The year was 2001. I was playing the F1 2001 game by EA Sports as Mika Hakkinen in the McLaren, and during the presentation of the grid, I came across a Kimi Raikkonen in a Sauber Petronas, in the lower half of the field.  An instant connection got formed that day. Little did I know that this young Finnish Racer would leave a lasting impression on my life and race for almost two decades in F1.

Hailing from Espoo in Finland, Raikkonen had already impressed Peter Sauber during a private test in 2000. The youngster had completed only 23 single-seater races and competed only in Formula Renault after his karting days. So impressed was Sauber with Raikkonen's showing at the test that he left no stone unturned in securing him a super licence and an F1 drive in 2001.

After his exploits at Sauber, which established him as the next Finnish superstar, he switched to McLaren in 2002, becoming the team's new "Flying Finn". Those were the years of men like Ron Dennis, Martin Whitmarsh and Nobert Haug at the helm, locked in intense battles with Michael Schumacher, Jean Todt and Ross Brawn, who were at Ferrari.

Those years at McLaren had a lot of highs, but also several lows for Raikkonen. Although the cars were title challengers every alternate year ( 2003 and 2005 ), they were highly unreliable. Raikkonen lost out on two world titles, retiring from the lead due to mechanical failures several times. During his stint at McLaren, I struggled to keep up with the racing due to my academic commitments. But when I did watch a race, my eyes searched for the "RAI" in the classification. Hopes arose when he was in the top 3 and sunk when he retired. Whatever was the result, accessing McLaren's site to read what transpired in the race ( including the top brass' assessment ) became a ritual. 

Who can forget the famous victories that Raikkonen had with McLaren, Malaysia 2003, Spa 2004 & 05, Monaco 2005 and Suzuka 2005, to name a few! There was no lack of talent, yet the machine wasn't doing Raikkonen justice. I began to wonder if he would ever emulate his compatriot Hakkinen and win a title at the misfiring McLaren. 

Then came the big move in the latter half of 2006. Speculations were rife that Schumacher, the most successful driver of the sport, would walk away at the end of the year, and Raikkonen was his recommendation to Ferrari. The confirmation came through after the Italian GP, and the Finn would don the Scuderia overalls in 2007.

Having been a McLaren fan even before Hakkinen, I had to choose between Raikkonen and the team. I chose Raikkonen and am glad that I did!

Despite a slow start at Ferrari, Raikkonen slowly began to get to grips with his new car. He looked all but out of title contention against McLaren's protegee and rookie Hamilton. However, Hamilton's retirement at Shanghai took the title battle to the season finale in Brazil. 

I still remember that Sunday night. Preparing for my engineering exam, which was the next day, I was buzzing with excitement about the possibility of Raikkonen getting crowned Champion. Something in me told me that he would win. Ironically, McLaren and Hamilton hadn't suffered from any mechanical issues that year. The race got underway, and Hamilton's gearbox malfunctioned! With the Briton languishing at the back of the pack, Raikkonen was suddenly in contention for the title! Ferrari completed a swap of positions during the pit stops to give Raikkonen the lead. As soon as Raikkonen crossed the finish line to victory, Ferrari confirmed that he was World Champion, having won it by one point!!

I was ecstatic in my living room, the tensions of an exam forgotten. Finally, all the heartaches of the previous five years ended! Kimi Raikkonen was an F1 World Champion!!

In 2008, Ferrari chased a development plan contrary to what Raikkonen desired, and the latter had to play a support role to teammate Massa's title fight. The title decider was in Brazil once again, and Hamilton didn't falter this time. 2009 saw a regulations overhaul and the big guns faltered against Brawn GP and Button, who romped to the World Title. A stellar drive by Raikkonen gave Ferrari its only win in Belgium. The Finn got called "The King of Spa" after his famous victory!

With Alonso eyeing a seat in a top team after his unceremonious exit from McLaren at the end of 2007, Ferrari seemed a possible destination. The negotiations proved successful, and Ferrari cut short Raikkonen's contract. The Finn got replaced for 2010 and failed to secure a drive in the sport!

He left F1 to pursue a career in Rallying with a short stint in Nascar. I was gutted with the news and couldn't keep up with his racing career elsewhere. With Raikkonen out of F1, I lost interest in the sport, unable to watch the races with the same passion. My sporting interests slowly began to shift to Moto GP and Football. Although I did attend the inaugural Indian GP in 2011, I couldn't imagine F1 without Raikkonen... 

Come 29th November 2011. I was in my office going through some sports-related news on a couple of websites. Suddenly, I came across an article that read, "Raikkonen returns to F1 in 2012 with Lotus"!!

The Iceman was back, in F1, on a two-year deal! That day, my love for the sport got reignited. More importantly, with my academic and educational commitments complete, I got presented with the opportunity of travelling to F1 races, something I wouldn't pass up considering that it was only a two-year deal for Raikkonen. And so began my journey to meet my hero in person!

Malaysia, Silverstone, Singapore, India, Nurburgring, Monza, Abu Dhabi were the races I got to be at, meeting Raikkonen on a few occasions. 

Raikkonen's stellar performances at Lotus F1 left the team at the brink of bankruptcy. The Finn went on to record two wins and thirteen podiums during his two-year tenure. His performances attracted the attention of an old employer, and for 2014, the Finn rejoined Ferrari! In his words, "I am coming home".

His second stint at Ferrari lasted five years that had Alonso and Vettel as codrivers. Strategic bungles and misfortunes played spoilsport more often than not. There were many memorable performances, and 2018 was Raikkonen's strongest year that included victory at the Circuit of the Americas. During his time at Ferrari, I attended races at the following venues - Hockenheimring, COTA, Austria, Belgium, Spain, Hungary, Abu Dhabi.

Although many media personnel declared Raikkonen a spent force, the Finn still had more to give to the sport. In 2019, he made an unthinkable return to Sauber F1 ( rechristened to Alfa Romeo Racing ), his first employer in the sport. In 2019, I followed Raikkonen to Canada, Belgium and Suzuka.

