Formula 1 News

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HAMILTON URGES TEAM TO PUSH ON


Lewis Hamilton has urged his McLaren team to take no respite after rediscovering the winning habit in Sunday's Hungarian Grand Prix.

The race at the Hungaroring was undoubtedly overshadowed by Felipe Massa's absence following his freak accident in qualifying, which was respectfully noted by Hamilton despite his success.

But there could be no disguising his delight at a long-overdue win after a previously wretched season in an uncompetitive car, with his last victory nine months ago in China.

McLaren have clearly rediscovered the winning formula again, with world champion Hamilton taking the chequered flag for the 10th time of his 45-race career.

Martin Whitmarsh, who joined Hamilton on the podium for the first time as team principal, has confirmed a further upgrade will be on the car for the European Grand Prix in Valencia in four weeks.

"It is important we just continue to push," remarked Hamilton, who was never troubled after inheriting the lead from Fernando Alonso on lap 13 of the 70-lap race at the Hungaroring.

"We want to come back next year with the best possible chance of winning championships.

"So we need to continue to work this year and understand everything to help us, and hopefully make a good foundation for us to work on next year, which of course is our emphasis.

"But we just want to keep winning. We definitely deserved this after such a tough stretch of time.

"It's been hard on everyone - our new team principal and all the members of our team, but I couldn't have done it without them.

"They've done a fantastic job, and I'm just very, very proud to be associated with them because they've never given up, they've kept pushing.

"We're going to continue to push and see how far we can get in the championship (standings), but we will keep a keen eye on next year.

"Over the break I'll relax a little bit, spend some time with the missus (Pussycat Doll girlfriend Nicole Scherzinger) and my family.

"Hopefully, we'll go to Valencia, make another step forward, with another opportunity to get onto the podium."

Kimi Raikkonen claimed second for Ferrari, with stewards dismissing as racing incidents his clashes with Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel on the opening lap that prompted an investigation after the race.

The stewards also did nothing other than issue a reprimand to Red Bull Racing after an unsafe release from the pits of Mark Webber as the Australian almost collided with Raikkonen after the first round of stops.

Webber went on to finish third to take up second in the standings behind leader Jenson Button, closing the gap to 18.5 points as the Briton finished a season-low seventh.

After a weekend which failed to live up to expectations for Button and Brawn GP, the 29-year-old said: "We felt positive we could get a good result.

"But it turned into damage limitation for our championship challenge, and we were fortunate to come away with two points.

"The car just doesn't feel like it did a few races ago, but we'll work hard to identify the problems before Valencia."

In a busy post-race session for the stewards, they handed Renault a suspension for the European race after the tyre loss suffered by Alonso after it worked free and bounced across the track on lap 13.

As the team had not properly secured it to the wheel, the three-man panel found Renault guilty of compromising safety, although the team have lodged their intention to appeal.

Williams' Nico Rosberg and Heikki Kovalainen were fourth and fifth, with Toyota duo Timo Glock and Jarno Trulli sixth and eighth either side of Button.

Jaime Alguersuari finished his F1 debut 15th, becoming the youngest driver in the sport's history to compete in a race at the age of 19 years and 125 days, and ahead of Toro Rosso team-mate Sebastien Buemi.

 

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BUTTON FEARS FOR TITLE DREAMS


Jenson Button fears his Formula One world title dreams will slip through his fingers unless his team arrest the current slide.

Following his sixth win from the opening seven races in Turkey at the start of last month, Button and Brawn GP appeared bulletproof.

Button held a 26-point lead to team-mate Rubens Barrichello, with Red Bull Racing's Mark Webber 33.5 points adrift, and it appeared to be a case of when, not if, the 29-year-old would be crowned.

But three races later, and three performances in which Button and Brawn have been off the pace, Webber in particular has slashed 15 points out of the Briton's lead to become his nearest challenger.

Webber is just 18.5 points adrift, which has led to Button drawing comparisons between himself and a cyclist leading the Tour de France, but who is unable to climb.

"I feel like I'm wearing the yellow jersey knowing that when I get to the mountains I'm going to be useless and overtaken," assessed Button.

"I've lost 15 points to Webber over the last three races, which is massive - five points per race.

"He'll be in front of me in four races time, and there are seven races left, so it's not a comfortable lead, but I can't do anything about it.

"We're leading the championship, but it is inevitable they are going to overtake us if the performances keep going like they are. We've got to sort it out."

The one saving grace for Button is McLaren and Ferrari have finally rediscovered their form, with Lewis Hamilton and Kimi Raikkonen one and two at Sunday's Hungarian Grand Prix.

Now driving much quicker cars, and aided by the power boost from KERS, Formula One's old order was restored at the Hungaroring.

It means the two teams are not only taking points off Button, who was a season-low seventh, but also the Red Bulls as Webber could only finish third.

"In a way it's good because the Red Bulls are suffering a little. They're finding it a bit difficult, which is nice," added Button.

"At the next race (European GP in Valencia), KERS is reasonably important, but the big KERS circuits will be Spa (Belgian GP) and Monza (Italian GP).

"They're going to destroy us on those two circuits - which is maybe a good thing!"

Button is convinced his team will be able to find the answers to their problems - although not for two weeks as Brawn today begin their enforced fortnight shutdown.

As part of the new cost-cutting measures, all teams are required to close for two weeks during the upcoming break, but with no set date, different teams are starting at different times.

"The team have done some great things with this car," remarked Button.

"All the way through the first part of the season we added updates and they improved the car, we made steps forward.

"But with the last two updates, I can't see anything worse, and it's not something that would unsettle the car.

"It should give the car more downforce and work in every condition - it's rear downforce, it helps, it works. So there's something not quite right.

"But I have faith they will crack the issues."

 

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MASSA CONDITION IMPROVING


Felipe Massa will have another scan today as he continues to recover from emergency surgery.

Massa remains in intensive care and in a medically-induced coma at the AEK military hospital in Budapest following a freak accident during qualifying at the Hungarian Grand Prix on Saturday.

