Complete Guide To F1 2010 World Championship

A COMPLETE GUIDE TO
FORMULA 1
2010 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP

MARZO 2010

giorgio.cannizzaro@hotmail.com Pagina 1

CONTENTS

4 - FIA Formula One World Championship - Calendar and event time start information

5 - 2010 Circuits
Bahrain international circuit sakhir
Albert park melbourne
Sepang international circuit kuala lumpur
Shanghai international circuit
Circuit de catalunya barcelona
Circuit de monaco monte-carlo
Istambul park
Circuit gilles villeneuve montreal
Valencia street circuit
Silverstone grand prix circuit
Hockenheim-ring
Hungaroring sport rt budapest
Circuit de spa francorchamps
Autodromo nazionale di monza
Singapore street circuit
Suzuka international racing course
Korean international circuit yeongam
Autodromo jose’ carlos pace interlagos

44 - 2010 Teams and Drivers
McLaren – Mercedes 2.4 V8 – Bridgestone
Jenson Button
Lewis Hamilton
Mercedes – Mercedes 2.4 V8 – Bridgestone
Niko Rosberg
Michael Schumacher
Red Bull Racing – Renault 2.4 V8 – Bridgestone
Sebastian Vettel
Mark Webber
Ferrari – Ferrari 2.4 V8 – Bridgestone
Fernando Alonso
Felipe Massa
Williams – Toyota 2.4 V8 – Bridgestone
Rubens Barrichello
Niko Hulkemberg
Renault – Renault 2.4 V8 – Bridgestone
Robert Kubica
Vitaly Petrov
Force India – Mercedes 2.4 V8 – Bridgestone
Adrian Sutil
Tonio Liuzzi
Scuderia Toro Rosso, Motore Ferrari 2.4 V8 – Bridgestone
Jaime Alguersari
Sebastien Buemi
Lotus – Cosworth 2.4 V8 – Bridgestone
Jarno Trulli
Heikki Kovalainen


Hispania Racing Team – Cosworth 2.4 V8 – - Bidgestone
Bruno Senna
Karun Chandhok
Sauber – Ferrari 2.4 V8 – Bridgestone
Kamui Kobayashi
Pedro De La Rosa
Virgin – Cosworth 2.4 V8 – Bridgestone
Timo Glock
Lucas Di Grassi

109 - 2010 season changes

111 - From the 2010 Formula One Sporting Regulations

117 - From the 2010 Formula One Technical Regulations

121 - Understand Formula one
Aerodynamics
Brakes
Cornering
Driver fitness
Engine / Gearbox
Flags
Fuel
Logistics
Overtaking
Pit stops
Race control
Race strategy
Steering wheel
Suspension
The race start
Tyres

142 - Statistics

154 - Glossary

THANKS TO MAIN SOURCES

www.fia.com
http://en.espnf1.com/
www.formula1.com
www.gazzetta.it
www.f1technical.net
www.f1-facts.com/


FIA Formula One World Championship
Calendar and event time start information


2010 Circuits


BAHRAIN INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT SAKHIR
Circuit 6.299 km
Laps 49


Circuit Info
Located in the middle of nowhere, the circuit has been described of having all the charm of an
airport departure lounge, although some of the more modern airports might be offended by the
comparison.

Like many sporting arenas in the Middle east, its existence is down to the enthusiasm of
enthusiast Crown Prince Sheikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa and funding from government-
backed investment companies. A racing enthusiast, the Crown Prince is the honorary president of
the Bahrain Motor Federation.

As is the case with many of the new generation of circuits BIC was designed by Hermann Tilke
and contains five different track layouts within the complex. Work started in late 2002 and was
completed in time for the first grand prix in March 2004.

Being surrounded by sand dunes, one of the major worries has been sand on the track which can
reduce tyre adhesion considerably as well as affect engines and other parts. Although the
organisers sprayed the surrounding sand with an adhesive to keep it in place, although this keeps
the majority of the sand off the track organisers regularly sweep the surface during a race
weekend.

While the facilities are superb, the heat means the only spectators are housed in the main stands -
to try to watch from anywhere else would mean risking frying - and as a result the atmosphere on
large sections of the circuit is too often eerily quiet.
The circuit itself consists of 20 slow to medium-speed corners which means cars need to be set
up for good traction.

