Speedcafe.com Race Guide - 2011 Belgian Grand Prix

The difinitive F1 form guide Belgium Round 12 August 26 - 28 2011

Schumacher celebrates 20 years since debut

2011 FoRmulA 1 Shell BelgiAn gRAnd PRix (SPA-FRAncoRchAmPS)

SenSational SpaRECENT FORM. TRACK FORM.

BAGMANBAGMANS SAY.

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F1 Photos

OpinionDRIVER PROFILES

2It was a wet start to the previous round in Hungary. Will the notoriously unpleasant Belgian weather arrive for this weekends race?

Race Guide

3Round 12 Spa-Francorchamps

Race Preview

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A ny Australian race fan looking at Sebastian Vettels championship lead and contemplating an alternative way of spending their Sunday nights during the second half of this season should think again.

The 23-year-old German may have a monster margin over the field after 11 races, but that wont stop the sports leading teams from waging a mighty war for the eight Grands Prix trophies still available.

McLaren heads into this weekends race with a healthy dose of recent form, and two drivers that have perennially shone in Spas traditionally trying conditions.

Last years Belgian Grand Prix was a case in point for Lewis Hamilton, who won the race despite two major offs - the second of which was large enough to involve a brush with the outside wall at Rivage.

Hamilton is the type of driver who puts it all on the line at every corner. It may not make for the best championship campaign, but it sure makes for interesting viewing for the spectators.

With Mark Webber still looking for his first win of the season, and Fernando Alonso determined to push Ferrari forwards after a difficult first half, the stage is set for some thrilling races, no matter what the points equation might indicate.

Green means go!

STEFAN BARTHOLOMAEUS

Journalist, Speedcafe.comEditor, Speedcafe Race Guides

INTRODUCTION

RACE GUIDESPA-FRANCORCHAMPS

EVENT 2 Clipsal 500, Adelaide March 17-20 www.speedcafe.com

EDITOR:Stefan Bartholomaeus

PRODUCTION:Stefan Bartholomaeus

SALES/MARKETING:Leisa Emberson

IMAGES:Scuderia FerrariRed Bull RacingVodafone McLaren MercedesMercedes GPLotus Renault GPVirgin RacingHispania Racing Team

GUEST COLUMNIST:Craig Baird

PARTNERS:Castrol EDGE, IRWIN Tools, Jack Daniels, Orrcon Steel, Pirtek, Vodafone, HDT, Norton 360, Toshiba, Armor All

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Round 12 Spa-Francorchamps

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Return QANTAS economy airfares from Brisbane, Sydney or Melbourne (Departing Nov 2 Arriving home Nov 9)

Five nights twin-share accommodtation at the Gaylord Texan Resort

Breakfast each day

VIP grandstand seats for the NASCAR Truck, Nationwide and Sprint Cup events

VIP Pit access

VIP pre-race concert and driver introductions

All transfers within the US

Welcome cocktail function

Ride in a two-seater stock car at Texas Motor Speedway Mini race (220MPH+)

Night at Texas Speed Zone

A welcome gift pack

Experienced and well-connected hosts

Dallas Cowboys Stadium Tour

Downtown Dallas Tour

Farewell Dinner

Plenty to talk about for a long time and much more.* Ground only, business class and single share options also available* Credit card fees apply direct debit available

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6Race Guide

COVER STORY

When Michael Schumacher lined up on the Spa-Francorchamps grid for his first Grand Prix in 1991, its doubtful that the then 22-year-old German could have envisaged the record haul of seven World Drivers Championship titles that his career has since provided.

The idea that hed be returning to the legendary Belgian circuit to compete a full 20 years after his debut would arguably have been a concept even harder for the youngster to fathom.

While the 1991 Belgian Grand Prix itself may not have lasted long for Schumacher (his Jordans clutch burnt out at the start), the fact that hed qualified the unfancied first-year teams car seventh on the grid on such a demanding track layout was enough to raise plenty of eyebrows.

Having taken his first Grand Prix win at Spa in 1992, as well as a further five successes at the venue between 1995 and 2002, its no surprise that Schumacher has a real soft-spot for the 7.0 kilometre mountain course.

Its hard to believe that this

was such a long time ago, says Schumacher today of his debut.

A lot has changed in those 20 years, but one thing has not - the track is still sensational.

I just love the great nature of the location and the resulting layout with all the ups and downs.

To me, Spa remains my living room, because it has been the stage for so many things which have been remarkable for my sporting career.

Still searching for his first podium finish since returning to the sport last year, Schumacher emerges from 2011s mid-season break a disappointing 10th in the championship standings - a full

16 points behind team-mate Nico Rosberg.

Although the development time since the Hungarian Grand Prix was significantly reduced by an enforced two-week shutdown of all team factories, Mercedes heavyweight Norbert Haug is optimistic of a strong result on the fast and flowing circuit this weekend.

The races at Spa have historically been full of surprises and the weather has mostly played a major role, says Haug.

The layout of the circuit should suit our current technical package a little bit better than was the case at the previous two races.

