The 2016 Spanish Grand Prix produced a great result for Ferrari. There was still work to be done and there was no better way to test some new upgrades then at the In-Season Tests in Montmelo after the Grand Prix. The Test was held on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Scuderia Ferrari Club of Denver ( of which I am a member ) offered the chance to attend the sessions as a team guest and I decided to attend Day 1. Sebastian Vettel was testing for the team on day 1 and this is a small write-up of the experience.
Enroute to the Circuit :
Many of the Trucks had left for their next destination i.e. Monaco and the Paddock felt so silent on a Testing day. Security was still strict about access but the atmosphere was a lot more relaxed.
Paddock Walkthrough ( Video Link ) :
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LjlBWlcESo
Dani Clos, Driver of now Defunct HRT Racing F1 Team :
Shots of the Pitlane from the Ferrari Garage :
Cars roll out for the First Half of the Tests :
Lynn and Ricciardo returning to pits ( Vieo Link ) :
Gasly, Ocon and Rosberg returning to the pits ( Video Link ) :
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gdwhAS4_asg
Scuderia Ferari F1 in the Session :
Sebastian Vettel being interviewed before Lunch :
Start of the Post - Lunch Tests :
This was the Paddock Club on Sunday. Everything is dismantled and gone by Tuesday.
Shots from the Pit Lane Level :
Scuderia Ferrari F1 continuing the tests :
On the way back to the Hotel :
It was quite a different experience being at the Race Track on a Testing day. The Paddock is very relaxed and one enjoys a closer view of the cars entering and leaving the Pit Boxes. However I would still prefer a Race Weekend over a Test Day.
A Big Thank you to Scuderia Ferrari Club of Denver for arranging the passes for the day!
2015 Belgian Grand Prix was the 2nd race of the season that I had the opportunity of being at. Austria had been brilliant barring the result for Kimi and I was really looking forward to Belgium. Kimi Raikkonen has won here 4 times and I was really hopeful for a better outing here.
I stayed at the Novotel in Maastricht, Netherlands. Spa Francorchamps was only 45 minutes away by car.
I Start of with the Friday ( Day 1 ) experience in the Ferrari F1 Club.
Enroute to the circuit :
I had to enter the town to pick up my passes and I must admit, it was a beautiful detour!
Shots from Spa, the Town :
Ferrari F1 Club Passes for the weekend :
After the drop off, it was quite a long walk to the Parking Lot. A message to those planning a visit. A Parking Pass is a MUST here. The Walk can be very confusing and its very easy to get lost.
Walking up to the circuit :
I reached the parking lot after a 20 minute walk and hopped into one of the Paddock Club Shuttles to the Paddock Club entry.
The Time for the first pit lane walk was over and I head straight to the Suite.
The view from the Ferrari F1 Club :
Shots of the GoPro Hero4 Black :
I had a quick coffee and a croissant before getting ready for Free Practice 1.
Shots from Free Practice 1 :
Scuderia Ferrari F1 in Free Practice 1. I also got to visit the garage during the session :
Shots from FP1 from another angle :
The Pit Walls busy during the session :
Chequered Flag - FP1 :
Nico Rosberg topped the practice session with Lewis Hamilton a close second. Kimi Raikkonen & Sebastian Vettel were P4 & P5 respectively. A great session for Scuderia Ferrari.
With FP1 over, we were joined by Ferrari Test Driver, Marc Gene
Marc Gene in the Ferrari F1 Club :
Marc Gene discussing about the team's chances in the Ferrari F1 Club. Video Link :
Marc Gene on the new start procedures. Video Link :
Marc Gene left and it was time for the GP2 practice session.
The GP2 Practice Session in progress :
I was soon ushered down to the Paddock for a visit to the Paddock area and the Team Garage.
Shots from the Paddock Tour :
Ferrari completes 900 GPs in F1 and had their Motorhome adorned with the signs :
Shots from the Paddock :
Scuderia Ferrari Mechanics working ( from the Garage Tour ) :
Shots with the GoPro Hero4 Black from the Garage Tour :
I returned to the club and I was famished. Thankfully it was time for lunch!
A Quick lunch and it was time for the 2nd Pit Lane walk of the day!
Shots from the Pit Lane Walk :
Shots with the GoPro Hero4 Black :
I was walking back from the Pit Lane Walk and got to meet Johnny Herbert again!