I had made elaborate plans for 2020, but then the world got hit by the Pandemic COVID-19. 2020 was the first year since Raikkonen's return to F1, in which I failed to be at a live race. The Pandemic continues to deny me the chance of attending a race in 2021, and with Raikkonen announcing that he would walk away from F1 at the end of the season, I am hoping and praying to be at Abu Dhabi for the final race.

Raikkonen remains the most successful Finnish driver in F1 and also Ferrari's last Champion. He might not be the one with the most victories or championships, and probably his career statistics might look uninspiring to many. For many, Raikkonen was even past his prime. However, no one can disagree about the legacy he has built in the sport.  

Drivers ( current and past ) praised him for being a fair yet hard racer. Those who knew him as a teammate appreciated his uncomplicated and straightforward attitude to life and racing. A man of few words, Raikkonen spoke his mind, rarely adhering to PR generated responses, was apolitical and focussed only on what unfolded behind the wheel. Those who had worked with Raikkonen as race engineers or mechanics acknowledged his ability to understand car setups. His feedback and suggestions were precise, reminiscent of Schumacher as per Andrea Stella. Whatever be the situation, Raikkonen was always committed to the cause and the betterment of his team. He was one of those drivers who didn't spend time at a simulator before heading to a new circuit, a born racer, like an Alonso or Vettel or Hamilton, a breed rarely seen nowadays. 

To the world, he still looks demotivated, disinterested and ice-cold in his behaviour. But those who got to know him up close or to those who saw him live life from close quarters, Raikkonen is a man full of joy, love and care, focused on his professional commitments. With the arrival of a partner in Minttu Raikkonen, his life became more fulfilling, and now with kids like Robin and Rianna, Kimi has his days full of daddy duties. Priorities change with time.

2021 has been the year of retirements, with Moto GP legend Valentino Rossi calling it a day and Anthony Davidson leaving WEC. Retirement is inevitable for every athlete, and as a fan, you always hope for one more year. At 42, his age is catching up with Raikkonen, and although he hasn't lost his competitive edge ( as evident from his consistent results for Alfa Romeo ), a time comes when one has to stop. It isn't easy to compete with the best drivers on the planet for two decades, but Raikkonen managed to ace it with aplomb. 

For me, I am still struggling to accept Raikkonen's absence from the grid in 2022. In the past, without Raikkonen, F1 wasn't likeable anymore. 

"Kimianks", a term made with Kimi and initials from my name ( Ankush ),  became my identity on all social media platforms for the past two decades. Thanks to Raikkonen, I had the privilege of going to some of the most stunning race tracks, getting close to the action and sharing my passion with like-minded fans. Lotus F1 ( now Alpine F1 ), Scuderia Ferrari and Alfa Romeo Racing had been kind enough to give me enhanced access and the pleasure of watching my hero up close, sharing their joys in the times of celebrations, for which I shall always be thankful. 

The life lessons that Raikkonen has taught me are invaluable - being transparent and straightforward in your profession, celebrating without inhibitions, valuing family above everything else and maintaining a close circle of confidants.

I take this opportunity to thank the Raikkonen family ( his parents, siblings, wife and kids ) for all the support provided to Kimi over the years, from the humble beginnings at karting to acing it in the F1 world. A big thank you to his Physical Trainer Mark Arnall for keeping him fit and healthy throughout his career. It has been such a glorious training career for Mark, having trained the likes of Hakkinen and Raikkonen during their tenures in the sport. To the Robertsons and Mr Sami Visa, thank you for taking care of his contractual and sponsorship obligations. And finally, thank you to every team member that has been part of Raikkonen's journey through F1, at Alfa Romeo Racing F1, McLaren F1, Scuderia Ferrari F1 and Lotus ( Alpine F1 ). 

As the Iceman bid adieu to the sport at Alfa Romeo's farewell party at Hinwil in Switzerland, I, as a fan, knew that an incredible journey was coming to an end. It has been a blessing to be called a Kimi Raikkonen fan over the past two decades, and I shall remain a fan, admirer and a fanatic for life.

The journey hasn't ended yet, and two races remain before the curtains close on an illustrious career. I still garner hopes of being at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. I am praying that I get see Kimi Raikkonen race one last time and say my farewells in person.

There is so much more to say, so much more to process, and words can never do justice to the journey I have had as a fan of the ICEMAN, the Flying Finn, KIMI RAIKKONEN!

Here are some of the memories I cherish with Kimi :

Like he said, on the day of his retirement, "This is it"... profound words... probably, for me too, this might be it...

Thank you, Kimi, thank you. Wishing you and the family the very best for the future and pray for the Almighty's blessing and grace on your life, always!

Hopefully, we shall meet again, someday!

To Kimi Raikkonen, an F1 Racer, an F1 World Champion, a Legend.. Thank you for everything! Thank you!

The Big Day had arrived! Sunday the day that mattered. The day of the 2016 Hungarian Grand Prix. A lot was at stake in the Championship and after a dismal Qualifying, Ferrari had its work cut out.

So how did it all pan out. Lets have a quick peek!

Enroute to the Circuit :

Shots from Hungaroring. Many F1 Personnel ready to fly back after the race :

The Morning Cappuccino & very few guests in the Suite in the morning :

GP2 Sprint Race Formation Lap ( Video Link ) :

GP2 Sprint Race Start ( Video Link ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t9fgA1h-hJs

Safety Car Period ( Video Link ) :

GP2 Sprint Race Restart ( Video Link ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yIUN00xxclk

Shots from the GP2 Sprint Race :

The Sprint Race ended and we were soon joined by Sebastian Vettel in the Ferrari F1 Club for a quick Q&A :

Selfie with Sebastian Vettel!

Sebastian Vettel Interview in Ferrari F1 Club ( Video Link ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sy-z-urG6QA

Vettel left and Maurizio Arrivabene, Ferrari's Team Principal joined us in the Suite. It was a great interview and I am so impressed by the Man and his choice of words :

A Quick Selfie :

Maurizio Arrivabene Interview ( Video Link ) :

Paul Hembery, the Motorsports Director of Pirelli was the final visitor to the suite.