After Sunday's race at the Hungaroring, Massa was visited by Ferrari team principal Stefano Domenicali, team-mate Kimi Raikkonen and Brawn GP's Rubens Barrichello and boss Ross Brawn.

It was a spring that had worked loose on Barrichello's car that hit Massa on his helmet at 162mph, causing his injuries and subsequent crash into a tyre barrier.

Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo is also due to visit the 28-year-old Brazilian, who is expected to be out for at least six weeks even if he makes a full recovery.

A Ferrari spokesman said: "Felipe had a quiet night. He is okay, and he is due to have another CT scan today."

Doctors at the hospital were encouraged by the positive results of Sunday's first CT scan following surgery, with the hope Massa continues to show steady improvement.

A spokesman for the Hungarian defence ministry, under whose jurisdiction the hospital is run, has been quoted as saying on local television that Massa is starting to "communicate actively."

"He reacts when he's spoken to. We are optimistic a slow recovery is beginning," said Istvan Bocskai, who also confirmed Massa could move his hands and legs.

 

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DOCTOR BACKS MASSA TO RACE AGAIN


Felipe Massa has been moved out of intensive care, with his personal doctor convinced he will race again.

Massa's rapid improvement since undergoing surgery on Saturday to repair a fractured skull has prompted doctors at the AEK military hospital in Budapest to move the Brazilian to his own private room.

It means Massa is now off the critical list, although the 28-year-old will continue to be closely monitored because, given the nature of his injury, caution is still required.

Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo is to see Massa again today after initially paying a visit on Monday when there were fears he may never drive again due to concern surrounding the sight in his left eye.

However, Massa is able to converse in three different languages - Portuguese, Italian and English - and has now started to take his first few tentative steps out of bed.

Ferrari spokesperson Luca Colajanni told Press Association Sport: "The most important situation is that Felipe is out of intensive care and now in his own private room.

"He is speaking more or less normally and he has managed his first few steps so, from a clinical point of view, everything is going in the right direction.

"There are no issues for the time being, and although we are still cautious, he is getting better and better. The situation is improving all the time.

"There was some suggestion he would leave the hospital soon but he will remain in Budapest for as long as is necessary."

The progress has convinced Massa's own doctor, Dino Altmann, the Ferrari star's motor-racing career is far from over.

Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, Altmann said: "I have no doubt Felipe will race again. I'm sure of that.

"The situation is still delicate but I believe his life is not in danger anymore.

"From the beginning I felt the trauma wasn't as extended as it was believed but the improvements have gone beyond our wildest expectations."

Altmann also believes fears surrounding Massa's left eye, seemingly damaged after he was struck on the helmet at 162mph by a suspension spring that had worked free from Rubens Barrichello's Brawn during qualifying for the Hungarian GP on Saturday, have eased.

"Stimulated by the physiotherapist, he showed he knows left from right and has full awareness of distance and depth," added Altmann.

"His eye has been opened, with care because it is still swollen, and he has said he can see. His vision has not weakened.

"He also gave appropriate answers in three languages: Portuguese, Italian, and English. That means the brain's cognitive area is fine."

Ferrari team principal Stefano Domenicali has been amazed by the rate of recovery, prompting him to return to Italy yesterday.

"It's a fantastic improvement. Only days after the crash he's made encouraging progress," remarked Domenicali.

"He recognised me, I greeted him and I brought him all the team's and the fans' warmth and support.

"He replied to me in Italian, after he had spoken to his family in Portuguese.

"He told me he can't remember anything that had happened: that's a good thing.

"The data is encouraging but in these situations it's better to be prudent and take one step at a time. We want him to recover as soon as possible."

Domenicali has confirmed there are no issues surrounding Massa's return, with the seat being kept warm until he is fit again.

"I confirmed to him we are looking forward to his return soon, that the car is his, and that as soon as he's ready he'll be back with us," added Domenicali.

Barrichello, who is currently in America with his family, remarked on his Twitter feed his delight at Massa's improvement.

"Good morning, and a very good morning indeed - Felipe can walk and talks normally," wrote Barrichello.

 

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WEBBER: LESSONS MUST BE LEARNED

Mark Webber believes Formula One officials must learn from Felipe Massa's freak accident at the Hungarian Grand Prix as part of ongoing efforts to increase safety in the sport.

Massa is in a serious but stable condition at the AEK military hospital in Budapest after being struck on the head by a spring that had fallen from the back of Rubens Barrichello's Brawn GP car during Saturday's qualifying session at the Hungaroring.

Massa was dazed by the impact, which occurred while the Ferrari driver was travelling at over 160mph, and lost control of his car before crashing heavily into a tyre barrier.

The FIA launched an investigation immediately after the crash, which came less than a week after British teenage driver Henry Surtees lost his life after being hit on the head by a loose wheel in a Formula Two race at Brands Hatch.

"We need to learn from what happened to Felipe," Webber told talkSPORT radio station

"We saw from the accident where we lost Henry Surtees from a head injury as well when material flew in to the cockpit area, it was tragic accident for all motor sport.

"It's not easy, but it's part of the game we sign up for.

"All the drivers know it's not lawn bowls and sometimes it's a very dangerous sport.

"We're all aware of the risk. Our thoughts are clearly with Felipe and with his family and we don't want this stuff to happen, but unfortunately when you're doing those kind of speeds sometimes things can happen that you don't want to."

Red Bull driver Webber, who sits second in the F1 drivers' standings behind Jenson Button, added that he thought the strength of Massa's helmet may have prevented him suffering more significant injuries.

There were fears for the Brazilian's life in the aftermath of the crash, although his condition has improved in the past 24 hours with the Brazilian responding well after being brought out of a medically-induced coma.

"For Felipe to have one [accident] with a spring coming towards him, which is a very heavy object, is pretty unusual," Webber continued.

"Normally we might have a bit of debris or something a bit lighter, but to have something that heavy come in to an open cockpit is dangerous.

"We really need to study Felipe's helmet to see if there's something we can learn from that. The helmet did a phenomenal job."

