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  • MJP Racing Unveil Liveries For WRX 2017

    PRESS RELEASE FROM MJP RACING

    Today MJP Racing unveils its excitingly aggressive liveries for 2017 World Rallycross Championship. We also caught up with our team boss Max Pucher for a Q&A ahead of the 2017 FIA World Rallycrosss Championship season.

    7 questions for Max J. Pucher from MJP Racing Team Austria.

    The heat is on in the World Rallycross Championship. In its third year the World Championship Rallycross team founded by Max Pucher changed its name to MJP Racing Team Austria and signed the drivers Timo Scheider und Kevin Eriksson for 2017. Rumour had it that Max Pucher’s 2015 team mate Manfred Stohl might reenter World RX for 2017. To everyone’s surprise he did so with Team Austria’s 2016 drivers Timerzyanov und Baumanis.

    So we wanted to know more from Max Pucher about his plans with Team Austria.

    Why did you change the team name for 2017?

    The main reason is the much broader activity of MJP Racing as a motorsport company and our growth. MJP Racing is the only force now behind the team and this made sense to be reflected. I founded MJP Racing in 2013 and today it is already the largest motorsport company in Austria with our own design department and a fully equipped production facility. We have invested in high-tech design and production. We do not want to buy from abroad when we have the best and creative engineers in Austria. I can utilize my software and management background perfectly to grow this. You will hear more about it in 2017.

    How do you see the re-entry of Stohl into World RX?

    I see everything that moves the RX sport forward as positive. From a media perspective it is a pity that Stohl is not driving but I understand his decision. Two Austrian teams in World RX are fantastic as we compete with the Nordic countries once again. There is thus no ‘war’ between Stohl and me as some like to interpret. Things just worked out differently than expected. I financed Team Austria by 80% in 2015 and when Stohl could not find any sponsors for 2016 he pulled out. I could not get the engineering and logistics support needed from Stohl and had to do it all with my own team as I already had signed contracts with Timerzyanov and Baumanis.

    Your 2016 cars were also built by Stohl?

    We had the slightly improved 2015 cars and one identical new build but the serious problems with the chassis, the steering and weight balance were not solved. The Fiesta’s were not competitive at the start of the season. So I did what I always do and hired people who are better than me. In this case race engineers and designers with circuit experience. We laser scanned the car and calculated an optimal suspension to find how far we could go with what we had. We changed the geometry as far as possible within the R5 limitations; finally got proper RX dampers and the necessary stabilisers and from Lydden Hill on we were in business. Timerzyanov is a driver who was really great to work with to improve the car. He can tell you exactly what is going on. Just the M-Sport R5 steering we could not change during the season and it cost us around 50 championship points. I had to invest substantially because the pay drivers would have been unable to finance this. But I always stand by my word and we pulled it off.

    Why did then Baumanis and Timerzyanov switch to Stohl?

    My proposal was to invest together more for 2017 with me covering the necessary development but they wanted to spend less. My loyalty and investment was not honoured but that is racing and competition and I never carry a grudge. I see it as another investment into the sport.

    Obviously Stohl had a strong interest to get them and thus access to our 2016 learning investment. I then had to decide whether to make this a development year or to drive a full season. My team sponsors wanted to see their investment in use and demanded top drivers for a full WRX engagement.

    How about Alex Wurz? You had him test the car last year.

    My sponsors offered Alex Wurz a fully paid World RX seat. Despite his strong desire he was unable to match it with his career priorities. We also talked to other Austrian race drivers, but there are right now no young Supercar talents to invest in. But we keep looking!

    Timo Scheider showed in 2016 that he feels at home in RX and Kevin Eriksson is one of the great young talents of this sport. Also Andrew Jordan is much more than just a media magnet. We had discussions with eight drivers and in the end more interest than seats. Our choice with Timo und Kevin satisfied our sponsors who did not want to have their 2016 investment dormant.

    What investments are you referring to?

    Clearly there is a brand value that was created for the sponsors. For MJP Racing it was the learning experience and development of a new chassis in 2016. We currently use it under the name LionRX1 as a test car. I will most likely drive it at the start of the season. For World RX we have the all-new LionRX2 and from summer a completely new homologated LionRX3 frame that departs from the R5 chassis. The investment in the team, facilities and engineering has been substantial to manage a season on our own. I was also lucky to have Jürgen Weiß as a team manager at my side to pull this off. Today I have a full management team for design, logistics, factory, and marketing,

    How do your rate the odds for MJP Racing Team Austria in WRX 2017?

    I am very positive that we will manage this steep entry curve into 2017 with new cars and new drivers well because we have now the resources for continuous improvement. The trick will be to create a harmony between team, drivers and cars. But yes, there is a strong component of luck that comes with racing. In addition we must be realistic when factory supported teams sport multiples of our budget.

    The season is not far away as World Rallycross visits Barcelona for the first round on 31st March. Here at The Pit Crew Online we will be bringing you all the news from WRX during the course of the season.

    Neil Simmons

    Twitter: @world_racing

    Images Courtesy of MJP Racing Team Austria

  • Rally Mexico Preview 2017- Fast Gravel and Thin Air!

    Twelve months ago, Jari-Matti came to this event after two low scoring events. He went on to win the rally! That was also the last time he and Miikka stood on the top step! This year has seen a very different situation. He’s finished on the podium twice, and leads the WRC championship after his victory in Sweden last month.

    This does bring its own challenges though. On the first day, they’ll be first on the road and as this event is a gravel rally, they’ll be sweeping the loose gravel for all those behind.

    Here are the details for each stage.

    RALLY GUANAJUATO MÉXICO SCHEDULE (GMT-6)

    WEDNESDAY 8 MARCH

    4.00pm: shakedown (Llano Grande)

    10.00pm: start of the rally (León)

    THURSDAY 9 MARCH

    6.05pm:

    SS1x – CDMX Street Stage Presented by Michelin 1 (1.57km)

    SS1y – CDMX Street Stage Presented by Michelin 2 (1.57km)

    FRIDAY 10 MARCH

    10.00am: Service A (León – 15 min)

    11.28am: SS2 – El Chocolate 1 (54.90km)

    12.36pm: SS3 – Las Minas 1 (19.68 km)

    2.41pm: Service B (León – 30 min)

    4.14pm: SS4 – El Chocolate 2 (54.90km)

    5.22pm: SS5 – Las Minas 2 (19.68km)

    6.12pm: Additional headlamp fitting zone (Guanajuato – 10 min)

    6.34pm: SS6 – Guanajuato Street Stage (1.09km)

    7.49pm: SS7 – Autódromo de León 1 (2.30km)

    7.54pm: SS8 – Autódromo de León 2 (2.30km)

    9.04pm: Flexi Service C (León – 45 min)

    SATURDAY 11 MARCH

    7.30am: Service D (León – 15 min)

    8.33am: SS9 – Media Luna 1 (27.42km)

    10.01am: SS10 – Lajas de Oro 1 (38.31km)

    11.08am: SS11 – El Brinco 1 (10.09km)

    12.58pm: Service E (León – 30 min)

    2.16pm: SS12 – Media Luna 2 (27.42km)

    3.49pm: SS13 – Lajas de Oro 2 (38.31km)

    4.37pm: SS14 – El Brinco 2 (10.09km)

    5.47pm: SS15 – Autódromo de León 3 (2.30km)

    5.52pm: SS16 – Autódromo de León 4 (2.30km)

    6.57pm: Flexi Service F (León – 45 min)

    8.50pm: SS17 – Street Stage Feria de León (1.33km)

    9.00pm: Parc ferme

    SUNDAY 12 MARCH

    9.40am: Service G (León – 45 min)

    10.43am: SS18 – La Calera (32.96km)

    12.18pm: SS19 – Derramadero Power Stage (21.94km)

    1.53pm: Service H (León – 10 min)

    2.30pm: Podium

    Last year’s result

    J. M. Latvala / M. Anttila 4:25:57.4

    S. Ogier / J. Ingrassia +1:05.0

    M. Østberg / O. Floene +5:36.4

    D. Sordo / M. Martí +5:37.9

    H. Paddon / J. Kennard +6:22.6

    O. Tanak / R. Molder +9:59.5

    M. Prokop / J. Tomanek +12:58.5

    L. Bertelli / S. Scattolin +14:09.6

    T. Suninen / M. Markkula +18:01.8

    V. Gorban / V. Korsia +32:37.3

    So, what are the key challenges of this event. Well, the stages are fast, but also very slippery, so tyre choice is very important. After the cold temperatures of Monte and Sweden, we will see that climbing to 30c plus and then it’s the thinning air as the rally runs in the mountains around Leon anything between 1,800 and 2,700 above sea level!