Free Practice 2 followed shortly after :
Scuderia Ferrari F1 during FP2 :
Shots with the GoPro during FP2 :
Kimi Raikkonen's Engineer holding the Pit Board for him :
Nico Rosberg suffered a high speed rear-tyre failure and it halted FP2 for sometime.
The Helicopter Cam doing its rounds :
Cars coming into the Bus Stop Chicane :
Kimi Raikkonen & Sebastian Vettel into the Bus Stop Chicane!
Some more shots from FP2 :
Chequered Flag :
Nico Rosberg stayed on top in the session. However he lost out on some valuable time for race simulations. Raikkonen was P5 and Vettel P10.
FP2 finished and it was time for Esteban Gutierrez, Ferrari's Reserve Driver to visit the guests in the Ferrari F1 Club :
To commemorate 900 GPs, Scuderia Ferrari had a twitter campaign with the handle #redseason and it was a pleasant surprise to see my post on the Ferrari Wall.
The models of all the Tyre Compounds used by Pirelli for the 2015 Season
GP2 Qualifying Session :
The Ferrari F1 Club in the evening :
As I left the club, I chose to stop by and take some shots of Paddock from the Club :
GP3 cars negotiating the latter half of Eau Rouge into the Kemmel Straight :
Trying a hand at the Simulator in the General Hospitality area :
Returning to Maastricht :
It was a great Friday for Scuderia Ferrari and hopes were high for Saturday and the rest of the weekend.
I enjoyed the Hospitality extended to me by the Hosts of the Ferrari F1 Club and Scuderia Ferrari.
A Big Thank you to Edge Global Events for making all the arrangements for the weekend.
The GoPro Hero4 Black with the Smart Remote and the LCD BacPac is a brilliant piece of equipment be it selfies or videos.
The Sony HX400V never disappoints in capturing stunning shots of F1 Cars at High Speeds.
The Saturday Experience coming soon, so watch this space!
Raceday finally dawned and the big day had arrived!!
An early start to the day as usual, Sunday was going to be fantastic again!
Enroute to the Circuit :
I took a new route again on Sunday and this time I passed through camping sites.
Some shots enroute :
Enroute, I was pleasantly surprised to see the Vintage cars that were to be used for the Drivers' Track Parade :
I reached the Paddock club and we were soon joined by Paul Hembery, Pirelli's Motorsport Director.
He discussed the strains that the company faces in delivering the required number of tyres over a season and how each tyre compound is designed for varying conditions.
His departure was soon followed by the one and only KIMI RAIKKONEN!! Kimi discussed about his chances for the weekend and for Ferrari for the remaining part of 2014.
Video Link for Kimi Raikkonen's Interview :
Kimi Raikkonen left and we were joined by the Ferrari Test Driver, Marc Gene.Marc is a great human being and a very talented driver. It was a privilege meeting him!
Before the Final Pit Lane Walk I was taken downstairs for a quick Garage Tour.
Shots from the Paddock :
The Ferrari F14T Firing up and being readied for the race. Video Link :
Shots from the Garage :
I made a quick run back up to collect my Autograph Booklet and rushed back downstairs for the Final Pit Lane Walk of the weekend!
Shots from the Pit Lane Walk :
Scuderia Ferrari F1 getting ready for Battle :
A Moment with Andrea Stella, Fernando Alonso's Race Engineer :
The Track Parade was an amazing experience! The People dressed up in their Regional Clothing with their Regional Flags containing their Coat of Arms and marched to a melodious drum beat.
Video Link :
Sky Sports F1 getting ready for the Pre - Race Show!
I headed back upstairs and it was time for a Quick Lunch before the Race Start :
The Cars soon started rolling out of the Pit Lane as the Pit Lane opened to start preparations for the Grid for the Race!
Preparations in full swing for the Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team :
Mechanics make their way to the Grid to wheel the cars into their Grid Slots :
The Fans building up the traditional European atmosphere for an F1 Grand Prix.
A Big Rule Change came into effect :
Two weeks before the race, the FIA announced an immediate ban on the Front-and-Rear Interconnected suspension system (commonly abbreviated as FRIC), effective as of the German Grand Prix, arguing that the FRIC system qualified as a movable aerodynamic device under Article 3.15 of the technical regulations. ( Source - FIA )
There were some changes to the grid. Gutierrez qualified P14, but dropped three places for causing a collision at previous round. Lewis Hamilton opted for a gear box change and earned a 5 place grid penalty to start 20th. Ericsson failed to meet 107% requirement but raced at stewards' discretion
The Formation Lap - 2014 German Grand Prix. Video Link :
The Cars line up for the 5 Red Lights and Race Start!
