Sakhir Grand Prix 2020 - Practices and Qualifying

[jgonzalesm6]

Watching F2 practice....track looks bumpy (new area).

Weather looks nice all three days.

[Tifoso Svedese]

Russell looking very fast already.

[Tifoso Svedese]

Would say we look likely to beat all six Alfa, Haas and Williams for sure and have both guys in Q2.

If we're lucky it can be a race of attrition and we might nick some points.

[jgonzalesm6]

Russell looking very fast already.

It's the car.


Would say we look likely to beat all six Alfa, Haas and Williams for sure and have both guys in Q2.

If we're lucky it can be a race of attrition and we might nick some points.

too early to tell at the moment.

[KimiBot]

Russell looking very fast already.

I feel sorry for Bottas if he gets beaten by Russell all weekend. :lol

[KimiBot]

I am sure Hamilton does not like this ATM

[tifosi1993]

I feel sorry for Bottas if he gets beaten by Russell all weekend. :lol

Max will beat both of them on Sunday.

[tifosi1993]

FP1:

Russell: --- 18.900 --- 19.277 --- 16.369 --- 54.546


Verstappen: --- 18.839 --- 19.210 --- 16.594 --- 54.722 --- 321


Albon: --- 18.938 --- 19.231 --- 16.642 --- 54.811 --- 318


Bottas: --- 18.841 --- 19.205 --- 16.524 --- 54.868 --- 322


Kvyat: --- 18.863 --- 19.471 --- 16.587 --- 55.011 --- 329


Gasly: --- 19.034 --- 19.494 --- 16.600 --- 55.166 --- 325


Ocon: --- 19.071 --- 19.516 --- 16.658 --- 55.273 --- 328


Vettel: --- 19.032 --- 19.539 --- 16.703 --- 55.281 --- 313


Ricciardo: --- 19.191 --- 19.460 --- 16.645 --- 55.379 --- 326


Leclerc: --- 19.134 --- 19.341 --- 16.792 --- 55.449 --- 318


Stroll: --- 19.159 --- 19.568 --- 16.831 --- 55.558 --- 323


Perez: --- 19.136 --- 19.721 --- 16.778 --- 55.716 --- 325


Sainz: --- 19.285 --- 19.565 --- 16.866 --- 55.757 --- 320


Raikkonen: --- 19.179 --- 19.786 --- 16.818 --- 55.783 --- 325


Giovinazzi: --- 19.405 --- 19.784 --- 16.669 --- 55.858 --- 326


Norris: --- 19.329 --- 19.605 --- 16.950 --- 56.078 --- 320


Magnussen: --- 19.269 --- 19.783 --- 16.943 --- 56.130 --- 316


Latifi: --- 19.482 --- 20.200 --- 16.851 --- 56.764 --- 326


Fittipaldi: --- 19.534 --- 20.362 --- 16.986 --- 57.077 --- 324


Aitken: --- 19.725 --- 20.309 --- 17.036 --- 57.187 --- 328

[KimiBot]

I know it is FP1, but Russell has never driven this car, and he is 0.3 ahead Bottas and this is VERY SHORT TRACK.

[MSC Fan]

Max will beat both of them on Sunday.

In equal cars? Sure. Not on this weekend though.

[MSC Fan]

I hope Russell pulls away 30+ seconds ahead of Bottas. He is a major reason why the sport is boring these days.

[darkchild]

FP1:

Russell: --- 18.900 --- 19.277 --- 16.369 --- 54.546


Verstappen: --- 18.839 --- 19.210 --- 16.594 --- 54.722 --- 321


Albon: --- 18.938 --- 19.231 --- 16.642 --- 54.811 --- 318


Bottas: --- 18.841 --- 19.205 --- 16.524 --- 54.868 --- 322


Kvyat: --- 18.863 --- 19.471 --- 16.587 --- 55.011 --- 329


Gasly: --- 19.034 --- 19.494 --- 16.600 --- 55.166 --- 325


Ocon: --- 19.071 --- 19.516 --- 16.658 --- 55.273 --- 328


Vettel: --- 19.032 --- 19.539 --- 16.703 --- 55.281 --- 313


Ricciardo: --- 19.191 --- 19.460 --- 16.645 --- 55.379 --- 326


Leclerc: --- 19.134 --- 19.341 --- 16.792 --- 55.449 --- 318


Stroll: --- 19.159 --- 19.568 --- 16.831 --- 55.558 --- 323


Perez: --- 19.136 --- 19.721 --- 16.778 --- 55.716 --- 325


Sainz: --- 19.285 --- 19.565 --- 16.866 --- 55.757 --- 320


Raikkonen: --- 19.179 --- 19.786 --- 16.818 --- 55.783 --- 325


Giovinazzi: --- 19.405 --- 19.784 --- 16.669 --- 55.858 --- 326


Norris: --- 19.329 --- 19.605 --- 16.950 --- 56.078 --- 320


Magnussen: --- 19.269 --- 19.783 --- 16.943 --- 56.130 --- 316


Latifi: --- 19.482 --- 20.200 --- 16.851 --- 56.764 --- 326


Fittipaldi: --- 19.534 --- 20.362 --- 16.986 --- 57.077 --- 324


Aitken: --- 19.725 --- 20.309 --- 17.036 --- 57.187 --- 328
This will.be a tricky one, if you have a bit of tow or you are stuck behind it will cost alot. Leclerc looked faster through middle sector where difference is made, but had horrid time with traffic so who knows. Vettel looks better these past 2 weeks finally, albeit late.

[ferrari1.8t]

I know it is FP1, but Russell has never driven this car, and he is 0.3 ahead Bottas and this is VERY SHORT TRACK.

Seeing Russell P1 is the best thing that happened today! Cant say that I am surprised though. I just hope Merc don't step in and stop him from taking pole/win to protect Hamilton and Bottas. They should demote Bottas to Williams and give George the seat next year, at least we can have an actual fight to watch...not just another sunday cruise to 8th for Hamilton.

[FerrariF60]

Seeing Russell P1 is the best thing that happened today! Cant say that I am surprised though. I just hope Merc don't step in and stop him from taking pole/win to protect Hamilton and Bottas. They should demote Bottas to Williams and give George the seat next year, at least we can have an actual fight to watch...not just another sunday cruise to 8th for Hamilton.