    So, what do the drivers have to say about this incredibly challenging event?

    Toyota Gazoo Racing WRT

    Jari-Matti Latvala said:

    “I have some very happy memories of Mexico after I won last year, but I also know some of the reasons behind it. I started with a good road position, towards the back, and I took advantage of the cleaner roads to take a big lead – while the people at the front were really struggling. So this year for me, it’s going to be the other way round! In these circumstances, you have to take away what you can and I would be really happy with a place in the top five. Nothing has changed for me since Sweden, but I think this emphasises the importance of just trying to do your best wherever you can and staying consistent. If you do that, you can maybe be in a good championship position at the end of the year, even though that was not really our objective for only the first season. There’s always a great atmosphere in Mexico: the fans called me ‘La Bala’ – which means ‘the bullet’ – last time, so I hope not to disappoint them this year!”

    Juho Hänninen said:

    “I’ve done the rally only once before, a long time ago, but I really liked it. I always feel happy on gravel and I think on Friday, with the long stages like El Chocolate, there could be a very good opportunity for me. I should have a nice starting position and I need to make the most of it. While Sweden wasn’t a great rally for me personally, I learned a lot about how to be more clever on certain things in future: in particular making sure that I am well-prepared after testing. My test before Mexico was very good: we changed a few things on the car with the suspension but not very much, and I am close to having the confident feeling that I enjoyed with the car after the Monte-Carlo test. The work that the engineers have done on the engine is really impressive, I think even with the altitude it should be OK so hopefully I will not have to adapt my driving style too much.”

    Hyundai Motorsport

    Hayden Paddon commented: “I’m looking forward to Rally Mexico. It feels like a long time since we’ve been on gravel and rallying outside of Europe. It’s an event with a nice atmosphere with passionate fans and enjoyable roads. The altitude is a key characteristic of this rally. We have to adjust the car and ourselves to the conditions. We have to make sure that we put in the extra effort so that we’re fully prepared. Maintaining hydration levels in the hotter conditions is obviously important too. We’re going to try everything that we can to put in a solid performance and to secure a positive result.”

    2016 FIA World Rally Championship / Round 03 / Rally Mexico // March 3-6, 2016 // Worldwide Copyright: Hyundai Motorsport

    Thierry Neuville commented: “Mexico is a unique event and one which brings back happy memories of the team’s first WRC podium back in 2014. It is the first hot event of the season, which combined with the fact that the event takes place at such a high altitude, makes it special. It’s an enjoyable rally; we can really push because of the knowledge and experience we have from the previous seasons. We are confident that we can perform well. The car has already demonstrated what it can do in Monte and Sweden, so we have to go out there and show what we know we are capable of. We’re determined to fight back!”

    Dani Sordo said: “I am excited about Rally Mexico because it is the first gravel event of the year and for our Hyundai i20 Coupe WRC. Thanks to the additional power that is present in the new car, it should be an even more spectacular rally than normal, as usually we would expect the performance to drop slightly as a result of the altitude. Making the transition from wintry conditions in Sweden to the warmer climate of Mexico is all part of life in the WRC. We have spent time preparing for the change, with the most important process being adapting our bodies . I am confident we can put ourselves in the podium fight.”

    M-Sport WRT

    Sébastien Ogier said:

    “I made my WRC debut in Mexico so it is always nice to come back here. We always receive such a warm welcome from the fans and they have a real passion for the sport.

    “For the first time in a number of years we won’t be opening the road but it will still be a big challenge. We’ll be the second car into the stages so we’ll still have to contend with quite a lot of road cleaning. We’ll need to try to stay as close as we can over the opening day and then see what’s achievable when the conditions become more consistent.

    “We’ve had a good start to the season, but now we’re going to experience something totally different. This is where we’ll get a feeling for these new cars on gravel and where I’ll get to experience the Fiesta’s performance on this kind of surface. We had a really useful test last week with a lot of kilometres, but there really is no substitute for competition.

    “It’s going to be an interesting rally and I hope we can continue our good performance and continue to progress.”

    Tag, enjoy and share but remember to mention MForn Studio (@mforn_)

    Ott Tänak said:

    “There are two things that you need to keep in mind in Mexico – the heat, and the altitude. We’ll head out to the event a little earlier to get used to the climate but when it comes to the stages, you need to be on it from the word go.

    “The high altitude means that we have a lot less power to play with and you need to constantly have that in your mind. You need to be very clean and precise and make sure that you keep the speed up all the time.

    “The stages themselves are nice and smooth, but they could become quite rough and rutted over the second pass and that makes it even more important to have a clean run. There is a lot of new aero on these cars and you don’t want to lose any of it.

    “We racked up a lot of kilometres during the test last week, but we’ll have to wait and see how it plays out on the rally. We’ve not had a lot of gravel running so far this year so I think the key will be to find a good rhythm early on.

    “We’ll also be opening the road again and that is something I’ve never experienced on gravel. It’s going to be an interesting rally with a lot of things to discover, but I’m looking forward to it and to seeing what we can do.”

    D-Mack WRT

    Elfyn Evans said:

    “The first gravel rally of the year will certainly be an interesting one and I think everyone is waiting with baited breath to see what they can do. The altitude makes this a really unique event and when you combine that with the high temperatures it’s a big challenge – for the crews and the cars.

    “We’ll need to be at the top of our game to contend with the physical demands, but we’ll also need to adapt our driving style to get 100 percent of the performance. Because of the thinner air, there’s a reduction in power and you need to be really smooth and not so aggressive behind the wheel.

    “You’ve got to be so tidy at this event and keep momentum through the corners. If you scrub speed before a long straight or sequence of corners the engine doesn’t have the power to carry you though and you can lose a lot of time.

    “We’ll have to wait and see how the conditions suit us, but I am looking forward to this one. It’s an event I’ve done well at in the past and a clever run can deliver results – it’s just a case of getting the balance between risk and speed just right.”

    Citroen Abu Dhabi WRT

    Kris Meeke said:

    “Mexico is one of the rallies I know the least, but it’s a course that I like. I think that we headed in the right direction during testing and I’m looking forward to checking that in racing conditions. Despite the loss of power, it should still be pretty enjoyable to drive the cars because we’ll be at more or less the same level as last year’s WRCs. We’ll have to guard against being too aggressive behind the wheel so as to avoid losing time. I’m also pleased to be going to Mexico City for the super special stage. If the atmosphere at the F1 Grand Prix is anything to go by, then it’s going to be a very special occasion in an iconic setting. I’ll bring my dinner jacket along in honour of 007!”

    Stephane Lefebvre

    “Apart from the mud at Wales Rally GB, I haven’t competed on gravel since Rally Poland last July! Testing helped me gradually to get into the swing of things. As we moved between various stretches of road, I was able to define a set-up that gave me confidence in the car. That’s the most important thing in order to learn and improve in a relaxed frame of mind. I’m pleased to be back in Mexico again. I really enjoyed being in the country during my only outing here in 2015. Beyond the sombreros and the cactus, it’s more the warmth and friendliness of the people, the atmosphere in the streets of Guanajuato and the magnificent scenery that make it worth the trip!”

