Lewis is Back

Hooray! Lewis Hamilton is back.

Despite the numerous molecules that have dodged Hamilton’s dire season seems to be a distance thing of the past. He surpassed all expectations and realities to lead and win the Hungarian Grand Prix in such dominant and frantic fashion.

All through his led there was the sneaky suspicion that he was on a verge (it’s known to happen) of a fatal mistake that would epitomise his tough season once again. But gladly there was no choke, no mistake and signs of the rekindling Brit yesterday was a breath of fresh air.

Rightly fellow Brit Jenson Button has been taken all the plaudits this season and
Hamilton has been portrayed more of a villain than a nation hero for much of it but this win will bring an awe of optimism for driver, as well as McLaren, to propel himself to start challenging the leaders.

Although it’s not a result that they can get carried away with but the signs that Hamilton, who once was the icon of so many, can right his wrongs.

It does seem decades ago that Hamilton took his spot at the spearhead of the podium but now he might get that winning feeling back again. This is also Martin Whitmarsh’s first win as team boss, after replacing Ron Dennis, and he will earmark this victory as his finest he has ever witnessed after his team has been dragged through so much this year.

From Liegate to the controversy in Malaysia, McLaren has been through it all. Coming to Hungary was big, after the significant updates to his dwindling MP4-24 model at Germany, it was time to show why he’s still the current World Championship and he duly did.

This is arguably his finest victory, his 10th and best. It was Lewis’ first victory since China last season, and his emotional exploits have been missed, Button is animated but it’s not with the exuberance that Hamilton shows.

Button was hoping for much more in his Brawn but Lewis’ victory helped his fellow Brit out. Keeping the Red Bull’s at bay is what he did and as the season heads into its second half, Lewis could become Button’s biggest ally.

Lewis, on the other hand, can leave Budapest Hungary (Sorry) for more.

FIA Give Teams Ultimatum

So it appears the FIA and Max Mosley will be holding firm on their controversial budget cap plans after giving the FOTA (Formula One Teams Association) until the 17th June to sign up for next season.

The list of participants for next year has been announced with just three new entries alongside Ferrari, Red Bull and Toro Rosso, who are contractually obligied to participate, according to Mr Mosley.

The rest of the season taking part this season have been included on the list of participants for next season and told that if they sign up 'unconditionally' for next year that they will be part of talks to discuss next seasons rules.

The teams themselves are wary, as they should be, of signing up without a new confidential Concorde agreement that restricts drastic rule changes without the involvement of the teams.

They want a longer 'glide path' down to the propsed $40m budget cap and are disappointed by the FIA's unwillingness to discuss on their terms.

I'd side with the teams on this one as they are likely to be trapped if they agree to Mosley's unconditional offer. Should they sign they will be unable to influence the rule changes, and if they don't they won't have a sport to take part in next season.

Jenson wins with ease

Sometimes things come far too easily.

Jenson Button stormed to victory in Monaco with utter ease; his dominance reflects the sport as a whole at the moment – unexplainable and very surprising. As teams discussed and argued about the budget cap, Brawn showed that money doesn’t always get you success.

Button was not even going to have a drive this year but now he is leading the way as Brawn GP show that they are far superior to anyone else in the field and that’s without the elusive funds that some teams can boost.

Even team boss Ross Brawn is surprised how well Jenson is doing. He told the BBC, “I’m lost for words about him [Button] because he’s exceeding everything I thought possible. Stunning. “

And there is no surprises if Jenson goes on to dominate the rest of the season, no one seems to be getting close. This was Button’s fifth win out of sixth and only four other drivers have done that, Michael Schumacher and Juan Manuel Fangio being two of them.

The glitz and glamour was on show at Monaco, the star names packed in to watch the biggest race on the F1 calendar but the race itself failed to live up to any of the expectation that was hoped for. In fact, it was rather dull.

Jenson’s partner Rubens Barrichello came in second place and it was another 1-2 finish for Ross Brawn and his team.

There was some good news for Ferrari or bad news if you like any other team, Kimi Raikkonen and Felipe Massa finished third and fourth respectively as the team looks if it has improved significantly. The team said they could really push on and challenge, let’s hope that’s not true.

World Champion Lewis Hamilton, who won here in the wet last year, finished a miserable 12th after his mistake in qualifying and a change in gearbox meant he started at the back of the grid. It was a wasted opportunity for the Brit as this is his track and it’s also a track that McLaren do normally perform well.

He simply never got going and the team tactics did not master the expertises of Brawn, starting at the back he could have started in the pit lane with a full load of petrol and be out for longer. But this wasn’t the case as the McLaren crisis continues to suffer.

Red Bull had a mixed weekend, wonder kid Sebastian Vettel unfortunately crashed out and Australian Mark Webber finished a very respectable fifth spot as they look to get some, if any, pressure on the Brawn team.