Totally agree...botas is @$#&$&@$ useless
Swap them out and let the duel begin in 2021....equal status between Hamster and Russel and see who comes out on top

[ferrari1.8t]

Totally agree...botas is @$#&$&@$ useless
Swap them out and let the duel begin in 2021....equal status between Hamster and Russel and see who comes out on top

The problem is, Merc don't want a toxic team environment. They had that when Rosberg was racing...and I don't think they will want to disrupt Hamilton. With a Hamilton and Bottas pairing, Merc have the perfect scenario of having the best car and a driver clearly better than the other.

LOL to think, Russell is too big for that car and is has to be wearing 1 size smaller shoes than normal to properly use the pedals. Hamilton is the luckiest driver of all time!

[KimiBot]

https://twitter.com/andrewbensonf1/status/1334884393433837570

[FerrariF60]

The problem is, Merc don't want a toxic team environment. They had that when Rosberg was racing...and I don't think they will want to disrupt Hamilton. With a Hamilton and Bottas pairing, Merc have the perfect scenario of having the best car and a driver clearly better than the other.

LOL to think, Russell is too big for that car and is has to be wearing 1 size smaller shoes than normal to properly use the pedals. Hamilton is the luckiest driver of all time!

So what you trying to empose?? You know what they say, small feet small doink......poor hamster.....lololol

[JPZ]

Imagine if Russell wins the race? :lol

[ferrari1.8t]

So what you trying to empose?? You know what they say, small feet small doink......poor hamster.....lololol

Hey I didn't say it, Russell did lol.

https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/36305/12150434/george-russell-exclusive-on-replacing-lewis-hamilton-and-whether-he-can-win-sakhir-gp

"It's a strange position to find myself in," admitted the King's Lynn-born driver, who revealed on Thursday he is having to wear a smaller race boot size for this weekend to help squeeze into the car.

[ferrari1.8t]

https://twitter.com/andrewbensonf1/status/1334884393433837570

So a Hamilton fan is telling everybody to calm down over 1 lap? That was expected.

For me, it’s not the lap time that is important. It’s how fluid his laps were with relatively no mistakes or lockup’s...even having to adapt to different button configurations and DAS, tight seat fitting etc. It truly shows how monstrous that Merc is.

[KimiBot]

hopefully Russell keeps same level in FP2 too, so we can see what excuse they have next

[FerrariF60]

So a Hamilton fan is telling everybody to calm down over 1 lap? That was expected.

For me, it’s not the lap time that is important. It’s how fluid his laps were with relatively no mistakes or lockup’s...even having to adapt to different button configurations and DAS, tight seat fitting etc. It truly shows how monstrous that Merc is.

Yup....I’ve said all along mate....it’s the car, it’s a monster.....hamster only contributes like 10%....rest is the car....sadly Bottas only contributes like 5%......

[WS6TransAm01]

I hope Russel wins the race. It will only go to show that in the era of Merc dominance it has almost always been the car and not the driver. Some will say that this takes away from him as a driver, but you have consider that he has never driven this year's Merc before and as talented as he may be, he wouldn't be winning in the Red Bull this weekend, would he now?

[MSC Fan]

hopefully Russell keeps same level in FP2 too, so we can see what excuse they have next

He better keep it up throughout the weekend. Maybe even the next one. This sport is doomed if Bottas gets to be in that seat for too long.

[wisepie]

Imagine if Russell wins the race? :lol

I don't want another Merc victory whoever is driving, but it would prove a point if Russell did win! Russell is obviously a good driver, stepping into that car and going P1 in FP1. I think quali will be a complete mess on such a short track, and I predict a chaotic race.

[wisepie]

Looks like a gearbox issue for Charles in FP2, P20 at present (18.10 UK time) after only 2 laps and in pit. Seb P13.

[SilverSpeed]

Ha FP1 GR on P1 how is that possible :rotfl.

Must be the car like we all said haha, rapper boy is WDC from the aldi!

[Tifoso Svedese]

Looks like a gearbox issue for Charles in FP2, P20 at present (18.10 UK time) after only 2 laps and in pit. Seb P13.

Both did well in S1 before their laps got destroyed (Vettel for being Vettel and Charles for having the car break down).

Qualifying will be a lot about timing and luck in the early stages, but I think we're looking better than forecasted assuming the car is kept on track and not breaking down.

[MSC Fan]

Russell is living rent free in Bottas' head lol.

[KimiBot]

yeah, I like it

[Redfive]

Toto won't like that George is proving it's all about the car, I expect him to be told to tow the line in qually and the race.
There is no way he will want him winning the race and showing that Hamilton is a sham.

[KimiBot]

Toto won't like that George is proving it's all about the car

I think he likes, "it is because of Mercedes, not a driver". I dont know.

[ferrari1.8t]

Toto won't like that George is proving it's all about the car, I expect him to be told to tow the line in qually and the race.
There is no way he will want him winning the race and showing that Hamilton is a sham.

Maybe, but it also could be the opposite. Maybe he pushed hard to get Russell in the car instead of the available Vandorne to use it as a bargaining chip on Hamilton. “You’re not as important as you think, you need this car” “I’m not paying you unlimited money” etc

However, my money is on Merc/Toto putting a stop to Russell taking P1 in Q and Race Day.

[KimiBot]

IMO Toto works for Mercedes, and this is a powerful advertising for Mercedes, when a guy who never scored a point in F1 comes and wins everything, all weekend.
And Hamilton does not have a contract, so it is a win-win to Toto if Russell keeps doing same tomorrow and Sunday.

[jgonzalesm6]

Maybe, but it also could be the opposite. Maybe he pushed hard to get Russell in the car instead of the available Vandorne to use it as a bargaining chip on Hamilton. “You’re not as important as you think, you need this car” “I’m not paying you unlimited money” etc



not bad.........not bad. I like the way you think. Toto wins either way IF your hypothesis holds true.