Race Start - 2014 German Grand Prix. Video Link :
A Huge Incident at the First Turn of the First Lap meant that the Safety Car had to come out. Kevin Magnussen got a good start but Felipe Massa turned into the him and the contact caused the Brazilian's Williams to flip over thrice. The Safety Car came out until the debris cleared.
Race Restart after Safety Car. Video Link :
Shots from the Race :
Some More Stills :
Scuderia Ferrari F1 during the Race :
I had the opportunity of going down into the Pit Garage and watching the Race Unfold. Post the Experience, I made it back to the Suite.
Fernando Alonso Pit Stop. Video Link :
Kimi Raikkonen Pit Stop. Video Link :
Kimi Raikkonen had damage to his front wing after 2 incidents. First Involving Hamilton and then the duo of Vettel and Alonso. The damage severely compromised his race and he could only manage 11th.
Fernando Alonso had a mighty battle with Daniel Ricciardo but came out on top. He finished 5th.
Chequered Flag at the 2014 German Grand Prix. Video Link :
Nico Rosberg took Victory and did his championship chances a world of good after disappointment at the British Grand Prix. Valtteri Bottas did an amazing job to hold off a charging Lewis Hamilton to take 2nd. Lewis produced a stellar drive to take the final step on the podium after starting20th.
Vettel, Alonso, Ricciardo, Hulkenberg, Button, Magnussen, Perez completed the top 10.
The different moods on the Pit Wall at the end of the Race. The Mercedes AMG Petronas team couldn't contain their joy!
James Allison ( Technical Director for Ferrari and Ex-Lotus ) enjoying a light conversation with Antonio Spagnolo ( Kimi Raikkonen's Race Engineer )
Scenes from the Podium Celebrations :
A Certain Footballer by the name of Lukas Podolski joined the celebrations in the Mercedes AMG Petronas Team's Garage :
Sky Sports F1 ( UK and Italy ) reviewing the race as it starts pouring on the circuit. F1 Greats Damon Hill, Johnny Herbert ( for UK ) and Jacques Villeneuve ( for Italy ) seen here.
A Moment with the Hosts at the Ferrari Formula 1 Club! Thank you for the amazing hospitality!
The Boys who drive the Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team Forward : Fernando Alonso and Kimi Raikkonen!
The Suite now bears a deserted look.
Its Goodbye to Germany for the Ferrari Formula 1 Club and onwards to Hungary!
The Teams Packing Up and getting ready to head out for the Next GP in Hungary.
Enroute to Frankfurt and I get to see the beautiful Mercedes SLS - AMG! ( Also the Safety Car in F1 )
Returning to Frankfurt :
The Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team had a mediocre weekend in Germany but they still were the most reliable team on the grid and with improvements coming in all the time, the Glory Days are not far.
It was an amazing weekend for me and an exciting experience with a different team! I would like to thank everyone at the Ferrari Formula 1 Club for being great hosts. Thank you for the wonderful gifts everyday!
Thank You to Scuderia Ferrari F1 for accepting me into the family and entertaining me throughout.
Kimi Raikkonen you were awesome as ever! Win or Lose, Always an Iceman Fan! Thank you for the memories and all the best for the upcoming races!
Fernando Alonso you amazed one and all with your amazing consistency and performing well against all odds!
Finally a Big Thank You to Exclusive GP for all the arrangements and ensuring that everything leading up to the Grand Prix was Hassle - Free :)
Next Race? - Austin Texas.
Mid Season Review coming up in the next few days,... so watch this space....
Saturdays are always an early morning start for the teams. It wasn't any different from me. A quick breakfast and it was time to hit the road.
Enroute to the Circuit :
An Hour drive and then the walk to the Paddock again, this time a different route :
The Early Morning Pit Lane walk is a pleasant one.. Few visitors and ample time to roam.
Shots from the Pit Lane Walk :
The First Hour of Activity is reserved for Teams to practice their pit stops.
My Friends at Lotus F1 Team showing their skills with their Pit Stops! Video Link :
Shots from the Scuderia Ferrari F1 Garage :
The Pit Lane walk ended and everyone were getting ready for the final practice session before the Qualifying.
Scuderia Ferrari F1 shared their suite with Official Tyre Suppliers for F1 - PIRELLI!
Pirelli showcasing all the Tyre compounds for this year - 4 Types of Slicks ( Dry ), the Intermediates and the Full Wets.