    So, this year’s Rally Mexico looks to be just as exciting as previous events, with long and tricky stages!

    If you wish to watch any highlights or live coverage, then I’d suggest Redbull TV.

    Friday Highlight Show: Saturday 11 March from 4:00am.

    Live Coverage: Saturday 11 March at 4:50pm-6:05pm.

    Saturday Highlight Show:

    Sunday 12 March from 4:00am.

    Event Highlight Show: Monday 13 March from 4:00am.

    So, can Jari-Matti make it another victory, or will Seb conquer these stages to take a second victory. One person hoping for a result will be Kris and the Citroen team. With a good road position, could they score a podium or even a victory? It will be what they want for sure!

    Enjoy, and Viva Mexico!

    Warren Nel

    6th March 2017

  • Quick 10 With…..Mario Andretti

    He won the 1978 Formula One World Championship, he is a four-time IndyCar National Champion (1965, 1966, 1969, 1984), he won the Daytona 500 (1967), the Indianapolis 500 (1969), he is a three-time pole winner at the Indy500 (1966, 1967, 1987), won the 1969 Pikes Peak Hill Climb, was a USAC National Dirt Track Champion (1974), has won the 12 Hours of Sebring three times (1967, 1970, 1972). Winner of the International Race of Champions (1979), he was 2nd overall and 1st in class at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1995.

    He is the only driver to be named Driver of the Year in three different decades (1967, 1978, 1984), holds the all-time IndyCar pole positions won (67), all-time IndyCar lap leader (7,595), all-time IndyCar race starts (407). He is second in all-time IndyCar victories (52) and the is the only driver to win IndyCar races in four decades.

    Add to this he is the oldest race winner in IndyCar history and is the only driver to win the Indy500, Daytona500 and the Formula One World Championship, he competed in 879 races, achieved 111 wins and 109 poles.

    He is a personal hero of mine and somebody I regard as a true legend of motorsport.

    These are his Quick 10…..he is the one and only legend of motor racing…..Mario Andretti.

    1. What is your favourite racing circuit?

    The long Nürburgring because of its challenges. Appropriately nicknamed “The Great Hell” by Jackie Stewart

    2. Who was your racing idol?

    Alberto Ascari

    ​​

    3. Who would you regard as your toughest opponent?

    It’s impossible to mention just one. Among the toughest I would include AJ Foyt, the three Unsers, Jackie Stewart, my son Michael, Niki Lauda, Dan Gurney. They were all exceptionally tough

    4. Considering racers of all time, you are a team principal and money is no object. Which two racers would you have in your team?

    At the moment, Lewis Hamilton and Sebastien Vettel

    ​​

    5. If you could invite four famous people to dinner (past and present), who would you invite?

    I’d invite Mikhail Gorbachev. It took a lot of courage for him to stand up against the old regime and become an incredible force in ending communism. I’d invite Giacomo Puccini, who wrote some of my favorite operas. I’d invite Julius Caesar because he was such a badass, tougher than shit and had such audacity that I want to see what makes him tick. I’d invite The Pope. And I’d be cooking this dinner – I’d make veal chops!

    6. Your personal racing number? What was it and the reason behind it?

    I don’t have a personal racing number. I never asked for a particular number. The only number that meant something to me was number one.

    ​​

    7. What is the best race you have been involved in?

    1976 Japanese Grand Prix in the rain

    8. Is there a race or series you have not competed in that you would like to or had wanted to?

    No, I competed in everything I wanted. I don’t feel I left anything on the table

    ​​

    9. How did you get interested in motor racing? What ignited that spark?

    The spark was ignited when I went to my first race in Monza in 1954. I was 14-years-old

    10. What is the best advice in racing you have been given?

    Don’t drive beyond your capability. That was Clint Brawner’s advice to me when I started in IndyCars

    I want to thank Mario Andretti so much for agreeing to take part in this Quick 10 interview. As I mentioned at the top of the article he was a childhood hero of mine when the motor racing bug bit me. Fantastic interview with an absolute legend and I would like to wish Mr. Andretti and his family all the best.

    See you at the chequered flag.

    Neil Simmons

    Twitter: @world_racing

  • Our Editor in Chief looks forward to the 2017 Formula 1 season.

    Deep breaths, the 2017 Formula 1 season is almost upon us, and ThePitCrew are all over it.

    Formula 1

    ‘The pinnacle of motorsport’ well that’s what we’ve been told for as long as I can remember. I’m sure our Tin Top team will have plenty to say on that topic. However you feel about it Formula 1 has had a major shakeup, fatter rubber, wider and meaner looking cars and supposedly a more aero formula, but will it make any difference or will Mercedes still be on top? One thing is for sure, Manor won’t be at the bottom having ceased trading, so we are back down to 10 teams.

    Mercedes have lost Paddy Lowe to Williams and with Nico’s surprise retirement the team look to have a very different dynamic. Much as I believe Valtteri Bottas is a fantastic driver it’s probably too much to ask for him to be as competitive as Nico against arguably the fastest driver on the grid in Lewis Hamilton. Personally, I can’t see anyone but Lewis being WDC or for that matter another team taking the constructors title.

    The Scuderia are looking strong in Barcelona but as ever testing lap times can’t be taken too seriously. Has Sebastian Vettel still got the desire to win, or is Kimi back to his best? I think if Ferrari produce a competitive car Seb will push the team to achieve, and in turn Kimi, but if it’s more of a donkey than a stallion I expect both drivers will quickly lose drive and interest. Another up and down season but surly in the mix for wins.

    Williams have had a shake up and not just on the driver front with the young Stroll and a freshly faced Felipe Massa dragged out of retirement can they improve on last season? They still have the Mercedes power plant so it’s all down to Paddy Lowe and his team. Points and more podiums but let’s hope they are back in the mix for wins.

    Great things are expected of the Red Bull boys in their Adrian Newey designed car. Will his magic be able to overhaul the genius working at the Brixworth Mercedes engine plant? Surely they have the strongest driver line-up in Daniel Ricciardo and the exciting Max Verstappen. I can see them winning races and being in the mix.

    And what for the elephant in the room? Yes, I’m talking about McLaren Can Honda provide them with an engine worthy of the McLaren Honda partnership that brought such success to them during the Senna Prost Heyday? I for one hope so. Again, a very strong driver pairing or Fernando Alonso and the young pretender Stoffel Vandoorne. They will improve on last season but wins and podiums may still be beyond them.

    Sahara Force India, feel the Hype! With an impressive 2016 and still using the Mercedes that drove them to great success last term I can see them pushing the grandiose teams on much bigger budgets. The impressive and reliable Sergio Perez is joined by Esteban Ocon. Let’s see what he can do. Podiums and fighting for their maiden victory has to be their goal.

    Renault F1 are now in their second season back. Jolyon Palmer has been joined by Nico ‘The Hulk’ Hulkenburg. Unless they have made a giant stride forward they will be fighting to score regular points at best.

    Toro Rosso have changed engine supplier and moved to Renault power. Carlos Sainz Jnr is another immense talent in the Red Bull stable. In my opinion totally underrated by most casual fans. Daniil Kvyat will fight on trying to save his Formula 1 career. Regular points scoring has to be their target .

    HAAS will be in their second season, so it’s surly a matter of building on their success. Romain Grosjean is partnered with Kevin Magnussen. But they could struggle to match last terms success.

    Sauber have a lot of work to do with a Ferrari engine behind them and not a huge budget. I would guess they will remain towards the back of the grid. In Marcus Ericsson, they have a steady hand, and he’s joined by Pascal Wehrlein an exciting young talent who needs to draw on all his experience in DTM and Manor to get the most out of the Sauber.