 

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HAMILTON HAILS 'HUGE TURNAROUND'

Lewis Hamilton believes his first victory for nine months was just reward for his "completely knackered" team.

McLaren have burned the midnight oil these past few months in a bid to build a race-winning car again after spending the first half of the season towards the back of the grid, and it has paid dividends.

The rocket-red victory shirts, celebratory loud music and flowing champagne were all back in evidence inside the McLaren brand centre following Hamilton's Hungarian Grand Prix triumph.

The success ended Hamilton's five-race drought without a point, and 10 since the last time he took the chequered flag in China last October.

The world champion looked the part, and the relief was palpable as he said: "It's been almost a year - such a long time that it felt surreal to win again.

"I couldn't believe how well it all went. I love my car right now - the overall package is fantastic.

"It's been a huge turnaround. At the start of the season, I said if anybody could do this, it would be us.

"You've seen ourselves and Ferrari stepping up our game, and if we'd had this car at the beginning of the season I reckon we'd have won more races.

"But we always said we were six months behind the top guys and, sure enough, six months later we're back at the front.

"Things can now only get better for us. The updates we've introduced have made a huge difference and the car is a pleasure to drive.

"But we've still quite a few improvements to make to the car as there are areas we haven't yet explored."

The win, though, means McLaren can now enjoy their two-week break due to start next Monday, with the holiday enforced as part of new cost-saving initiatives amongst all the teams.

For one employee in particular, who McLaren recently highlighted had put in a 36-hour shift to aid the team's cause, he is likely to be very happy.

"I know they're all completely knackered," added Hamilton, with the next race not until August 23 in Valencia.

"I hope they get a good break over the next couple of weeks so we can be ready to come back and get some more podiums."

There was particular delight for Martin Whitmarsh, who has endured a tough few months since taking over as team principal.

The wretched car aside, Whitmarsh was forced to deal with the fall-out from the 'lie-gate' saga in Australia, as well as play a major role in the recent FIA-FOTA battle over the future of Formula One.

Whitmarsh certainly enjoyed standing on the podium at the Hungaroring and receiving his first constructors' trophy as team boss.

"It was a fantastic feeling," remarked Whitmarsh, who was doused in champagne on the podium by Hamilton.

"I've been on the podium before. I was there for Lewis' first ever win, but to be up there again, it had to be a special one.

"I have to admit the second half of the race was nerve-racking because I, the team, Lewis, everyone, needed a victory.

"But no-one needed this win more than me, so it was great."

With McLaren now clearly back on the pace, the belief is it will not be a one-off this season.

"I'm sure more than a few people were sniggering down their sleeves at the suggestion we could win in Hungary," remarked Whitmarsh.

"But we believed it. We tried to be realistic and objective, and we proved we were, and it was very, very rewarding.

"This team has been at war on a few issues this year, but we have come through that and we now want to win some more races."

Hamilton is due to attend the team's factory in Woking on Tuesday, which is certain to be a moment as special as when he returned as world champion last year.

"Lewis has been a fantastic asset, and he'll be a better one," enthused Whitmarsh.

"Lewis did a fantastic job (in Hungary) and he is a fantastic champion.

"He had already planned to come to the factory tomorrow, so for the whole team it will be a massive celebration on Tuesday.

"But once that is out of the way, then we'll get on with things very quickly."

 

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HAMILTON HAILS 'HUGE TURNAROUND'


Lewis Hamilton believes his first victory for nine months was just reward for his "completely knackered" team.

McLaren have burned the midnight oil these past few months in a bid to build a race-winning car again after spending the first half of the season towards the back of the grid, and it has paid dividends.

The rocket-red victory shirts, celebratory loud music and flowing champagne were all back in evidence inside the McLaren brand centre following Hamilton's Hungarian Grand Prix triumph.

The success ended Hamilton's five-race drought without a point, and 10 since the last time he took the chequered flag in China last October.

The world champion looked the part, and the relief was palpable as he said: "It's been almost a year - such a long time that it felt surreal to win again.

"I couldn't believe how well it all went. I love my car right now - the overall package is fantastic.

"It's been a huge turnaround. At the start of the season, I said if anybody could do this, it would be us.

"You've seen ourselves and Ferrari stepping up our game, and if we'd had this car at the beginning of the season I reckon we'd have won more races.

"But we always said we were six months behind the top guys and, sure enough, six months later we're back at the front.

"Things can now only get better for us. The updates we've introduced have made a huge difference and the car is a pleasure to drive.

"But we've still quite a few improvements to make to the car as there are areas we haven't yet explored."

The win, though, means McLaren can now enjoy their two-week break due to start next Monday, with the holiday enforced as part of new cost-saving initiatives amongst all the teams.

For one employee in particular, who McLaren recently highlighted had put in a 36-hour shift to aid the team's cause, he is likely to be very happy.

"I know they're all completely knackered," added Hamilton, with the next race not until August 23 in Valencia.

"I hope they get a good break over the next couple of weeks so we can be ready to come back and get some more podiums."

There was particular delight for Martin Whitmarsh, who has endured a tough few months since taking over as team principal.

The wretched car aside, Whitmarsh was forced to deal with the fall-out from the 'lie-gate' saga in Australia, as well as play a major role in the recent FIA-FOTA battle over the future of Formula One.

Whitmarsh certainly enjoyed standing on the podium at the Hungaroring and receiving his first constructors' trophy as team boss.

"It was a fantastic feeling," remarked Whitmarsh, who was doused in champagne on the podium by Hamilton.

"I've been on the podium before. I was there for Lewis' first ever win, but to be up there again, it had to be a special one.

"I have to admit the second half of the race was nerve-racking because I, the team, Lewis, everyone, needed a victory.

"But no-one needed this win more than me, so it was great."

With McLaren now clearly back on the pace, the belief is it will not be a one-off this season.

"I'm sure more than a few people were sniggering down their sleeves at the suggestion we could win in Hungary," remarked Whitmarsh.

"But we believed it. We tried to be realistic and objective, and we proved we were, and it was very, very rewarding.