Sensational SpaMichael Schumacher prepares for another assault on the legendary circuit 20 years since making his F1 debut

7Round 12 Spa-Francorchamps

8Matthew Hardy is a 14-year-old Formula One fan born without a left hand.

Following a letter to Ross Brawn, a collaboration between Mercedes GP and

specialist firm Touch Bionics has provided a truly amazing result.

The Mercedes i-LIMB

Race Guide

9Event 12 Symmons Plains

10

Race Guide

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Key Characteristics

- Medium-low downforce track - Easy on brakes and cooling - Minimum ride-height is determined by T3 - Longest circuit of the season - Seventh gear setting influenced by wind on the main straight - Tend to run on the limiter in seventh gear to allow higher revs in Eau Rouge - Top speed can be reached towards T5 or T18 depending on wind direction - Top speed is important for good lap time in Sectors 1 and 3 and for overtaking - Sector 2 is a downforce dominant sector - No in-lap after the chequered flag

Set-up Insight

Bumpiness MediumOvertaking chance LowKerbs LowRide-height setting High front (for Turn 3)Engine severity Very highGearbox severity LowestLat/long grip LateralAero efficiency ratio Very highWeekend grip evolution HighAero settings Medium/lowBrake wear sensitivity LowBrake cooling necessity LowPirelli tyre compounds Soft and Medium

Data supplied by Team Lotus

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NEW Round 12 Spa-Francorchamps

SPECIAL ADVERTISING FEATURE

F athers will be treated to a free sports car fest at Phillip Island during Round 5 of the Vodka O Australian GT Championship, which will he held on Fathers Day September 4.

Event promoters will throw open the gates for all fathers to spend a relaxing Sunday on the Island watching some of the worlds most exotic sports cars at full flight around the magnificent Phillip Island circuit.

Drivers in the Vodka O Australian GT Championship will also get the chance to etch their names in motor racing history as the CAMS Australian Tourist Trophy title will be up for grabs.

Mark Eddy, Klark Quinn, Dean Grant and Greg Crick are all within striking distance of the Tourist Trophy Title, which is decided by the driver than accumulates the most combined points from the Eastern Creek and Phillip Island rounds of the championship.

Beginning in 1956, The CAMS Tourist Trophy has taken many forms from being awarded to Australian Sports Car Champions, Production Sports Car drivers, and now the Australian GT Championship.

The Tourist Trophy was not awarded between 1980 and 2006, but SPHERIX Manager Craig Denyer said he was glad it was back.

Its great for a high profile category like the Vodka O Australian GT Championship to have its own piece of history to race for, he said.

Any name added to the Trophy will join a long list some very high profile and famous drivers, and will be a well earned reward.

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Fathers get in free at Phillip Island

12

Race Guide

11

Round 2 Malaysia

I ts no secret that Spa-Francorchamps is my favourite race track. I was lucky enough to race a Porsche RSR GT2 car in the 24 Hour race there in 2008. Obviously its not a Formula One car, but the Porsche had enough power and downforce for us to be able to appreciate just how good the track is.

The biggest thing when you get to Spa is that, from the time you arrive through the gates, you cant help but feel the history of the place. It has so much motorsport heritage, not just for Formula One but with sportscars and touring cars as well.

From a drivers perspective, every corner on the current 7.0km layout looks perfect. With the way the corners are cambered, as well as the elevation changes that provide some uphill braking areas, even the slower chicanes are enjoyable.

Its a track that has a huge amount of flow - each corner leads onto another corner that you look forward to coming up to. Unlike a lot of tracks where youve got good little sectors mixed with areas that you come up to and think oh, not this again. And the elevation is massive - it makes Bathurst look like a little hill!

Everyone is quick to mention Eau Rouge when they talk about Spa, but in the Porsche the hardest corner on the track was Blanchimont. Its a double apex corner, flat-out in top gear, and in a GT car its horrifying. I followed a Corvette off there in the middle of the night and thought Id seen a plane crash!

The weather always plays a huge part in how the Grand Prix weekends play out at Spa - its just one of those places. Its not the size of a Nordschleife, but the elevation means that you can often be in the clouds at one point and have beautiful blue skies at another. The weather is very unpredictable, and weve seen a lot of Safety Cars here in the past largely because of that.

There are a few things that happen at Spa that we dont normally see anywhere else. The high speed nature of the track means that the cars will start the race with more fuel than at any other time during the season. So theyll be

massively heavy, and will be a real handful with the downforce created in corners like Eau Rouge during the first laps of the race. Its something that youve got to think about probably more so at Spa than anywhere else due to the compression loadings.

Although it wont be used through Eau Rouge, Spa is a place that the DRS will work massively well. Youll come out of Eau Rouge in top gear and then run it all the way to Les Combes. That places a lot of emphasis on how the cars are geared and what wing levels they run, which means teams will

have to really compromise either their qualifying or race speed.