Pirelli also conducted a test with the Lotus F1 Team to test their 18" Wheels at Silverstone the previous week. Showcased here :
The View from the Suite, GP 2 Teams getting ready for Qualifying and then the F1 Teams getting ready for FP3 :
The end of the Qualifying for GP2 marked the Start of the Final Practice Session. FP3.
Team Bosses taking their places on the Pit Wall :
The Scuderia Ferrari F1 decision makers take their places :
FP3, the final practice session before Qualifying sees the Teams do Qualifying Simulations.
Shots from FP3 :
Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team in FP3 :
Chequered Flag in FP3 :
Kvyat, Vergne and Kobayashi returning from the FIA Centre after FP3 :
Nico Rosberg outclassed Hamilton to be fastest in FP3. Fernando Alonso was 3rd Fastest while Kimi could only manage 8th.
It was time for a quick lunch and then getting ready for Qualifying :
We were soon joined by Mario Isola, Pirelli's Racing Manager who discussed which tyre compounds had been selected for the weekend and the amount of effort that goes into the manufacturing of these engineering marvels.
No sooner did he leave and we were joined by the Double World Champion Fernando Alonso!! Fernando discussed the chances for the team and the fact that they were improving slowly.
A Mega Selfie by Fernando Alonso!
Alonso gave us a quick farewell and it was time to go down and watch the teams make their final preparations before Qualifying
Shots from the Pit-Lane Walk :
SkySports F1 Boys Damon Hill and Johnny Herbert getting ready for the Pre - Qualifying show.
Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team completing the Final Setups for Battle!
A Moment with the Red Hot Wings :)
The Pit Walls are ready for Qualifying:
Shots from Q1 :
Scuderia Ferrari F1 in Q1 :
However the Session had to be Red Flagged as Lewis Hamilton's car suffered brake failure and caused him to crash out of Q1. The Session was delayed for the car to be cleared out of the gravel trap.
The Stage was set for Rosberg to go on pole and gain a massive advantage at his home race!
Chequered Flag ending Q1 :
Hamilton, Sutil, Bianchi, Maldonado, Kobayashi, Chilton, Ericsson could not make it out of Q1. Ericsson could not set a time within the 107 % rule ( 107 % of the Fastest time in Q1) but was allowed to race at the stewards' discretion.
Nico Rosberg was fastest in Q1. Fernando Alonso was 8th Fastest and Kimi Raikkonen was 11th Fastest for Ferrrari.
Q2 began without any delay.
Shots from Q2 :
Scuderia Ferrari F1 in Q2 :
Chequered Flag :
Nico Rosberg proved his mettle again in Q2 and was the Fastest. Scuderia Ferrari F1 had a very disappointing Q2 as Kimi Raikkonen could only manage P12 and was thus eliminated from further participation. Fernando Alonso was 7th Fastest.
Button, Raikkonen, Vergne, Gutierrez and Grosjean were eliminated from Q2.
Q3 was the Final session and the Top 10 shootout which would decide the Top 10 Grid for Sunday.
Shots from Q3 :
Scuderia Ferrari F1 in Q3 :
Chequered Flag :
Nico Rosberg was going to have a cake-walk to pole with Lewis Hamilton eliminated but the Williams Mercedes duo didn't make it easy for the German. Rosberg would start on pole. Bottas and Massa would complete the top 3 with the former only a couple of tenths slower than Rosberg.
Magnussen, Ricciardo, Vettel, Alonso, Kvyat, Hulkenberg, Perez completed the top 10.
So the Ferrari duo had their work cut out starting in 7th and 12th.
Post Qualifying, I had the opportunity of being the part of another Garage Tour!
Shots from the Paddock :
Tyre Warmers doing their job again :
Some Stills from the Ferrari Garage :
The Garage Tour ended and it was time to head back to the Suite and enjoy the GP2 Feature Race.
GP2, a feeder series and a support event at almost all F1 Races is a great spectacle in itself featuring youngsters who want to showcase their skills to make the final jump into F1. 2 Races are hosted, the Feature Race on Saturday and the Sprint Race on Sunday with the Reverse Grid ( Driver finishing 8th on Saturday starts on pole with the one winning starting 8th )
Feature Race Start Video Link :
End Of Lap 1 Video Link :
The end of the race also marked the end of the day and it was time to leave the Paddock!
Enroute to my pickup point :
Returning to Frankfurt :
It was a great experience with the Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team. We didn't have the best qualifying session but upgrades were trickling in every week and progress could be seen.