Williams’ Nico Rosberg, Renault’s Fernando Alonso and Toro Rosso’s Sebastian Boundais filled the remaining point's places.

Lessons Learnt for Lewis

This day was going to be the day that everything went right for Lewis Hamilton, sweep the lies and the poor performances under the carpet and prove he is prevailing King here at Monaco.

Unfortunately for Lewis it did not quite happen. When you are tipped to succeed, it often tips in the other direction. This weekend there was no lies or poor performance but a man obsessed. He can walk away slightly more grown up and thankfully for what he does have.

He wanted to do well, he needed to do well but his egotistical self once again out did him. No one to blame but himself and with that he needs to refine what he wants and what he needs. He wrote off his chances soon into qualifying as he lost his car’s back end on the entrance to Mirabeau’s hairpin and smashed into the tyre wall, breaking his rear suspension.

McLaren worked hard for Lewis and the car looked like it’s going to compete and it would have probably competed.

But he has dropped out and will be starting down in 16th on Race Day, he is far better than that and he does know it.

It was good to see Lewis be aggressive and he contributed many quick lap times. His hero Aryton Senna had a formidable record here and if Lewis is going to emulate him, he needs to understand how to concentrate his aggression and where to direct it.

Lewis still has time on his hands but he demands perfection and it’s a great quality to have. He should not always point his finger to the direction of his team when something goes wrong but take responsibility. His lying to Stewards in Australia lost him many fans, but he walks away from this weekend grown up and as he has accepted his mistakes.

“I don't know what I was thinking, I made a mistake," he told BBC Sport. "I apologise to the team for wasting their time.

"It's been tough but you learn from these mistakes. They are bound to happen, but it's just a shame it happened in the first qualifying session.

"My race weekend for a win is for sure over."

For once his weekend was not ruined by his team, trust issues need to be readdressed quickly before the rest get too far ahead. But Hamilton show signs that

Last season’s triumph is still fresh in my memory, and Lewis looked a man to beat rather than a man to win as opposed to this term.

I am still convinced he will do well hear and if any unexpected showers were to fall, I’m sure Lewis would find himself somewhere near the front.

King Jenson of Spain

Jenson is the King of Spain, well Formula 1’s king in Spain at the time being.

There is no stopping the Brit.

He shows no indication that he is going to slow down, winning a drug and he is hooked.

This was his fourth win out of five and if Bernie E-man had his way, Button would have the title more or less wrapped up already.

Jenson would have four shiny gold medals to Sebastian Vettel’s one but fortunately, there is still points and the season is far from over.

Rubens Barrichello is still providing great support for F1’s favourite son. He finished second to give Brawn GP another 1-2 finish on their debut season, this one was again down to perfect tactics that ousted their rivals.

Mark Webber finished strongly and put the Bahrain disappointment firmly behind him.

His podium shows how good Red Bull can be, with Ferrari and McLaren failing to find form or a competitive car it will be up to Red Bull to challenge Brawn GP for top honours.

Teammate Vettel ended fourth with Ferrari’s Felipe Massa holding him up in the final laps to stop his pursuit for a podium.

The Brazilian finished sixth to double Ferrari’s points for the season while teammate Kimi Raikkonen limped out after 17 laps.

Home favourite Fernando Alonso couldn’t find any heroics in his homeland but his spirited late drive landed him fifth place to much delight to his fans.

BMW Sauber’s Nick Heidfeld and Williams’ Nico Rosberg finished seventh and eighth
respectively picking up the remaining points.

Lying Lewis finished ninth as McLaren showed no improved updates, he even admits that his car ‘has no hope’.

But what made this race rather exciting was the opening lap where everything kicked off. Jarno Trulli, Sebastien Buemi, Sebastien Bourdais and Ardian Sutli all crashed out after the first corner bringing out a safety car for all the refuge to be cleared.

Trulli flew off the track at turn two before coming back on to the racing line that made him to collide with the two Toro Rosso cars and that caused havoc. Trulli should have had more sense; his mistake should not punish others. He should had held back and moved onto the track when it would be more safely to do so.

Circuit de Catalunya is a fine track and it was the only the fifth time that a safety car had to be introduced in 18 years.

But once again this weekend belonged to Jenson as he continues his perfect season.

The German stops Brits Supremacy

This season just gets better and better.
Jenson slips and a German takes all the glory. Sebastian Vettel is enhancing is ever growing stature as one of the better drivers in F1.

His stunning victory was wholly deserved and it gave Red Bull their biggest day in
F1 so far. And on this form, Vettel looks like he will be adding to his two modest race victories.

Ozzy Mark Webber finished second to make it a 1-2 for Red Bull to make it a weekend
to remember for the British based team.

Jenson finished third after the safety car was forever interrupting the race.