    Let’s hope for a thrilling season with lots of overtaking and inter team battles. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook and join the conversation on one of our groups. Lastly, enjoy it, don’t let your passion for one driver or another cloud the way you see the race. Instead sit back and enjoy. In twenty years time you’ll be telling stories of how you watched the greats Alonso, Hamilton, Vettel, Kimi and Verstappen fight it out for glory and become legends.

    Enjoy.

    Simon.

    @f1taxi

    Image courtesy of the relevant teams

     

  • WRX 2017 – Are You Ready?

    Mattias Ekstrom Takes The 2016 WRX Championship (c) redbull.com

     

    The most dynamic racing series on the planet is back, as the FIA World Rallycross Championship hits Barcelona on 31st March.

    This time last year rallycross fans had to wait until April before Round One in Portugal with Barcelona itself not appearing until September. Now Catalunya is the opening round of the season and what a cracking season we have in prospect.

    At Barcelona in 2016 it was Timmy Hansen in the Peugeot 208 who was leading the pack after the heats but Mattias Ekstrom and Timur Timerzyanov dominated the semi-finals, where we surprisingly saw Petter Solberg miss out. In the first semi-final Ekstrom, Timmy Hansen and Robin Larsson made their way through to the final. In the second Timerzyanov held off the challenge of Johan Kristoffersson taking the win by six tenths. Janis Baumanis was the third driver through. The final in Barcelona was set and it was champion-elect Mattias Ekstrom who took the win ahead of Timmy Hansen and Timerzyanov.

    Barcelona 2017, can we expect the same result?

    Ekstrom and Timmy Hansen remain with their teams, EKS and Team Peugeot-Hansen, respectively, with Timerzyanov now behind the wheel at Team STARD.

    There have been some changes over the winter. Let us look ahead to 2017.

    Mattias Ekstrom flies the jump during Heat 1 of the World Rallycross races at Holjes in Sweden on July 5th (c) redbull.com

    Ekstrom and Toomas Heikkenen are joined at EKS RX by former Olsbergs MSE driver Reinis Nitiss in what looks like a very strong team. It’s no change at Hoonigan Racing Division with Andreas Bakkerud, who finished third in the championship last season and Ken Block again leading the charge there for the American team. Same line-up at Team Peugeot-Hansen with Kevin and Timmy Hansen teaming up again with Sebastien Loeb.

    Kevin Eriksson (c) MJP Racing

    There has been a team name change for World RX Team Austria as they now go under the banner of MJP Racing Team Austria. It is a completely new look team and boy, have they made some great signings in the off-season. Former Olsbergs driver Kevin “Round The Outside” Eriksson has joined double DTM champion Timo Scheider at the wheel of the Ford Fiesta ST. MJP have also signed former British Touring Car champion Andrew Jordan to drive at Lydden Hill in round five. It’s been a busy off-season for team boss Max Pucher.

    Petter Solberg (c) FIA World Rallycross

    PSRX Volkswagen Sweden are entering two VW Polo GTI’s and the men they are trusting with this are double World Rallycross champioin Petter Solberg and the man who finished second to Ekstrom in the championship last season, Johan Kristofferson. This is a mouth watering team and it is really good to see Solberg with a team entry rather than an individual.

    Team STARD with their Ford Fiesta have Timur Timerzyanov and former World RX Team Austria driver Janis Baumanis at the wheel for their assault on the championship.

    This brings us nicely to the individual entries who are not eligible for the team championship.

    Guy Wilks (c) FIA World Rallycross

     

    Jean-Baptiste Dubourg will race a Peugeot 208 for DA Racing, former Olsbergs driver and the son of a former WRC champion, Niclas Gronholm will drive a Ford Fiesta for GRX, Lukacs ‘CsuCsu’ Kornel jumps in a Kia Rio for Speedy Motorsport and completing the line-up is Great Britain’s Guy Wilks who will race for LOCO World RX Team in their VW Polo.

    There is so much depth and talent in this field for 2017, I genuinely can’t wait for the season to start, but where do I think the championship will go?

    It is so difficult to narrow it down to one person with so much competition within the grid. There is no way anybody can dismiss Solberg and Ekstrom, they are definitely going to be challenging for the title again and I was really impressed with Timerzyanov and Bakkerud last season. But my ‘tip for the title’ is going to Johan Kristoffersson.

    Johan Kristoffersson (c) RX Barcelona

    I think the 28 year old Swede, who made his debut in WRX in 2014, can not only beat his double world champion team mate, Solberg, to the title but also the defending champion. It is not going to be easy. In fact it is going to be extremely difficult, but in the works Polo I just feel Kristoffersson can kick on from his performances last season, especially after his fantastic win in Loheac back in September.

    (c) FIA World Rallycross

    This is the chaos and mayhem of World Rallycross and it is stomping, fizzing, revving and grunting its way towards us.

    Are you ready for the most dynamic racing series in the world?

    The grid is set. The drivers are getting pumped. The cars are being prepped.

    You better be ready. 2017 is going to blow you away.

    (c) FIA World Rallycross

    Let us remind ourselves of the top 20 placings in the championship last season.

    1st – Mattias Ekstrom – 272pts

    2nd – Johan Kristoffersson – 240pts

    3rd – Andreas Bakkerud – 239pts

    4th – Petter Solberg – 239pts

    5th – Sebastien Loeb – 209pts

    6th – Timmy Hansen – 178pts

    7th – Toomas Heikkinen – 150pts

    8th – Timur Timerzyanov – 117pts

    9th – Robin Larsson – 109pts

    10th – Janis Baumanis – 109pts

    11th – Kevin Eriksson – 92pts

    12th – Davy Jeanney – 86pts

    13th – Anton Marklund – 76pts

    14th – Ken Block – 63pts

    15th – Kevin Hansen – 52pts

    16th – Reinis Nitiss – 44pts

    17th – Niclas Gronholm – 28pts

    18th – Timo Scheider – 25pts

    19th – Francois Duval – 18pts

    20th – Liam Doran – 9pts

    See you at the RX-chequered flag.

    Neil Simmons

    WRX Editor

    Twitter: @world_racing

  • Has Society Grown Tired Of The F1 Playboy?

    (c) MercedesF1

     

    I was reading up on the accolades and memories of the brilliant Formula One journalist Alan Henry recently and a story he relayed about James Hunt.

    Alan would tell the story of the time he was woken in his room by Hunt, who had with him at the time a female friend.

    “Come on Hens, you need to surrender your bed, I have a guest.”

    This was James Hunt, the man who allegedly bedded 5,000 women and had “Sex, The Breakfast Of Champions” sewn into his racing overalls. He was a fast driving, big drinking, fast living, cigarette smoking hero to the British racing fans. They loved him. He punched a marshal, well actually he punched two marshals.

    There were others, the list is long, but the most notable apart from Hunt were Mike Hailwood, Innes Ireland, Sir Stirling Moss, Juan Manuel Fangio and the person who is regarded as the last of the playboy F1 drivers, Eddie Irvine. More recently Jenson Button and Kimi Raikkonen have been tagged ‘playboys’ in their early careers but never on the same platform as the other drivers mentioned before them.

    In one way or another they were icons. They also had their critics, but they undoubtedly had their fans. Bernie Ecclestone is apparently a fan of the playboy lifestyle, a person who can show character to the fans. This is an area where I do agree with Bernie, for a change.

    Lewis Hamilton.

    I have to hold my hand up and say there were times when I would look at the television or read a news story and think to myself, ‘Lewis, what are you doing?’ – Then I would have to smile and think back to when I was growing up and no matter how much I had respect for people like Prost, Mansell, Schumacher, Lauda etc. they were a bit, well, too serious. The antics of drivers such as Berger, Irvine, Hunt, Fittipaldi, Raikkonen, Alesi etc. on the other hand made me smile.