The clock was running down to the Big Race. Time for a quick lunch, Pit Lane Walk and then grab a place to watch the race.

Lunchtime!

Shots from the Pit Lane Walk :

Shots from the Scuderia Ferrari F1 Garage :

Romeo, Alberto and Emilia Ma'am, the Hosts of Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team Garage :

Got a chance to finally meet Minttu, Kimi's wife!

Johnny Herbert, Ex F1 Racer and Sky Sports F1 Presenter :

Paul Di Resta, Ex Sahara Force India F1 Driver and a co-presenter of Sky Sports F1 :

Jacques Villeneuve, 1997 F1 World Champion and Presenter for Sky Sports Italia :

I ran back upstairs and got myself a good position to take photos from and watch the race start :

Marcus Ericsson making it to the grid.

Drivers gather for the National Anthem

The Clock running down to the Race Start :

Getting ready for the Race Start :

Formation Lap, 2016 F1 Hungarian Grand Prix ( Video Link ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oPhGoDuRW5E

Race Start, 2016 F1 Hungarian Grand Prix ( Video Link ) :

Shots from the Race :

Some More Shots from the Race :

Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team flying in the Race :

Video Links from the Race :

Lap 1 of the 2016 F1 Hungarian Grand Prix :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbcJdmvJb8Y

Sebastian Vettel 1st Pit Stop :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fsOGcJu9xFI

Kimi Raikkonen 1st Pit Stop :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j1-9GJmpNTo

Lewis Hamilton Pit Stop :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=niWOpWZEvPk

Kimi Raikkonen 2nd Pit Stop :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_d_HzrTIXo

Sebastian Vettel 2nd Pit Stop :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbBQeC71iXc

Nico Rosberg Pit Stop :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sOvOJPrzG20

Chequered Flag and Lewis Hamilton takes victory :

Lewis Hamilton took victory from Nico Rosberg and Daniel Ricciardo. Sebastian Vettel took 4th. Kimi Raikkonen had a great battle with Max Verstappen but the latter's slightly unsporting moves meant he finished 6th in the race. As Mr. Maurizio Arrivabene said that they made a mistake with Kimi, I feel they missed out on a definite podium.

Drivers entering Parc Ferme :

Fans and F1 Personnel make it to the Podium for celebrations :

Fans hoping to catch a glimpse of their heroes after the race.

I was pleasantly surprised to see my tweets being featured in the Paddock Club Wall :

The mechanics packing up to ensure a quick transit to Germany, the venue of the next race.

Ted, busy with "the Notebook" while some media wait for Mercedes' Photo Session :

The Trucks enter the Pit Lane. Time to call it a day!

The Hosts in the Ferrari F1 Club from Ferrari and Pirelli Motorsport ( Pirelli shares the Suite at many races ) :

It was time to leave the circuit but I got the chance of seeing Mechanics cleaning the tyres :

I stood around the Paddock gate and got to meet some more people.

Rachel Brookes, Sky Sports F1 Presenter :

Ted Kravitz of Sky Sports F1!

FERNANDO ALONSO of McLaren Honda and 2 Time World Champion! The Grid is complete. Have photos with each driver on the grid.

What a beautiful day at the Hungaroring.

Returning to the Hotel :

I was having dinner at the famous Lado Cafe and spotted Mr. Gene Haas, the owner of the Haas F1 Team! He obliged with a quick photo!

It was a fantastic weekend in Hungary. True that Ferrari couldn't achieve a Podium Finish but Kimi Raikkonen drove like a fighter making up 8 places during the race. So proud of him!

A Big Thank You to Edge Global F1 for their professional assistance over the weekend and ensuring I have a memorable weekend. A Big Thank you to Scuderia Ferrari F1 and Pirelli Motorsport for taking such good care of me over the weekend.

I am not sure of my future plans, God knows. If there are no more "Paddock Club Diaries" from this year, be rest assured they will return in the next year!

Thank you everyone for your patience and support! God Bless!

Saturdays on a Race Weekend are long and start early. The Morning Pit Lane Walk allows guests to witness teams practicing their Pit Stops for the race. It is then followed by Free Practice 3 in which the drivers run Qualifying Simulations culminating in the Qualifying Sessions that happen in the afternoon.

For the Hardcore followers, the action doesn't end with the F1 Qualifying. The GP2 Feature Race and the GP3 Race 1 follows shortly after.

A quick write up of how it all unfolded on the Saturday.

Enroute to the Circuit :

Shots of Hungaroring on Saturday Morning :

Saturday Morning Pit Lane Walks feature Pit Stop Practices by the teams :

Shots from the Pit Lane Walk :

Shots of the Scuderia Ferrari F1 Garage :

Scuderia Ferrari firing up before Free Practice 3 ( Video Link ) :

Manor Racing F1 Team Pit Stop Practice ( Video Links ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abr9oFxlQl4

Renault Sport F1 Team Pit Stop Practice ( Video Links ) :

Sahara Force India F1 Team Pit Stop Practice ( Video Links ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hCZTK9E-iRg

GoPro Selfies from the Pit Lane Walk :

A Quick Tour of the Paddock Club on Saturday Morning ( Video Link ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aQ0ta3aB0g8

The Ferrari F1 Club on Saturday Morning :

Shots from Free Practice 3 :

Scuderia Ferrari F1 during Free Practice 3 :

Chequered Flag to end Free Practice 3 :

Nico Rosberg was fastest in FP3 again from Max Verstappen and Daniel Ricciardo. Lewis Hamilton, Kimi Raikkonen and Sebastian Vettel. 

Marc Gene visited us in the Paddock Club for a quick interview after Free Practice 3. He also discussed the prospects of the team in Qualifying.

