always in a battle at the front right off the start. Today I thought I had him beat, I made a, *ahem*, clean pass only to do what I thought was only minor body damage. I was able to keep him behind me until I lost it going into the first turn on lap 6. From then on, I lost nearly a second per lap.

It was great to see my mate Ryan get on the podium today. Probably not the position he is always gunning for, but valuable points nonetheless.

Q. Is there a game-plan to deal with the McLaren's?

A. There was, but that was tossed out the window weeks ago. They are one tight team, and have been virtually flawless. They're truly at the top of their game right now. I can only hope one of them makes a simple mistake in the future that we can capitalize on.

Q. Your last pit was nearly 20 seconds long. Care to fill us in?

A. *SIGHS* Again with the "mechanics":rolleyes: . These guys shouldn't be allowed to do oil changes at the 'Quick Lube'! Totally pathetic. There's NO excuse for such a shoddy preformance.
And to show my 'appreciation', they will all find lovely, flaming paper bags full of dog eggs in their lockers.

[JoStream]

Q: Jo, a good race for you, but perhaps not the ideal strategy?
JS: No, definitely not the right strategy. I really had a good chance to win today but I had to come in early during the second stint because my set was very bad. With a heavy car it was clear that I would lose the lead.

Q: This is the fifth consecutive victory for McLaren, what's your secret?
JS: I think we have become a harmonious team that shares one common goal. A lot people don't know how hard we work off the track, and I'm happy we are able to convert them into results :)

Q: Do you think the title will be a McLaren matter?
JS: It would be a mistake to take Ferrari and Super Aguri off the list. We are in a strong position, but there's still a long way to go.

[Harakimi]

Q: Samuli, a dominant win for you today from the pole, this must be a relief for you after hazardous race at Nurburgring.
SL: Yes it is. Fight for the championship is so hard that I needed badly this win today. I had problems with my 1st gear and I allmost stalled my car when doing my second pitstop, otherwise the race went like I planned.

Q: You had your moments at the start with Salty Suprise...Shall we say again eh?
SL: Yeeaah! That guy is frigging berserk! Dude you can pull those moves in NasCar but not in F1. Luckily this time it was his car that took the damage. I'm glad that he made a mistake and I was happy to overtake him without any risks! :lol:

Q: Next race will be held in Turkey, any thoughts on Istanbul GP?
SL: Another new track to me, I just have to watch what Jo is doing. I'm aiming for podium finish there.

[JoStream]

Q: Jo, your third pole position in four races, you must be very happy.
JS: Absolutely :D ! To stand here with my team mate is a great result for us. I hope we can finish just as well tomorrow :)

Q: Istanbul is an atypical circuit. Both Ferrari and Super Aguri were unable to match your pace, do you think that your car just fits this circuit better?
JS: We've shown over the past few races that we have a very strong package. This is why I don't see Istanbul as an exception, especially since such a shift in performance needs to be looked at over the course of two or three races before you can make a somewhat accurate assessment.

Q: Tomorrow your team only needs to score nine points more than Super Aguri to secure the constructor's championship title. Do you think it's possible?
JS: We will push as hard as always tomorrow, and we'll see how things play out :)

Q: But you are excited by the possibility?
JS: Wouldn't you be? ;)

[saltysurprise]

We catch up with the McLaren and Aguri boys before the race. It appears that Glenn, Ryan, Jo and Samuli have all gone out to get their pilots licences...

This can't be good:eek:

ZlCzCJEwZmY

[Driverdb]

The rumours floating about in the paddock suggesting that Driverdb has had a look-a-like double without a racing licence doing the last couple of races have turned out to be true.

"I've talked to Bernie about it and appologised. The matter is closed now." The Ferrari ace commented.

"I've been engaged in other activities so someone else had to drive my car. Obviously he's not in my league but the sponsors wanted the car to be on the circuit. I'm back now but I was a little rusty during practice so I couldn't get the setup right. But that's really okay, I can drive in reverse and still end up in front of the other guys. They really should get back to rental karting where they belong."

[Harakimi]

Samuli Leinonen, McLaren (2nd)

"Jo was slight faster today, but front row is always good place to start. I think tomorrow we are going to get pressure from Super Aguri and it's also nice to see Andreas finding his pace again. I just hope that tomorrow I get "Salty-Free" run. I'm looking forward to a exciting race since weather is going to change between warmup and race."