    My initial thoughts about Lewis Hamilton’s ‘reported’ lifestyle was quite probably…no definitely…my near 45 years of age kicking in. It is important to remind myself of that. Then I shake my head and smile.

    Lewis Hamilton gets paid a lot of money to drive fast cars. He, like every other racer in the world, puts his life on the line in the name of motor racing. Who is any person or journalist to say he is behaving unprofessionally and inappropriately?

    The reason I pose this question is because I do see a lot of hypocrisy in the way journalists report on Hamilton and his partying, lifestyle and what he does away from the racing. These are the same writers who will condemn Lewis in one article and the following week be praising James Hunt.

    In the 1970’s Hunt slept with women, got drunk, visited casinos, bars, film premieres and went to parties. He is held up as a British hero. In the 2000’s Lewis Hamilton sleeps with women, gets drunk, visits casinos, bars, film premieres and goes to parties, yet he is held up as unprofessional and not a role model to the young fans who follow him.

    Hypocritical. Utterly hypocritical.

    The bottom line is, for years Formula One has been crying out for that ‘playboy’ world champion to come along and take the place of the more serious natured ones who followed. Hell…I’ve even grown to like the sarcastic, mischievous side of Sebastian Vettel recently. Lewis Hamilton is being that playboy Formula One driver. The shenanigans of the playboy racing drivers I have mentioned above make Lewis Hamilton look like a choirboy and just because he is involving himself with people who others do not like within the public eye, does that make him less of a world champion…no, sorry….a triple world champion? Of course it doesn’t.

    Did the fact that Juan Manuel Fangio bedded women and James Hunt partied all night make them lesser world champions? No, of course not, because time and history has diluted those stories and they never had social media to contend with as drivers do now.

    I was very young when Hunt was at the top of his game, but I can imagine my mum not being overly impressed with his antics, she would probably have called him a thug. Today I see on social media and in publications people and journalists calling Hamilton spoilt or irresponsible.

    Total rubbish.

    There are more men and women out there doing far more irresponsible things in their sport than Lewis Hamilton and simply by picking on the point that he may or may not have said this and may or may not have done that, is just simply a way of selling the news.

    Formula One has been criticised in recent years, some of which rightly so. I don’t think it is constructive or warranted to criticise the drivers who take part.

    As I said, there are other sports out there which are inhabited by far worse characters.

    This comes to the question of my article. Has society grown tired of the F1 playboy?

    I really don’t see how the answer can be a rousing yes when we’ve only really seen Hamilton in recent years choose the lifestyle that he has. I think it is more of a case that with social media playing such a big part in every walk of life, the microscopic details of a person’s life is picked up and then blasted around the world. People are influenced more by what they see and what they read instead of taking a step back and making a judgement for themselves. They also need to realise they are not Lewis Hamilton. They are not a racing driver.

    Am I fan of everything Lewis Hamilton does? Not really. But I’m not Lewis Hamilton.

    Am I fan of the famous people Lewis can be seen hanging with? Not all of them. But that’s up to Lewis Hamilton.

    Am I fan of Lewis Hamilton the racing driver? I have other drivers currently on the grid who I favour more and others in history too, but I would still put Hamilton up there as one of the best I have seen in my 40+ years of watching Formula One.

    You can’t ask for a playboy Formula One driver and then decide that what that particular person does with their life is not to your liking. You don’t drive a car at break-neck speed, risking your life on every piece of tarmac for the entertainment of others. You certainly aren’t in the position to criticise as to what a person chooses to do with their life outside of ‘their job’.

    You are of course allowed to go back and worship James Hunt, Mike Hailwood, Sir Stirling Moss, Eddie Irvine, Kimi Raikkonen and Jenson Button, naturally because they are heroes.

    But then that would be boring wouldn’t it?

    All era’s have different tags. You could have been a cad or a bounder in the fifties, a rebel in the sixties, a hair-raiser in the seventies all the way up to a raver, a party animal or a gangster. Let’s just concentrate on the racing, shall we?

    See You At The Chequered Flag.

    Neil Simmons

    Twitter: @world_racing

    Tags:

    F1

    Formula 1

  • Parc Fermé – F1 Testing Day One

     

    (c) Formula1.com

    Formula 1 Testing – Day One

    A sunny start to the day in Barcelona as the cars took to the track for the first of the official tests, the sound of F1 engines once more cascading across the landscape. There has been a major change in the regulations for 2017 as can be seen on the cars, with boomerang style side-pods, t-wings, shark fins and fatter rear tyres. It’s all change in the crazy world of F1.

    Williams – They appear to have gone quietly about their business, no major aero on the car and Felipe Massa, now un-retired and racing again, completed an impressive 103 laps to put the car in 3rd. The car looked stable and there were no issues. In the morning Williams ran aero checks and in the afternoon they concentrated on tyre work and set-up.

    McLaren – All the hype and all the furore surrounding the launch of the new car seems a distant memory now as Alonso finished in 10th and only completed 29 laps. The car had an oil system problem that they had not noticed previously which restricted the double world champion’s running. Eric Boullier was hopeful that Alonso would get further time in the car due to the lack of running. Not a great start for the team here in Barcelona.

    Sauber – This was not a good day for Sauber. Marcus Ericsson completed 72 laps in a car that is carrying a 2016 Ferrari engine and it showed. They were five seconds off the pace of every other car and finished last but the team did comment they were working on aero and set-ups for this first test. Pascal Wehrlein did not take to the track, he has a neck and back problem but said that although he felt he could have gone out it could have caused a few problems. He is hopeful to be back for the next round of testing.

    Renault – Alain Prost back at Renault, be it as a ‘special advisor’. There are rumblings in the paddock that he may be offered a more senior role within the team. Could the F1 legend be poised to take over the helm this season? Only time will tell. Nico Hulkenberg completed 57 laps and finished in 9th, which is not where Renault hoped they would be even during the first day of testing. They were three seconds off the pace and did have small problems with their chassis which overheated due to the bodywork being too close. Adjustments were made and there were no further issues.

    Haas – Like Williams, another team who have gone quietly about their business with no razz-a-matazz or fireworks. They managed 51 laps and ended up 4th in the timings. Magnussen had a scare early on as he broke the front wing, then Haas added a t-wing which seemed to vibrate a lot and it will be interesting to see how they would be able to fix that problem.

    Ferrari – The team who many think are going to be Mercedes main challengers this season had a good day with Vettel finishing 2nd on the timing screens after completing 128 laps. They concentrated on making sure their winter wind tunnel tests worked out on the circuit, the numbers added up and the team came away from day one very happy. The car showed great reliability even though the engine itself is 5kg heavier than last season. There have been some minor changes on the engine although Ferrari would not confirm what these were.

    Force India – Sergio Perez had exhaust problems early on and completed 39 laps which put the car P7. He did state that the car itself felt better, there was more grip and there was plenty more to come.

    Red Bull – There are mixed opinions about the Red Bull. Some are putting them as more of a challenger to Mercedes than Ferrari, others think they are going to be the bridesmaid to the ceremony. They finished 5th on day one, Ricciardo completed only 50 laps due to a battery problem and then they had a sensor issue which needed fixing. That said, Red Bull only finished building the car the Wednesday before the first test.

    Toro Rosso – Carlos Sainz was a little confused. He said that he couldn’t compare the Renault engine to the Ferrari engine of last season due to the extra drag on the cars this year. They had some chassis problems, one part fell off in the pit lane and this restricted them to 51 laps and 8th place on the timing screens.

    Mercedes – A great day for the defending champions. A massive 152 laps completed with Bottas going out in the morning. He ran the T-wing and said that it felt good and he had far more grip than he was previously used to. Hamilton changed to a shark fin for the afternoon session and he was quick. Quickest team on day one.

    A lot is being spoken about regarding the change in regulations.

    “It’s a good start when you are able to collect miles and data.” Toto Wolff said.