Marc Gene in the Ferrari F1 Club :

A quick selfie with Marc Gene :

Marc Gene in the Ferrari F1 Club on Saturday ( Video Link ) :

Marc Gene left and we were soon joined by Mario Isola, Pirelli Motorsport Racing Manager. He spoke about the Tyre Choices of Pirelli for the weekend and the performance of the tyres so far.

Mario Isola Interview ( Video Link ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8kCc26x9v4

The Menu for Saturday :

Binging time!

I had a quick lunch and then ran downstairs for the Pit Lane Walk before Qualifying. The skies suddenly turned overcast and before we knew it, it started raining buckets on the circuit!

Thankfully I had the GoPro which works flawlessly in the rain and was able to capture some stills from the walk :

I also got to meet some famous people from the F1 Fraternity.

David Coulthard, ex McLaren Mercedes driver, currently associated with Red Bull Racing and a presenter for Channel 4 in F1.

Martin Brundle, ex F1 Racer and Sky Sports F1 Presenter :

Simon Lazenby of Sky Sports F1 :

Ayao Komatsu, Race Engineer for Romain Grosjean :

Guenther Steiner, Team Principal of the Haas F1 team :

Tanja Bauer of Sky Deutschland :

I returned to the Paddock Club and the rains didn't show any sign of relenting.

The Pit Walls were full of personnel and the start was delayed ( by 20 minutes ) in the hope that standing water would be drained off the circuit. The Drainage is pretty efficient at the circuit.

Scuderia Ferrari Mechanics drying the pit box before Q1 got underway :

Dave Greenwood, Kimi's Race Engineer signalling to the Number 1 Mechanic about the timing of Kimi Raikkonen's exit from the Garage :

Cars lining up at Pit Exit before the light turns green to start Q1 :

The Session got underway and then the rain came down with intensity again.

Red Flag!

Returning to the pits after the Red Flag :

The safety car left the pit lane to assess the conditions again :

Cars lining up again at the Pit Exit for the session restart :

Time to put in that flying lap :

Marcus Ericsson suffered a heavy shunt with 9 minutes on the clock remaining. The Red Flags were out again and we had a further stoppage of 10 minutes.

The Mechanics drying the Pit Box :

Green Lights and the Red Bulls with the Ferraris opted for Inters while the rest stuck with the Wet tyres. The Session had just restarted and then it was Felipe Massa who suffered a crash!

The Cars lining up at the Pit Exit for the 3rd time.

Times were set by all but the session would see its 4th Stoppage as Rio Haryanto suffered a crash with 2 minutes on the clock. This time Race Control decided to run down the session. 4 Stoppages and Q1 had lasted for 75 minutes!!

Q1 ended with Jolyon Palmer, Magnussen, Ericsson, Pascal Wehrlein and Haryanto being knocked out. Nico Rosberg was fastest in Q1. Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen finishing 4th and 8th respectively.

Ricciardo, Verstappen, Hulkenberg, Perez, Bottas, Palmer, Massa, Magnussen, Ericsson, Wehrlein and Haryanto failed to meet the 107% requirement, so raced at stewards' discretion. Haryanto was penalised 5 grid places for an unscheduled gearbox change and Ericsson started from the pit lane after a chassis change. There was a lot of debate over the legitimacy of the 107 % Rule but good sense prevailed and the rule was not upheld citing the changeable weather conditions in the session.

Q2 started and everyone headed out on Intermediates. Amazingly, the sun came out and the track started to dry very quickly. Bottas the first to opt for slicks set a good pace ( inspite of wet patches ) and everyone was convinced to switch to slicks. It was pretty clear that the last man to cross the line would set the fastest time. Raikkonen crossed the line supposedly taking P1 amidst great cheers from the crowds. However in the next 30 seconds, the times collapsed very quickly and Raikkonen ended up in P14 and out of Q2!! Another shock for Ferrari and another miscalculation on their part. They had just blown the chance of a potential podium. Kimi had looked stronger of the two and has been strong on this circuit.

Lewis Hamilton went into Q3 by the skin of his teeth as the time set by him was good enough for P10. A big scare for the Triple World Champion.

Grosjean, Kvyat, Perez, Gutierrez and Nasr were the others eliminated.

Max Verstappen was the fastest in Q2. Nico Rosberg P2 and Sebastian Vettel P6.

Shots from Q2 :

Scuderia Ferrari F1 in Q2 :

Q3 would produce its own drama. Hamilton was going faster than everyone else on his final run but Alonso spun in Sector 2 and that brought out the yellow flags. Hamilton had to abort his lap. Rosberg a few corners behind lifted on seeing the yellow flags and yet went purple in sector 2 ( fastest time overall ) and crossed the line to beat Hamilton's provisional pole lap time set earlier to snatch pole. Hamilton was a bit flummoxed as to how that happened but the stewards ruled that Rosberg had lifted on his flying lap and the results stayed. Lewis Hamilton, Daniel Ricciardo, Max Verstappen and Sebastian Vettel completed the top 5.

Shots from Q3 :

The Media gathering on Parc Ferme as the top 3 celebrate their Qualifying positions.

The Qualifying got over and we were soon to be joined by Kimi Raikkonen in the Ferrari F1 Club. Everyone wondered about the Iceman's mood but amazingly Kimi was quite chatty and very warm towards the guests!

Kimi Raikkonen Interview in the Ferrari F1 Club ( Video Link ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O1zHkN_Py3E

I finally had my moment with the man! He actually stopped, obliged me with a selfie and said "Thank you!!" My Weekend was made!

I returned and we had some time before the start of the GP2 Feature Race.

Miniatures of the Different Pirelli Compounds used in F1 Races :

GP2 Feature Race Formation Lap ( Video Link ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pQdNwdIItvo

One of the Drivers stalled on the Grid and the Drivers had to go out for another Formation Lap.

GP2 Feature Race 2nd Formation Lap ( Video Link ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rV5ZVQFg0Cs

GP2 Feature Race Start ( Video Link ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CsGQpxr_GAI

Lap 1 of the GP2 Feature Race ( Video Link ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=35sEwL_nX0c

Shots from the GP2 Feature Race :

It was time to leave the club and I made my way back to the Transfer Point. The Delayed end to qualifying meant that we would be unable to watch the GP3 race from the Club.