I dont believe well see people worrying about qualifying as much as weve seen in the past. Theyll look at the long-range weather forecast and see if they need to save tyres or not. The rate of winning from pole isnt that great here.

Being a medium to high speed track, it is a place where youd expect the Red Bulls to struggle - theyre not known for their top speed. But there are enough long radius corners for them to make the time back up again.

The Red Bull and the McLaren will be very close on an outright lap time in qualifying, but theyll achieve it in two very different ways. Personally I think the Red Bull might lose out overall because of the DRS. Even though they may be able to edge out little gaps in parts of the circuit, theyll be vulnerable to some of the cars with higher top speeds.

Its very hard to tip a winner, but if I had to put my money on the nose of anyone Id put it on Lewis Hamilton at the moment. Red Bull can still probably get pole, but I think were starting to see Red Bulls advantage disappear.

OPINION by CRAIG BAIRDHere come the McLarens

Saturday; Qualifying - 9:30pm-11:10pm (One HD)

Sunday, Race - 9:00pm-12:05am (One HD), 10:40pm-12:55am (Ten) Check local guides for details

F1 TV TIMES

13

Fathers get in free at Phillip Island


14

SPEEDCAFE.COMS

THE BAGMAN

RECENT FORM - TRACK FORM THE BAGMANS

SAY

THE BAG MAN

Race Guide

13

Round 2 Malaysia

Recent Grand Prix Form

MAL CHI TUR ESP MON CAN EUR GBR GER HUN

1 2 1 1 1 2 1 2 4 2

Recent Spa-Francorchamps Form

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

- - - - - - DNF 5 3 15



4 3 2 4 4 3 3 3 3 5 Recent Spa-Francorchamps Form

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

- DNF - DNF 4 - 7 8 9 2

RED BULL RACING THE BAGMANS SAYFor the first time this season, Sebastian Vettel and Red Bull Racing head into a Grand Prix as something other than the favourites.

The team has not won since Valencia, and the wide-open spaces of Sectors 1 and 2 at Spa did not well suit the downforce-laden, Renault-powered, Red Bull cars last year.

The RB7s are likely to be highly competitive in qualifying however, and are therefore still a strong chance for the race.

Neither Vettel nor Mark Webber have won at Spa in the past, with Vettel spectacularly colliding with Jenson Buttons McLaren last year.

Nationality: GermanDoB: 03/07/1987Debut: Indianapolis, 2007Career Highlights: 2010 World Drivers Champion, 2nd 2006 F3 Euro Series, 2nd 2004 Formula BMW ADAC

15

SEBASTIAN VETTELWins: 16Poles: 23Fastest Laps: 7

Nationality: AustralianDoB: 27/08/1976Debut: Albert Park, 2002Career Highlights: 3rd 2010 World Drivers Championship, 2nd 2001 International F3000, 1st 1996 British FF Festival

MARK WEBBERWins: 6Poles: 9Fastest Laps: 10

Chassis: Red Bull RB7Engine: Renault RS27-2011Base: Milton Keynes, UKTeam nationality: AustrianTeam principal: Christian HornerTechnical leader: Adrian NeweyDebut: Albert Park, 2005Wins: 21 Poles: 31Fastest Laps: 17Constructors Championships: 1

RED BULL RACING


16

McLAREN MERCEDES

Race Guide



8 1 4 2 6 DNF 4 4 1 4


2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

- - - - - - 4 3 DNF 1


AUS MAL CHI TUR ESP MON CAN EUR GBR GER

6 2 4 6 3 3 1 6 DNF DNF Recent Spa-Francorchamps Form

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

DNF DNF - DNF 3 - DNF 15 DNF DNF

THE BAGMANS SAYLewis Hamilton and Jenson

Button will both fancy their chances of a win this weekend.

McLaren won three of the last four races prior to the break, and under the enforced factory shutdown regulations, little is supposed to have changed since Hungary.

Two of the three recent race wins from the pair have come in changeable conditions - similar to those usually seen at Spa.

While lacking the mercurial weather-predicting ability seemingly possessed by his team-mate, Hamilton is nothing short of sublime in greasy conditions, as evidenced by his Spa win of 2010.

Both are in with a big chance.

Nationality: BritishDoB: 07/01/1985Debut: Albert Park, 2007Career Highlights: 2008 World Drivers Champion, 2006 GP2 Champion, 2005 F3 Euroseries Champion

LEWIS HAMILTONWins: 16Poles: 18Fastest Laps: 10

Nationality: British DoB: 19/01/1980Debut: Albert Park, 2000Career Highlights: 2009 World Drivers Champion, 1st 1998 British FF Festival, 1998 British FF Champion

JENSON BUTTONWins: 11Poles: 7Fastest Laps: 4

Chassis: McLaren MP4-26Engine: Mercedes-Benz FO 108YBase: Woking, UKTeam nationality: BritishTeam principal: Martin WhitmarshTechnical leader: Paddy LoweDebut: Monte Carlo, 1966Wins: 173 Poles: 146Fastest Laps: 145Constructors Championships: 8

VODAFONE McLAREN MERCEDES

1517

Round 8 Valencia

FERRARI

Race Guide

18



6 7 3 5 2 DNF 2 1 2 3


2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

DNF - - DNF 2 - 3 4 DNF DNF



5 6 11 DNF DNF 6 6 5 5 6 Recent Spa-Francorchamps Form

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

- DNF - 4 10 - 2 1 - 4

THE BAGMANS SAYWith the Scuderia publically

acknowledging that it will soon switch its focus to the 2012 regulations, it could well be a difficult second half of the season for the Ferrari drivers.