    He mentioned that Mercedes were not seeing themselves as out-and-out favourites because due to the regulation changes every team is back to square one. But after this showing on day one, it’s difficult to take that comment seriously when the Mercedes car showed up so well.

    The Mercedes team are fully aware that Bottas needs to hit the ground running and that he will have to perform to their high standards. Toto confirmed that Bottas is not there as a supporting role for Lewis, the two drivers will be asked to push each other to make them go faster. Where have we heard that before?

    On the suspension issue which has put a dark cloud over the paddock, Toto Wolff had this to say:

    “I think it’s the usual posing before the season starts.”

    He went on to say that he felt the Mercedes suspension was clear and legal and the team are happy they have the correct specifications in place. He hinted that other teams might have legality issues on their own cars but did not specify who or what. Shots fired, welcome back Formula One!

    Over at Red Bull Adrian Newey appeared calm and confident, as he always does. He did not seem too put out by the new regulations and repeated what Toto eluded to, that the teams are heading into the unknown.

    “We don’t know” Newey said. “It’s the usual thing when you have big regulation change. We’ve been working over the winter. We know what we’ve achieved.”

    He said that Red Bull had tried not to put too much on the car so that they could understand the flow structure properly and then develop the car from there. This seemed a very simple yet Newey-esque approach. On the nose and air flow he had this to say:

    “We had this regulation change in 2014, where we went from high noses to a low nose. Our hole in the middle is a small step back to trying to get a slightly higher nose, whilst aerodynamically having a low nose.”

    He mentioned the hole in the Red Bull nose is legal if “you do it in a particular way.” He said that comparisons could be drawn with what Renault did two years ago and the Force India design of 2016.

    It is fascinating when you listen to Adrian Newey. He went on to discuss the shark fins and how the primary role of the structure is to stabilise the rear from side winds as the car goes into corners. The T-wings, he explained, was a little wing you could put in if you wish too but, that for a big visual change, it had a small aerodynamic effect.

    Day one of testing was over and the big boys flexed their muscles, to a certain extent. First points to Mercedes so far who just looked mightily impressive but it is fair to say that Ferrari were not too far behind in the reliability stakes. Difficult to say what Red Bull have to offer due to their lack of laps but in day two of testing things could change.

    After all, this is Formula One. Nothing stays the same forever.

    See you at the chequered flag.

    Neil Simmons

    Twitter: @world_racing

  • Pérez “optimistic for Melbourne” after first Barcelona test

    Sergio Perez (MEX) Sahara Force India F1 VJM10.
    Formula One Testing, Day 4, Thursday 2nd March 2017. Barcelona, Spain.

    Sergio Pérez has said he already has good expectations for the first race of the season in Australia after a “positive week” of pre-season testing with Force India.

    “I think we made a good step forward with understanding the VJM10 and finding the limit of the tyres,” the Mexican said at the end of the week. “I feel more confident in the car; I have learnt a huge amount and I think my preparation is going to plan.

    “There is still a lot of work to be done, but I’m optimistic for Melbourne already.”

    Pérez described his first day driving the VJM10 as one “of two halves”: after making steady progress through the team’s tyre and setup programme in the morning, he was forced by a broken exhaust to sit the afternoon session out.

    Esteban Ocon (FRA) Sahara Force India F1 VJM10.
    Formula One Testing, Day 2, Tuesday 28th February 2017. Barcelona, Spain.

    But on his return to the track on Thursday, Pérez enjoyed a trouble-free day and was able to log 82 laps of the Barcelona track, as well as set the sixth-fastest time of the day.

    On the middle two days of the test, Pérez handed over the VJM10 to his new teammate Esteban Ocon and Force India’s development driver Alfonso Celis Jr.

    Ocon, driving on day two, made a good start to his first season with Force India, exceeding the team’s lap target with 86 tours and completing the setup work leftover from day one.

    “It’s very early days, of course, but the initial feelings are positive,” Ocon said of his day’s testing. “We found a good direction for setting up the car…and I’m satisfied with the number of laps we covered.”

    The Frenchman also said that the new generation of F1 cars are “proper beasts”, remarking on their increased cornering speeds as “a good step forward” for the sport.

    Chief race engineer Tom McCullough said that the team’s “incredible efforts” over the week have left Force India confident about the season ahead, especially after Celis Jr. added another 71 laps to the team’s tally on his day behind the wheel:

    “I’m pleased we managed to exceed our target lap count and accrued so much data because the learning curve is so steep in these early days. We have been able to build up good mileage and iron out some of the inevitable teething problems that you get with a new car.

    “We are confident we have made some important steps forward…and we are looking forward to next week’s test, when we will focus more on performance and race simulations.”

    Alfonso Celis Jr (MEX) Sahara Force India F1 VJM10 Development Driver.
    Formula One Testing, Day 3, Wednesday 1st March 2017. Barcelona, Spain.

    James Matthews, Editor-at-Large

    Images courtesy of Sahara Force India Formula One Team

  • Crew Towers Tips – 2017

    Every racing fan has an opinion and we are no different over here at Crew Towers, as you would expect.

    Some of the ‘creative meetings’ where we discuss future articles descend into a banter filled cacophony of voices who confidently state their opinions.

    We wanted to get the 2017 championship tips from the experts….but they weren’t available, so we asked the Pit Crew Online team to make their predictions instead.

    Some writers contribute across multiple series, therefore you may see them predicting a whole host of categories.

    CREW TOWERS TIPS – 2017

    Richard Hindson – Facebook Media Editor

    Twitter: @hindson369

    F1 Prediction: A Red Bull Driver

    “My F1 world champion prediction is a Red Bull Racing driver. It’s hard to choose between the two. Both showed real pace last season and proved they could race wheel to wheel with no contact. This season they will be at the front of the grid battling for the sports grandest prize. Who will come out on top may come down to reliability, like we saw in 2016.”

    Mitch Oakley – BTCC Editor

    Twitter: @Tocco_97

    BTCC Prediciton: Gordon Shedden

    “Based on the last two years, it’s very hard to look past the Honda of Gordon Shedden. The reigning champ will be looking to add another title to his collection. No doubt his teammate will be pushing close behind. Also never count out Turkington now he is back at WSR and of course Plato is always there-or-there abouts. Either way it should be a cracker!”

    Matthew Pigg – Endurance Editor/Photographer

    Twitter: @photopigg

    LMP1-H Prediction: Porsche

    LMP2 Prediction: Alpine

    “Looking forwards to great competition in the WEC this year with the battle in LMP1-H between Porsche and Toyota. My hunch would be that Porsche will come out on top after the whole season, but hoping that Toyota get that Le Mans win after last year’s heart break. LMP2 looks like it’s going to be interesting with new cars and teams coming in, but too close to call as to who will win. A good bet would be Alpine to retain the crown. GTE Pro sees the return of Porsche with two cars going up against Ferrari, Ford and Aston Martin. It is going to be another close call and could easily go any of the team’s way and a lot of what happens with GTE will depend on what happens with balance of performance.”

    Aaron Irwin – Virtual Editor

    Twitter: @AaronIrwin7

    Virtual GP Prediction: Michal Smidl

    “We cover a series called Virtual GP and the simplest way I can describe it is F1 on a computer. There is one stand out favourite for the series and his name is Michal Smidl, he’s won the series twice and is the hot favourite. However he has challengers to his crown in Martin Stefanko and Jaroslav Honzik. In a series of fast and enjoyable racing, anyone can shine. It’s close and tense and it looks likely that Smidl will hold on to his crown, but he won’t have it all his own way.”

    Rhea Morar – Deputy F1 Editor

    Twitter: @RheaMorar

    F1 Prediction: Red Bull

    “Unbelievably I predict that the tough fight for the championship will be between the Sauber boys… who has the more perfect hair…. Ericsson or Wehrlein? Seriously though, look out for the Red Bull boys is all that I can predict right now.”