The Paddock, almost empty with most of the guests gone.

On the way back from the circuit :

It had been a chaotic and crazy qualifying. The Sessions lasted long and the drama lasted into the wee hours of Sunday. Eventually all was sorted out for the race on Sunday.

It had been an eventful Saturday. Ferrari had a bad qualifying with Raikkonen and Vettel didn't seem to have the pace to challenge the Mercs or Red Bull. However Sunday is what mattered and we were pretty optimistic about our prospects.

Nevertheless, the service and hospitality was impeccable. Thank you to Scuderia Ferrari F1 and the Hosts of the Ferrari F1 Club for taking care of us throughout the day. A Big Thank You to Edge Global F1 for all the arrangements made for a trouble free weekend.

The Experience on Sunday follows...soon...

The latest post in the "Paddock Club Diaries" Series takes us to the Circuit of Hungaroring for the Hungarian Grand Prix. The Circuit is a 45 minute drive from Budapest and I must say a lot of passionate fans attend the Race. The Race Weekend was from 22nd July to 25th July. I had the privilege of being a guest of the Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team over the weekend and this post documents the Friday Experience.

Enroute to the Circuit :

Shots of Hungaroring :

I reached the Paddock Club and the Pit Lane Walk was going on :

Some Selfies with the GoPro :


Friday Morning Pit Lane Walk ( Video Link ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QyTyB1f7HVo


Jenson Button's McLaren Honda Being Fired up before FP1 ( Video Link ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBbcjIA0YxY


The Paddock Club is pretty small and definitely not as big as some of its European counterparts :

The View of the circuit from the Ferrari F1 Club :


The Pit Walls are full of personnel before the start of Free Practice 1 :

Shots from Free Practice 1 :


Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team in FP1 :


Ferrari Pit Stop Practice during FP1 ( Video Link ) :



I had the Opportunity of visiting the Garage during the session and upload 2 selfies via the Scuderia Ferrari handle :

Lewis Hamilton led from Nico Rosberg, Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen, the Mercedes having a comfortable lead over the Ferrari duo.


Post FP1, we were joined by Ferrari's Development Driver Marc Gene in the Suite :

Marc Gene Interview ( Video Link ) :




Some shots of the Ferrari F1 Club :


The Paddock on Friday afternoon :


It was soon time for the GP2 Practice Session :


The Menu for Friday :


Time to Binge on some great food :


A Quick Lunch and it was time for the 2nd Pit Lane Walk of the Day :


Shots from the Scuderia Ferari F1 Garage :


I had the opportunity of meeting Mr. Dave Greenwood, Kimi Raikkonen's Race Engineer and had a healthy chat about the season so far :


Scuderia Ferrari firing up before FP2 ( Video Link ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qPc0ySdw0Nc



John Booth, Ex Marussia and now with Scuderia Toro Rosso :

Beat Zehnder, Team Manager of Sauber F1 Team and an old friend of Kimi Raikkonen :


Free Practice 2 commenced after the Pit Lane Walk and here are some shots of the same :


Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team in FP2 :


Kimi Raikkonen returning to Pits in FP2 ( Video Link ) :




Sebastian Vettel returning to Pits in FP2 ( Video Link ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wqdRWfEvYDM


Scuderia Ferrari Pit Stop Practice in FP2 ( Video Link ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4uW28auw6NY


Williams Racing F1 Pit Stop Practice in FP2 ( Video Link ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EDlTILUX4w



Chequered Flag :

Drivers returning to the Pits :

Nico Rosberg was fastest followed by Daniel Ricciardo and Sebastian Vettel. Max Verstappen, Hamilton and Kimi Raikkonen completed the top 6.


Jock Clear, Senior Performance Engineer of Scuderia Ferrari F1 visiting the Ferrari F1 Club for an interview :


Jock Clear Interview in the Ferrari F1 Club ( Video Link ) :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3F4XVyoA3rg


Shots of the Paddock on Friday Evening after both the Practice Sessions :


David Croft, commentator of Sky Sports F1 :


Some Exotic Cars occupying the Parking Spaces of the Paddock Club :


Returning to the Hotel :


It was a great Friday at the 2016 Hungarian Grand Prix. A Big Thank you to Edge Global F1 for all the arrangements done for the Weekend. Thank you to Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team and the Hosts of the Ferrari F1 Club for the Hospitality shown to me and all their graciousness!

Saturday and Sunday posts to follow soon!

The Latest Blog Post in "Gallery of Memories" is from the 2016 Hungarian Grand Prix. The Race was the held from 22nd to the 24th of July. I had the privilege of being a guest of the Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team.

A garage visit during Free Practice 1 on Friday and the guests had an opportunity to take selfies!

Dave Greenwood ( Kimi's Race Engineer ) :

Mark Arnall ( Kimi's Physical Instructor ) :

John Booth of Scuderia Toro Rosso :

Beat Zehnder, Sauber F1 Team Manager :

David Croft of Sky Sports F1 :

Marc Gene, Scuderia Ferrari Development Driver :

David Coulthard, Former F1 Racer and Channel 4 presenter :

Martin Brundle, Former F1 Racer and Sky Sports F1 presenter :

Simon Lazenby of Sky Sports F1 :

Ayao Komatsu, Romain Grosjean's Race Engineer :

Guenther Steiner, Haas F1 Team Principal :

Tanya Bauer, Sky Deutschland :

Kimi Raikkonen! The Man! So happy! My Weekend was made!

Sebastian Vettel! I missed him in Spain, not this time!!

Maurizio Arrivabene! Amazing Man! Charismatic Team Principal of Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team :

Minttu Virtanen, Kimi's better half :

Romeo, Alberto & Emilia Ma'am, Ferrari's hosts for the Weekend :

Johnny Herbert, Former F1 Racer and Sky Sports F1 Presenter :

Paul Di Resta, Ex Sahara Force India F1 Team Driver and a guest of Sky Sports F1 over the weekend.