I would like to thank the Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team and the Hosts at the Ferrari Formula 1 Club for all their Hospitality and treating me with utmost care and affection. Its great to be a part of this family.
The Sunday Experience coming soon.. so watch this space!!!
Kimi Raikkonen had 2 successful years with the Lotus F1 Team and joined Ferrari in 2014. It was an awesome experience being a guest of the Lotus F1 Team for 2 years and it was time to switch to the Prancing Horse.
I had the privilege of being a guest of the Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team at the German GP held at Hockenheimring.
This was the First Race this season that I got to be at and I must say that I had 3 wonderful days.
The Friday Experience, Documented!
An early start to the day ensured that I would reach the circuit in time as I had to collect tickets enroute.
Tickets in hand, Ready for Hockenheimring!
It was quite a long walk to the Paddock Club from the Drop off Point and No Shuttle Service available. Piece of Advice to future visitors : Get a Parking Pass!!
The Scuderia Ferrari F1 Suite is called The Ferrari Formula 1 Club - Classy Name I must say.
The Ferrari Formula 1 Club :
My Table :
The View from the Suite - STUNNING!
The Friday First Free Practice is an early morning affair which starts at 10 am and no sooner did I settle into the Suite and it was time for FP1 to begin.
FP1 always comprises of teams running different setups and the order gets refreshed many times.
Shots from FP1 :
The Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team in action in FP1 :
Nico Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton were the fastest in FP1.
Fernando Alonso stayed close in 3rd. Kimi Raikkonen was 8th Fastest.
We were joined by Ferrari Reserve Driver Marc Gene at the end of FP1. He reviewed the Season for Scuderia Ferrari F1 so far and commented on the prospects of the team for the weekend.
A great guy and very approachable, a moment with Marc Gene. What an Honour!
The Team was kind enough to take me downstairs for a quick tour of the Motorhome and the Garage. The Motorhome is the Weekend abode for Drivers and Mechanics and also entertains VIP Guests and Top Sponsors of the Team. It also houses the Engineers who study and analyze the data and telemetry and discuss strategies to be adopted for the drivers.
Shots of the Paddock!
Shots from the Motorhome!
Tyre Warmers readying the Tyres for Kimi Raikkonen's Car and the Mechanics hard at work to get the F14 T ready for battle
TheF14 T being readied for FP2. Enjoy the Music!!
Video Link :
No Day is complete without Amazing Food! A Couple for the Foodies!
The 2nd Pit Lane Walk is always an interesting one. Many times have Driver Appearances in their pit-box and if you are fortunate, you might just get a few autographs!
Shots from the Pit Lane Walk :
Shots from the Scuderia Ferrari F1 Pit Garage :
It was soon time for FP2 and the teams would go out to do Race Simulations. FP2 is the most important session as it is representative of the times for teams running with both the Option and the Prime Tyres.
Shots from FP2 :
Scuderia Ferrari F1 in FP2 :
Chequered Flag bringing an end to FP2
The Team did a quick pit stop and both the cars made it back to the pits.
Video Link :
Lewis Hamilton was the Fastest this time with Nico Rosberg a close second. This weekend too would be a close contest between the 2 Mercedes AMG Petronas Drivers.
Kimi Raikkonen improved to 4th with Fernando Alonso ending the session in 9th.
The Day came to end and it was time to return home.
It was a productive day for the team and helped the team to make things better for the next 2 days.
A Big Thank you to the Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team for the fantastic hospitality and a great day! A Big Thank you to the Ferrari Formula 1 Club hosts too for entertaining us the whole day. Day 2 and Day 3 coming up soon, so watch this space!
2014 hasn't been the best year for Kimi Raikkonen. The Finn has struggled to get to grips with the updated rules this year. One good thing though is that he has been reunited with his Old Team Scuderia Ferrari F1.
My First Race this year was again in Germany albeit at a different track - Hockenheim.
Welcome to the Gallery of Memories, Part 7..
The Tickets as usual were on time and it was time to roll!
Marc Gene in the Suite :
A moment with Marc Gene :
Mario Isola, Pirelli's Racing Manager :
We were soon joined by FERNANDO ALONSO :
Post his Interview, I was a part of an EPIC SELFIE!!
I also got the privilege of meeting some drivers outside the Paddock and getting autographs.
A Selfie with Nico Rosberg!
Paul Hembrey, the Motorsport Director of Pirelli joined us in the suite on Sunday to talk about the Tyres and the possibility of Rain in the Race.