"This team has been at war on a few issues this year, but we have come through that and we now want to win some more races."

Hamilton is due to attend the team's factory in Woking on Tuesday, which is certain to be a moment as special as when he returned as world champion last year.

"Lewis has been a fantastic asset, and he'll be a better one," enthused Whitmarsh.

"Lewis did a fantastic job (in Hungary) and he is a fantastic champion.

"He had already planned to come to the factory tomorrow, so for the whole team it will be a massive celebration on Tuesday.

"But once that is out of the way, then we'll get on with things very quickly."

 

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BUTTON HEADING FOR BEIJING

Jenson Button will contest the 2009 Race of Champions at Beijing's Bird's Nest Stadium later this year.

Button, who leads the Formula One drivers' standings by 18.5 points from Mark Webber following Sunday's Hungarian Grand Prix, will compete against another title rival from Red Bull, Sebastian Vettel, and seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher at the traditional end-of-season event.

The Brawn GP driver will fly out to China immediately following the final grand prix of the season in Abu Dhabi for the event at Beijing's Olympic stadium on November 3-4.

"It's always a great event, it's great for the fans but it's especially good for all of us competitors," said Button, who contested the Race of Champions in 2007 and 2008 at Wembley Stadium.

"It's pretty intense; it's great to have so many different competitors from around the world.

"Really it's a great end-of-season event to just chill out and enjoy yourself and I'm looking forward to this year because the Bird's Nest is a pretty amazing stadium, it's going to be a lot bigger than before, so it's going to be a lot of fun."

German driver Vettel sits 23 points behind Button in the F1 drivers' standings and there is a good chance the two will lock horns in Beijing in the immediate aftermath of a potential title decider involving both in Abu Dhabi.

Fredrik Johnsson, president of Race of Champions organisers IMP, hailed the event's success in securing the participation of two of F1's front-runners, saying: "With him [Button] and Sebastian Vettel already confirmed, we have two of the leading drivers in this year's championship and, whoever wins the title, they'll be able to have one last battle at the end of the season."

 

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FIA: BMW DEMISE WAS AVOIDABLE

The FIA believe BMW Sauber's withdrawal from Formula One could have been avoided if initial planned cost cuts had been imposed.

The team confirmed on Wednesday they are to pull out at the end of the season, ending their four-year involvement as a fully-fledged manufacturer.

The news comes just eight months after Honda announced their exit, which sparked the FIA into action, and ultimately a war with the Formula One Teams' Association over funding and the future direction of F1.

FIA president Max Mosley's introduction of a £40million budget cap resulted in a bitter feud with the teams, who appeared to win the day as financial reductions will be scaled down to 1990s levels, but only by 2011.

The FIA, unsurprised by BMW's decision, believe if there had not been such opposition to their plans then the Munich-based team would likely have continued.

"The FIA regrets the announcement of BMW's intended withdrawal from Formula One, but is not surprised by it," read a FIA statement.

"It has been clear for some time that motor sport cannot ignore the world economic crisis.

"Car manufacturers cannot be expected to continue to pour large sums of money into Formula One when their survival depends on redundancies, plant closures and the support of the taxpayer.

"This is why the FIA prepared regulations to reduce costs drastically.

"These measures were needed to alleviate the pressure on manufacturers following Honda's withdrawal, but also to make it possible for new teams to enter.

"Had these regulations not been so strongly opposed by a number of team principals, the withdrawal of BMW and further such announcements in the future might have been avoided.

"Nevertheless, as a result of a sustained cost-cutting campaign by the FIA, new measures are in the process of being agreed which should make it easier for new teams to enter and enable existing ones to participate on much reduced budgets.

"It is no secret these measures do not go as far as the FIA would have liked, but a compromise was needed in the interests of harmony in the sport.

"Hopefully it will be enough to prevent further withdrawals and provide a solid foundation for Formula One.

"As the guardian of the sport, the FIA is committed to ensuring Formula One remains financially sustainable for all competing teams and it will always act to ensure that this remains the case."

Suggestions Toyota might follow have been alleviated by comments from a Toyota Motor Corporation spokesman.

He said: "Through cost reduction we will continue our Formula One activities. Our situation remains unchanged."

There remains a possibility Renault could also go, especially as it has been rumoured team boss Flavio Briatore has been attempting to raise the finances to continue as an independent team.

FOTA, meanwhile, have offered their full support to BMW Sauber in the hope of seeing the team continue in F1, just as the body helped Brawn GP onto the grid after Honda's demise.

FOTA secretary general Simone Perillo said: "FOTA teams have immediately consulted each other and are ready to assure all the necessary support to the Swiss-based team, whose membership in the association is confirmed, to continue its involvement in F1.

"It is worth mentioning a professional work has already begun within FOTA, aimed at increasing the involvement of the fans and at improving the F1 show.

"Among those initiatives, one that could be interesting is the introduction of a third car on the grid.

"FOTA will seek the opinions of all the most relevant stakeholders in order to exchange ideas and define proposals for the future of Formula One.

"FOTA teams now wish to have the necessary certainty and stability within Formula One in order to focus on those fundamental priorities for the future.''

 

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HAMILTON ISSUES McLAREN THANKS

Lewis Hamilton personally thanked the entire McLaren workforce for helping him become a winner again.

Hamilton addressed the team's staff at the McLaren Technology Centre in Woking three days after his victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix.

The triumph ended a nine-month, 10-race drought for the world champion whose last success was back in last October's Chinese Grand Prix.

It was also the result of thousands of man hours put into turning an abysmal car over the first half of the season into one capable of taking the chequered flag.

Hamilton had already planned to speak to the team ahead of their enforced two-week summer break that starts on Monday.

But in the wake of the 24-year-old's win at the Hungaroring, his words were especially meaningful.

"This has been an incredibly difficult season for all of us, but Sunday's result is payback for all your time, effort, energy and passion, and I wanted to come here and thank you for that," said Hamilton.

"At the start of the season, we were barely competitive, but the amount of work that every single one of you put into transforming our fortunes has been incredible.