Jacques Villeneuve, 1997 F1 World Champion and Sky Sports F1 Italia Co-Presenter :

The Hosts of Pirelli Motorsport and Scuderia Ferrari F1 in the Paddock Club :

Rachel Brookes, Sky Sports Presenter :

Ted Kravitz! A great guy and presenter for Sky Sports F1 :

Fernando Alonso!! Was quite hard to get his attention but he finally relented!

I went for dinner post the race and I bumped into the owner of the Haas F1 Team over dinner.

Gene Haas, Owner of Haas F1 Team :

It was an eventful weekend at the Hungarian Grand Prix.

A Big Thank you to Edge Global F1 for all the necessary arrangements made for the weekend. Thank you to Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team for the hospitality showered upon me.

Paddock Club Diaries to follow soon! So watch this space!

Day 3 of the 2016 Spanish Grand Prix. D Day. The Day that matters.

Ferrari had faltered in Qualifying but their Race Simulations showed good pace on Friday.

I was pretty optimistic!

Photos shot with Sony HX400V, GoPro Hero4 Black and Samsung Note 5.

Enroute to the Circuit :

I decided to stay outside the Paddock area and hoped to meet some more famous people. My wish was fulfilled!

Piero Ferrari, Son of founder of Ferrari, Enzo Ferrari :

I was then able to have a moment with the man I adore and follow with zeal. MR. KIMI RAIKKONEN!!

Marcus Ericsson, driver for Sauber F1 Team :

Soon I noticed commotion in a corner. I was wondering what was going on. Then I realized it was Lewis Hamilton! He had ridden to the circuit on his MV Augusta Brutale 800!

What a stunning bike!

A moment with the Triple World Champion :

Sergio Perez, driver for Sahara Force India F1 :

Nico Hulkenberg, driver for Sahara Force India F1 :

Daniel Ricciardo ( Red Bull Racing ) again!

Nico Rosberg, one of the fastest guys on the grid driving for Mercedes AMG F1 Team :

Valtteri Bottas, Williams Martini Racing Driver :

Felipe Massa, Williams Martini Racing :

Jolyon Palmer, 2014 GP2 Champion & Renault Sport F1 Team Driver :

Esteban Ocon, Reserve Driver of Renault Sport F1 :

Daniil Kvyat, formerly a Red Bull Racing driver and now a Scuderia Toro Rooso Driver ( felt he was wronged ) :

Jenson Button! McLaren F1 Team Driver and 2009 World Champion!

Double World Champion and McLaren-Honda F1 Racing Driver, Fernando Alonso!

Romain Grosjean from Haas F1 Team :

Esteban Gutierrez of Haas F1 Team :

The Trophy for the Race Winner :

The Paddock on Sunday Morning :

Michael Latifi, Nicholas Latifi's ( DAMS GP2 Racer ) Brother :

I made it to the Scuderia Ferrari F1 Club and we were joined by Paul Hembery, Motorsport Director of Pirelli :

We were soon joined by Maurizio Arrivabene, Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team Principal in the Suite :

Video Link :

A Moment with the Boss :

Arrivabene left and it was time for Sebastian Vettel to visit the Suite. His Helmet and Race Suit :

Sebastian Vettel :

Vettel Q & A in the Suite ( Video Link ) :

A moment with the Quadruple World Champion!

Time to binge :

I didn't have much time during the Pit Lane Walk and was more concerned with getting a good view for the start of the race :

The grid being set up :

Cars out on sighting laps :

Cars being rolled to their grid spots :

Shots of the grid :

Scuderia Ferrari F1 on the grid :

Selfies with the GoPro :

The Kids who sang the Spanish National Anthem :

Some more shots :

Drivers & Team Personnel getting ready :

Cars ready for the formation lap :

Formation Lap - 2016 Spanish GP Video Link :

Lining up for the Race Start :

The 5 Red Lights illuminate and the Spanish Grand Prix is a go!

2016 Spanish Grand Prix Start ( Video Link ) :

The race started and Nico Rosberg lead Hamilton into T1 but both had a shocking coming together and got taken out at lap 1 much to the delight of the crowd at the race; guess they knew we would see one of the best races ever!

Safety Car was deployed to clear the mess :

Safety Car Deployed ( Video Link ) :

Race Restart after the Safety Car ( Video Link ) :

Shots from the Race! Got loads this time. Ricciardo lead the way only to lose the lead to Max Verstappen due to an extra pit stop. He was running 4th after that. Vettel too had an extra pit stop and fell back to 3rd while Kimi Raikkonen moved up to 2nd.

Scuderia Ferrari F1 during the race :

The Pit Wall was busy with giving important info to the drivers :

Video Links of 5 Pit Stops ( Total ) for Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen ( in chronological order ) :

Kimi's 1st Stop :

Seb's 1st Stop :

Seb's 2nd Stop :

Kimi's 2nd Stop :

Seb's 3rd Stop :

Kimi Raikkonen was chasing down Max Verstappen throughout the race. However the Red Bull was fantastic out of the final turn so the DRS on the Start Finish Straight proved ineffective.

Daniel Ricciardo was catching Vettel after his third stop and he did try a bold move which didn't come out right. Unfortunately he picked up a puncture in the fag end of the race and had to pit on the penultimate lap.

Ricciardo coming in to pit ( Video Link ) :

Max Verstappen held on to take the chequered flag and victory on his debut race for Red Bull! Unbelievable! Spare a thought for Dany Kvyat who was demoted to Toro Rosso for the same weekend. Kimi Raikkonen and Sebastian Vettel drove strong races and finished on the podium for Ferrari! A Highly Successful weekend considering the state of affairs on Saturday Evening!

Chequered Flag ( Video Link ) :

Team Personnel, media and the fans running towards the podium to celebrate :

Hosts from the Scuderia Ferrari F1 Club :

Red Bull Team Personnel Celebrating the win :

Final shots of the Paddock :

I left the Paddock Club and decided to hang around for sometime to see if I could get the opportunity of meeting some more people. I was happy that I stayed back!