[saltysurprise]

The press harassess Salty after Istambul.

"I don't know what to say, at least I got to the finish line this time! This just wasn't my day. The car's been decent. Today the mechanics didn't 'F' it all up either. I gambled with a little, and by little, I mean little, different setup than Ryan's, trying to get the car a little lighter, but I couldn't get it to go! I might as well have been driving a YUGO today!
Good for Ryan getting 2nd. I'm glad. Much needed points.
Now beat it! And let me finish my damn beer!"

[JoStream]

Q: Jo, congratulations on an excellent Grand Prix and your fourth win of the season. Your team mate had a terrible start, did that ease the pressure a bit?
JS: No, not really. Just because someone lost the start doesn't mean he lost the race. I had to keep pushing for my strategy to work, so it didn't change anything for me.

Q: After your first pitstop, you came under pressure from Cerci, who then overtook you just before coming in. Did you know what strategy he was on?
JS: He was catching up very quickly, and I knew he was in the closing laps of his first stint. I kept my focus and stayed ahead, but after 2-3 laps the weight difference was just too big. As it turned out, he came in to pit half a lap later :)

Q: With Ferrari and Super Aguri with you on the podium, do you think that the closing races of the season will be more difficult for you?
JS: No victory, and no race, is ever easy. Some are easier than others, but they are all very tough. The race for both championships is still open, and we will keep working hard to maintain the high level of performance we have enjoyed over the past few races.


A journalist catches Jo on his way from the press conference to the motorhome

Reporter: Jo! Only three more points than Super Aguri and you're set!
Jo: Go do you math homework and when you get it right come back to me with a real question :mad:

[JoStream]

An ITV Reporter asks Jo a few questions whilst in the paddock about the qualifying...

Q: Jo, four poles and now your fourth fifth place in eight qualifyings. Does the fifth spot on the grid have special meaning to you?
JS: :lol: No, it doesn't. But I guess it makes for an interesting statistic ;)

Q: You crashed out spectacularly on your second run, tell us what happened.
JS: I think it's obvious from the footage. I was on a great lap but went wide at the exit of the Parabolica. The impact was hefty, but I'm OK :)

Q: A storm is predicted for tomorrow, how are you going to prepare for that?
JS: I think the last wet race we had was in France. I remember it quite well because there are several things I'm going to do different this time around. Even though I struggled a bit at Magny Cours, I love driving in challenging weather conditions and I'm optimistic about tomorrow...

Q: Are any of the other drivers close friends of yours?
JS: They are all my buddies :lol: We may be competitors, but off track we get along well. You should join us after the race ;)

[saltysurprise]

Q: Are any of the other drivers close friends of yours?
JS: They are all my buddies :lol: We may be competitors, but off track we get along well. You should join us after the race ;)

Surprise overhears the interview while wandering around the paddock, and decides to grab the mic and butt in. With a wink and giant foolish grin he adds in a most convincing tone- "T-h-e-r-e-'s B-e-e-r"

:lol:



(toot toot! PAGE 10!!!:eek: )

[Harakimi]

Leinonen was seen surrounded by grid girls at paddock. After his pockets were filled with business cards we were able to ask him few questions.

Q: How's hanging?
A: Pretty good, took another pole here and now it seems that I don't have to plan anything after the race, I got nice party invitations!

Q: Gazzetta Dello Sport wrote that you have signed a contract with Ferrari for next season, is this true?
A: Well that was the first time I heard about this contract. To be honest I've got several offers for next season but now I'm just concentrating on the current season, I still have a change to win the title.

Q: How important was your pole today?
A: Well in Monza you have few places to overtake so it was not so important. But still it was very pleasing to "steal" the pole infront of all these Tifosi!

Q: The weather forecast predicts rain for tomorrow, how u see that?
A: Fun. Changing conditions always give that extra spice for us drivers. The race is going to be tough I think. Ferrari and Aguri are looking pretty damn fast. It helps abit that Ryan and Carlos both start from the back of the grid so I think that anyone from top 5 qually could win. I hope it's a McLaren ;)

[saltysurprise]

Post race press conference at Monza.

Q. "A most absolutely commanding win for Glenn 'Salty' Surprise today here at Monza. After a difficult mid-season, you must be very pleased."