"I've always said it: Vodafone McLaren Mercedes is a team of winners, and the most amazing thing about this team is its fighting spirit - you never give up.

"So when I get into the car, I know all the effort that has gone into getting us to this point, and it makes me want to push even harder to repay you.

"Winning on Sunday was our victory. The work you've done this season has been incredible - I have never seen this place so intensely busy and productive.

"The result in Hungary showed there is definitely light at the end of the tunnel, and that makes the job easier and more satisfying for everyone.

"You have all been amazing, and I hope you are as proud of this win as I am."

 

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SCHUMACHER TO DRIVE FOR FERRARI


Lewis Hamilton will realise a long-held dream following Michael Schumacher's shock announcement he is to come out of retirement.

At the age of 40, the seven-times world champion is to drive for Ferrari at next month's European Grand Prix in Valencia in the absence of the injured Felipe Massa.

Schumacher has not driven competitively since the season-ending Brazilian Grand Prix in October 2006, the last of his 249 races, which had seemingly brought to an end his 16-year career at the peak of motor sport.

But with Massa sustaining a fractured skull during qualifying on Saturday for the Hungarian Grand Prix that required life-saving surgery, Schumacher has answered Ferrari's call to arms.

World champion Hamilton will be one driver particularly delighted to see Schumacher return as it was one of his greatest regrets he never raced against the German legend.

The 24-year-old was handed his first F1 contract just over a month after Schumacher had hung up his racing gloves.

Speaking in his autobiography, My Story, Hamilton remarked: "I was asked which former driver I would most like to race against, and I went for Michael Schumacher.

"I got a laugh by saying I was disappointed that he had bailed out the year I got to Formula One.

"Of course, I was joking, but there was a little bit of truth in it.

"I have already said I do not agree with some of his controversial moves, but as a competitor there was nobody better, and I would have loved to have raced against him."

Schumacher, though, will first have to undergo a rigorous training programme as he is understood to still be recovering from neck and back injuries sustained in a motorbike test in Spain in February.

Ferrari have confirmed Schumacher, who is currently a highly-paid advisor to the team, will partake in a specific training programme to get himself prepared for the race around Valencia's streets.

Schumacher, who won five of his titles with Ferrari, 91 races overall and was 68 times on pole, is only too happy to come to his team's aid in their hour of need.

Schumacher said: "The most important thing first: thank God, all news concerning Felipe is positive, and I wish him all the best again.

"This afternoon I met with (team principal) Stefano Domenicali and (president) Luca di Montezemolo and together we decided that I will prepare myself to take the place of Felipe.

"Though it is true the Formula One chapter has been closed for me for some time, it is also true that for loyalty reasons to the team I cannot ignore this unfortunate situation.

"But as the competitor I am, I also very much look forward to facing this challenge."

Factfile

1969: Born on January 3 in Huerth-Hermuelheim, Germany.

1973: Made his racing debut in a kart race.

1987: Won German and European kart championships.

1988: Finished fourth in German Formula Ford championship and second in the European series in first year of car racing.

1990: Won first major single-seater title, clinching the German Formula Three crown. Stepped up to sportscars, driving for Mercedes.

1991: Made Formula One debut for Jordan in Belgium, qualifying seventh before retiring. Poached by Benetton for the rest of the season.

1992: Takes first grand prix win in Belgium on his way to third in the championship.

1994: Wins title, with eight wins to his name, after controversial last-race clash with Damon Hill.

1995: Retains world crown, taking nine victories.

1996: Moves to struggling Ferrari and manages three wins on his way to third in championship.

1997: Wins five races but is stripped of second in the championship for attempting to take out title rival Jacques Villeneuve at Jerez.

1999: Breaks his leg at Silverstone when easily leading the championship.

2000: Finally wins Ferrari's first world title since 1979, amassing nine wins on the way.

2001: Another nine wins and another title, setting a new record for all-time victories on the way.

2002: Wins championship in record time, setting a new mark of 11 victories.

2003: Wins title by a point after six victories, breaking Juan Manuel Fangio's record of five championships.

2004: Breaks his own record for wins in a season to take title number seven.

2006: September 10 - Announces his retirement at end of 2006 season after winning Italian Grand Prix.

2009: July 29 - Makes shock return to Formula One with Ferrari, deputising for Felipe Massa until the Brazilian is recovered from injuries suffered in the Hungarian Grand Prix.

 

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SCHUMACHER TO DRIVE FOR FERRARI


Lewis Hamilton will realise a long-held dream following Michael Schumacher's shock announcement he is to come out of retirement.

At the age of 40, the seven-times world champion is to drive for Ferrari at next month's European Grand Prix in Valencia in the absence of the injured Felipe Massa.

Schumacher has not driven competitively since the season-ending Brazilian Grand Prix in October 2006, the last of his 249 races, which had seemingly brought to an end his 16-year career at the peak of motor sport.

But with Massa sustaining a fractured skull during qualifying on Saturday for the Hungarian Grand Prix that required life-saving surgery, Schumacher has answered Ferrari's call to arms.

World champion Hamilton will be one driver particularly delighted to see Schumacher return as it was one of his greatest regrets he never raced against the German legend.

The 24-year-old was handed his first F1 contract just over a month after Schumacher had hung up his racing gloves.

Speaking in his autobiography, My Story, Hamilton remarked: "I was asked which former driver I would most like to race against, and I went for Michael Schumacher.

"I got a laugh by saying I was disappointed that he had bailed out the year I got to Formula One.

"Of course, I was joking, but there was a little bit of truth in it.

"I have already said I do not agree with some of his controversial moves, but as a competitor there was nobody better, and I would have loved to have raced against him."

Schumacher, though, will first have to undergo a rigorous training programme as he is understood to still be recovering from neck and back injuries sustained in a motorbike test in Spain in February.

Ferrari have confirmed Schumacher, who is currently a highly-paid advisor to the team, will partake in a specific training programme to get himself prepared for the race around Valencia's streets.

