Sauber signaled the start of what is purported to be a bold new era in F1, with the launch of the C36, their 2017 car.
The livery is striking to say the least and has resulted in more positivity around the Sauber pre-season than has been seen in previous seasons. The blue, white and gold colour combination has reminded many of an era gone by, which is fitting for the 25th year tribute car.
Marcus Ericsson, who has been entrusted with another year with the team, took the car out in sunny Barcelona for Sauber’s official filming day and was happy with the car’s handling.
What do we know?
c Sauber
The 2017 regulations necessitated several changes to the cars, the interpretation of the application of these changes, as expected differ from team to team.
Sauber have utilised the 2016 Abu Dhabi Ferrari power train and explain that the aim is to achieve maximum durability of the powertrain.
A surprise is the direction toward a reduction in weight despite the over weight limit being increased for 2017. Sauber have explained that the radiators, side pods and like have been designed to be as slim as possible.
The point of this you may ask? Simply put the wider tyres (25% wider than in 2016) and the larger front and rear wings could lead to much more drag. Sauber have worked on reducing the drag coefficient by slimming the C36 as much as reasonably possible.
The 4 cylinder engine revs up to 15 000 rpm with a single turbo in each vehicle.
Sauber, with the welcome addition of new sponsors and Longbow Finance, have built the C36 from scratch and will be keen on seeing how Ericsson and Anto Giovinazzi get on with the car in pre-season testing. Giovinazzi is standing in for Pascal Werhlein, the new addition to the Sauber team for 2017, replacing Felipe Nasr, injured his back at the Race of Champions.
If positivity could be turned into points, Sauber are already in the pound seats (pun intended) already. For the first time in 3 seasons, there is a palpable feeling that Sauber will spring a surprise or two as only Sauber can.
The Sahara Force India F1 VJM10. Sahara Force India F1 VJM10 Launch, Wednesday 22nd February 2017. Silverstone, England.
Press release From Force India reveals hopes for the new season.
Sahara Force India launched its 2017 season today offering fans and media their first look at the team’s new car, the VJM10. Silverstone circuit was the venue as Sergio Perez and Esteban Ocon pulled back the covers to reveal the team’s dynamic new look including an updated livery and expanded partner portfolio.
The VJM10’s new aerodynamic package is guaranteed to get heads turning, while the silver and orange livery retains the team’s traditional colours with a fresh twist. Branding from Johnnie Walker appears on the rear wing and top of chassis marking the start of a partnership with the whisky brand. Telecommunications brands Claro, Telcel and Infinitum continue their partnerships for a fourth season, while NEC branding remains on the engine cover.
(L to R): The helmets of Sergio Perez (MEX) Sahara Force India F1 and Esteban Ocon (FRA) Sahara Force India F1 Team. Sahara Force India F1 Team Studio Shoot, Monday 21st February 2017. Silverstone, England.
Motor oil brand, Quaker State, continues its relationship with the team, as does long-time partner, Kingfisher, with its logo positioned on the engine cover. The VJM10 headrests carry eye-catching Hype Energy branding, while the team’s newest partner, FXTM, takes up a position on the rear of the sidepod. The team also welcomes eyewear brand, LDNR, with its logo on the front wing end plate.
Team Principal, Dr Vijay Mallya, was the first to praise the VJM10: “I can’t remember being more excited ahead of a new season. The VJM10 looks aggressive and purposeful, and is the result of a huge effort behind the scenes over the last twelve months. We have big hopes for this car, which looks stunning in its new livery.”
With a complete overhaul of technical regulations, the VJM10 represents a clean sheet of paper in terms of design. “This year the cars are completely new and nothing can be carried over from previous years,” explained Chief Operating Officer, Otmar Szafnauer. “Although we have completely new aerodynamics on the VJM10, it’s fair to say that our aero philosophy is very similar to 2015 and 2016.”
(L to R): Sergio Perez (MEX) Sahara Force India F1 and team mate Esteban Ocon (FRA) Sahara Force India F1 Team with the Sahara Force India F1 VJM10. Sahara Force India F1 VJM10 Launch, Wednesday 22nd February 2017. Silverstone, England.
Technical Director, Andrew Green, explained how the team has relished the challenge presented by the new rules and expects huge scope for in-season development: “It’s definitely a big overhaul; one that requires a change in mentality. It took a bit of time to adjust at first, but we are there now and I am confident we know where to look and where the performance is coming from with this car. The development slope is incredibly steep and we are going to see significant updates to the cars at regular intervals, right from the start; it’s going to be big updates and I don’t think development will start to taper off any time soon.”