A. "Definitely! I couldn't be happier right now! With all the troubles I have been having lately, I was wondering if I'd ever win a race let alone step up on the podium again. The 'Due Factor' played a significant role today I think:lol: Plus I love this track, and the fans are great"

Q. "You were one of only a handfull to start the race with full wet tyres in what could only be described as the wettest race of the season so far."

A. "I don't know what the other's were thinking, Hoping for a little Italian sunshine I guess:confused: It makes it a little easier when half the grid pits on the first lap to change tyres, it could have been a LOT closer. The setup was thought about long and hard and it's always a bit of a gamble when it's a steady downpour. I don't mind the wet, it reminds me of home and I managed a podium early in the season in very wet conditions. The mechanics and telemetrists really came through this time. I guess flaming bags of dog poo really get the message across:lol: "
"Ryan never ceases to amaze me either! He started right at the back and managed to finish 5th to garner us a few more points. The next sweetest thing to the actual win was to be able to finally beat the seemingly unstoppable McLarens by a nice margin. Take THAT Harakimi!:p :cool: "

[JoStream]

Jo comes out to talk to the press

R: Jo, you came in after only one lap to change tyres. What happened?
JS: Really good question. Apparently I did not specify to my engineers that I wanted wet tyres, so they assumed I wanted dry as usual. I know it sounds ridiculous, but that's what happened :rolleyes:

R: Despite the wet weather conditions, after your first pit stop it was a quiet race for you.
JS: Yea, I lost about 50 seconds because of the tyre confusion on the opening lap. I lost many positions because of that, but I made it back up to fourth and that was as far as I could go today. It's not a bad result given the circumstances :)

R: Saltysurprise broke McLaren's six-win streak, how disappointed are you?
JS: I'd like to congratulate Saltysurprise on an excellent performance. especially when you consider the crazy conditions we had today. I'm a little bit disappointed, but I'm optimistic I can step back on the top of the podium in Spa ;)

R: When do you think you can wrap up the title?
JS: When it's Christmas :p :lol:

[Harakimi]

Q: You struggled abit in your last race in Monza, is the unreliability of McLaren going to cost you the championship?
SL: Well yes my TC wasn't working perfectly and when there is lot's of water it's going to cost you alot. Anyways the car wasn't ideal so I was happy that I finished third. We have to make sure that we finish all the races, there is no room for errors anymore.

Q: The qualify here is going to be held in hard weather conditions also. Are you happier with you car now?
SL: Things are looking good at the moment so yes. My target is to be in front row.

Q: Four races left and you are ten points behind your team mate. Do you have team orders or is Ron Dennis going to let you race.
SL: I think as long as we both have a change to win, there won't be any orders. And hey, they are illegal. ;)

[Harakimi]

As the season is closing to an end, the title is still open. Harakimi was found running in the swamp wednesday, in the swamps near the Fuji Track

Q: You had a nice lead at Spa, but eventually your team mate won.
SL: "Safety cars are ****ing annoying you know? I really wanted to win at Spa. I had about half a minute lead when I saw yellow flags and after that I was just watching amg mercedes tail lights and my lead been ruined"

Q: We didn't see any real challenges for P1 on late laps?
SL: "I was slight faster than Stream on the last stint but there was no room to go by him so I had to play safe. I knew the situation and was told that I have to keep Ryan behind me. Safe 1-2 for McLaren.

Q: Next race is going to be held in Japan and in a new track for most drivers, Fuji. What are your thoughts?
SL: "I think Ferrari is closing us in the speed in 1 lap, but in the longer runs our package is stronger. Might be a tough battle with Ferrari for pole but I'm allmost sure that bmw's or aguris are going to mix up the result on sunday"

[JoStream]

As always, Jo comes out to talk to the press

Q: Jo, after a strong practice you only managed 12th in Qualifying. What happened?
JS: Another tyre problem and another mistake. This one though goes on my cap.

Q: Fuji is a new track for everybody. What's your impression so far?
JS: It's a very quick track with quite a few overtaking opportunities. So far I like it, but ask me again tomorrow :)

Q: McLaren has secured the constructor's championship, how much did you celebrate since last weekend?
JS: It's obviously a great achievement, and we did celebrate on Sunday :D . But the season is not over yet and we have to stay focused.