Schumacher, who won five of his titles with Ferrari, 91 races overall and was 68 times on pole, is only too happy to come to his team's aid in their hour of need.

Schumacher said: "The most important thing first: thank God, all news concerning Felipe is positive, and I wish him all the best again.

"This afternoon I met with (team principal) Stefano Domenicali and (president) Luca di Montezemolo and together we decided that I will prepare myself to take the place of Felipe.

"Though it is true the Formula One chapter has been closed for me for some time, it is also true that for loyalty reasons to the team I cannot ignore this unfortunate situation.

"But as the competitor I am, I also very much look forward to facing this challenge."

Factfile

1969: Born on January 3 in Huerth-Hermuelheim, Germany.

1973: Made his racing debut in a kart race.

1987: Won German and European kart championships.

1988: Finished fourth in German Formula Ford championship and second in the European series in first year of car racing.

1990: Won first major single-seater title, clinching the German Formula Three crown. Stepped up to sportscars, driving for Mercedes.

1991: Made Formula One debut for Jordan in Belgium, qualifying seventh before retiring. Poached by Benetton for the rest of the season.

1992: Takes first grand prix win in Belgium on his way to third in the championship.

1994: Wins title, with eight wins to his name, after controversial last-race clash with Damon Hill.

1995: Retains world crown, taking nine victories.

1996: Moves to struggling Ferrari and manages three wins on his way to third in championship.

1997: Wins five races but is stripped of second in the championship for attempting to take out title rival Jacques Villeneuve at Jerez.

1999: Breaks his leg at Silverstone when easily leading the championship.

2000: Finally wins Ferrari's first world title since 1979, amassing nine wins on the way.

2001: Another nine wins and another title, setting a new record for all-time victories on the way.

2002: Wins championship in record time, setting a new mark of 11 victories.

2003: Wins title by a point after six victories, breaking Juan Manuel Fangio's record of five championships.

2004: Breaks his own record for wins in a season to take title number seven.

2006: September 10 - Announces his retirement at end of 2006 season after winning Italian Grand Prix.

2009: July 29 - Makes shock return to Formula One with Ferrari, deputising for Felipe Massa until the Brazilian is recovered from injuries suffered in the Hungarian Grand Prix.

 

[sky star 2]

BMW EXIT CASTS SHADOW ON RENAULT


Fears now surround Renault's future in Formula One after BMW Sauber confirmed they will be pulling out of the sport at the end of the season.

The FIA made it clear the team's withdrawal could have been avoided if they had been allowed to implement planned cost cuts, and then fuelled rumours suggesting another manufacturer could follow.

Toyota and Mercedes-Benz have confirmed they are to remain in F1 in light of new financial restrictions due to come into force, leaving the fate of Renault uncertain.

Although Toyota's future has long been the centre of speculation, a Motor Corporation spokesman stated: "Through cost reduction we will continue our Formula One activities. Our situation remains unchanged."

As for Mercedes-Benz, a 40% stakeholder in McLaren and engine supplier to Brawn GP and Force India, a spokesman said: "We regret the Formula One withdrawal of BMW.

"This decision does not have any influence on our Formula One engagement."

Renault, though, are facing a major shortfall in their budget as primary sponsors ING are pulling out after this season.

Their public image took another battering on Sunday when stewards announced a suspension for the race in Valencia on August 23 after Fernando Alonso's car dangerously shed a tyre during the Hungarian Grand Prix.

Further question marks hang over Renault as there are rumours team boss Flavio Briatore has been attempting to raise the finances to keep them in F1 as an independent.

BMW Sauber could yet return to privateer hands as former owner Peter Sauber still holds a 20% stake after selling the team to the German giants in 2005.

Sauber, though, has been left reeling by today's news as he said: "I respect and accept the decision, but am still finding it hard to digest.

"The position we are in now makes it very difficult."

The Formula One Teams' Association have offered their full support to get the team back on its feet, just as the body helped Brawn GP onto the grid after Honda's demise in December.

FOTA secretary general Simone Perillo said: "FOTA teams have immediately consulted each other and are ready to assure all the necessary support to the Swiss-based team, whose membership in the Association is confirmed, to continue its involvement in F1.

"FOTA will seek the opinions of the most relevant stakeholders in order to exchange ideas and define proposals for the future of Formula One.

"FOTA teams now wish to have the necessary certainty and stability within Formula One in order to focus on those fundamental priorities for the future."

That stability should have arrived this week with the signing of a new Concorde Agreement, the commercial document that governs F1 and binds the teams to the sport for the length of any contract.

But with the FIA, Bernie Ecclestone's Formula One Management and the teams due to commit themselves through to at least 2012, BMW Sauber clearly felt now was the most opportune time to pull out.

Although there is the prospect of the team being saved, the FIA could turn to one of those who failed to gain an entry for 2010 at the last bidding process earlier this year.

Epsilon Euskadi boss Joan Villadelprat has insisted his team would be willing to step into the breach.

"The people who were interested in helping us are still interested, which is incredible, so if the opportunity arises, we are going to attack it, there's no doubt about it," said Villadeprat.

Until all signatories put their name to the Concorde, though, the FIA feel another team may follow BMW, believing their demise might not have happened if the £40million budget cap had come into force.

Initially expressing their lack of surprise at BMW's departure, a FIA statement added: "Had these regulations not been so strongly opposed by a number of team principals, the withdrawal of BMW, and further such announcements in the future, might have been avoided."

Referring to the new measures due to be adopted, the FIA added: "It is no secret they do not go as far as the FIA would have liked, but a compromise was needed in the interests of harmony in the sport.

"Hopefully it will be enough to prevent further withdrawals and provide a solid foundation for Formula One."

Following three successful seasons as a fully-fledged manufacturer team in their own right, a wretched year with just eight points in 10 races added to the BMW Board of Management's decision yesterday to withdraw.

BMW Motorsport boss Mario Theissen was fully appreciative of the executive decision made to end the team's involvement in F1.

"We would all have liked to continue this ambitious campaign and show that this season was just a hiccup following three successful years," said Theissen.