Vijay Mallya remained cautious on setting a target for the season, preferring to reserve judgement until the racing begins: “Simply repeating our performance level of 2016 will be a big task in itself. I don’t want to set goals or targets other than to say that we intend to maintain the momentum we have built up in recent years and carry it into the new season. There are too many unknowns to say more than this.”
(L to R): Esteban Ocon (FRA) Sahara Force India F1 Team with team mate Sergio Perez (MEX) Sahara Force India F1. Sahara Force India F1 Team Studio Shoot, Monday 21st February 2017. Silverstone, England.
Q&A with Esteban Ocon
Esteban, you’re entering your first full season of Formula One – share your emotions.
“I’m very excited ahead of the season and the beginning of this new era of Formula One. The winter has gone massively quickly and the whole team has been working very hard to help me prepare for this new chapter. There is so much to take in and learn, and lots of new people to meet, but I’m feeling at home already. The main emotion is simply one of excitement and anticipation.”
What are your first impressions of working with this team? What makes Force India special?
“I would say two words: atmosphere and motivation – that’s what stands out about this team. It really feels like a family and everybody is motivated to deliver the best possible car and great results. I’m really impressed by the feeling inside the factory.”
How steep will your learning curve be in 2017?
“You can always learn more. Even if you have started 100 races, you can still improve. I think the nine races I did last year have helped me to discover some of the main challenges you face as a Formula One driver. I’ve learned where you need to put your focus and energy. I don’t feel like a rookie anymore and this team needs me to be on the pace straight away and getting strong results. I feel ready for this opportunity.”
What were the main jobs over the winter?
“The seat fit was the main priority and being comfortable in the car is very important because the new cars will be even more physical to drive compared to last year. I’ve done lots of simulator sessions, too, and spent time with my engineering team.”
Tell us how intense your fitness regime has been over the last few months
“I’ve been taking my fitness very seriously because the cars are going to be so much quicker this year. Instead of a two-week training camp, I’ve already done two full months at altitude in the Pyrenees. The training has been very high intensity and I’ve focussed on gaining some weight to help my strength. I’ve also done visualisation and reaction work because quicker cars mean you need to make decisions faster.”
What can we expect from the 2017 cars in terms of their physicality?
“You will feel the extra force of the cars all over your body, not just in your neck. For example, the braking pressure to stop the car will be much higher so you need the strength in your legs. The g-force will increase everywhere – under braking and in corners – so it’s going to be a more physical experience.”
What about your new teammate Sergio? How are you getting along together?
“I don’t know him very well yet, but we spoke a few times towards the end of last year during the drivers’ parades. We spoke about this team and why he wanted to stay here. He’s a great guy and I look forward to learning from him because he is an excellent driver who has achieved some awesome things with this team.”
What are your goals for this season?
“I’ve got to aim to score points at every race. That’s the level of this team and I will be disappointed if we don’t start the season with some good results. I know it’s not going to be easy and all the teams around us are going to be strong, but we’ve got to aim high. The first goal is to make the most of testing and develop the car in the best direction. After two weeks in Barcelona we will hopefully have a better idea of what to expect in Melbourne.”
Q&A with Sergio Perez
It’s almost three months since you were last in an F1 car – you must be ready to get back behind the wheel?
“I’m really excited and looking forward to seeing this year’s cars. The new rules represent a massive change for everyone in the team and for me as a driver. After the long winter and preparation at the factory, you simply want to get out on track and experience your new car.”
How did you spend the off-season?
“It’s been a mixture of relaxation and lots of training. It was nice to go home to Mexico and see my friends and family because it’s not something I can do often during the racing season. Also, this year my training schedule has been much busier because I need to be ready for the massive physical challenge of the 2017 cars.
Have you done anything different this winter on the fitness front?
“I’ve not really changed that much, but just spent more time doing the same things. Normally I would spend the month before testing doing intensive training, but this year I’ve been working really hard for two and a half months. I’ve been training in the hot weather too.”
What will be the biggest change compared to last year?
“It’s going to be the energy and force you feel through the corners. It’s going to be much more physical with bigger lateral forces. Also, I expect less degradation with this year’s tyres so the rhythm of the races is going to be faster with less drop-off. I really hope that these new regulations will test us as drivers and put us under pressure. Formula One needs to expose who are the best drivers over two hours and I think the new rules are taking us in this direction.”
How are you getting on with your new teammate Esteban?
“I don’t know Esteban that well yet, but he seems very friendly. I’ve always got on well with my teammates and my relationship with Nico [Hulkenberg] was very open so I think it will be the same with Esteban. I hope we can push each other hard because it’s important to have somebody next to you who can really challenge you. That’s what the team needs too.”
This is your fourth season with Sahara Force India. You must know the team inside out by now?