KIMI RAIKKONEN was the next one to pay us a visit! I still wait for a good photo opportunity..
Andrea Stella - Fernando Alonso's Race Engineer
The Ferrari Formula 1 Club Hosts - They were amazing!
Fernando and Kimi, The Soldiers of Scuderia Ferrari F1 Team
Thank you for coming to the Scuderia Ferrari F1 Club at Germany!
The Race Result wasn't the one desired but I had a wonderful time with the Team.
I want to thank the Ferrari Formula 1 Club for the amazing hospitality! Next Race? - Austin.
More to come.. Detailed Experiences as always, so watch this space!
Sunday was the Big Day!! The Final day of the Paddock Club Diaries for this Season! The last of the 4th and Final Paddock Club Experience for me.
Well, Lets relive it!
UAE is known for its fancy cars and I came across a couple on my way to Yas Island.
Enroute to Yas Island :
I reached the Paddock Club and the First event of the day was the GP2 Sprint Race :
Kimi Raikkonen joined us in the Suite to oblige the guests with autographs!!
Eric Boullier talking about the Team's Performance so far
Lunch!!!
A quick lunch and it was time to go down for the Final Pit Lane Walk of the weekend and the Final one for me to be at. I wanted to make the most of it.
Shots from the Pit-Lane Walk :
A Moment with Steve Robertson ( Kimi Raikkonen's Manager ). He is a very approachable man and very humble.
The Pit Lane Walk ended and preparations were in full swing for the race.
Cars doing installation laps :
Lotus Boys taking sighters of the Track :
The Grid Preparations :
The Etihad Airways Fly-Past :
The Cars rolled out for the Formation Lap and the Mechanics had to run back to the pits!
Video Link :
The Cars lined up on the Grid and Expectations were high. Kimi Raikkonen started at the back of the grid after the disqualification on Saturday and I was praying for a strong result.
Race Start Video Link :
The Race began and Kimi jumped the Marussia but ran a bit wide on the kerb. The Resulting imbalance caused contact with the Caterham and damaged the front suspension rod. It was a First Lap retirement for the Iceman and a good weekend that went from bad to worse for me :( A Rare Retirement for the Iceman...
There was still a race to be won and here are some shots from the Race :
McLaren Mercedes during their Pit-Stop
Video Link :
The Lotus F1 Team in the Race :
Lotus F1 Team Pit-Stop Video Link :
The Chequered Flag came out and it was Sebastien Vettel again who took victory! Mark Webber finished 2nd while Nico Rosberg held off a late charge by Romain Grosjean to hold onto 3rd place. Kimi Raikkonen was the sole retirement in the race.
Video Link ( Chequered Flag ) :
Fireworks display :
Parc - Ferme :
It was time to say goodbye to my friends at Lotus F1 Team and as I headed out, I saw the Yas Marina Hotel shining in all its glory!!
Some more exotics on the way back :
It was a good weekend from a neutral point of view but very disappointing as a Kimi Fan.
I was sad to see it end like this. This was the last race in 2013 that I would be at and it turned out to be the last one for Kimi too as he decided to go in for Back Surgery.
Overall it was a satisfactory 2013 for me. It all started with an All Expenses Paid trip to the Malaysian GP thanks to Tourism Malaysia. Then the German GP, Italian GP, Indian GP and the Abu Dhabi GP to make it 5 races for the season. I was with the Lotus F1 Team in the Paddock for the 4 races and I must say it was a great experience. I shall cherish every moment.
A Special Thank you to Oliver Anderson, Anne-Charlotte Remy, Sophie Stapleton, Anna Pamin, Fleur Foster, Francois Puentes, James Robinson, Gaby Mills, Anita Nyers, Fred Garcia and Luca Mazzocco for all the Hospitality shown to me.
I made some really dear friends in this season and I am thankful to God that I got a chance to meet such wonderful people!!
A Big Thank you to YOU my followers and readers on various social platforms who have been patient enough and enjoyed reading everything that I have shared over the past year.
2014 will have its own experiences and I pray that I get a chance to be at a couple of races... Fingers Crossed.
Saturdays normally start early for the teams but the Abu Dhabi GP being a twilight race meant that the teams could have a slightly later start to the day.
Saturdays would see the Teams do Qualifying Simulations in FP3 and prepare themselves for Qualifying.
Enroute to the Circuit :
The First Pit Lane Walk sees the team practice their Pit Stops.