[WS6TransAm01]

IMO Toto works for Mercedes, and this is a powerful advertising for Mercedes, when a guy who never scored a point in F1 comes and wins everything, all weekend.
And Hamilton does not have a contract, so it is a win-win to Toto if Russell keeps doing same tomorrow and Sunday.

100%.

For Toto it's more important to show how good Merc is rather than how good Hamilton is.

As ferrari1.8t said, it could be used as a show of force from Merc to Hamilton to agree to a lower salary. A basic; "We don't need your but you and your ego need us" type of thing.

[JPZ]

Russell fastest in FP2 as well!

Bottas in 11th position.

[458 Italia]

Brembo won't like that :-D

[Brembo]

It's the smaller size shoes Russel switched to! The car feels like it's Lewis driving. This race is Max's chance. +12 pts. and he's the #2 guy!

[MSC Fan]

lol imagine the scenes if Bottas not only gets destroyed by Russell but also is defeated by Verstappen to P2.

[Brembo]

If the pit crew can get Charles out a second sooner when he's in the top 10 esp. 6th or 7th., it will make a big deal out of him finishing on the podium. Ferrari can offer a bonus to the crew each fast pit.

[sxviper698]

In the end 7 championships and boat loads of cash their is no losing in this scenario.

[KimiBot]

Okay, lets go, interesting quali. Not for Charles and Seb, but otherwise.

[KimiBot]

Okay, lets go, interesting quali. Not for Charles and Seb, but otherwise.

I mean FP3, it is so late, that thought it was quali, lol

[tifosi1993]

Okay, lets go, interesting quali. Not for Charles and Seb, but otherwise.

I wouldn't be counting us out already if I were you. I think we can have a good quali, especially Charles.

[KimiBot]

I wouldn't be counting us out already if I were you. I think we can have a good quali, especially Charles.

Yes you are right, we have a powerful engine and all that, so maybe Ferrari 1-2.

[tifosi1993]

Yes you are right, we have a powerful engine and all that, so maybe Ferrari 1-2.

Never said anything about engine or Ferrari 1-2, maybe you have been living under a rock all year. I said Charles can have a 'good' quali here.

[KimiBot]

Never said anything about engine or Ferrari 1-2, maybe you have been living under a rock all year. I said Charles can have a 'good' quali here.

we have different opinions what is good, P1-P2 is good for me, last week you did say that it was good result, P11-P12
tiny differences, no worry

[tifosi1993]

we have different opinions what is good, P1-P2 is good for me, last week you did say that it was good result, P11-P12
tiny differences, no worry

It was based on our current performance and competitive order. We know we don't have a good engine, and we have known it the entire year. Talking about 1-2 is pointless.

[KimiBot]

It was based on our current performance and competitive order. We know we don't have a good engine, and we have known it the entire year. Talking about 1-2 is pointless.

yes, you won, be happy

[tifosi1993]

yes, you won, be happy

And it's not about winning. :lol

Why don't to focus on your Bottas getting destroyed by Russell narrative, you clearly got nothing to discuss other than that, and let us focus on Ferrari.

[tifosi1993]

Good lap from Vettel. First time Ferrari has gone under 55 seconds bracket.

[KimiBot]

And it's not about winning. :lol



7762

[tifosi1993]

http://www.thescuderia.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=7762&stc=1

Another pointless post. Why don't you post something constructive, like timing informations.

[tifosi1993]

Charles was on a good lap. Didn't manage personal best sector 3. Left couple of tenths on the table with that lap.

[KimiBot]

Another pointless post. Why don't you post something constructive, like timing informations.

Come on now, I said it all ready, you won a discussion in internet, you should be proud of yourself.
So lets talk about Ferrari, something constructive. Hopefully P14-P15 this session.

[tifosi1993]

Come on now, I said it all ready, you won a discussion in internet, you should be proud of yourself.
So lets talk about Ferrari, something constructive. Hopefully P14-P15 this session.

Nah, I don't have your obsession of winning or losing on the internet. I mean it took you some effort to search for that picture and post it here. You could've done something worthwhile with that time, like posting timing lap time or sector time information.

[KimiBot]

Nah, I don't have your obsession of winning or losing on the internet. I mean it took you some effort to search for that picture and post it here. You could've done something worthwhile with that time, like posting timing lap time or sector time information.

Yes, you are also better than me, we all know that.

[tifosi1993]

Yes, you are also better than me, we all know that.

"We"? Got voices on your head? Not surprising.

[tifosi1993]

Precautionary Engine change for Vettel. It will be tight.

[KimiBot]

"We"? Got voices on your head? Not surprising.

Yes, I am mentally ill too. Keep them coming, you are such a nice person.

[tifosi1993]

Yes, I am mentally ill too. Keep them coming, you are such a nice person.

Then get help. Don't waste your time with me.

[KimiBot]

Then get help. Don't waste your time with me.

But dont you see, you are helping me a lot, you tell me what I should do and what should not do here in this forum.

[tifosi1993]

FP3:

Verstappen: --- 18.788 --- 18.688 --- 16.566 --- 54.064 --- 325

Bottas: --- 18.758 --- 18.806 --- 16.544 --- 54.270 --- 326

Gasly: --- 18.701 --- 19.095 --- 16.614 --- 54.427 --- 328

Ocon: --- 18.840 --- 19.130 --- 16.483 --- 54.453 --- 331

Norris: --- 18.981 --- 18.975 --- 16.650 --- 54.606 --- 321

Albon: --- 18.913 --- 19.042 --- 16.674 --- 54.629 --- 327

Russell: --- 19.026 --- 18.986 --- 16.592 --- 54.664 --- 324

Perez: --- 18.931 --- 19.117 --- 16.569 --- 54.678 --- 328

Stroll: --- 18.940 --- 19.144 --- 16.522 --- 54.693 --- 328

Sainz: --- 18.994 --- 19.084 --- 16.642 --- 54.720 --- 327

Giovinazzi: --- 18.944 --- 19.202 --- 16.646 --- 54.845 --- 329

Kvyat: --- 18.941 --- 19.226 --- 16.522 --- 54.850 --- 334

Leclerc: --- 18.894 --- 19.258 --- 16.681 --- 54.854 --- 336

Ricciardo: --- 19.086 --- 19.158 --- 16.536 --- 54.857 --- 326

Vettel: --- 19.042 --- 19.174 --- 16.642 --- 54.858 --- 326

Raikkonen: --- 18.868 --- 19.520 --- 16.744 --- 55.171 --- 330

Magnussen: --- 19.160 --- 19.318 --- 16.869 --- 55.347 --- 319

Latifi: --- 19.069 --- 19.529 --- 16.773 --- 55.493 --- 332

Fittipaldi: --- 19.300 --- 19.437 --- 16.848 --- 55.666 --- 322

Aitken: --- 19.200 --- 19.525 --- 16.830 --- 55.670 --- 338

[tifosi1993]

But dont you see, you are helping me a lot, you tell me what I should do and what should not do here in this forum.