“The time here has gone really quickly. We’ve had an incredible amount of success in the last three years and I want this fourth year to be even better. Knowing everybody makes a massive difference because you feel as though you are part of the family, which is especially important when you start working with a new set of regulations.”
What are your personal goals for the new season?
“My target is to improve on what we achieved last year, which will be a big challenge. I hope that we can be one of the surprises of the season and I even dream that we can achieve our first victory together. This is a pure racing team; everybody understands their role and we all work well together. That’s why I believe we can keep delivering in 2017
It was a fairly low key affair for a launch as the team revealed Ferrari’s challenge for a world title in 2017.
The garage door opened at Fiorano to reveal the SF70H, with Sebastian Vettel, Kimi Raikkonen, Maurizio Arrivabene and Mattia Binotto surrounding the car.
With 2017’s new rules set to make cars significantly quicker than in 2016, Ferrari have concentrated their development efforts on finding the right compromise between downforce and aerodynamic resistance, or drag, on the SF70H.
Its lengthened nose and arrow-shaped front wing are a consequence of the regulations, as is the obvious fin on the engine cover and the more complex aero appendages ahead of the air intakes on the sidepods, whose unusual shape was designed in harmony with the front crash structure.
Visible at the front is a duct that has an aerodynamic role, while behind the driver, the roll-hoop, which incorporates the engine air intake has been completely redesigned. Also updated is the suspension layout, which still retains a push rod design at the front with pull rods at the rear.
The hubs and wheel nuts have been redesigned to facilitate the work of the mechanics when changing wheels during the pit stops. Finally, also as a function of the expected increase in performance this year, the power-steering and braking systems have been upsized. Similar to the other cars revealed already, the SF70H featured a large sharkfin and a thumb-tip nose. Ferrari, like Mercedes, has also gone for a T-wing.
Power Unit
In contrast to the aerodynamics, when it comes to the power unit, there have been few changes to the regulations. The main one concerns the amount of fuel that can be used by each car during the race: with the predicted increase in performance, with a bigger percentage of each lap spent at full revs, the permitted amount of fuel has increased from 100 to 105 kg, although the flow rate is still fixed at 100 kg/hour.
Ferrari say the SF70H’s 062 engine is a definite step forward compared to its predecessor, when it comes to chasing performance. The layout of some of the mechanical components on the hybrid power unit has been revised, while other areas maintain a similar layout to the 2016 car.
Neil Simmons
Twitter: @world_racing
Photo Credits: (c) Ferrari
*please note parts of this article are taken from the Ferrari press release.
All three Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters manufacturers were present in Algarve for the last collective testing before the cars have to be submitted to homologation on March 1.
Photo Credit: (c) Audi Sport
Audi Sport brought their former champion Mattias Ekström to perform the initial shakedown, before handing the RS 5 DTM to Loïc Duval and René Rast, both new full-season drivers in the series and Jamie Green, who took the car for the final of three days.
Photo Credit: (c) Mercedes-AMG
Mercedes-AMG also had a mix of experienced drivers and new signings. The Stuttgart-based brand focused on completing as many laps as possible with Gary Paffett, Paul di Resta and Audi refugee Edoardo Mortara. The three drivers together crossed the finish line 438 times.
Photo Credit: (c) BMW Motorsport
BMW Motorsport was the only manufacturer to have only two drivers with Augusto Farfus and reigning series champion Marco Wittmann sharing the driving duties. The München-based squad focussed on getting to know the new for 2017 tyres which are much softer, as an effect of a tyre warmers ban.
The sessions were not timed and it is understood that not all cars were in their full 2017 trims.
This will change for the next collective test, which will take place in Italian Vallelunga on March 14-17.
The lights dimmed and the MCL32 sat, under covers for the moment, waiting to reveal itself to the racing world. Simon Lazenby stepped out to address the gathered guests of McLaren and spoke fondly of the history surrounding the team.
Would the rumours of the orange livery be fulfilled?
The room became dark, the speakers boomed into life as snippets of past McLaren cars faded in and zipped out of focus, the excited tones of Murray Walker echoing around the centre to be replaced by the calm voice of Ayrton Senna.
The moment had arrived, the time was now.
Spinning majestically on a dark turntable the bright livery of the MCL32 was revealed for the first time and there was a collected gasp from McLaren fans around the world as the orange sparkled proudly under the studio lights.
Zak Brown strode proudly onto the stage and revealed that he had listened to those fans who wanted to see orange on the car, he understands the history of the team and he knows full well the passion of the fans who not only craved a hark back to a past full of glory but a history that is tinged with so many emotions.
The McLaren MCL32 was revealed to the world today and with it the hope that, finally, the past can become the present and the future can be as successful as the past.