"But I can understand why this decision was made from a corporate perspective.

"We will now focus sharply on the remaining races, demonstrate our fighting spirit and put in a good result as we bid farewell to Formula One racing."

 

[damirba.]

Michael Shumacher-- now Again Playing For Ferrari Team...
instead of Felipe Masa...

 

[sky star 2]

SCHUMACHER BACK IN THE GROOVE


Michael Schumacher has wasted no time in preparing for his Formula One comeback.

Just two days after confirming he would replace the injured Felipe Massa at the European Grand Prix in Valencia on August 23, the 40-year-old was on Friday back behind the wheel of a 2007-spec car.

With in-season testing banned, Schumacher is not allowed to drive the current Ferrari, but can run an older model, and will do so on the team's test track at Mugello.

The seven-times world champion also worked on the simulator on Thursday, in particular to get a feel for the current steering wheel and its plethora of buttons.

"I was in Maranello to check the functionality of the steering wheel at the static simulator," confirmed Schumacher.

"Of course, I also took the opportunity to again discuss with the engineers how to proceed further.

"There is this test ban in Formula One, therefore I contacted some of the guys from F1 Clienti (the technician team at Maranello) if they could give me a car.

"Although the cars are not current or last year's, I simply like to drive as much as possible, so it was a good option.

"The next weeks are totally about preparation."

 

[sky star 2]

MASSA TO RETURN TO BRAZIL


Felipe Massa is to return home to Sao Paulo on Monday just nine days after fracturing his skull in a freak accident.

Massa has made a swift recovery from life-saving surgery required on Saturday after the accident during qualifying for the Hungarian Grand Prix.

Massa was struck by a suspension spring that had worked its way off Rubens Barrichello's Brawn GP, resulting in the Brazilian crashing his Ferrari into a tyre barrier.

After the operation, Massa spent two days in a medically-induced coma, but since waking earlier this week, has improved rapidly.

Speaking at the AEK military hospital in Budapest, Massa's personal doctor, Dino Altmann, confirmed the 28-year-old is to head home via private plane on Monday.

"Felipe continues to improve," said Altmann.

"He is doing very well, and we have already decided to go back home on Monday to Sao Paulo."

It had been suggested after a few days surrounded by family and friends in Brazil, Massa would then attend the Pitie-Salpetriere hospital in Paris to continue his rehabilitation.

The clinic is where Michael Schumacher was treated after breaking his leg in an accident at the British Grand Prix 10 years ago.

However, Altmann has maintained there is no requirement for Massa to fly to Paris, and instead he will now focus on his recuperation at home.

"He is to continue his recovery and return to racing as soon as possible, that's the plan," added Altmann.

"He is in a very good mood, good shape, and he just wants to come back soon."

On Wednesday, Ferrari turned to Schumacher as replacement for Massa until the latter is fit enough to return.

The seven-times world champion has wasted no time in preparing for his comeback, which will be in three weeks at the European Grand Prix in Valencia.

Just 48 hours after confirming he would serve as Massa's stand-in, Schumacher was today behind the wheel of a 2007-spec car at the team's test track in Mugello.

With in-season testing banned, Schumacher is not allowed to drive this season's Ferrari, but can run an older model.

Yesterday Schumacher completed simulator work to get a feel for the car's current steering wheel and plethora of buttons.

He said: "I was in Maranello to check the functionality of the steering wheel at the static simulator.

"Of course, I also took the opportunity to again discuss with the engineers how to proceed further.

"There is this test ban in Formula One, therefore I contacted some of the guys from F1 Clienti (the technician team at Maranello) if they could give me a car.

"Although the cars are not current or last year's, I simply like to drive as much as possible, so it was a good option.

"The next weeks are totally about preparation."

However, in a bid to ensure Schumacher is up to speed, the team have written to the other nine teams and the FIA requesting the German be allowed a one-day test with this year's Ferrari.

The other seven members of the Formula One Teams' Association - McLaren, Renault, Toyota, BMW Sauber, Brawn GP, Red Bull Racing and Toro Rosso - have apparently given the green light.

Toyota Motorsport boss John Howett said: "Toyota's understanding is that all FOTA teams have agreed to accept this request.

"The situation for Felipe is very unfortunate, and this is a sporting gesture which I am confident Ferrari will respect."

The FIA are looking into the matter, along with the non-FOTA teams in Williams and Force India.

 

[sky star 2]

NEW CONCORDE AGREEMENT SIGNED

The future of Formula One has been secured after the FIA and 12 teams put pen to paper a new Concorde Agreement last night.

The agreement, which runs until the end of 2012, brings to a close months of wrangling between motor sport's world governing body and the Formula One Teams' Association over the governance of the sport.

BMW Sauber, who this week confirmed they would pull out of Formula One at the end of the season, are the only current team to have not signed the document.

It is understood BMW's bosses have until Wednesday to sign the document, a move which would allow any backer taking over the team to benefit from the Concorde Agreement's provisions.

New grand prix teams USF1, Campos **** and Manor GP have all signed the agreement, which confirms the cost-cutting measures agreed between the FIA and the teams at the end of June.

An FIA statement read: "Following approval by the World Motor Sport Council, late last night FIA President Max Mosley signed the 2009 Concorde Agreement, heralding a renewed period of stability for the FIA Formula One World Championship.

"The Concorde Agreement - a contract between the FIA, F1's Commercial Rights-Holder and the participating Teams - sets out the basis on which the Teams participate in the Championship and share in its commercial success.

"The WMSC has also approved a slightly revised set of stable Sporting and Technical Regulations (to apply from the 2010 Championship onwards), which have been agreed by the FIA and the Teams and which will be published shortly on the FIA's website.

"The new Concorde Agreement, which runs until 31 December 2012, provides for a continuation of the procedures in the 1998 Concorde Agreement, with decisions taken by working groups and commissions, upon which all teams have voting rights, before going to the WMSC for ratification.

"In addition, as agreed in Paris on 24 June 2009, the Teams have entered into a resource restriction agreement, which aims to return expenditure to the levels that prevailed in the early 1990s.