It should be noted however that Fernando Alonso scored the most points out of anyone across the four races leading into the mid-season break, despite struggling for qualifying speed.

The cool temperatures of Belgium are unlikely to help Ferraris chances. The red machines have proven particularly tricky to drive in the wet conditions this season - a trait unlikely to be favourable on Spas sweeping curves.

Nationality: SpanishDoB: 29/07/1981Debut: Albert Park, 2001Career Highlights: 2005 and 2006 World Drivers Champion, 1st 1999 Euro Open by Nissan

FERNANDO ALONSOWins: 27Poles: 20Fastest Laps: 19

Nationality: BrazilianDoB: 25/04/1981Debut: Albert Park, 2002Career Highlights: 2nd 2008 World Drivers Championship, 1st 2001 Euro F3000, 1st 2000 Formula Renault Eurocup

FELIPE MASSAWins: 11Poles: 15Fastest Laps: 14

Chassis: Ferrari 150th ItaliaEngine: Ferrari 056Base: Maranello, ItalyTeam nationality: ItalianTeam principal: Stefano DomenicalliTechnical leader: Pat FryDebut: Monte Carlo, 1950Wins: 216 Poles: 205Fastest Laps: 227Constructors Championships: 16

SCUDERIA FERRARI MARLBORO

MERCEDES

1519



9 8 12 6 DNF 4 17 9 8 DNF


2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

1 DNF - 2 DNF - - - - 7



12 5 5 7 11 11 7 6 7 9 Recent Spa-Francorchamps Form

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

- - - - - - 6 12 8 6

THE BAGMANS SAYAfter a thoroughly disappointing

opening half of the 2011 season, the only realistic goal for Mercedes is to further establish itself as the best of the rest team behind Red Bull, McLaren and Ferrari.

The Spa layout may bring the W02s slightly closer to their race-winning brethren this weekend, with the silver cars having found the going even harder on the tighter layouts, such as the Hungaroring, in recent times.

Spa holds many memories for Michael Schumacher, but they will count for little on-track.

Nico Rosberg will see the daunting circuit as a prime chance to prove his superiority over Schumacher. The pair raced each other hard here last year, albeit for sixth and seventh places.

Nationality: GermanDoB: 03/01/1969Debut: Spa, 1991Career Highlights: 1994, 1995, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 World Drivers Champion, 1st 1990 German F3

MICHAEL SCHUMACHERWins: 91Poles: 68Fastest Laps: 76

Nationality: GermanDoB: 27/06/1985Debut: Sakhir, 2006Career Highlights: 2nd 2008 Singapore Grand Prix, 2005 GP2 Champion, 1st 2002 Formula BMW ADAC

NICO ROSBERGWins: 0Poles: 0Fastest Laps: 2 Chassis: Mercedes MGP W02

Engine: Mercedes-Benz FO 108YBase: Brackley, UKTeam nationality: BritishTeam principal: Ross BrawnTechnical leader: Bob BellDebut: Albert Park, 2010Wins: 0 Poles: 0Fastest Laps: 0Constructors Championships: 0

MERCEDES GP PETRONAS F1 TEAM


17

Round 1 AustraliaRace Guide

6

Round 2 Malaysia

21



3 12 7 8 8 DNF 10 8 DNF DNF


2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

DNF 10 - 12 - - 5 2 5 -



17 9 8 11 DNF 5 15 12 10 12 Recent Spa-Francorchamps Form

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

- - - - - - - - - 9

THE BAGMANS SAYMuch doubt surrounds the black

and gold entries heading into the weekend, with reports that Nick Heidfeld will be dropped in favour of Bruno Senna gaining momentum as this Race Guide was published.

The teams owner, GenII Capital, merged with a Brazilian firm recently, and is understandably keen to entice backers from the area into the team.

Meanwhile, Renault will continue to persist with its radical forward-facing exhausts this weekend, despite now running a simultaneous rearward exhaust development program.

Both cars failed to make the top 10 in qualifying or the race last time out in Hungary. It could well be another tough weekend at Spa.