Aww...if my opinions worth that much to you, then do what I say, get help from a Psychiatrist.

[KimiBot]

Aww...if my opinions worth that much to you, then do what I say, get help from a Psychiatrist.

Yes, I will do that, just because I want to be like you, I know it looks like that will never happen, but you never know, I will do my best.

[nani_s23]

Into Q2....!! Fingers crossed

[tifosi1993]

Charles got heaps of medium tyres left. And our car reacts well with mediums. Let's see.

[tifosi1993]

We are giving away two tenths in the final sector. We need to improve there.

[tifosi1993]

Good lap Charles. 54.004 on mediums.

[tifosi1993]

Vettel again out on mediums, so is Charles.

Edit: not mediums, softs

[tifosi1993]

Charles P6. See, don't count out Charles. This kid is special.

[jgonzalesm6]

Vettel underperforms.....with an old engine.

[ferrari1.8t]

Whoever takes pole, F1 is sure better without Hamilton. P1 looks like a shootout between Verstappen, the Mercs and the RPs. That’s great for F1 and great for fans.

Leclerc proving again his skill and race craft! What a machine! Forza Ferrari!

[tifosi1993]

:-E:-E:-E

[Peter De La Mar]

Holy crap Charles!!

[ferrari1.8t]

Early times, but Leclerc is P2!!!!

[ferrari1.8t]

I’ll say it a second time for the people in the back - F1 is better without Hamilton!!!

[IulianFerrari]

Huge from Charles

[jgonzalesm6]

Nice lap by Charles. Kid is amazing.

[tifosi1993]

Charles is the fastest guy in F1. This Kid's raw talent is friking unbelievable.

Come on Ferrari, get your act together and give this kid the car he deserves.

[ferrari1.8t]

Charles is the fastest guy in F1. This Kid's raw talent is friking unbelievable.

Come on Ferrari, get your act together and give this kid the car he deserves.

x10000!!! Yes.

[Peter De La Mar]

Ah well, used tyres for MB first run.

[ferrari1.8t]

Sky and Co happy to see Merc 1-2 again...

[tifosi1993]

"Quali won't be interesting for Ferrari".....:rotfl

[jgonzalesm6]

Russell is tight behind Bottas.

[IulianFerrari]

Charles is not coming out for another try. Clearly he thinks he can't do better

[ferrari1.8t]

Charles is not coming out for another try. Clearly he thinks he can't do better

Sky saying he doesn’t have any more fresh tires....

[jgonzalesm6]

Charles is not coming out for another try. Clearly he thinks he can't do better

No new set of tires.

[tifosi1993]

That was 100% from Charles, you can't extract 101% unfortunately.

Charles P4. What driver and what an amazing talent.

[ferrari1.8t]

Charles holds P4, Russel 0.026 away from the experienced Bottas. Proving that that car is a machine.

Looking forward to tomorrow.

[IulianFerrari]

No new set of tires.

Yup

[MSC Fan]

Okay, where did that lap come from?! Absolutely unreal, this guy Charles. I hope tomorrow will be like Silverstone.

[Schumiklub]

What an amazing lap by Charles! I just hope he gets a more competitive car next year!

[alfaromeo]

I just hope that Ferrari in 2021 and 2022 made good car that leclerk give his talent and win 2021 2-3 races and 2022 years can win championship. Forza Ferrari ��������

[PURE PASSION]

WHAT A LAP from Charles !!!!!!!!!!:-E
Dont know if he could done a bit better with another lap on a new set , but that was something special !!!!
Cant wait to see what he will do in a decent car provided by our team !!!!!!!!

[Warp]

Jumping in the car this week and he's only 0.026 away from Bottas.. Yes Hamilton is bloody fast and he doesn't make mistakes but the car is outstanding.

On the other hand Charles is doing miracles

[tifosi1993]

Qualifying:

Bottas: --- 18.597 --- 18.474 --- 16.239 --- 53.377 --- 330

Russell: --- 18.685 --- 18.495 --- 16.222 --- 53.403 --- 329

Verstappen: --- 16.656 --- 18.541 --- 16.212 --- 53.433 --- 325

Leclerc: --- 18.621 --- 18.653 --- 16.339 --- 53.613 --- 325

Perez: --- 18.656 --- 18.733 --- 16.279 --- 53.790 --- 342

Kvyat: --- 18.642 --- 18.821 --- 16.340 --- 53.906 --- 330

Ricciardo: --- 18.702 --- 18.773 --- 16.272 --- 53.957 --- 331

Sainz: --- 18.566 --- 18.737 --- 16.411 --- 54.010 --- 330

Gasly: --- 18.659 --- 18.779 --- 16.467 --- 54.154 --- 328

Stroll: --- 18.731 --- 18.802 --- 16.307 --- 54.200 --- 329

Ocon: --- 18.726 --- 18.875 --- 16.333 --- 53.995 --- 329

Albon: --- 18.827 --- 18.726 --- 16.421 --- 54.026 --- 323

Vettel: --- 18.745 --- 18.940 --- 16.438 --- 54.175 --- 326

Giovinazzi: --- 18.838 --- 19.103 --- 16.399 --- 54.377 --- 330

Norris: --- 18.764 --- 18.855 --- 16.575 --- 54.693 --- 329

Magnussen: --- 18.830 --- 19.125 --- 16.750 --- 54.705 --- 330

Latifi: --- 18.809 --- 19.272 --- 16.615 --- 54.796 --- 333

Aitken: --- 19.037 --- 19.258 --- 16.573 --- 54.892 --- 338

Raikkonen: --- 18.989 --- 19.210 --- 16.762 --- 54.963 --- 334

Fittipaldi: --- 19.256 --- 19.437 --- 16.733 --- 55.426 --- 326

[TTRSMAD]

WHAT A LAP from Charles !!!!!!!!!!:-E
Dont know if he could done a bit better with another lap on a new set , but that was something special !!!!
Cant wait to see what he will do in a decent car provided by our team !!!!!!!!