"With the 2009 Concorde Agreement and the resource restriction agreement in place, the FIA looks forward to a period of stability and prosperity in the FIA Formula One World Championship."

 

[sky star 2]

'LUCKY' MASSA - I'LL BE BACK

Felipe Massa has acknowledged he is lucky to be alive after last week's crash in the Hungarian Grand Prix - and is vowing to race again.

The Brazilian has made a swift recovery from life-saving surgery required after the accident during qualifying for the event last Saturday.

Massa was struck by a suspension spring which had worked its way off Rubens Barrichello's Brawn GP, resulting in the Brazilian crashing his Ferrari into a tyre barrier.

After the operation, Massa spent two days in a medically-induced coma, but has improved rapidly since waking earlier this week.

He plans to return home to Sao Paulo tomorrow and told the News of the World: "I know I'm lucky to be alive.

"I don't remember anything about the accident but I will race again."

He explained: "When I woke up I didn't know why I was in hospital, so I was asking 'why am I here?'.

"I was pulling all the tubes and Eduardo, my brother, tried to stop me - so we had a fight.

"The accident was so unlucky but I know I'm lucky to be alive. I don't remember anything of what happened.

"It was my race, so when I awoke from the coma I couldn't believe it when they told me Lewis (Hamilton) had won and Kimi (Raikkonen) was second."

Seven-times world champion Michael Schumacher visited Massa in hospital and said: "It's good I finally made it to see Felipe - I feel better now.

"I'm surprised at his condition as the accident was only a week ago. We chatted for three hours and I feel really relieved now."

The 40-year-old German, who will deputise for Ferrari in the absence of Massa, has wasted little time in getting behind the wheel again.

With in-season testing banned, Schumacher is not allowed to drive the current Ferrari, but has been practising in an older car.

He added: "I have to say I'm feeling muscles I was not even aware existed any more - but you cannot test for a day after such a lot of time without feeling anything.

"I'm curious to see what will happen in the coming days."

 

[sky star 2]

BUTTON FEELING THE SQUEEZE

Jenson Button is determined to seize his world championship opportunity this season but admits his rivals are closing fast.

The Brawn driver holds a healthy 18.5-point lead in the championship thanks to an outstanding start to the year but three races without a podium finish has given others hope.

The Red Bull pair of Mark Webber and Sebastian Vettel are proving his closest challengers and Button admits it will take hard work to stay ahead.

"When you have the opportunity you have to take it," Button told BBC Radio Five Live's Sportsweek programme.

"This opportunity is the best I have had in Formula One by far and you have to take it. There might not be an opportunity again.

"It's got be head down focusing on getting the best out of the car every race we go to.

"At the moment I am leading the world championship, which is a great position to be in, but the last three races for us have been a little bit more difficult than we expected.

"We can put it all down to the cooler climates. Even in Hungary the circuit was a lot cooler on Sunday than it was earlier in the week.

"But it is down to us to make the car work in those cold conditions, that is what we need to work out and solve.

"If we don't solve those issues we are going to be gobbled up by the Red Bulls because they seem to be working in hot and cold weather."

The Brawn team, formed earlier this year after Honda pulled out of the sport, inherited a strong infrastructure from the Japanese manufacturer.

There have been suggestions, however, that the funding from the Honda-backed developments is now running out and that is the reason why Brawn are being caught.

But Button said: "We have the money and resources to achieve great things but everyone is moving so quickly we need to keep up.

"We've been through more difficult times so we can solve these problems for sure.

"We have just got to stay relaxed and make sure we get back to the front, which we will in Valencia.

"We need to beat the Red Bulls. We can't sit around and collect points, it is not enough."

The European Grand Prix in Valencia in three weeks' will see the return to the sport of seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher.

The legendary German has agreed to drive for Ferrari as a short-term measure after Felipe Massa was seriously injured in a freak qualifying accident at last weekend's Hungarian Grand Prix.

Button said: "It's good for the sport but it's difficult to know how to feel about it because of Massa's situation.

"He is coming back because Felipe Massa has had a big accident so that is where the sadness comes from.

"But for Ferrari to still have Michael on the books is fantastic for them.

"Michael will be straight on the pace, he is going to be there for sure. Don't expect him to be sitting around at the back."

 

[sky star 2]

WILLIAMS BLOCK FERRARI TEST REQUEST

Michael Schumacher's bid to test Ferrari's current car has been blocked by Williams.

Ferrari last week wrote to the other nine Formula One teams and the FIA requesting Schumacher be granted a day at the wheel of the F60 ahead of his return to racing at the European Grand Prix in Valencia on August 23 in the absence of the injured Felipe Massa.

Under current regulations in-season testing is banned, but with 40-year-old Schumacher barely turning a wheel in anger since retiring just under three years ago, Ferrari were hoping for leniency.

Out of courtesy, the other seven members of the Formula One Teams' Association - McLaren, Renault, Toyota, BMW Sauber, Brawn GP, Red Bull Racing and Toro Rosso - gave Schumacher and Ferrari the green light.

Williams, however, see no reason why seven-time world champion Schumacher should be given special dispensation, citing the recent arrival of 19-year-old rookie Jaime Alguersuari into F1.

"While we welcome Michael Schumacher back to Formula One, the fact is any form of in-season circuit testing is strictly prohibited, a regulation clearly laid out by the FIA and adhered to by all of the teams," said Williams in a statement.

"It was for this reason Alguersuari, who drove an F1 car for the first time in Hungary, did not have the opportunity to familiarise himself with the Toro Rosso before he made his race debut.

"Williams sees no distinction between Alguersuari's situation and Schumacher's and feels any deviation from the rule would create a precedent for the future."

Williams further noted Ferrari chose Schumacher over current test drivers Luca Badoer and Marc Gene, who are both familiar with the team's 2009 model.

"In a similar situation, Williams would unhesitatingly use its current test driver," added Williams.

"For the sake of consistency and fairness, therefore, we oppose Ferrari's proposal to test ahead of the European Grand Prix."