Nationality: GermanDoB: 10/05/1977Debut: Albert Park, 2000Career Highlights: 2nd 2005 Monaco Grand Prix, 1999 Formula 3000 Champion, 1996 German F3 Champion

NICK HEIDFELDWins: 0Poles: 1Fastest Laps: 2

Nationality: RussianDoB: 08/09/1984Debut: Albert Park, 2010Career Highlights: 3rd 2011 Australian Grand Prix, 2nd 2009 GP2 Series, 3rd 2008 GP2 Asia Series

VITALY PETROVWins: 0Poles: 0Fastest Laps: 1

RENAULT

Chassis: Renault R31Engine: Renault RS27-2011Base: Enstone, UKTeam nationality: BritishTeam principal: Eric BoullierTechnical leader: James AllisonDebut: Silverstone, 1977Wins: 35 Poles: 51Fastest Laps: 31Constructors Championships: 2

LOTUS RENAULT GP


19

WILLIAMS

21

Round 8 ValenciaRace Guide



DNF 13 15 17 9 9 12 13 DNF 13


2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

5 2 - 3 5 - 13 DNF 7 DNF



DNF 18 17 15 18 DNF 18 14 14 16 Recent Spa-Francorchamps Form

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

- - - - - - - - - -

THE BAGMANS SAYHaving scored just four points

across the first 11 races, it would be a stretch to predict that either Williams driver will finish in the top 10 this weekend.

While Spa will not emphasise the FW33s most apparent weakness - an alarming hunger for rear tyres, the long straights and full-throttle corners wont exactly advantage the Cosworth runners.

Pastor Maldonado made Q3 on three separate occasions during the seasons first half, but has yet to score a single point in a Grand Prix. Only Rubens Barrichellos experience in a potentially chaotic race should work for this team.

Nationality: BrazilianDoB: 23/05/1972Debut: Kyalami, 1993Career Highlights: 2nd 2002 and 2004 World Drivers Championship, 1991 British Formula 3 Champion

RUBENS BARRICHELLOWins: 11Poles: 14Fastest Laps: 17

Nationality: VenezuelanDoB: 09/03/1985Debut: Albert Park, 2011Career Highlights: 2010 GP2 Champion, 3rd 2006 Formula Renault 3.5, 1st 2004 Formula Renault 2000 Italia

PASTOR MALDONADOWins: 0Poles: 0Fastest Laps: 0

22

Chassis: Williams FW33Engine: Cosworth CA2011Base: Grove, UKTeam nationality: BritishTeam principal: Frank WilliamsTechnical leader: Sam MichaelDebut: Buenos Aires, 1978Wins: 113 Poles: 126Fastest Laps: 130Constructors Championships: 9

AT&T WILLIAMS

FORCE INDIA

Round 2 Malaysia

23



11 15 13 13 7 DNF 9 11 6 14


2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

- - - - - - 14 13 11 5



10 11 DNF 12 12 18 14 15 13 7 Recent Spa-Francorchamps Form

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

- - - - - - - - - -

THE BAGMANS SAYForce India enjoyed its best

ever Formula One race result at Spa with Giancarlo Fisichella at the wheel in 2009, and will fancy its chances of more points this weekend.

The VJ Mallya owned cars have traditionally performed more competitively at high-speed circuits, thanks to both a slippery low-downforce wing package and strong Mercedes engine.

Paul di Resta returned to the points in Hungary for the first time since Sepang - helping the team score 14 points across the last two races.

Both drivers are a genuine Q3 and points chance this weekend.

Nationality: GermanDoB: 11/01/1983Debut: Albert Park, 2007Career Highlights: 2006 All-Japan F3 Champion, 2nd 2005 F3 Euroseries, 2nd 2005 Masters of F3

ADRIAN SUTILWins: 0Poles: 0Fastest Laps: 1

Nationality: ScottishDoB: 16/04/1986Debut: Albert Park, 2011Career Highlights: 2010 DTM Champion, 2006 Formula 3 Euroseries Champion, 1st 2006 Masters of F3

PAUL DI RESTAWins: 0Poles: 0Fastest Laps: 1

Chassis: Force India VJM04Engine: Mercedes FO 108YBase: Silverstone, UKTeam nationality: IndianTeam principal: Vijay MallyaTechnical leader: Andrew GreenDebut: Albert Park, 2008Wins: 0 Poles: 1Fastest Laps: 1Constructors Championships: 0

FORCE INDIA F1 TEAM


21


6

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Round 2 Malaysia

25



7 10 10 10 5 7 16 DNF 9 11


2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

- - - - - - - - - 8



DNF 17 14 9 DNS - 11 7 11 15 Recent Spa-Francorchamps Form

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

- - - - - - - - - -

THE BAGMANS SAYSauber appears as a real

contender to Force India for the final points this weekend.

Currently nine points and one position ahead of their Indian-branded rivals in the Constructors Championship, Sauber has produced a strong car this year - particularly in race trim.

Having used the mid-season break to fully recover from his Monaco qualifying crash, Sergio Perez will look to continue his fine Spa form from Formula 3 and GP2, while Kobayashi has scored points more often than not this season.

The teams performance on the medium compound tyre is somewhat of a question mark though.