Ladies and Gentlemen let me introduce you to McLaren’s challenger for 2017:
McLAREN-HONDA MCL32 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
CHASSIS
Monocoque
Carbon-fibre composite, incorporating driver controls and fuel cell
Safety structures
Cockpit survival cell incorporating impact resistant construction and anti-penetration panels, front impact structure, prescribed side impact structures, integrated rear impact structure, front and rear roll structures
Bodywork
Carbon-fibre composite, including engine cover, sidepods, floor, nose, front wing and rear wing with driver-operated drag reduction system
Front suspension
Carbon-fibre wishbone and pushrod suspension elements operating inboard torsion bar and damper system
Rear suspension
Carbon-fibre wishbone and pullrod suspension elements operating inboard torsion bar and damper system
Weight
Overall vehicle weight 728kg (including driver, excluding fuel). Weight distribution between 45.3% and 46.3%
Electronics
McLaren Applied Technologies. Including chassis control, power unit control, data acquisition, sensors, data analysis and telemetry
Instruments
McLaren Applied Technologies dashboard
Greases & Fluids
Castrol grease and hydraulic oil
Brake system
Akebono brake calipers and master cylinders. Akebono ‘brake by wire’ rear brake control system. Carbon discs and pads
Steering
Power-assisted rack and pinion
Tyres
Pirelli P Zero
Race wheels
Enkei
Garage Radio
Kenwood
Paint
AkzoNobel Car Refinishes system using Sikkens products
Cooling Systems
Calsonic Kansei water and oil cooling
POWER UNIT
Type
HONDA RA617H
Minimum weight
145 kg
Primary PU components
Internal Combustion Engine (ICE)
Motor Generator Unit – Kinetic (MGU-K)
Motor Generator Unit – Heat (MGU-H)
Energy Store (ES)
Turbocharger
Control Electronics
INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE
Capacity
1.6 litres
Cylinders
Six
Bank angle
90 degree vee angle
No of valves
24
Max speed
15,000 rpm
Max fuel flow rate
100 kg/hour (above 10,500 rpm)
Fuel consumption
105 kg ‘lights to flag’ regulated fuel capacity limit
Fuel injection
Direct injection, single injector per cylinder, 500 bar max
Pressure charging
Single-stage compressor and exhaust turbine, common shaft
Fuel & Lubricant
BP Castrol
ENERGY RECOVERY SYSTEM
Architecture
Integrated Hybrid energy recovery via Motor Generator Units
Crankshaft coupled electrical MGU-K
Turbocharger coupled electrical MGU-H
Energy Store
Lithium-Ion battery, between 20 and 25 kg
Maximum energy storage, 4 MJ per lap
MGU-K
Maximum speed, 50,000 rpm
Maximum power, 120 kW
Maximum energy recovery, 2 MJ per lap
Maximum energy deployment, 4 MJ per lap
MGU-H
Maximum speed 125,000 rpm
Maximum power, unlimited
Maximum energy recovery, unlimited
Maximum energy deployment, unlimited
TRANSMISSION
Gearbox
Carbon-fibre composite main case, longitudinally mounted
The first round of the 2017 World Superbike season is coming from Australia and the Phillip Island circuit, located around 850km away from the capital, Canberra. Three of the top ten closest finishes in the history of WSBK have come from the Australian track, including the most recent one, in race 2 in 2015, when Leon Haslam won from Jonathan Rea. With a series of changes coming in both the series and within the teams, 2017 has all the credentials to be yet another vintage season.
The preseason favourites are without doubt Kawasaki and more-so Jonathan Rea, the reigning double champion. Aiming to become the first ever rider to win three championships on the bounce, the Ulsterman has won at least one race at the track since he joined the Kawasaki Racing Team back in 2015. Rea hasn’t won since the second race at the Lausitzring last season, and if Chaz Davies’ form is anything to go by, then it might not be all in the recently-turned-30-year-old’s favour.
His teammate, Tom Sykes, set a new pole record at Phillip Island last year but came away with nothing better than a 5th and 6th place after the races. Phillip Island is one of only a handful of the current circuits that Sykes hasn’t won at and he will be looking to put an end to that statistic. Having not been on the podium at the track since 2014, he will want a return to form, as he needs to bag points early on to have a real chance of beating Rea. Can the Huddersfielder do it? Only time will tell.
Chaz Davies has been in the top three for the past two seasons, and comes into 2017 as the rider in form. Seven wins from the last eight races in 2016, the Aruba.IT Ducati Team have got every faith in the Welshman to deliver the number one plate direct to Italy. 30-year-old Davies won more races than anyone else last season, but inconsistency – crashes at Phillip Island, Donington Park and Laguna Seca most notably – lead to the bronze medal position in 2016. Having set the fastest lap in at least one race at Phillip Island since 2014, he will be looking to convert one lap speed for consistent race pace, to take his first victory at the track.