Q: Since the title is in your reach, you think you can wrap it up tomorrow?
JS: I'm just going to push 110% and we'll see how it goes. I don't think it's going to happen tomorrow though, as I expect my competitors to be very strong.

Q: The silly season has been going on for longer than usual. Rumors say that you are not going to continue with McLaren, and that you are in talks with other teams, including Toyota and Red Bull. Any updates?
JS: Hehe :lol: , seems like I'm the one who should get updated :p :D

[JoStream]

The press jumps on Jo

Q: Jo, it was probably your worst weekend of the season...
JS: I think I've had worse, but obviously I'm not happy

Q: You were going a strong fourth, but lost two position in the closing laps after the safety car went back in. What happened?
JS: Well my tyres were already worn out, and because of they are hard tyres, I could not get them up to temperature on time before the two fellas behind me attacked :rolleyes:

Q: With two races to go, there are four candidates for the title. Who do you think is your biggest threat?
JS: I think Harakimi is in good shape, but theoretically Cerci and Esch are also in contention for the title.

Q: Will there be team orders?
JS: No, and if you look over the course of the season, it will be clear.

Q: McLaren have confirmed in a press conference that you will no longer be part next season. You've celebrated a lot of success, what is the reason for your move?
JS: There are many reasons that can motivate a driver to switch teams. Sometimes it's a personal decision, other times it's a team decision. I don't want to go into the details at this point, but suffice to say that there were a set of points which we both did not agree upon.

[Harakimi]

Q: Very important P3 for you today?
SL: Phew, yes. I'm starting to feel a little pressure now since it seems that it's going to be either me, or Jo. If we keep performing like this of course. This is my first season and I never dreamed about this when we started at Albert Park.

Q: You couldn't match Ferraris speed today, are you concerned about that?
SL: Actually I'm not. Close battling with Ferrari Spices up the game alot. Today I was bit unlucky with the pitstops. The pit crew screwed something up and that costed me extra 10 seconds. Without that I've had a better change to P2, tho late safety car equalized the field also. Hard to say.

Q: Your team mate could secure the title in Shanghai, anything about that?
SL: Yeah he could, but he wont :lol: I'll be pushing hard has hell, and if Ferrari is performing there like here the race will be very interesting. I think the title will be settled in Brazil.

[JoStream]

FIA Qualifying Press Conference

Q: Jo, you're fifth pole position of the season, how happy are you with the car?
JS: The car's been fantastic all weekend. I could push all weekend, and I'm delighted to be on pole position :D

Q: Since you only need one more point than your team mate tomorrow to secure the title, how aggressive will you be?
JS: I don't think I need to change my driving style and I'm definitely aiming for a win tomorrow. Obviously I need to be careful, but pace-wise I will keep pushing unless the team has information about the car that requires me to cut back.

Q: There's a lot at stake for both teams and drivers. Positions 1-4 will be decided, and positions 5, 6, and 7 have the same number of points. Super Aguri and Ferrari are only spaced out by a single point, while BMW and Honda are battling for P5. Did you expect such an exciting season finale?
JS: I agree, it has been a very colorful season, and the best part is coming! Everybody has worked very hard, and whoever does a better job in the last two races will be rewarded. I'm looking forward to some great racing, and I'm confident I can come out on top ;)

[JoStream]

FIA Post-Race Press Conference

Q: Jo, you were only ten laps shy of securing an early title. What happened?
JS: My strategy today wasn't as good as I wanted it to be. I had my used set in the last stint, which gave Harakimi the edge in the closing laps. It will have to wait until Brazil ;)

Q: Did you consider being more aggressive when defending your position?
JS: We've seen all-or-nothing moves for the title in the past. I really pushed to the limit when defending my position, and I was able to keep him behind me for quite a while. But when you're slower, you're slower :rolleyes:

Q: McLaren outshined everyone today. But there will be other major decisions in Brazil, for example for P2 in the constructors championship. Do you think you will be unaffected by these battles given your current performance?
JS: It really depends on the track a little bit. We have a great car, but as you saw in Fuji, things can change very quickly. But for Brazil we do have some improvements for the car, so I'm very optimistic.

[saltysurprise]

Pre-race Brazil.

Q. Here we are in Brazil with Salty Surprise. It's the last race of the season. Aguri has out-preformed what the prognosticators had predicted and you have 2 points on the Ferrari's.