Imagine the result with Ferrari having a better engine.

[tifosi1993]

Okay, where did that lap come from?! Absolutely unreal, this guy Charles. I hope tomorrow will be like Silverstone.

It came from his unmatched raw pace and talent. As I've said to the Kimibot guy, never count out Charles.

Hopefully tomorrow will also be good for us.

[MSC Fan]

It came from his unmatched raw pace and talent. As I've said to the Kimibot guy, never count out Charles.

Hopefully tomorrow will also be good for us.

Yep. As good as it is to have that P4 in a car with 40 HP down on power, I hope he can perform just as good tomorrow. Let's hope Sebastian too can score some points for us in his penultimate weekend with Ferrari, with the free tyre choice he has.

[wisepie]

A brilliant lap from Charles to get P4, but it will be a huge challenge for him to keep the others behind him in the race as they all have more power to play with. Annoying that Sky turned quali into the George Russell show but only to be expected and proof that the Merc is by far the most complete car. I'm not trashing Russell's efforts but I do believe Charles deserves just as much credit.

[tifosi1993]

Have you guys noticed something? We had a good quali all the noisy doom mongers are missing. Should tell you everything.

[Peter De La Mar]

Nice to hear Charles took inspiration from Gasley’s onboard footage for turn 7 & 8.

[jgonzalesm6]

Have you guys noticed something? We had a good quali all the noisy doom mongers are missing. Should tell you everything.

yep....I was very surprised with Leclerc. He keeps beating my expectations in that "donkey" of a car and has a great attitude about it.

On the W11 and past variants of this turbo hybrid era, it just goes to show Bottas, and others, would be a 7 time WDC WITHOUT Lewis.

[SilverSpeed]

Mighty epic lap from Charles the king!!!

[tifosi1993]

yep....I was very surprised with Leclerc. He keeps beating my expectations in that "donkey" of a car and has a great attitude about it.

:thumb. Charles has always been special. And with more experience he will get better, which is a scary prospect for his potential rivals and teammates.

[tifosi1993]

https://i.imgur.com/2d9MLBI.jpg

[nani_s23]

Good lap from Charles.:thumb

[alfa84]

Really special Charles :clap

[Tifoso Svedese]

Great stuff :clap

Tomorrow will be a challenge but that we're close on top speed with many other cars around this layout since our car behaves well around hairpins so that we've been able to trim off downforce hopefully can help. If we can get a top six it would be special.

Also, let's hope Russell beats the Bottler off the line tomorrow and then the usual meltdown ensues.

[Senna4Ever]

:thumb. Charles has always been special. And with more experience he will get better, which is a scary prospect for his potential rivals and teammates.

:thumb :clap
I think this was close to Sennas Magic Lap in Monaco 88
Of course not a pole but in this season it feels like a pole already ...

[paolo lalli]

Charles lap simply magic.Ferrari give him a racing weapon and no doubt he will nail hamilton.Lewis knows that charles is no butler.Lewis can thank his lucky stars that charles has an under achieving ferrari.The conversation and the headlines in media would have been totally different .

[Tifoso Svedese]

Charles lap simply magic.Ferrari give him a racing weapon and no doubt he will nail hamilton.Lewis knows that charles is no butler.Lewis can thank his lucky stars that charles has an under achieving ferrari.The conversation and the headlines in media would have been totally different .

That the whining crybabies stole our engine also meant they stole the 2020 season. Charles would've been second in the WDC for sure and probably competed for or having won several races (like Austria, Silverstone x2, Sochi, Algarve, Imola, Turkey and Bahrain) if not FIA and Mercedes had cheated.

[330 p4]

Jumping in the car this week and he's only 0.026 away from Bottas.. Yes Hamilton is bloody fast and he doesn't make mistakes but the car is outstanding.

On the other hand Charles is doing miracles

Great lap, if Vettel had scrapoed through he could have done similar very close all sessions between them until Q2.

Russel shows Merc will be 1 2 no matter the line up BUT never no what future holds in terms of performance gaps, Hamilton maximises the gap to the rest, Merc .maximise every part of the team so they stick with Hamilton so win by larger marginsvor if becomes tight he gets the maximum points. I really think Russel is special though and in a few years the new era is shaping up to be a 3 way battle of LeClerc, Russel and Verstappen.

[ferrari1.8t]

Great stuff :clap

Tomorrow will be a challenge but that we're close on top speed with many other cars around this layout since our car behaves well around hairpins so that we've been able to trim off downforce hopefully can help. If we can get a top six it would be special.

Also, let's hope Russell beats the Bottler off the line tomorrow and then the usual meltdown ensues.

A Russell, Verstappen, Leclerc podium would be a dream!

[330 p4]

A Russell, Verstappen, Leclerc podium would be a dream!

Without this bandaged up engine Ferrari would be on pole. They probably already have an engine they could bolt straight in and dominate this weekend. Stupid rule to freeze engines. Maybe a blessing in disguise? Has enabled them to restructure, chassis developments must have been good, chassis wise are very close to Merc and RB just the engine which will be fixed for next year no problem.

[ntukza]

LECLERC, WHAT A BEAST!
That P2 after the first runs was quite special. It was quite satisfying to see most of those second runs fail to beat him. The decision to sit the 2nd runs out was just epic in itself (after all he confirmed he still had new tyres).

Brilliant effort from Russell. I wish LH a speedy recovery, but not in time for next week. It would be great to have Russell in that Merc again. Bottas should be very worried.

[ntukza]

Jumping in the car this week and he's only 0.026 away from Bottas.. Yes Hamilton is bloody fast and he doesn't make mistakes but the car is outstanding.