Brawn’s strategy was not key in this race as it was very difficult to determine an outcome with such horrendous conditions. Partner Rubens Barrichello finished fourth to keep Brawn GP in the points.

Brawn went with heavy fuel loads, as they knew they had the pace, but the speed of the Red Bull’s surprised everyone.

Poor visibility played a huge role in the races outcome; Renault’s Fernando Alonso began up top as his produced a majestic qualifying lap on light fuel. But that strategy was useless with the race starting with the safety car and he finished outside the points in ninth.

McLaren look relatively back on track with a vast improvement on previous races.

However disappointingly Lewis Hamilton may have seen this as a missed opportunity.

He is, by far, the best-wet conditions driver out there and the floods on the track could have played him well. He finished sixth, whilst partner Heikki Kovalainen managed to complete a lap, what he had failed to do this season, and he finished an impressive fifth.

Ferrari’s season just keeps getting better and better, Felipe Massa out after 20 laps and Kimi Raikkenon outside the points once again down in 10th. They predict that they are going to hit some good form. I definitely hope not.

Pole seems essential this season; this was the third consecutive race that the driver in pole won the race.

Let us see who claims pole in Bahrain.

Good Day for Brits

Brits lead the way again, and this time, in the Chinese Grand Prix.

Lying Lewis showed that there might be some honesty left in him after all as he clocked the fastest lap time in the first practice session in what looks to be a legitimate car.

Although dropping down to 13th in the Second Practice session, he would be encouraged by the new set of his McLaren. The car is sporting a new front wing and a new interim diffuser.

Joyful Jenson, once again, submitted the fastest time of the day. His Brawn GP car didn’t suffer any penalties for the use of rear diffusers that was contested earlier on in the week.

So, the primary focus is still on Brawn and his racing team as they have continually produced result after result, as Button’s partner Rubens Barrichello was third fastest.

Their dominance is still there as Button goes in search for his third consecutive win.

The Brawn’s were only split by the impressive Nico Rosberg in the ever-improving Williams car.

Ferrari’s dismal start to the season gladly continues, Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikkonen both suffered tyre problems and the disappearing act off the KERS system seems to have no effect. They have also not used their energy storage system in an attempt to reinitiate their spiralling championship charge.

Raikkonen struggled to find grip and was often found practicing on the grass.
The Red-Bull Renault pair Mark Webber and Sebastian Vettel produced that they can compete at the top being the fourth and fifth quickest respectively.

Hamilton’s teammate Heikki Kovalainen ended up ninth fastest of the day as he looks to hit some form.

What We Know Now: GP2 - Malaysia

IT'S TOO CLOSE FOR CONFIDENCE

A miraculously close qualifying session saw position's chopping and changing almost non-stop. Ferrari decided that after one hot lap Felipe Massa had done enough to get himself through to the second stage of qualifying (Mistake!).

A shock for all, not least Martin Brundle, who's blood pressure I am seriously starting to worry about, as Felipe sat in his garage and watched himself plummet down the classifications and into the knock out zone.

Too late to get round for a fast lap, the Brazilian had his team to thank for a grid slot on the eighth row and a tough weekend.

KIMI IS THE ODD ONE OUT

News that may not surprise too many F1 purists was revealed with little fuss. A simple line dropped during the 53 minute wait on the pit straight.

Whilst explaining Red Bull driver Mark Webber's apparent authority in the paddock, Martin Brundle explained that he is the head of the Grand Prix Driver's Association, "an organisation that includes all F1 drivers... apart from Kimi Raikkonen".

Maybe he's just an individual, maybe there is a signing on fee or maybe no one likes Kimi, who knows? Not me.

RACES START AT THREE FOR A REASON

The late start in Australia was greeted by speculation as to how many more European viewers would be enticed into watching the race live and the same question's were raised again in Malaysia.

The setting sun caused visibility problems in Melbourne that were clear to see from the on board cameras, and raised safety concerns that will likely see the start time revised before next season's opener.

The late start in Sepang led to the race being stopped when it was just starting to get interesting and has hampered those who finished in the points as they only pick up half the spoils. Had the race started at it's normal time instead the race would likely have completely avoided the thunder and lightning that brought a premature end to proceedings.

We may not have seen the same race, but we almost certainly would have seen a full one.

MICHAEL SCHUMACHER: GREAT DRIVER, RUBBISH LEADER

Michael Schumacher was splashed over our TV screens on more than one occasion during another fateful Ferrari weekend, but he had more influence on this race than any since he retired.

The decision to put full wet tyres onto Raikkonen's car, was made by the seven-time world champion. A brave decision but ultimately, completely the wrong one.

The Finn proceeded to lap at nearly forty seconds a lap slower than the rest of the pack, and eventually ended up so far behind that it was pointless to continue. Schumi will probably be staying away for a while, Monza return perhaps?