Mark Arnall ( Kimi Raikkonen's Physio ) who obliged for a quick selfie with the packed trophy!

Spanish Arts Administrator & Podium Interviewer for the Spanish GP Placido Domingo :

Nicolas Todt, FIA President Jean Todt's Son :

Eric Boullier, Racing Director of McLaren F1 Team :

Britta Roeske, Sebastian Vettel's PR :

Pascal Wehrlein, Manor F1 Racing Driver & Mercedes Development Driver, a really nice guy!

Stoffel Vandoorne, 2015 GP2 Champion & McLaren F1 Reserve Driver :

Susie Wolff, Formerly Test Driver for Williams F1 Racing and Mr. Toto Wolff's wife :

Toto Wolff, Executive Director of Mercedes AMG F1 Team :

Susie and Toto Wolff were so kind to a young fan named Heilly :) The Couple are the nicest people in F1

Rio Haryanto, Race driver for Manor F1 Team :

Christian Horner, Team Principal of Red Bull Racing F1 :

Made New Friends over the weekend : Darren, Toni, Chris, Maurizio & Roberto

Returning to Barcelona :

It was a Fantastic Sunday at the Spanish Grand Prix. If the Two Mercedes AMG cars had not taken each other out, we wouldn't have seen Ferrari get a double podium. The Fans went home happy. Raikkonen had a great outing and I was so proud of the Iceman. The win still eludes him but I stay positive. His time will come! Verstappen won on debut for Red Bull Racing while Daniil Kvyat struggled post his demotion to Toro Rosso. Do feel for him.

However, for Many this was the best race up until that point.


I would like to thank Scuderia Ferrari F1 and the Hosts at the Ferrari F1 Club for all their Hospitality shown to me. The only disappointment was that the guests at the club didn't get a photo opportunity with the trophies ( unlike Lotus F1, now Renault Sport F1 ). I wish it was different.

A Big Thank You to Edge Global F1 for a hassle free, memorable experience! Flawless Service!

The Spanish Grand Prix experience doesn't end here, the experience at the First day of Testing still remains!

More to come!

Friday at the 2016 Spanish Grand Prix was a memorable one. Saturdays start early with Team Pit-Stop Practice and then Free Practice 3 followed by the Qualifying Session. This just wasn't any other Saturday..

The Saturday experience starts now!

Photos from Sony HX400V Camera, GoPro Hero4 Black & Samsung Note 5.

Early Morning Start to the day, enroute to the circuit :

Reach the Circuit and walk straight to the Pit Lane for the First Pit Lane Walk of the day.

Shots from the Note 5 Camera :

GoPro :

Shots from the Scuderia Ferrari Garage :

The Pit Lane Walk ended and I came across a really expensive parking lot! DROOL :

Breakfast in the Paddock :

The View on Saturday Morning as the FP3 session goes green :

The Helicopter in Position for overhead shots :

FP3 features most cars running qualifying simulations. On some occasions drivers who had their Friday compromised run race simulation for a short time :

Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team in Free Practice 3 :

Shots of the GoPro :

Nico Rosberg, Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel had less than two-tenths of a second between them while Kimi Raikkonen was a second off the pace in 6th. It seemed like Mercedes had sold Ferrari the dummy again!

We were soon joined by Ferrari Reserve Drive Jean-Eric Vergne in the Suite :

A Quick selfie with the Flying Frenchman!

Pirelli's Racing Manager Mario Isola Interview in the Suite :

Video Link :

A moment with the man :

Pirelli showcasing Miniatures of all the Tyre Compounds used for the season :

Lunch :

Soon it was time for the Pit Lane walk before Qualifying. Some shots :

Guess who popped in for an interview with Sky Italia? Jorge Lorenzo! 2015 MotoGP Champion!

Shots from the Pit Lane walk with the GoPro :

Karun Chandok, ex-F1 Driver from India, now with Channel 4 :

The Track ready for battle!

Q1 underway :

Scuderia Ferrari F1 in Q1 :

Chequered Flag :

Returning to the pits :

Nico Rosberg topped the timesheets in Q1. Kimi Raikkonen and Sebastian Vettel were 5th and 6th respectively.

Shots from Q2 :

Scuderia Ferrari F1 during Q2 :

Chequered Flag :

Jenson Button walking down the pit-lane after Q2 and after elimination.

Lewis Hamilton upped his game and topped Q2. Kimi Raikkonen and Sebastian Vettel were 4th and 6th. Red Bull were in the mix. Q3 was going to be one big battle!

Q3 begins :

Scuderia Ferrari F1 in Q3 :

Chequered Flag :

Media getting ready on Parc Ferme :

Lewis Hamitlon grabbed Pole Position. Nico Rosberg and Daniel Ricciardo completed the top 3. Kimi Raikkonen and Sebastian Vettel finished 5th and 6th, much to the disappointment of the tifosi.

Qualifying ended and we were soon joined by the man I was waiting to get a glimpse of : KIMI RAIKKONEN. Didn't get a decent picture with him though. Photos taken by the team host in the suite :

Kimi Raikkonen Q&A ( Video Link ), Kimi sharing about qualifying and the prospects for Sunday :

Kimi left and it was time for the GP2 Feature Race on Saturday!

GP2 Formation Lap ( Video Link ) :

GP2 Feature Race Start ( Video Link ) :

GP2 Feature Race Chequered Flag ( Video Link ) :

I decided to head to the Support Race Paddock during the GP2 Feature Race to see the preparations before Race 1 for GP3 teams and Mahaveer Raghunathan. Amazing Access and Exposure!

GP3 Race 1 Start ( Video Link ) :

The Paddock closing time neared and I made my way to the exit only to meet a host of F1 Fraternity. So who did I have the privilege of meeting?

Carlos Sainz Sr.

Federica Masolin from Sky Italia :

Antonio Boselli from Sky Italia :

Moko!