On the other hand Charles is doing miracles

+1

[ntukza]

Nice to hear Charles took inspiration from Gasley’s onboard footage for turn 7 & 8.

Yeah that was great to hear. You've just got to love this guy's attitude.

[ntukza]

Great lap, if Vettel had scrapoed through he could have done similar very close all sessions between them until Q2.

Russel shows Merc will be 1 2 no matter the line up BUT never no what future holds in terms of performance gaps, Hamilton maximises the gap to the rest, Merc .maximise every part of the team so they stick with Hamilton so win by larger marginsvor if becomes tight he gets the maximum points. I really think Russel is special though and in a few years the new era is shaping up to be a 3 way battle of LeClerc, Russel and Verstappen.

Yeah what happened to Vettel anyway? I Missed Q1 and Q2 but I saw the times.

[ntukza]

A Russell, Verstappen, Leclerc podium would be a dream!

This is the standard podium of the future. The near future.

[Brembo]

This is the standard podium of the future. The near future.

Great podiums to look forward to !! Even throw in whoever is Charles' team mate on occasion. They will have plenty of records to work for, pole, wins, in the 100s. There could even be WDCs in the teens. Lewis the GOAT will be a tough act to follow ! F-1 is and will be great. Hopefully there will always be 3 practices for the drivers to be at there best come quali. and race time. And 20 or more races!

[Tifoso Svedese]

Great podiums to look forward to !! Even throw in whoever is Charles' team mate on occasion. They will have plenty of records to work for, pole, wins, in the 100s. There could even be WDCs in the teens. Lewis the GOAT will be a tough act to follow ! F-1 is and will be great. Hopefully there will always be 3 practices for the drivers to be at there best come quali. and race time. And 20 or more races!

Fancy a go at the Goat Simulator? You sure as hell talk a lot about them... :rotfl

[Brembo]

Poles & wins will be in the 100s !! WDCs possibly 10 or more! I wish it on Charles! Meanwhile we 2020 F-1 fans have A GOAT in Lewis. Calling Merc and the car the greatest ever is trolling against Ferrari here !! Drivers come and go. Seb finger in the air and all was welcomed @ Ferrari.

[ntukza]

Great podiums to look forward to !! Even throw in whoever is Charles' team mate on occasion. They will have plenty of records to work for, pole, wins, in the 100s. There could even be WDCs in the teens. Lewis the GOAT will be a tough act to follow ! F-1 is and will be great. Hopefully there will always be 3 practices for the drivers to be at there best come quali. and race time. And 20 or more races!

The future sure looks bright! Much to look forward to!

[Brembo]

The future sure looks bright! Much to look forward to!

Seb get's $50 million + to spin his Ferrari around the track, while the GOAT get's paid to do the poles , wins . And the WCC for the team.

[stefa]

Poles & wins will be in the 100s !! WDCs possibly 10 or more! I wish it on Charles! Meanwhile we 2020 F-1 fans have A GOAT in Lewis. Calling Merc and the car the greatest ever is trolling against Ferrari here !! Drivers come and go. Seb finger in the air and all was welcomed @ Ferrari.

Can you PLEASE stop worshiping LH here!?

[Rob]

Seb get's $50 million + to spin his Ferrari around the track, while the GOAT get's paid to do the poles , wins . And the WCC for the team.

Seriously brembo. I got no problem with discussion about other drivers. But to keep bring up lewis all the time, goat this, goat that, max, max, team orders etc etc. Give it rest. You want to worship these drivers and talk about all lewis and mercs achievements. Go find merc forum or lewis fanboy forum. Being a mod have to read posts. And this gets tiring and boring.

And what does it show for the merc if Russell jumps in and bangs out the laps and speed already? Shows bottas is an average driver. Russell good driver. The car makes lewis looks other worldly yes, but, as i read on news site, imagine if all the cars were equal. We would see alot more racing, alot more moaning from your goat as he has to race amd race his team mate.

[20000rpm]

Seriously brembo. I got no problem with discussion about other drivers. But to keep bring up lewis all the time, goat this, goat that, max, max, team orders etc etc. Give it rest. You want to worship these drivers and talk about all lewis and mercs achievements. Go find merc forum or lewis fanboy forum. Being a mod have to read posts. And this gets tiring and boring.

And what does it show for the merc if Russell jumps in and bangs out the laps and speed already? Shows bottas is an average driver. Russell good driver. The car makes lewis looks other worldly yes, but, as i read on news site, imagine if all the cars were equal. We would see alot more racing, alot more moaning from your goat as he has to race amd race his team mate.

Well said... it was about time.

[SilverSpeed]

Seriously brembo. I got no problem with discussion about other drivers. But to keep bring up lewis all the time, goat this, goat that, max, max, team orders etc etc. Give it rest. You want to worship these drivers and talk about all lewis and mercs achievements. Go find merc forum or lewis fanboy forum. Being a mod have to read posts. And this gets tiring and boring.

And what does it show for the merc if Russell jumps in and bangs out the laps and speed already? Shows bottas is an average driver. Russell good driver. The car makes lewis looks other worldly yes, but, as i read on news site, imagine if all the cars were equal. We would see alot more racing, alot more moaning from your goat as he has to race amd race his team mate.

Big 2nd here!

[stefa]

Seriously brembo. I got no problem with discussion about other drivers. But to keep bring up lewis all the time, goat this, goat that, max, max, team orders etc etc. Give it rest. You want to worship these drivers and talk about all lewis and mercs achievements. Go find merc forum or lewis fanboy forum. Being a mod have to read posts. And this gets tiring and boring.

And what does it show for the merc if Russell jumps in and bangs out the laps and speed already? Shows bottas is an average driver. Russell good driver. The car makes lewis looks other worldly yes, but, as i read on news site, imagine if all the cars were equal. We would see alot more racing, alot more moaning from your goat as he has to race amd race his team mate.

Amen! :thumb

[Brembo]

Nothing is worse for me than reading all the posts here on our Ferrari Forum over and over stating without a doubt Merc built the greatest car of all time. Ferrari will take years to catch up. Fans here say they don't watch the races because of the unbeatable rocket car Merc built. They are the best team ever and on and on. The Ferrari seat is IMO still the most sought after by all the drivers even today! I believe Lewis, Max and Charles are the 3 best drivers in F-1 . Fans should as suggested to me; find a Merc forum to praise their car and team as unbeatable. Not here. Time to watch the race!! Charles on the podium !!!