Brit Rule in Rain

Britain may be known for its rain; just as well, that Button was the man to take glory in a much rain affected Malaysian Grand Prix.

This was Button’s second win on the bounce; however, this was more of a hard fought victory compared to the hugely convincing win at Australia.

Button recovered from a bad start, where he dropped to fourth from pole, to win the Grand Prix after the race was abandoned due to torrential rain.

The Stewards and the FIA made the right decision in calling the race off early due to the heavy rain and the poor visibility.

BMW Sauber’s Nick Heidfeld was second ahead of Toyota’s Timo Glock to complete the podium.

Lying Lewis crept up to seventh to claim his first legitimate points of the season, well we will see.

In a surprising twist, the top eight will only receive half points to make the World Champion board look rather odd.

It was particular good to see common sense prevail for once as safety, and not entertainment, was the prime focus. The introduction of the red flag on lap 51 was welcomed, as it was clear that the race would not fulfil its allotted time.

Malaysia continued the dominance shown by Brawn GP this season and Button remains pinnacle of that.

Despite his poor start, where Williams’s Nico Rosberg, Toyota’s Jarno Trulli and Renault’s Fernando Alonso all sped past him, Button had the control and the speed to reclaim top spot with some impressive manoeuvres.

However, it was the strategy Ross Brawn implemented secured the victory. Button reaped the rewards when staying out for an extra two laps and producing the fastest laps of the Grand Prix. He made the most of that extra fuel that was on board to dazzling effect.

From then on, it was clear that there was only going to be one winner. When other cars were pouring into the pits to stick on the extreme wets, Button established a lead of 18 seconds, all by lap 26. This showed how ruthless Button could be when he is in the position to do just that.

It adds to his character that he is disciplined enough to handle a fast car in horrendous conditions.

Moreover, Ferrari’s poor season got from bad to worse. But don’t smile about it for too long; they will come good eventually.

Kimi Raikkonen, who showed good form in qualifying, was put on extreme wets too early and this caused him to finish 14th. With Felipe Massa finishing outside the points, the reigning constructor’s champions now sit last.

But this weekend, again, belonged to Button.

Keep those Brits proud, Jenson.

A Brit to be Proud off

Whilst one Brit is the butt of a nation, his fellow compatriot is taking all the plaudits.

Jenson Button claimed his second pole in a row whilst last year’s British F1 hero Lewis Hamilton looks a soulless withering sore loser in 12th spot. And it is what he deserves.

It could be easily forgotten that F1 fans around the world saw in bemusement as Lewis Hamilton took the World Championship in such dramatic fashion last November.

Now Lying Lewis is more of a pest than anything else, he has lost a lot of respect this week.

British favourite Button drove brilliantly in qualifying and Malaysia is set to be an exciting race.

He took pole position but only just, Toyota’s Jarno Trulli took second, a tenth of a second behind Button, and is ahead of teammate Timo Glock who will start in third.

Glock did move up two places since Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel was reprehended for his collision with BMW’s Robert Kubica at last weekend’s Australian Grand Prix that cost him 10 places and Brawn’s Rubens Barrichello, who was docked five places due to a change of gearbox on Friday, will start in ninth.

Felipe Massa continued his miserable spell as he starts in 16th. Partner Kimi Raikkonen drove with more conviction and he lasted until the last stage of qualifying, he will start seventh.

Williams’s Nico Rosberg, who was the quickest in Saturday’s final practice session, and will begin in fourth ahead of Mark Webber.
But this session once again belonged to Brawn GP and more specifically Jenson Button.

Hopefully, next week’s discussions will be about the positive aspects of Formula 1 rather than the negatives.

So next week, no lies, no cheats, no talk of the possible ill-use of rear diffusers (Appeal is soon), just pure, sheer, adrenaline pumping Formula Motoring Racing.

Please.

Lying Lewis or Holy Hamilton?

The fallout from the Australian Grand Prix continues despite the second round of the World Championship being well under way.

Kimi Raikkonen set the fastest time in Friday practice but he is far from the headlines as more information is slowly revealed over the FIA's decision to disqualify Lewis Hamilton from the Melbourne race.

I fear this may well be another F1 scandal that us the fans will never know the truth of, as it's clear the press aren't even sure what is going on. The BBC report that 'Hamilton insists he is not a liar' and the whole report seems to show Hamilton has come out fighting in the wake of this latest scandal. However the headline on the official Formula1.com website reads 'Hamilton apologises for Melbourne mistake'.

So which is it? Hands up or gloves off?

Either way both stories confirm Lewis claims that he was told to 'withhold information' from the stewards by sporting director Dave Ryan, a man who is now suspended and facing the sack. The British World Champion insists that he is not a liar or a dishonest person. But unfortunately that would also prove to be untrue.