Nationality: JapaneseDoB: 13/09/1986Debut: Interlagos, 2009Career Highlights: 2008/09 GP2 Asia Series Champion, 4th 2007 F3 Euroseries, 1st 2005 FRenault Eurocup

KAMUI KOBAYASHIWins: 0Poles: 0Fastest Laps: 0

Nationality: MexicanDoB: 26/01/1990Debut: Albert Park, 2011Career Highlights: 2nd 2010 GP2 Series, 4th 2007 British F3 Championship Class, 1st 2007 British F3 National Class

SERGIO PEREZWins: 0Poles: 0Fastest Laps: 0

Chassis: Sauber C30Engine: Ferrari 056Base: Hinwil, SwitzerlandTeam nationality: SwissTeam principal: Peter SauberTechnical leader: James KeyDebut: Kylami, 1993Wins: 1 Poles: 1Fastest Laps: 2Constructors Championships: 0

SAUBER F1 TEAM

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23

TORO ROSSO

25

Race Guide

26



13 14 9 14 10 10 13 DNF 15 8


2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

- - - - - - - - 12 12



14 DNF 16 16 DNF 8 8 10 12 10 Recent Spa-Francorchamps Form

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

- - - - - - - - DNF 13

THE BAGMANS SAYToro Rossos well-trodden

strategy of qualifying at the back of the Q2 pack before moving forward in the race armed with extra sets of new tyres worked spectacularly well last time out in Hungary - allowing both drivers to score points.

The plan will not work, however, if Spas traditional weather arrives on either Saturday or Sunday, leaving the poor cousins of Red Bull Racing in a potentially difficult position.

Although neither driver has scored points here previously, top 10 finishes arent out of the question.

Beating Force India and Sauber will be a difficult ask, however.

Nationality: SwissDoB: 31/10/1988Debut: Albert Park, 2009Career Highlights: 2nd 2008 GP2 Asia, 2nd 2007 F3 Euroseries, 2nd 2005 Formula BMW World Final

SEBASTIEN BUEMIWins: 0Poles: 0Fastest Laps: 0

Nationality: SpanishDoB: 23/03/1990Debut: Budapest, 2009Career Highlights: 2008 British F3 Champion, 2nd 2007 Formula Renault Italia, 1st 2006 FR Italia Winter Series

JAIME ALGUERSUARIWins: 0Poles: 0Fastest Laps: 0

Chassis: Toro Rosso STR6Engine: Ferrari 056Base: Farenza, ItalyTeam nationality: ItalianTeam principal: Franz TostTechnical leader: Giorgio AscanelliDebut: Bahrain, 2006Wins: 1 Poles: 1Fastest Laps: 0Constructors Championships: 0

SCUDERIA TORO ROSSO

Race Guide Round 2 Malaysia

27

Round 9 Silverstone

LOTUS



15 16 19 DNF 14 DNF 19 DNF 16 DNF


2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

- - - - - - 8 10 6 16



DNF 19 18 18 13 16 20 DNF - DNF Recent Spa-Francorchamps Form

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

DNF DNF - 9 DNF - 11 16 DNF 19

THE BAGMANS SAYContinuing to run off the pace

of the established teams in dry conditions, a potentially weather affected Belgian Grand Prix provides both an opportunity and a concern for Team Lotus.

While a chaotic race could bring an uncharacteristically strong result, it could also provide its main rivals - HRT and Virgin - an opportunity to leapfrog the green squad in the Constructors Championship.

Jarno Trulli returned from his one-race hiatus in Hungary and claimed the new power steering system was a step forward. Hell want to match his team-mate this weekend to cement his 2012 drive.

Nationality: FinnishDoB: 19/10/1981Debut: Albert Park, 2007Career Highlights: 1st 2008 Hungarian Grand Prix, 2nd 2005 GP2 Series, 1st 2004 World Series by Nissan

HEIKKI KOVALAINENWins: 1Poles: 1Fastest Laps: 2

Nationality: ItalianDoB: 13/07/1974Debut: Albert Park, 1997Career Highlights: 1st 2004 Monaco Grand Prix, 1996 German F3 Champion, 2nd 1995 Macau Grand Prix

JARNO TRULLIWins: 1Poles: 4Fastest Laps: 1

Chassis: Lotus T128Engine: Renault RS27-2011Base: Norfolk, UKTeam nationality: MalaysianTeam principal: Tony FernandesTechnical leader: Mike GascoyneDebut: Albert Park, 2010Wins: 0 Poles: 0Fastest Laps: 0Constructors Championships: 0

TEAM LOTUS

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Round 9 Silverstone

25


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HRT

Round 2 Malaysia

31



- - - - - - - 19 19 18


2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

- - - - - - - - - -



DNF 22 22 DNF 16 13 23 18 DNF 20 Recent Spa-Francorchamps Form

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

- - - - - - - 12 - 10

THE BAGMANS SAYDaniel Ricciardo continued to

improve his qualifying and race pace in Hungary, and now heads to a circuit on which he has tasted success in Formula Renault, Formula 3 and Formula Renault 3.5.

Ricciardo last raced at Spa as recently as May (in FR3.5) - escaping a nasty qualifying shunt at Eau Rouge.