    Victor Archakis – F1 Editor

    Twitter: @FP_Passion

    F1 Prediction: Ferrari and Sebastian Vettel

    “My heart says Ferrari. My logic says Mercedes, but I can’t resist to my heart’s willing, hence I will pick Ferrari and Sebastian Vettel as 2017 champions!”

    Tonia Attard – NASCAR Feature Writer

    Twitter: @audilvrs7

    NASCAR Prediction: Dale Earnhardt Jr.

    “With the checkered flag dropped on the Daytona 500, the start of the NASCAR season is officially underway. This year’s 500, with its new rules and regulations, proved to be exciting just as NASCAR hoped although maybe in the wrong way as a multitude of wrecks perforated the green flag laps. That being said clear indications of who may, or may not, be in contention for the Championship were given and as NASCAR editor it is my job to give them to you. First and foremost, Dale Earnhardt Jr. While this may not be the choice most people would go with, Junior was fast at Daytona. Fast like we haven’t seen him for a long time. He sat on pole for a while before Chase Elliot bumped him to his second place starting position. From there he had a strong run until an accident took him out of the running. Earnhardt has a strong motivation to drive hard as well. He has said that if he wins the Championship this year he will retire. He wants to go out on top. There is no more motivation like taking that last big leap of faith. Chase Elliot, Earnhardt’s teammate also looks promising for a Championship. Young and hungry but now more experienced. Bill Elliot’s son proudly carries on the family name and hopes to make a name for himself in NASCAR history.”

    Kiko Giles – Crew On Two Editor

    Twitter: @MotoGPKiko

    MotoGP Prediction: Valentino Rossi

    Moto2 Prediction: Franco Morbidelli

    Moto3 Prediction: Fabio Di Giannantonio

    WSBK Prediction: Chaz Davies

    BSB Prediction: Luke Mossey

    “MotoGP is fierce this year, with young hounds challenging the young – and old – established war horses. My money in 2017 is on Valentino Rossi. And before you all sigh and look away, there are some alternative reasons, apart from his ability to ride. He’s old, he’s getting on and it could be now or never for Rossi. But a new teammate will also spur him on. He enjoys a challenge and has re-invented himself for the last four seasons. The Michelins have a year under their belt so Valentino has a solid base-setting to work on. Cut the crashing, and bring home the bacon, on the podium at every round like he had potential last season and he’s your man in 2017 – not without stiff competition.

    Moto2 sees four of the top eight in last season’s campaign move up, leaving the door open for many challenges and a break of what we have known. Franco Morbidelli is a rider who impressed me so much towards the end of last season. Having come so close in Australia in that finish with Tom Luthi, and having been in a titanic scrap in Valencia with MotoGP graduate and double champion Johann Zarco, Morbidelli must be favourite this season. It could be between him, Luthi and San Marino GP winner, Lorenzo Baldassarri.

    Moto3 is anyone’s guess, but due to his sheer skill last season, Fabio Di Giannantionio definitely gets my backing. The rookie Italian came so close to winning at Mugello as well as Assen and his only retirement after his first point scoring ride was getting wiped out at Phillip Island. He is retained by the same team for 2017 and the Gresini Racing set up have some titles in their pocket from seasons gone by. Fabio will be up there, but that is only one prediction out of many that could possibly take the title.

    In WSBK although Jonathan Rea has started with a double victory, Chaz Davies took his best points haulage from the first round of the season. The Welshman is my tip for a tilt at the title in 2017. His sensational form that ended 2016 (7 wins in 8 of the final races) was something that only Colin Edwards had done before. The Ducati is getting better and at last Davies looks like he may have a teammate that he can rely on for support in Marco Melandri. The 30-year-old will be on fire once we get to Europe, which is where Chaz is at his absolute finest.

    British Superbikes sees additions galore in 2017. Davide Giugliano and Sylvain Guintoli amongst the most notable. Shane Byrne took his 5th title last season, as an out and out Shakey fan I want him to do the same – but I am not backing him and I’m not tipping Leon either. I believe the upset could come from his teammate. Luke Mossey is my stab for a title this season. The youngster – now with a full factory set up – put in some astounding results last year, and could be the one to be keep an eye on this season. However, BSB is BSB, and we know Shakey, Haslam, Ellison and the like will all be up there – it really is anyone’s guess.”

    Viv Gillings – Photographer

    Twitter: @viv_simmons

    WEC GT Prediction: Ford

    MotoGP Prediction: Ducati

    “I am predicting with my heart not my head on the above series. I have always been a ‘Ford Bird’ and they are my prediction in the GT category for WEC and in MotoGP I am going with a Ducati rider, whether that is Jorge or Dovi. My predictions are purely heart fuelled as Ford and Ducati are my favourites. I will also be cheering on Chris Wheeler in the British Rally Championship.”

    Tomasz Kubiak – WTCC & DTM Feature Writer

    Twitter: @tomekkubiak

    WTCC Prediction: Rob Huff

    DTM Prediction: Mike Rockenfeller

    “WTCC – The favourite to win the 2017 World Touring Car Championship should be Rob Huff. The Briton saw an opportunity in leaving the factory Honda team to join the privateer Münnich Motorsport and it is not as crazy as it sounds. The single-car operation will be focused around him and won’t have to worry about a manufacturers’ championship, dealing with rookie team mates (there’s one in both Honda and Volvo camps) or developing a car, as the Citroën is a fully finished and impressively quick machine. If factories will decide to go after drivers’ title, Tiago Monteiro and Nicky Catsburg would become the biggest treats.

    DTM – Stopping BMW will be extremely difficult as the Bavarian brand won three drivers’ titles in five years since they returned to DTM. They are, however, yet to win in an odd year and if someone is in position to capitalise on that, it should be Audi. The Neuburg-based marque was the only one to keep all of their teams and will utilise the resources freed up by the unfortunate ending to their endurance racing programme. Watch out for Mike Rockenfeller but BMW’s Marco Wittmann and Mercedes-AMG’s Edoardo Mortara are good guesses as well.”

    Jack Prentice – F1 Technical Editor

    Twitter: @JPrentice8

    F1 Prediction: Sebastian Vettel

    “Predicting the Formula One season ahead of us right now is a bit like predicting when a comet will next hit the earth. The immense changes in technical regulations have the potential to shake the order up somewhat, but after the first round of testing it looks like the same three will be at the sharp end. That said, once again Ferrari look like they’ve taken the game to Mercedes while Red Bull still have some work to do. If Ferrari have upped their game, then it’s hard to look past a Vettel v Hamilton title scrap. How much fun would that be?”

    James Matthews – Formula E Editor and Mercedes Feature Writer

    Twitter: @James16Matthews

    Formula E Prediction: Sebastien Buemi

    “If anyone but Buemi and Renault come out on top this season, it could well be the upset of the year. With three wins from the opening three races, Buemi is driving at a level above the rest of the grid—at this rate, even his absence from New York won’t hurt his campaign for a second title.”

    Warren Nel – Rally Editor

    Twitter: @Warren_S_Nel

    WRC Prediction: Sebastien Ogier

    “I believe that Seb will become this year’s Champion. His main challengers will be Thierry Neuville, Kris Meeke and Jari-Matti Latvala. Hyundai have built a very good car. It’s certainly faster than the others! Citroën are a sleeping giant and are on the back-foot. The Toyota return has been remarkable with two podiums and a victory. I’m not sure if they can sustain a full fight all year, but they are the dark horses I believe, with a resurgent Jari-Matti Latvala. He’s definitely looking more relaxed behind the wheel. Next round is Rally Mexico! 9th to the 12th of March.”

    Elliott York – Crew On Two Feature Writer

    Twitter: @journoyork

    MotoGP Prediction: Maverick Vinales

    WSBK Prediction: Chaz Davies

    BSB Prediction: Leon Haslam

    “MotoGP – The 26th of March is a date that every MotoGP fan will welcome with open arms as Qatar kick starts what promises to be a stellar year of Grand Prix motorcycle racing.