Shots from the Pit Lane Walk :
Video Link of the Lotus F1 Team practising their Pit Stop :
The Paddock Club was open and I made it to the Terrace to indulge in some snacks prior to lunch
The GP2 Feature Race was the First Event of the Day and it was quite a start.
Video Link :
Lunch!!!!
FP3 was a very important session for many teams. The Lap times were close and this was a precursor to an awesome Qualifying Session
Shots from FP3 :
Lotus F1 Team in action in FP3 :
Sebastien Vettel was the Fastest in FP3. Romain Grosjean was 5th and Kimi Raikkonen 9th.
Alan Permane and Eric Boullier in a very engrossing conversation :
We were soon joined by Sir Jackie Stewart in the Suite and he shared about his career in F1 and his role in the team now.
The time for the Final Pit-Lane Walk of the day had come and it was time to see the Teams prepare for Qualifying up-close.
Shots from the Pit-Lane Walk :
A Moment with Mark Arnall - Kimi's Physical Instructor!
The Pit Lane was then vacated to make way for the start of the Qualifying Session!
Q1 saw the elimination of the slowest 6 drivers.
Shots from Q1 :
Lotus F1 Team in Q1 :
Lewis Hamilton was fastest in Q1. Kimi Raikkonen was 3rd fastest and Romain Grosjean 8th fastest.
The Lull before Q2 :
Q2 decided the final 10 drivers for the Final Shoot-out ( Q3 )
Shots from Q2 :
Lotus F1 Team in action in Q2 :
Nico Rosberg was the Fastest in Q2. Romain Grosjean was 8th Fastest while Kimi Raikkonen was 9th Fastest.
Fernando Alonso was shunted out of Q2 in 11th Place.
Q3 would be a closely fought session and once gain it was a duel between the Red Bulls and the Mercedes AMG Petronas teams.
Shots from Q3 :
Lotus F1 Team in Q3 :
A Red Bull was on pole and it was Mark Webber! The Australian pipped his team-mate to finish fastest in Q3.
Kimi Raikkonen did well to qualify 5th while Romain Grosjean qualified in 7th Place. It was a great session for Lotus F1 Team until a couple of hours later news emerged that Kimi Raikkonen was Excluded from the Qualifying Session!!!!
Kimi's car had floor damage and failed a floor deflection test. The Result was his 5th Position being snatched from him and the Finn had to start last. So much effort down the drain...
Post Qualifying, Romain Grosjean joined us in the Suite for a Quick Q&A and Autograph session
A Moment with Romain Grosjean :
His departure also signaled the closure of the Paddock Club for the day.
The Yas Marina Hotel at night :
The F1 Village at Night :
It would have been a great day had it not been for Kimi's Disqualification from Qualifying.
Nevertheless, I would like to thank the Lotus F1 Team for all the Hospitality shown to me.
A Big Thank you to Oliver Anderson, Anita Nyers, Francois Puentes, Anne-Charlotte Remy and Fleur Foster for taking such good care of me.
The Sunday too was very different. Experience coming soon...
The Abu Dhabi GP was one race I really wanted to attend. Kimi Raikkonen's Victory in 2012 meant that a 2013 race could not be missed.
The Abu Dhabi GP was my 5th and the Final Live Race in 2013. One must say that the track and the atmosphere is awe-inspiring.
Not everything went as planned but nevertheless let us relive those memories and as usual the Day 1 Experience First!!
I was staying in Dubai so travelling to the circuit meant that it would be a 2 hour journey ( approx ). However with a nice set of wheels, its a breeze!
Enroute to the Circuit :
The Drive to the Circuit entrance was smooth but it is highly recommended that you get the Parking Pass for all 3 days. Intra-Circuit shuttles do run but they drop you at odd locations and you still end up walking quite a distance. The Security Checks are Airport-grade which is nice.
However the Staff needs to be well informed about exits and routes to help visitors. Many were listless and offered poor advice which meant many were left going round and round in circles. A Big Let down for a circuit with such fantastic facilities.
The F1 Village Area :
The Yas Marina Hotel !
The Lotus F1 Team had their own suite at the race :
The View of the Track from the Suite :
It was soon time for FP1.
Shots from FP1 :
Chequered Flag for FP1 :
Lotus F1 Team in action during FP1 :
Romain Grosjean was the Fastest in FP1 !!! Kimi Raikkonen was 6th Fastest ! The Signs looked good for the team..
An Early Dinner!!
As always it was time for the Pit Lane Walk!
Shots from the Pit Lane Walk :
The Lotus F1 Team readying the Cars for FP2 !