The Australian will again look to out-qualify team-mate Tonio Liuzzi this weekend, having narrowly failed to do so in Hungary and Germany.

Both drivers will fancy their chances of out-pacing Virgins Jerome DAmbrosio, as they did last time out.

Nationality: AustralianDoB: 01/07/1989Debut: Silverstone, 2011Career Highlights: 2009 British Formula 3 Champion, 2nd 2010 Formula Renault 3.5

DANIEL RICCIARDOWins: 0Poles: 0Fastest Laps: 0

Nationality: ItalianDoB: 06/08/1981Debut: Imola, 2005Career Highlights: 3rd 2008/09 Speedcar Series, 2004 F3000 Champion, 2nd 2001 Formula Renault Germany

TONIO LIUZZIWins: 0Poles: 0Fastest Laps: 0

Chassis: HRT F111Engine: Cosworth CA2011Base: Madrid, SpainTeam nationality: SpanishTeam principal: Colin KollesTechnical leader: Tony CuquerellaDebut: Albert Park, 2010Wins: 0 Poles: 0Fastest Laps: 0Constructors Championships: 0

HRT F1 TEAM

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27

VIRGIN

29


32



16 21 DNS 19 DNF 15 21 16 17 17


2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

- - - - - - - 2 10 18



DNF 20 20 20 15 14 22 17 18 19 Recent Spa-Francorchamps Form

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010

- - - - - - - - - -

THE BAGMANS SAYTherell be no shortage of

attention on Jerome DAmbrosio this weekend at Spa, with the 25-year-old Formula One rookie set to enjoy his first home Grand Prix.

The cars will once again struggle for speed, but a reliable run and sound strategy calls has the potential to provide Timo Glock with some reward for his efforts.

Out-qualifying the Hispania entries will be the first target.

Nationality: GermanDoB: 18/03/1982Debut: Montreal, 2004Career Highlights: 2nd 2009 Singapore Grand Prix, 2007 GP2 Champion, 1st 2001 Formula BMW ADAC

TIMO GLOCKWins: 0Poles: 0Fastest Laps: 1

Nationality: BelgianDoB: 27/12/1985Debut: Albert Park, 2011Career Highlights: 2nd 2008/09 GP2 Asia Series, 1st 2007 International Formula Master, 1st 2003 FRenault Belgium

JEROME DAMBROSIOWins: 0Poles: 0Fastest Laps: 0

Chassis: MVR-02Engine: Cosworth CA2011Base: Dinnington, UKTeam nationality: RussianTeam principal: John BoothTechnical leader: TBADebut: Albert Park, 2010Wins: 0 Poles: 0Fastest Laps: 0Constructors Championships: 0

MARUSSIA VIRGIN RACING

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Race Guide Round 2 MalaysiaRound 8 Valencia

7

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RECENT BELGIAN GP WINNERSYear Driver Car Location2010 Lewis Hamilton McLaren-Mercedes Spa-Francorchamps2009 Kimi Rikknen Ferrari Spa-Francorchamps2008 Felipe Massa Ferrari Spa-Francorchamps2007 Kimi Rikknen Ferrari Spa-Francorchamps2005 Kimi Rikknen McLaren-Mercedes Spa-Francorchamps2004 Kimi Rikknen McLaren-Mercedes Spa-Francorchamps2002 Michael Schumacher Ferrari Spa-Francorchamps2001 Michael Schumacher Ferrari Spa-Francorchamps2000 Mika Hkkinen McLaren-Mercedes Spa-Francorchamps1999 David Coulthard McLaren-Mercedes Spa-Francorchamps1998 Damon Hill Jordan-Mugen-Honda Spa-Francorchamps1997 Michael Schumacher Ferrari Spa-Francorchamps1996 Michael Schumacher Ferrari Spa-Francorchamps1995 Michael Schumacher Benetton-Renault Spa-Francorchamps1994 Damon Hill Williams-Renault Spa-Francorchamps1993 Damon Hill Williams-Renault Spa-Francorchamps1992 Michael Schumacher Benetton-Ford Spa-Francorchamps1991 Ayrton Senna McLaren-Honda Spa-Francorchamps1990 Ayrton Senna McLaren-Honda Spa-Francorchamps1989 Ayrton Senna McLaren-Honda Spa-Francorchamps1988 Ayrton Senna McLaren-Honda Spa-Francorchamps1987 Alain Prost McLaren-TAG Spa-Francorchamps1986 Nigel Mansell Williams-Honda Spa-Francorchamps1985 Ayrton Senna Lotus-Renault Spa-Francorchamps1984 Michele Alboreto Ferrari Zolder1983 Alain Prost Renault Spa-Francorchamps1982 John Watson McLaren-Ford Zolder1981 Carlos Reutemann Williams-Ford Zolder1980 Didier Pironi Ligier-Ford Zolder1979 Jody Scheckter Ferrari Zolder1978 Mario Andretti Lotus-Ford Zolder1977 Gunnar Nilsson Lotus-Ford Zolder1976 Niki Lauda Ferrari Zolder1975 Niki Lauda Ferrari Zolder1974 Emerson Fittipaldi McLaren-Ford Nivelles1973 Jackie Stewart Tyrrell-Ford Zolder1972 Emerson Fittipaldi Lotus-Ford Nivelles1970 Pedro Rodrguez BRM Spa-Francorchamps1968 Bruce McLaren McLaren-Ford Spa-Francorchamps1967 Dan Gurney Eagle-Weslake Spa-Francorchamps1966 John Surtees Ferrari Spa-Francorchamps1965 Jim Clark Lotus-Climax Spa-Francorchamps