Marco Melandri has won at Phillip Island, back in 2006 in MotoGP on the Fortuna Honda. The Italian has been on the podium every season in WSBK at the track since joining the series back in 2011 and has potential to become the first Italian pole-sitter in the history of WSBK at Phillip Island. The last Italian winner was Max Biaggi in 2012 and Melandri will be hoping to rewrite that record. Ducati will also be looking for success, having not taken a victory at the Australian venue since 2012 with Carlos Checa. Melandri could become one of a select group of riders to win on four makes of bike if he manages a victory at some point this season. Keep your eyes on the #33.
Honda are sporting a new look in 2017, revamped with their new bike and with their striking appearance – fashioning a Red Bull livery – it could be love at first sight for their riders. Nicky Hayden took the old Honda Fireblade to its first victory since Portugal 2014 last season at Sepang, on his way to securing a solid 5th place in the championship. The American will be looking to add to that tally, as he begins his 2nd full season in the WSBK category after leaving MotoGP in 2015. Hayden’s best result at Phillip Island was a 4th place in race 2, although this year, the Kentucky Kid will hope for a taste of the champagne.
Joined by fellow former MotoGP star, Stefan Bradl will partner Hayden at Red Bull Honda. The 2011 Moto2 champion begins his career in WSBK at Phillip Island, a circuit he has never won at although he took 2nd in his Moto2 championship season. The German has adapted quickly during in testing for the series but expects to be playing catch up with the new Honda until Aragon in April. On his journey this year, the son of former GP winner Helmut Bradl, will be encountering new circuits such as the Chang International Circuit, Imola, Portimao, the Lausitzring and Magny Cours. Can the German be a threat?
As well as the top three manufacturers from last year, teams such as Althea BMW and Milwaukee Aprilia will be searching for victories throughout the campaign, with former GP stars such as Jordi Torres and Eugene Laverty in the mix for both teams respectively. Alongside them are Markus Reiterberger (BMW) and Lorenzo Savadori (Aprilia) – neither of which have scored their first WSBK podium.
The Pata Yamaha Team operated by Paul Denning of Crescent Racing retain Alex Lowes for a fourth straight season and introduce Dutchman Michael Van Der Mark into the fray, as Sylvain Guintoli heads back to BSB. Leon Camier stays on the MV Agusta for another season, hoping to also achieve the team’s first ever podium. He achieved a great 7th place at Phillip Island last season, wanting to do better this year no doubt.
Other riders such as Xavi Fores, who was quickest in testing Down Under, make up the grid. Alex De Angelis switches to the oldest team in the paddock at Team Pedercini Kawasaki, with Ondrej Jezek and Ayrton Badovini joining the Grillini Kawasaki outfit. Roman Ramos remains in the GoEleven Kawasaki team, the Spaniard being the only full time rider last year to finish every race he took part in. Leandro Mercado represents the whole of South America, as the Argentine teams up with Ioda Racing who in turn become a one-man outfit for this season. The grid is rounded out with Italy’s Ricardo Russo on the Guandolini Yamaha, as the team return to the championship, and by former GP star and World Supersport race winner at Phillip Island in 2016, Randy Krummenacher, who steps up to the World Superbike class with World Supersport champions from last year, Pucetti Racing.
21 riders, 13 rounds, 11 countries and over 40 international and national titles between them, it’s hard not to see competition levels on show this year. With new sponsors, new teams, returning riders and tracks, not to mention new, longer-lasting qualifying tyres and the race 2 grid system, World Superbikes is set to have a renaissance in 2017. After the conclusion of the first weekend, we will have a rough idea of who is hot and who most certainly is not, as well as knowing how good the new system for race 2 grid positions will be. The only absentee from proceedings this weekend is Leandro Mercado, who nurses an injury following a testing incident – the team opting not to replace him.
You can follow the season with us this year, with every round covered to the highest standard. Follow us online for exclusive interviews and polls, as well as competitions and live updates from events – our handle is @PitCrew_Online. You can follow me too, for all things bikes, whether it be WSBK, BSB, MotoGP, CEV or the Shell Asia Talent Cup! @MotoGPKiko is where to find me!
Kiko Giles @MotoGPKiko
The final team of our big six previews is the Spanish Althea BMW Team. In 2016, the Althea Racing Team made the switch from being the satellite Ducati team to the Factory BMW team, and with a few good results, the former champions want to return to winning ways now that they have a year of experience under their belt. Keeping to the same bike is crucial but keeping to the same rider line-up is just as vital. Could 2017 see the boys in black and white reach the chequered flag first?