[jgonzalesm6]

Nothing is worse for me than reading all the posts here on our Ferrari Forum over and over stating without a doubt Merc built the greatest car of all time. Ferrari will take years to catch up. Fans here say they don't watch the races because of the unbeatable rocket car Merc built. They are the best team ever and on and on. The Ferrari seat is IMO still the most sought after by all the drivers even today! I believe Lewis, Max and Charles are the 3 best drivers in F-1 . Fans should as suggested to me; find a Merc forum to praise their car and team as unbeatable. Not here. Time to watch the race!! Charles on the podium !!!

Ferrari just does'nt have to build the car.....they need to get tire strategy in check and pit stops have to be sub 2secs like RedBull did 5 or 6 times in 2020,

[Brembo]

Binotto's on the case!! From home!

[aroutis]

Nothing is worse for me than reading all the posts here on our Ferrari Forum over and over stating without a doubt Merc built the greatest car of all time.

Unless you can produce such a post, you are trolling, or you have some issue understanding what is written in this forum.
People just state the obvious, which is simply that Mercedes has utilized leverage and has the best car in this era (mainly in the engine dept) and they use that advantage to get championships.
It is so simple, even a 10 yold can understand this.

It is now painfully displayed by George,who would have won, after jumping in a car NOT made for him, wearing shoes smaller than what he has to wear, being in a cockpit smaller than he should be in,
and YET, destroying Bottas who know this car like the back of his hand.

George is a great driver, mind you, but what we saw is simply that this car is THAT good.
And since you may lack the memory, when Fisci for example was called to do this, who was not some useless driver, he just could not adapt in this pace.

So , yes, it IS the car in Lewis' case, as everyone tells you. Yes, it's advantage Mercedes.
Yes, if you're so tired as you say to listen to the truth,or people calling you off about how we complain (to put it really mildly) about Max and Lulu, you can go elsewhere.

@Rob,thank you Mate, long overdue.

[stefa]

Unless you can produce such a post, you are trolling, or you have some issue understanding what is written in this forum.
People just state the obvious, which is simply that Mercedes has utilized leverage and has the best car in this era (mainly in the engine dept) and they use that advantage to get championships.
It is so simple, even a 10 yold can understand this.

It is now painfully displayed by George,who would have won, after jumping in a car NOT made for him, wearing shoes smaller than what he has to wear, being in a cockpit smaller than he should be in,
and YET, destroying Bottas who know this car like the back of his hand.

George is a great driver, mind you, but what we saw is simply that this car is THAT good.
And since you may lack the memory, when Fisci for example was called to do this, who was not some useless driver, he just could not adapt in this pace.

So , yes, it IS the car in Lewis' case, as everyone tells you. Yes, it's advantage Mercedes.
Yes, if you're so tired as you say to listen to the truth,or people calling you off about how we complain (to put it really mildly) about Max and Lulu, you can go elsewhere.

@Rob,thank you Mate, long overdue.

Eveey single word right on spot! Bravo :clap

[Brembo]

Isn't stating the wins, poles WDCs just stating the obvious also? Those numbers are real. Be it the car & driver, the driver & car you can't have one without the other on the track race time to reach those numbers. Your post for the most part is spot on. Merc this era has the best car & the best driver. I also learned from your spot on post that along with engine , down force, tires , shoes also are in the mix!!!:rotfl .

@ Aroutis , thank you mate. Meinte Asfalis !

[Greig]

I would like to see Russell again in the Merc but at a bit more of a technical track, this race was hardly much of a test of a drivers ability.

[jgonzalesm6]

I would like to see Russell again in the Merc but at a bit more of a technical track, this race was hardly much of a test of a drivers ability.

Well, Russell had 2 days in the car vs. Bottas 4 years in the car.

Also:

Toto Wolff: "One must not forget, George Russell actually does not fit into this car. If you look at the pictures from above, you can see how he is squeezed in the cockpit. He had bloody fists, he was hitting his knees everywhere."

Toto Wolff: "He can't build up enough brake pressure. During hard braking he was always 20% too little because he can't press the leg at the right angle. He had to wear smaller shoes to fit in there."

Toto Wolff: "But also with the clutch pedal, the drivers' fingers fit exactly into the clutch pedal so that they can release it correctly at the start and George Russell hands and fingers are too big for the clutch pedal."


as opposed to Bottas car which is "tailored" made for him. Imagine Russell sitting in an uncomfortable car for 87 laps. He did'nt even complain about it.


Take into account both drivers never raced this circuit layout before......Russell IMO did extraordinary given the circumstances. Russell pressured Bottas.

Russell is definitely WDC material....again given the circumstances.

Of course, I would like to see Russell race again in a Mercedes that is tailored made for him.

[Redfive]

Russell with a car made to fit would beat Lew lew, there I said it.

[JPZ]

Russell with a car made to fit would beat Lew lew, there I said it.

A pity he probably won’t be racing next year at Mercedes before the rule changes, but a good chance for 2022.

And I doubt Hamilton could even now veto this.

Mercedes would have to start focusing on someone to eventually take over from Hamilton and Russel has already proven himself.

[tifosi1993]

Nothing against George, I do believe he's quite talented. But people, especially the British media, painting him as the next big thing, based on his performance in a micky mouse track with the best car, is quite shortsighted. Lec and Max have proven their mantle, George still has a long way to go. Charles dominated Vettel, Max got the better of Ricciardo, George needs to prove that he can handle and convincingly beat someone like Vet/Ric.

And if people, after all this year, still think that Hamilton is going to be a walk in the park for Russell, then are in for a reality check. Just like their qualifying prediction based on practice 1 and 2. Hamilton sometimes get beaten by Bottas in qualifying, but in races he utterly dominates him.

Sure, Russell will be a tougher teammate than Bottas. But I would still put my money on Hamilton.

[tifosi1993]

A pity he probably won’t be racing next year at Mercedes before the rule changes, but a good chance for 2022.