He told stewards in Australia he was not instructed by his team to allow Jarno Trulli to pass him, however radio transmissions have proven he had. Hamilton now claims he is sorry to his fans and the stewards for misleading them but still seems to believe he is not to blame.

"I want to say sorry to all my fans. I am not a liar or a dishonest person, I am a team player. If the team ask me to do something, I generally do it. This is not an easy thing to do, to step back and realise I was in the wrong. But I was in the wrong, I was misled."

Seemingly a good apology, until the last three words. Quickly and quietly taking the plaudits for honesty, then shoveling the responsibility onto someone else.

"I was misled." Maybe, but you knew the team's aim was extra points, and you knew it was wrong.

Time to accept responsibility for your actions Lewis, or this could be a very tough season.

Hamilton Stripped of Aussie Podium

Lewis Hamilton has been stripped of his podium finish and championship points from the Australian Grand Prix after a review by race stewards.

After initially finishing in fourth place at Albert Park he was promoted to third when Toyota driver Jarno Trulli was handed a 25 second penalty. A review of the decision has seen Trulli reinstated in third and Hamilton disqualified after 'new elements' of the investigation were discovered by the FIA.

A statement on the Official Formula One website revealed, “The Stewards have considered the new elements presented to them from the 2009 Australian Formula One Grand Prix, consider that driver No 1 Lewis Hamilton and the competitor Vodafone McLaren Mercedes acted in a manner prejudicial to the conduct of the event by providing evidence deliberately misleading to the Stewards."

The hearing was held at the Sepang circuit, host of this Sunday's Malaysian grand prix. World champion Lewis Hamilton left without comment, but a spokesman for his team ensured the driver is not at fault.

"Vodafone McLaren Mercedes understands that the Stewards made their decision on the basis of reviewing radio transmissions between the driver and the Team. The Team mistakenly believed that the radio transmissions had been reviewed by the FIA on Sunday 29th March 2009, and consequently did not believe it was necessary to discuss them with the Stewards on that date. Nonetheless, the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Team now regrets that it did not do so, accepts the Stewards' decision and will not appeal."

This decision is the latest in a list of decisions that have seen the FIA punish Mclaren and Hamilton. The team have found the FIA to be unforgiving of their actions since the Spygate scandal which tarnished the 2007 season. They were fined £50m and stripped of their constructors points for the season.

Hamilton was also demoted from first after the Belgian Grand Prix last season after he was adjudged to have unfairly overtaken Ferrari driver Kimi Raikkonen. The Brit had cut the last corner after Raikkonen squeezed him off the track and immediately allowed the Fin back in front. Despite this, his overtake at the following corner was classed unfair and Hamilton was pushed back to second.

The third place in Sydney had been the silver lining on Hamilton's opening weekend which had seen him a long way off the pace of the front runners, but this decision now leaves him even further from retaining his title.

The Need of Dusk

Williams driver Nico Rosberg believes twilight races are not the way to go, as it’s dangerous.

And to be fair you can’t blame him. His sidekick Nakajima slightly blamed lowered sunlight for losing control of his car when coming round a bend. Somehow, I don’t think it’s the sunlight mate! Perhaps Nakajima could borrow one of Jenson Button’s many sunglasses.

Rosberg wasn’t acting as a sore loser (Cough, cough, Alonso, cough) or anything, but he generally believes that mid-afternoon starts is not what racing is about.

These drivers control the fastest legal (Depending your view on rear diffusers) cars on the planet and why should a lowering sun be judge on the outcome of the race. The sport should test ability not who has the best visors.

European viewers are essential for the business but it would be better to have racing at his peak without any extra distractions.

Waking up at 3am was a good omen and a ritual too many F1 fanatics as it kicks off the season perfectly. Stirring that extra strong cup of coffee and sporting your finest pair of pants in your couch, engulfed in front of the television for 3 hours before heading back to bed was special.

This year I did miss it. With Sky+ becoming more and more popular surely, it would have not been as problematic as the heads suggested, well suppose not everyone has that luxury.

This upcoming weekend race in Malaysia is at a similar local time as Australia for European viewings to be maximised and Rosberg expects more problems.

The weather this weekend suggests a heavy down pour to make the race that little more interesting in Kuala Lumpur. Well organisers should have thought about how its monsoon season in Malaysia, the whole race may have to be stopped altogether if it gets bad. It would end up being more of a speedboat race.

On the other hand, one very good thing in keeping twilight races is that when the race finishes it will be dark and you will see less of Rubens Barrichello after he removes his helmet. He does look a bit like Frankenstein doesn’t he?

Awards Night: Australia

This week's awards are the first in the history of this blog, but we're sure given three to four weeks that they will be more coveted by members of the paddock than championship points.