The BMW Factory Team withdrew from competition at WSBK after their 2012 season, leaving the GoldBet BMW squad to be the lead team for the manufacturer. However, after their collapse, it is now the Althea Team who have some backing from BMW HQ. The bike itself is a weapon. It is one of the fastest bikes in a straight line and it handles superbly through the twisty parts of the tracks. However, one issue that has occurred is that throttle control is very difficult to manage. Tyco BMW and Hawk Racing BMW experienced that issue over in the BSB series, but different regulations at WSBK level mean that the issue isn’t as prominent for Althea.
Jordi Torres remains with the team for 2nd consecutive season. The Spaniard came to the championship in 2015 aboard a semi-factory Aprilia, and took his first win at Losail. Having endured last season with no win and no podiums, Torres will feel like he needs to get back where he belongs. A handful of 4th places helped him into 6th come the season’s end, but Torres knows he is top five material, and 2017 has to be the year where he is back up front.
Partnering the former Moto2 winner is double IDM champion, Markus Reiterberger. The German had a solid rookie year at World Superbike level on a bike that is hard to get to grips with. 16th in the championship doesn’t reflect some of the more successful rides that he had in the season, with a season best 5th at Buriram in Thailand. The 5th in Thailand proved that on a more less new circuit, Reiterberger is very fast indeed. Can the 22-year-old be a spoiler from the off in 2017?
As for circuits, Thailand was a very good circuit for the team last season, highlighted by the aforementioned Reiterberger and his 5th. Imola is one of Torres’ favourites, having taken his first ever podium at the track in 2015, and a 4th place last season. The last time a BMW won a WSBK race was at Portimao in 2013 with Melandri, and that very circuit returns after a year absence in 2017.
You can keep up to date with the goings on of World Superbike here at The Pit Crew Online. Give us a follow on Twitter @PitCrew_Online, and keep up with the live text commentary of all the big meetings!
M-Sport LTD Press Release
Alex Laffey and Dai Roberts will contest this year’s MSA British Rally Championship with M-Sport’s Ecoboost-powered Ford Fiesta R5. Contesting all seven events throughout the 2017 season, the pairing will look to continue their development in one of rallying’s best proving grounds for up-and-coming talent.
Since starting his career with the Ford Fiesta ST in 2009, Laffey has been a regular on the British rally scene and has since progressed through the ranks with M-Sport’s range of Ford Fiesta rally cars.
Securing his first outright victory at the 2014 edition of the Rally of the Midlands, Laffey is hungry for more and keen to make his mark on the national rally series.
Contesting the championship behind the wheel of the Fiesta R5 last year, Laffey went up against some of the biggest names in rallying – in direct competition with the likes of Elfyn Evans who won three stages at the opening round of this year’s FIA World Rally Championship.
Having regularly challenged for the top-ten positions, the Scotsman will be looking to be a regular points-scoring contender throughout this year’s championship and is determined to further develop his skills with the aid of M-Sport’s guidance and expertise.
Enjoying support from providers of high quality student accommodation, U-Student, as well as tyre giants Pirelli, the pairing will also proudly display their association with the Gareth Roberts Memorial Fund – a charity in memory of co-driver Robert’s late brother which is dedicated to supporting the rally community throughout the British Isles.
Both partners as well as the charity are proudly displayed on Laffey’s eye-catching new livery which draws inspiration from his Scottish roots with a purple and lime-green tartan-enthused design.
To prepare for the season ahead, Laffey and Roberts will contest next month’s Malcolm Wilson Rally which runs from M-Sport’s hometown of Cockermouth. With 40 miles of stages through some of the most iconic forests in the English Lake District National Park, the event will provide the perfect test for the season ahead.
Alex Laffey said:
“Once again I am really excited to be working with M-Sport. I really enjoyed last year’s championship and it is great to be coming back for another year. I really want to bring my pace on again this season, and working with M-Sport will provide the prefect platform for that. I am also really happy to have Dai [Roberts] on board calling the notes this season. He has a lot of experience and will make a great addition to the team.”
Britain’s Andrew Jordan will compete at the British round of the 2017 FIA World Rallycross Championship at Lydden Hill for MJP Racing Team Austria alongside World RX regular Kevin Eriksson.
Britain’s Andrew Jordan, British Touring Car and Rallycross Champion commented: “It’s brilliant to join MJP Racing Team Austria for the British round of the 2017 FIA World Rallycross Championship at Lydden Hill. Rallycross Supercars are so impressive to drive, the level of cars and teams has stepped up massively over the last couple of years and I’m very lucky to get to drive one for MJP Racing Team Austria. Rallycross holds great memories for me from when I started racing at 14 years old to standing on a World Rallycross podium, I love the sport and am hugely proud to compete at my home event. For sure it’s is just a one off but I think we will have great potential to make some great result. Thanks to the Team and their sponsors for giving me this opportunity.”