Ciaron Pilbeam, Mark Slade, Rob Cherry and Jamie readying the Iceman's Car - SWEET!
We were soon joined by Davide Valsecchi in the Suite. As usual the Italian was all smiles and chirpy as ever. He Truly deserves to be driving for a F1 team.. Is anybody listening??
It was soon time for FP2 to start and the Twilight session looked absolutely beautiful!!
Team Pit Walls from FP2 :
Shots from FP2 :
Lotus F1 team in FP2 :
Sebastien Vettel was Fastest in FP2. Kimi Raikkonen was only 3 Tenths off the Pace in P4 which was a great sign. Romain Grosjean struggled in P12...
Sundays are always hectic be it any Grand Prix. Everyone waits expectantly as the tension mounts for the main event to get underway.
The Result on Sunday is what matters. All the mistakes made earlier in the weekend are forgiven.
So how was the Sunday at the 2013 Indian GP? Lets find out!
Enroute to the Circuit :
Waiting for the Paddock Club to open :
The Paddock on Sunday Morning :
The Circuit in all its glory!
Shots from the Lotus F1 Garage ( Pit - Lane Walk ) :
The Lotus E21 Firing Up :
More Shots from the Pit Lane Walk :
The Mercedes AMG Petronas Team firing up their Mercedes 2.4 L V8 Engine! Sweet Music :
The Pit Lane Walk ended and we were visited by Romain Grosjean in the Suite!!
Lunch!!
It was imperative to finish one's lunch quickly else you would miss standing in the best places and capturing all the activity happening below :
Raikkonen and Hulkenberg do reconnaissance :
Mechanics rush to prepare the Grid Slots :
Kimi being rolled into his grid-slot :
Preparations in full swing for the Race Start :
Media interviewing Bottas, Alonso and Lauda :
Moments before the Formation Lap :
The Formation Lap :
Mechanics rushing back to the Pits :
The Race Start :
Video Link :
Shots from the 1st Half of the Race :
Lotus F1 Team in action :
More Stills from the Race :
Romain Grosjean and Kimi Raikkonen moving up the grid :
I was taken downstairs for the final part of the race and had the privilege of witnessing the Podium Celebrations up close.
Sebastien Vettel won the race comfortably and was crowned champion for the 4th Time!Red Bull Racing secured the Constructors' Championship too! Congratulations to them for a fantastic season!
Sebastien Vettel's elaborate doughnut celebrations following the chequered flag earned himself a reprimand and Red Bull Racing were given a €25,000 fine, for failing to go straight to parc ferme.
Nico Rosberg finished 2nd for a very satisfying afternoon for Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team.
Romain Grosjean produced a stellar drive to finish 3rd after starting 17th on the grid!
Kimi Raikkonen ran 2nd and then 3rd for a major part of the race but a disastrous decision to prolong his 2nd stint meant that his tyres went off the cliff and the Finn had to eventually pit from 7th Position on the Penultimate Lap and finish the race in 7th.
Alan Permane ( Lotus Trackside Operations Director ) came under fire for his controversial and abusive radio message ( we heard the uncensored version on the Team Radio ). Romain was already suffering from loss of air pressure in his engine ( in the last 15 laps ) and caught Kimi whose tyres had lost all life. Kimi didn't yield at the corner that the team expected him to and Alan shot off a harsh message to him. Kimi responded quite bluntly that it wasn't possible for him to let his Team-mate pass him at that corner. Permane had to bear the brunt on social media and some Kimi fans went over the top in their criticism. The matter is now doused though and everyone accepted that it was in the "Heat of the Moment" Nevertheless it was good day for the Lotus F1 Team!!
The Mechanics are all smiles!
Sebastien Vettel, Triumphant once again!
Podium Celebrations and Trophy Presentations!
Video Link :
David Coulthard performing the Podium Interviews :
Video Link :
Celebrations in the Lotus F1 Team Garage :
Romain's Mechanics are all smiles!!
James Robinson mobbed by the crowd!!
A moment with the Trophy :
The teams frantically packing all up. The 2013 Abu Dhabi GP was in 7 days time!!
Debriefing :
What a Home Race this was. Its Sad that F1 doesn't return to India in 2014. The Fan Following is great out here and I shall always miss being at my home race.
3 Fantastic Days!!
A Big Thank you to the Lotus F1 Team for all the Hospitality! A Big Thank you to Anne-Charlotte Remy, Oliver Anderson, Fred Garcia and James Robinson for all the kindness shown to me.