Enough of this chit chat and on with the ceremony. Awards time!

Drive of the week

Jenson Button - Lights to flag in first place and entirely unflappable across all 58 laps. This voctory marked the 200th race win for British drivers and more importantly announced that Button is a title rival.

A weekend to forget for...

Ferrari - Whilst challenging the mid to low points scorers they never had the pace of the front runners. Raikkonen showed he still has not rediscovered his title winning form and an unusual reliability failure saw an end to Massa's race. Zero points and hope for Malaysia.

A weekend to remember for...

Ross Brawn - All his Ferrari wins have been overshadowed by a debut one-two for the team that races under his own name. Turned around a team that was falling and has put them clear at the top.

The voters choice award.

This award will be chosen by you! This is a special mention award for those who deserve a little extra credit for their weekend's work.

Just look to the right of the screen to vote for your pick of this weeks nominations.

Lewis Hamilton - World champion took his uncompetitive car from 18th on the grid to a podium finish.

Sebastien Buemi - Debutant took his Toro Rosso to 7th place and picked up two world championship points. Was brave enough to have a look at Massa, could be one for the future.

Tim Glock - German put in an impressive performance after starting last and from the pit lane to claim third, two notable overtaking manoeuvres around the outside of turn four, this guy could be a contender.

Place your votes and we will announce the winner after the Malaysian GP.

What We Know Now: GP1 - Australia.

This is the first series to be launched on The Formula, and will be posted on the following Monday after every race weekend. It will provide a look back at the weekend's action and discuss what we, the teams and the drivers have learnt.

BEWARE THE UNKNOWN

Brawn GP notched a stunning one-two finish in their debut race as British driver Jenson Button calmly took his car from lights to flag without losing his lead.

The new regulations on aerodynamics and speed also seemed to have a good influence with regular overtaking and close battles throughout the field. But the longer front wings seemed to cause a few incidents and until drivers get used to that space being filled we could see a couple more flat tyres.

NEVER RULE OUT A CHAMPION

Mclaren's Lewis Hamilton started eighteenth on the grid and despite having a car as competitive as a horse and cart he managed to grab a third place on the podium. A result that could be crucial come the end of the season by which time he will be hoping to be somewhat more competitive.

Meanwhile Fernando Alonso finished in fifth place after starting tenth in Melbourne. A tailored drive saw Alonso bring his car home in the points in an unusually understated fashion whilst teammate Nelson Piquet Jr. started his season with a retirement.

The only other champion in the field, Ferrari's Kimi Raikkonen, retired after 55 laps after a spin, in which he had miraculously avoided the wall, left his car unable to continue.

THE KIDS CAN STILL GET CARRIED AWAY

Beautifully illustrated by Red Bull's Sebastien Vettel and Robert Kubica of BMW. The pair were pretty much guaranteed a share of second of third place and if they had worked together could probably have caught Button before the end of the race.

However a slip of in Vettel's concentration saw him lose speed through turn one and Kubica's good run out of the second turn saw a wheel to wheel battle in the tight right-hander of turn three. Kubica didn't give Vettel room on the inside and the German refused to back off causing a collision. Whilst both drivers survived the initial contact they would only make it around one more corner as they independently crashed into almost the exact same spot.

YOU CAN BEND THE RULES, BUT YOU CAN'T BREAK THEM

As the FIA has so helpfully cleared up it's OK to race with a disputed rear diffuser but if you have a rear wing that isn't up to spec you must start from the pit lane. There's a line between the two somewhere but i can't quite see it..

Sensational Button!

Jenson, you’ve done it! You beauty!
He won the first Grand Prix of 2009. Well we did expect him to, didn’t we?

My neighbours would have not been happy as joyful high-pitched screeches as early as 730 would have probably woken them up. But it doesn’t matter, Button you were definitely worth it.

The Brit is back and loving it, many thought, including me that he went off the boil when decided to devour many glamorous women, and had a poor habit of showcasing big ridiculous sunglasses in public.

Although the glasses are still there, and probably the women too, he looked a man obsessed, loving what he is doing. So much enthusiasm was evident as he took all the glory in what must be Ross Brawn’s proudest victory. Just over three weeks ago, this team never existed but what a breath of fresh air they are.

Button always threatened to throw a match on previous Honda cars but he is in a car now that he should be proud off, it suits his driving style to a tee and it definitely showed.

Button was not the only successful Brit as POMs ruled once again in Melbourne. Lewis Hamilton’s win last year was followed by a lucky shunt up to third at Jarno Trulli’s expense. But this podium symbolised so much more for the World Champion.

It had the essence of a true Champion drive, already knowing that he didn’t have the sheer pace to keep up, Hamilton solely relied on textbook methods to keep himself competitive. He attacked when the time was right and defended properly when he needed too.