And I doubt Hamilton could even now veto this.

Mercedes would have to start focusing on someone to eventually take over from Hamilton and Russel has already proven himself.

Russell still has a long way to go. And no matter what Toto says, if Max is available, he will sign him up in a heartbeat. Max is in the prime position to replace Hamilton in either 2022 or 2023, Toto may replace Bottas with George.

[MSC Fan]

Russell still has a long way to go. And no matter what Toto says, if Max is available, he will sign him up in a heartbeat. Max is in the prime position to replace Hamilton in either 2022 or 2023, Toto may replace Bottas with George.

Why would they want Verstappen? He is like Alonso, a great driver, no doubt about that but he is far from being PR friendly and already has angered some people by his comments. Just look at him in Mugello, he outright cursed the engine, while his anger was understandable, a factory team generally doesn't like that. Russell is cheaper, is potentially just as good as Verstappen or Leclerc judging by their junior careers and a well mannered lad. I mean, he even thanked the team for the opportunity to race there when Mercedes completely **** the bed. It gave me a lot of flashes about Charles in Bahrain 2019. There is a reason why everyone speaks highly of Vettel despite not being that great of a driver while Alonso, although respected as a driver, his ex mechanics look down upon him (read Marc Priestly's book).

[Brembo]

Nothing against George, I do believe he's quite talented. But people, especially the British media, painting him as the next big thing, based on his performance in a micky mouse track with the best car, is quite shortsighted. Lec and Max have proven their mantle, George still has a long way to go. Charles dominated Vettel, Max got the better of Ricciardo, George needs to prove that he can handle and convincingly beat someone like Vet/Ric.

And if people, after all this year, still think that Hamilton is going to be a walk in the park for Russell, then are in for a reality check. Just like their qualifying prediction based on practice 1 and 2. Hamilton sometimes get beaten by Bottas in qualifying, but in races he utterly dominates him.

Sure, Russell will be a tougher teammate than Bottas. But I would still put my money on Hamilton.

Great Post. Right on the $$ money. I don't understand how fans think Russell proved himself anywhere close to Charles , Max, Alonso. Dan or Lewis in one race? His fault or not, he finished 9th behind Bottas. He didn't win the race. Bad pit & puncture was not his fault, he drove well ,but not right up to be with the top boys so fast. Ferrari's pits are not the drivers fault either.

[stefa]

Great Post. Right on the $$ money. I don't understand how fans think Russell proved himself anywhere close to Charles , Max, Alonso. Dan or Lewis in one race? His fault or not, he finished 9th behind Bottas. He didn't win the race. Bad pit & puncture was not his fault, he drove well ,but not right up to be with the top boys so fast. Ferrari's pits are not the drivers fault either.

It doesn't! But it proves that it is JUST THE CAR!!!

[Brembo]

It doesn't! But it proves that it is JUST THE CAR!!!

In this case I have to agree 100% . There are races where Lewis does not pit when the pit wall tells him to. That & the car is a big reason for some of the wins.

[Alakshendra]

Before i write my takeaway from the race, my sincere apologies if anyone get offended

One thing was very clear from the season start that our PU has issues and lacks the power and everyone accepted it as mistakes happen and so be it.

Now comes the aero, and from years this aero is not working for us with exception of 2018 season but 2nd part of season was a big **** up with merc beating ferrari in singapore , makes me wonder how we are not getting aero right, even this year with such low power our car keeps on wobble around , 2019 again car was not turning and 2020 again same story so what is the aero head doing? where is all the money going? I dont think ferrari is out of money so why aero is so wrong everytime?

Coming to pitstops even the equipment's are not proper and we are coming to race and compete , seb himself commented the same thing , i never knew that ferrari will be using some **** equipment's.

Simon resta raised questions on Binotto and now Resta is leaving to HAAS , can someone please tell me things on this, honestly my knowledge is just based on news and forums and these forums and news seems to indicate that everything is ****ed up in the legendary team.

[Alakshendra]

In this case I have to agree 100% . There are races where Lewis does not pit when the pit wall tells him to. That & the car is a big reason for some of the wins.

Lewis is their ace driver, he have to power of not to pit, i dont think Russel had same authority, he was asked to pit and he pitted.

[MSC Fan]

Before i write my takeaway from the race, my sincere apologies if anyone get offended

One thing was very clear from the season start that our PU has issues and lacks the power and everyone accepted it as mistakes happen and so be it.

Now comes the aero, and from years this aero is not working for us with exception of 2018 season but 2nd part of season was a big **** up with merc beating ferrari in singapore , makes me wonder how we are not getting aero right, even this year with such low power our car keeps on wobble around , 2019 again car was not turning and 2020 again same story so what is the aero head doing? where is all the money going? I dont think ferrari is out of money so why aero is so wrong everytime?

Coming to pitstops even the equipment's are not proper and we are coming to race and compete , seb himself commented the same thing , i never knew that ferrari will be using some **** equipment's.

Simon resta raised questions on Binotto and now Resta is leaving to HAAS , can someone please tell me things on this, honestly my knowledge is just based on news and forums and these forums and news seems to indicate that everything is ****ed up in the legendary team.

Resta is going to Haas after finishing his job with our 2021 car. It's the same thing he did with Alfa to improve their aero after they struggled very badly in 2017 and doing something to improve their aero. I think it is a deal with Ferrari they signed.

[FerrariF60]

Resta is going to Haas after finishing his job with our 2021 car. It's the same thing he did with Alfa to improve their aero after they struggled very badly in 2017 and doing something to improve their aero. I think it is a deal with Ferrari they signed.

And who’s gonna be working on the ALL important 2022 car for us?? Is it Byrne as rumours are circulating around....after all he was around in the 70’s when ground effects were around

[MSC Fan]

And who’s gonna be working on the ALL important 2022 car for us?? Is it Byrne as rumours are circulating around....after all he was around in the 70’s when ground effects were around

It's Bryne. He was even officially announced on the Ferrari website when Binotto announced about the changes in management. All these years (even 2017 and 2014) he was a mere consultant, 2021 will be the first year since 2012 that he'll actually be working on the car, just in time for the 2022 car.