Team owner Max J. Pucher: “Due to the fact that Timo Scheider has a date conflict he will not be able to drive the British round with us. We are very glad to have Andrew Jordan standing in for Timo. Andrew is a fantastic driver who already achieved a podium at Lydden Hill World RX in 2014. I think that he could do it again and put up a fantastic show with the WorldRX regulars. We don’t put Andrew under any pressure, but we certainly have high expectations. For sure there will be many fans out there cheering for Andrew and our Team. We will give both the best possible opportunity for a fantastic event at Lydden Hill.”
Andrew Jordan (GBR) Pirtek Racing Motorbase Performance Ford Focus
Australia has traditionally hosted the season premiere of Formula 1. The first, Formula One race held in 1985 on the street circuit in Adelaide. Australia has a contract with FIA until 2023. The length of the circuit is 5.303 km and drivers have to complete 58 laps. The Australian Lex Davison and the German Michael Schumacher are sharing the record of the most wins, four each.
7-9 April – Shanghai China
The Chinese Grand Prix made its debut in 2004, the two architects Hermann Tilke and Peter Wahl said that the shape of the track is like the Chinese character ‘Shang’. The length of the track is 5.451 km and Michael Schumacher holds the record of the fastest lap since 2004 (1:32:238s).
14-16 April – Bahrain
The first race in the Middle East took place in Bahrain on 4 April 2004. The track is located 30 km south-west of Manama. Circuit’s length is 5.412 km and can host 50,000 spectators. Pedro De La Rosa holds the lap record since 2005 (1:31:447s), Fernando Alonso has the most wins (3) and Ferrari holds the most wins as a constructor (4).
28-30 April – Sochi Russia
The Sochi circuit is located in the Black Sea resort town of Sochi in Krasnodar. The first race in Russia was held in October 2014 the same year with the Winter Olympics. The circuit has 55,000 capacity and its length is 5.848 km, the track was designed by the German architect Hermann Tilke. Nico Rosberg set the lap record last season (1:39:094s) and also won the race, followed by Lewis Hamilton and Kimi Raikkonen.
12-14 May – Barcelona Spain
The Circuit de Catalunya is a known track to most of the drivers, as it hosts the pre-season tests and the Spanish Grand Prix is on the F1’s calendar since 1991. It is a challenging track because it mixes high and low-speed corners and also the tyre wear is high and depends on the winds which cut across the circuit. In 2014 Spanish Grand Prix hosted the 24th race in Barcelona. Michael Schumacher holds the record of the most wins, six victories in total.
The first Formula One race in Monaco was held in 1950, Monte Carlo is one of the most difficult circuits, it requires a precision driving as the barriers are very tight and the slightest mistake might be fatal. It is a track which the overtaking is almost impossible, the brakes are overheating and the downforce is on maximum level. Ayrton Senna is the driver with the most wins in Monte Carlo, six in total and McLaren is the only team who won the Monaco Grand Prix 15 times.
09-11 June – Montreal Canada
In 1977, Gilles Villeneuve’s career inspired the French Canadians to design and construct a Formula 1 circuit. They connected all the island’s roads on Notre Dame Island and created a circuit. The first race held in 1978 and Villeneuve won his first victory with Ferrari at that season. In 1982, the circuit renamed to Gilles Villeneuve to honour his name and career. Last season Lewis Hamilton took the pole position and the chequered flag, followed by Sebastian Vettel and Valtteri Bottas.
23-25 June – Baku Azerbaijan
The newest circuit in Formula 1 takes place in Azerbaijan in Baku. It was designed by the German architect Hermann Tilke and it is one of the quickest street circuits on the calendar. The circuit has 20 turns and it is almost six kilometres long, at the fastest stint of the track the F1 cars can reach a speed up to 360 km/h.
07-09 July – Spielberg Austria
The Austrian Grand Prix (a.k.a. Red Bull Ring) returned to the Formula 1 calendar in 2014. Last season Lewis Hamilton took the chequered flag and Max Verstappen with his Red Bull finished second. The race length is 307.146 km and Alain Prost holds the record for the most victories.
Silverstone is one of the most historic circuits in Formula One. In 1950, when the F1 world championship began, Silverstone held the first round. Guiseppe Farina with an Alfa Romeo won the first Grand Prix and his name entered in the Formula 1 history book. Several changes occurred in the circuit since the first race, the latest one took place in 2010, and the track became more challenging for the drivers. Ferrari has the most wins as a constructor and Jim Clark with Alain Prost are sharing the most wins record. Circuit length is 5.891km and the total length of the race is 306.291 km.