It is the massive indication yet that he has matured with his racing. Lewis was even gracious and very much surprised that he took as many points and well done to him.

McLaren needs to improve and quick. Perhaps a rear diffuser could come in useful.

Nevertheless, this day belonged to Button and to his second win in F1. And on this form, he will add to that. The vastly experienced Rubens Barrichello came in second to give Brawn GP a 1-2 finish on their debut, the first time that has happened since 1954.

I was a little disappointed to see a German and Pole in conflict once again. But instead of drawing arms, they decided to batter each other’s car instead.

Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel showed great form and looked set on a decent finish but he paid the price when he gave BMW’s Robert Kubica time to catch up. They locked wheels and both retired a lap later after colliding. They are still two very young drivers that still have a lot to learn, they have massive careers in front of them.

To top the day off, Ferrari failed to do anything. Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikkonen retired early on to make it an all round perfect weekend for the British viewer.

Roll on Malaysia!

Brawn Again

Jenson has done it, the widely acclaimed favourite to win here in Australia has taken pole with team mate Barrichello completing the front row.

Brawn GP were simply sensational on their debut, backing up their initial practice and qualifying promise to take a surprise lead in F1.

Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel and BMW Sauber’s Robert Kubica will make up the second role.

World Champion Lewis was left in the dust with a 15th position out of 20 as McLaren continued their dismal form. Lack of drive in the gearbox was blamed for a lack of speed. It looks very likely that he won’t win here tomorrow like he did in his Championship winning season.

Brawn GP pole position is a first for a brand new team since Scotland’s Jackie Stewart for Tyrrell at the Canadian GP in 1970.

And now the team has the backing of Sir Richard Branson’s money to fulfil their promise throughout the season. The team will soon be named Virgin BGP 001.

The top end of the field was two tenths of a second and shows early indication how close the race could be.

Let us hope for a thriller.

Nico Fastest!

What a baffling day in the first practice of the season.

Nico Rosberg was the fastest in both sessions in Australia for Williams, and who would have thought it?

This was certainly an interesting and intriguing day, Toyota, Brawn GP and Williams, who all initially fought off Thursday’s protest about diffusers, were extremely impressive and quick.

The fastest drivers of the day were unfamiliar - Rosberg, Barrichello, Trulli, Webber, Button, Glock, Nakajima, Vettel, Sutil (How was that possible?) and last year’s runner up Massa all make up the top ten.

Not a McLaren nor a World Champion insight. Hamilton, Raikkonen and Alonso were nowhere to be seen.

These protests against rear diffusers will hopefully run out of steam, the complaints were ignored that the cars using them were not up F1 regulations, although an appeal hearing is due shortly to ban them.

And those cars that can boost the diffusers, at the moment, were the fastest around Melbourne’s Albert Park street circuit, no doubt, Ferrari will kick a fuss and the diffusers will probably be branded illegal soon enough.

So it still begs the question whether these surprising front-runners are actually legit. I do hope they are.

Brawn GP showed why they could be consider as favourites clocking notable times, three weeks ago the team never existed. Perhaps Jenson may appear from Hamilton’s rather large shadow to lead the way for the Brits and fulfil his potential that has been left wanting recently.

Hamilton looked completely astounded, he has even said the dreaded ‘still come good’ line. McLaren will need to find a fix and fast just to keep up. They were completely off the boil.

Qualifying will definitely be interesting.

When the lights go out...

PRE-SEASON REVIEW

The Australian Grand Prix is almost here and with it comes the brand new season of Formula One, but after such a busy pre-season will the on track action turn as many heads as the off track has?

The first piece of news that changed the face of the pit lane was the announcement that Honda would be pulling out of the sport, citing the global financial crisis as the main reason, and so began a five month long search for a buyer.

After flirting with David Richards, who was team principal in the teams former life as BAR Honda, and rumours of Richard Branson adding yet another string to the bow of his Virgin brand, it was eventually Team Principal Ross Brawn who led a management buy-out to create Brawn GP.

After just a couple of weeks of preparation Brawn GP stunned the paddock as they churned out the fastest times in testing at Jerez. Another shock was posted at the final test session of the season as Williams driver Kazuki Nakajima set the fastest time of all pre-season.

Reigning champion Lewis Hamilton and his Mclaren team openly admitted to a lack of pace and revealed they would be uncompetitive for the beginning of the season, however after a few aerodynamic tweaks they returned more competitive in the following testing sessions but still off the pace.

The most controversial moment of the season was, without doubt, the introduction of the new scoring system. The decision was taken by the FIA to name the driver with the most race wins the 2009 Champion, despite the fact the last 60 years of F1 racing have been decided by points.

Drivers, teams and fans nigh on unanimously spoke out against this rule change, and after rumours of the change being made so near to the start of the season may be illegal, the FIA soon postponed their plans until 2010.