    For me, Vinales on the M1 Yamaha is going to take some stopping this year. You only have to look at testing to see how quick he is going to be, which is why he is my tip for the crown.

    I’d love to see Rossi claim his 10th title, and I think he will be challenging the likes of Vinales and Marquez all the way, but I just see Maverick being the top gun in 2017.

    WSBK – Phillip Island gave us an indicator of just how competitive this year is going to be in World Superbikes. Johnathan Rea laid down the gauntlet, however I think Chaz Davies can really take it to him this year and claim his maiden Superbike title. The Ducati looks like it is the complete package this year, and with the help of team mate Melandri, Davies can upset the Kawasaki party. If the Welshman can remain consistent on tracks that he doesn’t go well at (Phillip Island being a great example) then I think he’ll be in pole position to get his hands on the title.

    BSB – It is hard to see past Leon Haslam and Shane Byrne again this year, which is why I’m backing the Kawasaki man to go one better in 2017. Leon now has a year’s experience under his belt after returning to BSB from World Superbikes which will give him a vast amount of confidence. It will be another titanic battle between the two, with other names such as James Ellison having an outside shot, but for me it’s Haslam who will take the title.”

    Neil Simmons – Tin Top Editor & McLaren/Feature Writer

    Twitter: @world_racing

    F1 Prediction: Max Verstappen

    WRX Prediction: Johan Kristoffersson

    BTCC Prediction: Colin Turkington

    IndyCar Prediction: Will Power

    Indy500 Prediction: Josef Newgarden

    WEC LMP1 Prediction: Porsche #1 (Lotterer, Tandy, Jani)

    WEC LMP2 Prediction: Rebellion #31 (Prost, Senna, Canal)

    WEC GTE-Pro Prediction: Ford #67 (Priaulx, Tincknell, Derani)

    WEC GTE-Am Prediction: Aston Martin #98 (Lauda, Dalla Lana, Lamy)

    MotoGP Prediction: Maverick Vinales

    WSBK Prediction: Chaz Davies

    BSB Prediction: Davide Giugliano

    Isle Of Man TT: John McGuinness

    “I cover a lot of racing here at The Crew, but I narrowed it down to my favourite series.

    In Formula One I am looking back over the last couple of seasons and at the confidence of Red Bull and their young star going into 2017. I think it will be a closely contested season between Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull, but Max Verstappen gets my tip, just, ahead of Sebastian Vettel. One to watch on my list is Nico Hulkenberg, he could be the breath of fresh air that Renault need to lift their hopes of regular points.

    World Rallycross is a difficult one. There is such a depth of talent in the field this year and although I think both Solberg and Ekstrom will be in the mix again, I am going with my ‘joker’ and tip Johan Kristoffersson for the title in the works Polo. Also watch out for Kevin “Round The Outside” Eriksson who I expect to cause a few upsets in the MJP Ford Fiesta.

    In the BTCC my prediction changed recently. When thinking of this article I was looking at Mat Jackson in the Focus or Jason Plato in the Subaru. Then a certain Colin Turkington signed for West Surrey Racing and the former 2009 and 2014 champion is my tip in the BMW, though I expect the usual suspects to be sniffing around. Watch out for Ash Sutton in the Subaru, I like this lad.

    Over in the good old USA, the IndyCar season is upon us and I really can’t see any other person than a Team Penske driver taking the title. However, I don’t think Simon Pagenaud will retain his title because I believe the 2017 championship will go to Will Power. I also think that Ryan Hunter-Reay will have a good season, but another prediction I will make concerns the Indy 500. My tip for the ‘big one’ goes to Josef Newgarden who steps into Team Penske, moving Montoya down to a more part-time driving role, and I think he could be the surprise name of the season, possibly even challenging Power for the title?

    WEC – with four classes it is hard to get them all right, but I will try to have a punt on this. In the LMP1 class I can’t look at anything else other than the #1 Porsche of Lotterer, Tandy and Jani. I just think they have the quality to take this and I think they will win Le Mans. In LMP2 with names such as Prost and Senna in their cars with Canal also, I am going for the #31 Rebellion. In GTE-Pro, my heart says Aston Martin (as a lifelong fan) but I am going to predict a class championship win for the #67 Ford of Priaulx, Tincknell and Derani. In the Am category I am sticking with the #98 Aston Martin of Lauda, Dalla Lana and Lamy.

    Bikes – some of you are aware that from time to time I step in to assist our Crew On Two editor Kiko Giles with some bike stuff, being a massive bike racing fan myself. I think that MotoGP will have a rocket put up its exhaust pipe and that Maverick Vinales will be crowned 2017 champion, though I expect Rossi and Marquez to be in the mix as always. My tip in WSBK for 2017 is the same man I tipped in 2016, Chaz Davies. I just think this is his year, be it that Jonathan Rea won the opening races. I think Chaz in the long run will come out on top and the Ducati is just getting better. In British Superbikes, which I have to say is my favourite bike racing series, although I am a massive Shakey Byrne fan and a lifelong Ducati fan, add to that I like Leon Haslam, I am predicting a 2017 title win for Davide Giugliano on the Tyco BMW. My one to watch is John ‘Hopper’ Hopkins back on the Ducati at Moto Rapido. For the Isle Of Man TT, I’m going to go for the old war horse John McGuinness to take the big one. I don’t think he’ll surpass Joey Dunlop’s tally this year, but I am tipping him to take the big race.“

    Those are the predictions from Crew Towers for the forthcoming season. Who are your tips?

    See you at the chequered flag.

    Neil Simmons

    Twitter: @world_racing

  • Haas reflects on strong start to sophomore season

    The Haas F1 team has made good progress in the first round of pre-season testing, according to team principal Gunther Steiner.

    The team’s second-ever F1 car, the VF-17, made its track debut on Monday at the hands of new recruit Kevin Magnussen, who recorded the fourth fastest time of the day at a little over a second behind Lewis Hamilton’s benchmark 1:21.765s.

    His programme was hampered by a return of the brake troubles that plagued Haas in 2016, but Magnussen insisted the interruptions were just “typical baby problems”, and added that his first taste of the team’s 2017 challenger was an experience he “enjoyed a lot”.

    Returning to the wheel on the following day, the Dane on supersofts lowered his best lap time to 1:22.204s, once again enough for fourth on the timesheets. This was set en route to amassing a total of 118 laps of the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya—the most of any driver.

    Circuit de Barcelona Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain.
    Tuesday 28 February 2017.
    World Copyright: Sam Bloxham/LAT Images
    ref: Digital Image _SLB9550

    Romain Grosjean then took charge of the VF-17 for the remaining two days. As with Magnussen, Grosjean’s first session on track was disrupted by a series of electrical and setup issues, and he ended Wednesday with just 56 laps under his belt.

    But on the final day of testing, the Frenchman was able to match his teammate’s Tuesday best by finishing fourth fastest on a 1:22.309s and at the top of the lap count.

    At the conclusion of the week’s sessions, team principal Gunther Steiner remarked upon the progress Haas has made since last year and distance the VF-17 was able to cover in Barcelona: “Compared with last year, [reliability has] been a lot better. We know a lot more about the car than we did four days ago. Now we can make the next step and hone it out, make it better.”

    Steiner also praised the work of partner Ferrari, hailing the “fantastic job” done by the Scuderia on its 2017 power unit.

    Circuit de Barcelona Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain.
    Wednesday 01 March 2017.
    World Copyright: Steven Tee/LAT Images
    ref: Digital Image _R3I6340

    Haas returns for the second week of pre-season testing on Tuesday, with Magnussen driving on days one and three, and Grosjean on days two and four.

    James Matthews, Editor-at-Large

    Images courtesy of Haas F1 Team