Jennie Gow from BBC F1 :

Sir Frank Williams, Founder & Team Principal of Williams F1 Team :

Alex Lynn, DAMS GP2 Racer and Williams F1 Development Driver :

I then decided to walk to the other Gate and I had the privilege of meeting Drivers and Senior Personnel of various teams.

Bob Fernley, Deputy Team Principal, Sahara Force India F1 Team :

Franz Tost, Team Principal, Scuderia Toro Rosso F1 Team :

Simon Rennie, Racing Engineer for ( Daniel Ricciardo ) Red Bull Racing F1 :

Carlos Sainz Jr., Scuderia Toro Rosso Driver :

The Honey Badger! Daniel Ricciardo of Red Bull Racing F1:

Monisha Kaltenborn, Team Principal for Sauber F1 Team :

John Booth, Scuderia Toro Rosso ( Formerly team principal for Marussia ) :

Paddy Lowe, Executive Director of Mercedes AMG F1 Team :

Felipe Nasr of Sauber F1 Team :

The Sky was overcast for quite a while and then the rain came pounding down!

Cyril Abiteboul, MD of Renault Sport F1 Team :

Alain Prost, The Perfectionist :

Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing in his debut weekend for his team :

Having a good laugh with Pascal Wehrlein, Manor Racing F1 Driver and Development Driver for Mercedes!

It was a brilliant and a very eventful Saturday at the Spanish Grand Prix. The Qualifying positions were far from ideal for Ferrari but Sunday is what matters and race pace has always been our forte!

I would like to thank Scuderia Ferrari F1 for all the hospitality shown to me and also to Edge Global F1 for ensuring a hassle free weekend!

Sunday post to follow. Soon!

Thank you once again for your support!

Spain has produced some stunning races over the years. Circuit de Catalunya, a 40 minute drive from Barcelona is a highly technical circuit and it can lay bare all the shortcomings of a car.

A visit to Barcelona was long overdue ( after the footballing trip in 2012 ) and I am so glad I chose to do it this year. I was a guest of the Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team for the 3 days.

As always, I start off with Day 1 i.e. Friday, this being the First Post from the "Paddock Club Diaries" from Spain.

Photos from Sony HX-400V, Samsung Note 5 and the GoPro Hero4 Black.

Passes for the Weekend :

Enroute to the Circuit, getting in and out of the circuit is a breeze. If one can spend, taking taxis to and fro is the best way to travel.

Shots from the First Pit-Lane Walk, early in the morning. Very Few Guests and one can get a lot closer to the cars during this time :

Shots from the Ferrari Garage :

I also got a chance to have a great conversation with Mr. Nick Chester, Renault Sport F1 Team's Technical Director :

Here are some Video Links of various engines being Fired up before the start of Free Practice 1 which immediately follows the Pit-Lane walk :

Jenson Button :

Daniil Kvyat :

Fernando Alonso :

Kimi Raikkonen :

A Quick Systems Check on Kimi Raikkonen's Car ( Video Link ) :

Post the walk, it was time to enter the Paddock Club building and here is a view of the Paddock from there :

Ferrari F1 Club, the Hospitality Suite of Ferrari :

View from the Club :

Kimi Raikkonen Supporters! C'mon Kimi!!

The Standings Board :

The Pit Walls getting busy for Free Practice 1 :

I had the opportunity of being in the Garage for a short period of time during Free Practice 1. Ofcourse Photography is banned in the Garage.

Shots from FP1 :

Scuderia Ferrari F1 in Free Practice 1 :

Chequered Flag :

Sebastian Vettel tried to leave the pit lane before the session ended. However the Pit Lane lights turn red and he had to stop at the end of the Pit Lane only to be wheeled back by the mechanics :

Enjoying FP1 ( GoPro Shots ) :

The Ferraris were flying at the end of FP1. Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen led the standings, only a tenth separating the two. Rosberg was another 0.5 second away.


We were soon joined in the Suite by Marc Gene, Test / Development Driver for Ferrari. He was pretty optimistic about our chances.

Video Link of the Interview :

I was invited by my Italian Friend and Trainer in the GP2 / GP3 series to visit the Support Race Paddock and meet Mr. Mahaveer Raghunathan, the First Indian entrant in GP3. Frankly, it was my first time in the Support Race Paddock and feel like kicking myself for not going on previous occasions.

Mahaveer Raghunathan & his Father. RESPECT the man who has made so many sacrifices to fulfill his son's dream :

My Friend Federico Stirpe :

The Menu for lunch :

Lunch!

I didn't get much time as I got late from the Support Race Paddock and apologies for only a few photos from the 2nd Pit Lane Walk :

Jock Clear ( Ex-Mercedes ), Senior Performance Engineer for Ferrari :

Romeo Bonucchi of Ferrari :

Shots with the GoPro :

Free Practice 2 began in full earnest, the First Half of which Drivers ran Qualifying Simulations followed by Race Simulations.

Photos Galore from FP2, ENJOY!!

Scuderia Ferrari F1 during FP2 :

GoPro doing a brilliant job again in FP2 :

Chequered Flag :

FP2 ended with Nico Rosberg topping the timesheets for Mercedes. Kimi Raikkonen was only two-tenths off his time. Lewis Hamilton & Sebastian Vettel completed the top 4.

The Stands bearing a deserted look at the end of FP2 :

Post FP2, it was time for GP2 Qualifying :

I decided to head down to the F1 Simulator with my friends in the Paddock Club. The Simulator now features the Oculus Virtual Gear, quite a nifty piece of equipment :

It was soon time to head back to Barcelona after an eventful Friday :

Ferrari had a strong Friday and the gap to Mercedes seemed pretty small but everyone was wary and rightly so. Mercedes have sold Ferrari the dummy many times on Friday so Saturday would give us the true story.

I would like to thank the Hosts at the Ferrari F1 Club and Scuderia Ferrari for their Hospitality.

A Big Thank you to Edge Global Events for ensuring all arrangements were in place and I didn't face any hassles.


Saturday and Sunday to follow, thanks for your support!