SS. It is a good feeling. We wish we could have had a shot at the title, but to be surrounded by such a greats as McLaren and Ferrari is a real honour. There have been alot of great races, and great drivers doing amazing things this year. It will be interesting to see how the suspensions hold out for some of us.
Balerinkid, DB.... Look out!

Q. Where can we expect to see you next season, and what are Ryan's plans?

SS. Well there are discussions but I'm not in a position to talk about it right now. And as for Ryan, he's been a great team mate. He has a great way of really getting into the groove of the car's character, and getting the most finicky car dialed in. I'd be great to race with him in the future. I'll keep you posted;)

[JoStream]

FIA Post-Race Press Conference

Q: Jo, congratulations on winning the first WRF F1 2007 BATracer Title, how do you feel?
JS: It's incredible. Really. You know I always dreamed of becoming World Champion, and to achieve it today after such a long season with ups and downs is beyond words. Harakimi has been a fantastic team mate, and the reason both of us were in the final race fighting for the title was because we helped each other out all the time. I'd also like to thank everybody at McLaren, every mechanic, engineer and everybody, thank you :)

Q: You had a tough start to the season, but you were able to turn it around. Did you expect to win the title after the first four races?
JS: I obviously didn't know whether we were going to win it, but I did have confidence in the car. We had a lot of bad luck, but I knew that the car itself was really quick.

Q: Cerci took the win here today, did you take it easy towards the end or was he simply faster?
JS: As you could see from our grid positions, we had major problems with the setup. After that we were able to improve it a bit, so I'm happy with P2.

Q: Where are we going to see you next season?
JS: I can finally answer that: Formula 1 :lol:

[saltysurprise]

SHENANIGANS!!! :lol: Jo gets to keep his $10 Gift Certificate!:lol::rolleyes: LOL!!!

Hey, I'll up the ante $10 for the next season and make it 20. Anyone else?

Oh! I guess I should talk about the season here.

LIVE FROM BRAZIL:thumbsup: (pretend his thumb is a microphone:D)

"Well it's disappointing that we weren't able to clinch 2nd. It was awfully close between Ferrari and Aguri into the last race. 2 points I think. If Ryan hadn't have suffered his retirement, though these things happen, it would have been interesting to see how it all played out."
"All and all it was a interesting season to say the least. Lots of great battles. I'm really looking forward to next season."
"Now it feels like I was back in school about to take summer break, and your leaving your mates. But you know you'll see them again in a short while. Thank you for everyone who made this season a good one, you know who you are;)"

[Harakimi]

Samuli! SAMULII!!! You stopped your car on lap 12 what happend?

"I just lost my gears, shit happens. To win the title today was improbable since I needed 4 points more than Jo and to see him finishing 2nd it didn't really matter if I finished or not."

What a spectacular maiden season for you, what is your summary after the season?

"We did secure both titles and it's nice. Thats mostly because of tremendous team work we were able to do. There is always lots of "ifs" after the season. But Jo was so consistent this year that he deserved the win. The championship was very tight all year. I'm just happy to be here right now!"

McLaren was playing safe before the season and hired you with one year contract, do you feel that you could continue with Mclaren?

"I understand that playing the game with rookies is always risky business, but I think that I proved to everyone that I belong in here. There are few offers on the table right now, I'll leave the negotiations to my manager, I just want to have a fat paycheck so I could buy as luxurous yacht as Salty has." :cool:

Leinonen takes few Samba steps and leaves to the night with 3 beautiful Brazilian hotties!

[Harakimi]

Championship Points
Stream 115
Leinonen 100
Cerci 97

Team Standings
McLaren 215
Ferrari 156
Super Aguri 150

Wins
Stream 5
Leinonen 4
Cerci 4

Podiums
Leinonen 10
Stream 9
Esch 9

Poles
Stream 5
Leinonen 5
Cerci 4

Average Qualifying Position
Leinonen 3.9
Stream 4.4
Suprise 5.0

Fastest Laps
Leinonen 7
Stream 3
Cerci 3

Laps Lead
Stream 318
Cerci 272
Leinonen 207

Passes:
Leinonen 58
Esch 54
Caicedo 47

[Driverdb]

Hey, I'll up the ante $10 for the next season and make it 20. Anyone else?

I'm in for $10 as well

$30 now :finishfirst:

[JoStream]

There will be a Hall of Fame link for the statistics soon :)