28-30 July – Budapest Hungary
The initial idea was to design a street circuit in Budapest, but in the end the authorities decided to design and build a new track 19 km outside of Budapest. The first Grand Prix took place in 1986 and more than 180,000 fans showed up. Lewis Hamilton has won the Hungarian Grand Prix six times, his latest victory was last season. Michael Schumacher has one less victory from Hamilton in Budapest.
25-27 August – Spa- Belgium
The Belgium Spa-Francorchamps circuit is one of the most favourite circuits for drivers and the fans. The first race took place in 1924 and since then it has not stopped to be in F1 calendar. It is the longest circuit on the calendar, its mix long straights, and fast corners. The most famous corner of the circuit is the Eau Rouge, combines high speed with sudden elevation change. Only six drivers managed to win the Belgian Grand Prix more than two times, these are Juan Manuel Fangio, Damon Hill, Kimi Raikkonen, Jim Clark, Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher.
1-3 September – Monza Italy
Monza has its own character, every year the circuit is full of Tifosi who are cheering for their favourite team, Ferrari. Formula One race took place for the first time in 1950 and it has remained on the calendar since then. The only year that the Italian Grand Prix didn’t hold in Monza was in 1980 when it took place in Imola.
15-17 September – Singapore
In May 2007 the five-year deal between the Formula One CEO Bernie Ecclestone, Singapore entrepreneur Ong Beng Send and the Singapore Tourism Board, was announced. The first Grand Prix in Singapore was hosted in 2008 and it was the first night race. Many powerful lighting systems are used every year in order to replicate a daylight race. The track can accommodate more than 80,000 spectators, the circuit length is 5.065km and the total race length is 308.828km.
29-1 October – Sepang Malaysia
The first Formula One race was held in 1999, each season the drivers have to complete 56 laps and the race distance is 310.408km. Juan Pablo Montoya set the fastest lap in 2004 (1:34:223s). The circuit is located near the Kuala Lumpur International Airport, about 45km south of the capital city Kuala Lumpur. Rumours saying that Sepang circuit might be dropped from Formula One calendar due to low ticket sales.
6-8 October – Suzuka Japan
The track was built in 1962 by Honda as a test facility. A theme park and the famous big wheel were also constructed at the track, John Hugenholz was the designer of the track. Suzuka has a figure eight layout and long straight (1.2km) which is passing over the front section. Last season the German Nico Rosberg won the race, whilst Lewis Hamilton finished third.
20-22 October – Austin USA
Formula One returned to the United Stars in 2012 after five years of absence. It is a 5.5 km circuit located southeast of the Texan capital, Hermann Tile cooperated with an American architectural firm, HKS in order to design the track. Michael Schumacher has won five times in the USA, the same number of victories with the Brit Lewis Hamilton.
27-29 October – Mexico City
Mexico City made its debut as a non-championship event in 1962, a year later held the first official race until 1970 where it stopped. The last race took place in 1992 and after a break of thirteen years, Mexico returned to the F1 calendar.
A title decider circuit for many years, the Brazilian Grand Prix takes place in Interlagos since 1973. The two previous years, 1971-1972, the circuit hosted non-championship events. Only two times the Grand Prix moved from Interlagos to Rio, the first was in 1978, but the next year it returned to Interlagos and the second one was in 1981, but again after a $15m investment the race returned to Interlagos and remained there until today. The Brazilians are passionate about Formula One and the circuit is almost full every season, they have their idols as many Brazilian drivers raced in Formula 1, like Nelson Piquet, Emerson Fittipaldi, Ayrton Senna and Felipe Massa.
24-26 November – Abu Dhabi
Formula One’s finale takes place in one of the richest places in the world, in Abu Dhabi. The German architect, Hermann Tile, designed the 5.55 km Yas Marina circuit which made its debut on November 1, 2009. Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel sharie the title for the most wins, both of them won the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix three times. It is one of the most competitive circuits on the F1 calendar as it combines a long straight and several tight corners which make the overtaking almost impossible.
It was a fairly low key affair for a launch as the team revealed Ferrari’s challenge for a world title in 2017.
The final team of our big six previews is the Spanish Althea BMW Team. In 2016, the Althea Racing Team made the switch from being the satellite Ducati team to the Factory BMW team, and with a few good results, the former champions want to return to winning ways now that they have a year of experience under their belt. Keeping to the same bike is crucial but keeping to the same rider line-up is just as vital. Could 2017 see the boys in black and white reach the chequered flag first?