Rule changes that have stayed until the first race include the reintroduction of slick tyres after 10 years out of the sport and aerodynamic changes that have led to longer front wings and higher, narrower rear wings, giving the cars an unusual look.

What will happen next season is likely to change many times, but after the introduction of optional budget cuts and mandatory rule changes in the design of cars this season looks to be one of the most exciting and unpredictable yet.

THE TEAMS AND DRIVERS

Now take a look at our short preview of each team and driver and see if you agree or disagree with our predictions for the end of the season.

McLAREN

Lewis Hamilton – Defending World Champion, looking to be the first Brit to win back-to-back titles.
Dave's prediction: 3rd
Steve's prediction: 2nd

Heikki Kovalainen – The Finn needs an impressive season after playing second-fiddle to Lewis last term, needs to back up his first win at Hungary to keep his seat.
Dave's prediction: 9th
Steve's prediction: 8th

FERRARI

Kimi Raikkonen – Failed to add to his Championship win in 2007, and looking to put right the mistakes of last season which restricted him to just two wins at Malaysia and Spain.

Dave's prediction: 2nd
Steve's prediction: 4th

Felipe Massa – Looking to avenge last season's second place disappointment with a first Championship win, Ferrari’s new Number One.
Dave's prediction: 1st
Steve's prediction: 1st

BMW Sauber

Robert Kubica – the Pole took F1 by storm and his first win at Canada proved that. Will be looking to better his fourth position in the driver standings.
Dave's prediction: 4th
Steve's prediction: 5th

Nick Heidfeld – a second placed finish at the British Grand Prix was a high point of a good season as he finished 6th in overall standings.
Dave's prediction: 8th
Steve's prediction: 10th

Renault

Fernando Alonso – the ex-World Champion had a good finish last year with successive wins in Singapore and Japan and has raised hopes for a promising season.
Dave's prediction: 6th
Steve's prediction: 3rd

Nelson Piquet Jr – has the famous name but not the reputation yet, he unexpectedly made the podium in Hockenheim to show his credentials.
Dave's prediction: 15th
Steve's prediction: 13th

Toyota

Jarno Trulli – A veteran on the circuit, but just one win at Monaco 2004, will be trying to continue the good progress Toyota have achieved recently.
Dave's prediction: 12th
Steve's prediction: 12th

Timo Glock – A British fans favourite after his failing car at Brazil allowed Lewis to win the 2008 Championship, and after impressive testing times will be looking to move up the standing’s table.
Dave's prediction: 10th
Steve's prediction: 15th

Toro Rosso

Sebastien Boundais – Second season in F1 after having successful years competing at Le Mans and the US. New rule changes may benefit the Frenchman.
Dave's prediction: 17th
Steve's prediction: 9th

Sebastien Buemi – The only new driver this season and at that an exciting prospect who competed with distinction in GP2 last term.
Dave's prediction: 19th
Steve's prediction: 18th

Red Bull

Mark Webber – at 32, his first win still eludes him, but the Australian will be looking for that breakthrough this season.
Dave's prediction: 16th
Steve's prediction: 11th

Sebastian Vettel – the massive surprise package as his win in Italy embarrassed Red Bull by winning in its sister team Toro Rosso. Poised to be the next Schumacher.
Dave's prediction: 5th
Steve's prediction: 6th

Williams

Nico Rosberg – His second spot at Singapore was surprising to say the least and he will look to improve this season, especially if Toyota pulls a technological rabbit out their hat.
Dave's prediction: 13th
Steve's prediction: 16th

Kazuki Nakajima – known to be the best F1 driver that Japan has ever seen, and has the potential to add to last terms modest total of nine points.
Dave's prediction: 14th
Steve's prediction: 17th

Force India

Adrian Sutli – Was running brilliantly in Monaco until Raikkonen smashed into the back of him.
Dave's prediction: 20th
Steve's prediction: 20th

Giancarlo Fisichella – Pitched above his weight with Renault and now driving in a below average
Force India Car.
Dave's prediction:18th
Steve's prediction:19th

Brawn GP

Jenson Button – British front runner that promised so much, his win at Hungary has been the only high point so far. Pre-season form promises much.
Dave's prediction: 7th
Steve's prediction: 7th

Rubens Barrichello – this man does not know how to stop, another season for the Brazilian. Chosen for his experience, at the expense of Aryton Senna’s nephew Bruno, to drive the new car.
Dave's prediction: 11th
Steve's prediction: 14th

Welcome!

Welcome to The Formula, a brand new blog dedicated to the adrenalin-pumping sport of Formula One.

A modest team of two writers, David Kifford and Steven Woodgate, endeavour to bring you the most thought provoking, interesting and banter-worthy articles around.

Check back soon because when the lights go out, the race is on!

DK