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Race Guide

34

Race Guide Round 2 MalaysiaRound 8 Valencia

7

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Round 2 Malaysia

33

PAST CHAMPIONSYear Driver Nat Constructor Wins Poles Points 2010 Sebastian Vettel GER Red Bull 5 10 2562009 Jenson Button GBR Brawn 6 4 952008 Lewis Hamilton GBR McLaren 5 7 98 2007 Kimi Rikknen FIN Ferrari 6 3 1102006 Fernando Alonso ESP Renault 7 6 134 2005 Fernando Alonso ESP Renault 7 6 1332004 Michael Schumacher GER Ferrari 13 8 148 2003 Michael Schumacher GER Ferrari 6 5 93 2002 Michael Schumacher GER Ferrari 11 7 144 2001 Michael Schumacher GER Ferrari 9 11 1232000 Michael Schumacher GER Ferrari 9 9 108 1999 Mika Hkkinen FIN McLaren 5 11 761998 Mika Hkkinen FIN McLaren 8 9 1001997 Jacques Villeneuve CAN Williams 7 10 81 1996 Damon Hill GBR Williams 8 9 971995 Michael Schumacher GER Benetton 9 4 102 1994 Michael Schumacher GER Benetton 8 6 921993 Alain Prost FRA Williams 7 13 991992 Nigel Mansell GBR Williams 9 14 108 1991 Ayrton Senna BRA McLaren 7 8 961990 Ayrton Senna BRA McLaren 6 10 78 1989 Alain Prost FRA McLaren 4 2 761988 Ayrton Senna BRA McLaren 8 13 90 1987 Nelson Piquet BRA Williams 3 4 731986 Alain Prost FRA McLaren 4 1 72 1985 Alain Prost FRA McLaren 5 2 73 1984 Niki Lauda AUT McLaren 5 0 72 1983 Nelson Piquet BRA Brabham 3 1 59 1982 Keke Rosberg FIN Williams 1 1 441981 Nelson Piquet BRA Brabham 3 4 50

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Race Guide

3335


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Race Guide Round 2 Malaysia

WORLD DRIVERS CHAMPIONSHIPNO DRIVER NAt CAR POINtS 1 Sebastian Vettel DEU Red Bull 2342 Mark Webber AUS Red Bull 1493 Lewis Hamilton GBR McLaren 1464 Fernando Alonso ESP Ferrari 1455 Jenson Button GBR McLaren 1346 Felipe Massa BRA Ferrari 70 7 Nico Rosberg DEU Mercedes 488 Nick Heidfeld DEU Renault 349 Vitaly Petrov RUS Renault 3210 Michael Schumacher DEU Mercedes 3211 Kamui Kobayashi JPN Sauber 2712 Adrian Sutil DEU Force India 1813 Sbastien Buemi SUI Toro Rosso 1214 Jaime Alguersuari ESP Toro Rosso 1015 Sergio Perez Mendoza MEX Sauber 816 Paul di Resta GBR Force India 817 Rubens Barrichello BRA Williams 418 Pedro de la Rosa ESP Sauber 019 Jarno Trulli ITA Lotus 020 Vitantonio Liuzzi ITA HRT 0 21 Pastor Maldonado VEN Williams 022 Jrme DAmbrosio BEL Virgin 023 Heikki Kovalainen FIN Lotus 024 Timo Glock DEU Virgin 025 Narain Karthikeyan IND HRT 026 Daniel Ricciardo AUD HRT 027 Karun Chandhok IND Lotus 0

CURRENT CHAMPIONSHIP POINTS

WORLD CONStUCtORS CHAMPIONSHIPPos Constructor Engine Points1 Red Bull Racing Renault 3832 Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Mercedes 2803 Scuderia Ferrari Marlboro Ferrari 2154 Mercedes GP Petronas F1 Team Mercedes 805 Lotus Renault GP Renault 666 Sauber F1 Team Ferrari 357 Force India F1 Team Mercedes 268 Scuderia Toro Rosso Ferrari 229 AT&T Williams Cosworth 410 Team Lotus Renault 011 HRT F1 Team Cosworth 0 12 Marussia Virgin Racing Cosworth 0

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Round 2 Malaysia

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Round 2 Malaysia

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The Spa-Francorchamps circuit is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular on the modern Grand Prix calendar. Here, Mark Webber crests Raidillon during last years event.


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