In 2007 it became the first active grand prix circuit to be named as an FIA Centre of Excellence for
safety. The land around the circuit is currently being developed to provide much-needed hotels
(the nearest large hotels are in Manama) as well as facilities for industry, education and
entertainment in a project reported to be costing US$2billion.


ALBERT PARK MELBOURNE
Circuit 5.303 km
Laps 58


Circuit Info
The Albert Park circuit is a temporary track which is only used once a year to host the Australian
Grand Prix - typically the opening round of the season.
The track made up of sections of the public road that circles the man-made Albert Park lake. The
sections of road used were completely rebuilt in 1996 to ensure consistency and smoothness of
the surface. As a result the circuit is considered the smoothest of the road circuits currently in
use.

Although fast, the track is thought of as to be easy to drive, however the flat terrain around the
lake combined with the design means the circuit has very few proper straights making overtaking
particularly hard.

Despite talks of a night race to make viewing easier for Europeans, a compromise was reached
between the FIA and the race organisers and the 2009 race started at 5pm local time and proved
a great success. As a result the contract was extended, meaning Albert Park will host the
Australian Grand Prix until 2015.


SEPANG INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT
KUALA LUMPUR
Circuit 5.543 km
Laps 56


Circuit Info
In the 1990s Dr Mahathir Mohamad, Malaysia's prime minister, declared that by 2020 the country
should be a fully industrialised nation. Part of this plan involved the construction of a race circuit -
the result was the Sepang International Circuit.

Designed by "the architect of F1", Hermann Tilke, Sepang is considered one of the most technical
circuits on the calendar and is a firm favourite with the drivers. The combination of long, high-
speed, straights and tight corner complexes were designed with overtaking in mind.

Situated 60km from the Malaysian capital of Kuala Lumpur and close to the city's international
airport, the circuit also hosts the Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix as well as the A1 GP race.
But the government's early enthusiasm waned and little money was pumped into the venue. Nor
has the racing ever attracted more than passing interest from the locals.

Shortly before the 2007 grand prix, Bernie Ecclestone hit out at the facility saying it had become
"shabby" and describing it as "an old house that needs a bit of redecorating". Circuit bosses
admitted it was in need of $60 million to bring it up to scratch.
The circuit currently has a contract to host the race until 2011 and although the organisers had
expressed an interest in making the event a night race, plans have since been dropped.


SHANGHAI INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT
Circuit 5.451 km
Laps 56


Circuit Info
The new circuit in China was designed by Hermann Tilke to be a circuit for the new millennium,
with impressive spectator facilities and a media centre which spans the start finish straight - on
opening it was billed as the venue all others should aspire to. It features Tilke's trademark long
straight followed by a tight hairpin.

When it opened it was the most expensive F1 circuit costing around US$459million, funded by a
government-backed joint-venture company. In September 2007, the former manager of the circuit
Yu Zhifei was convicted of embezzlement in a corruption scandal which included several senior
communist party officials who also lost their jobs.

The shape of the circuit is designed to look like the Chinese character 'Shang' which means high
or above, and there are also other echoes of traditional Chinese architecture, including the team
buildings set on stilts in the lake.

The land that the circuit sits on was formally swampland and had to be reclaimed before any
building could begin; despite this the circuit was constructed in just 18months with a team of
3000 engineers. The inaugural race in 2004 was won by Rubens Barrichello driving a Ferrari, and
in 2006 the circuit saw Michael Schumacher's final grand prix victory before his retirement at the
end of the season.


CIRCUIT DE CATALUNYA BARCELONA
Circuit 4.655 km
Laps 66


Circuit Info
The circuit was originally intended to host its first grand prix in 1992 to coincide with Barcelona's
Olympic Games, but it was ready a year ahead of schedule. The track is a favourite for out-of-
season F1 tests as well as hosting the annual Spanish Grand Prix.

When the circuit was first used overtaking was rife as cars were able to get very close through the
last two corners and make use of the slipstream on the straight. Since the changes to the
aerodynamics of the cars, however, the turbulence caused from the rear wings has spoiled this
opportunity. In 2007 the second to last corner was replaced with a slow chicane in an effort to
improve overtaking, but it doesn't seem to have been successful.

Although the circuit has received criticism for lack of race action over the years, there have been a
number of memorable moments at the track. In 1991, Ayrton Senna and Nigel Mansell were
fighting tooth and nail for second place, racing side by side down the front straight in a
memorable image. It was Mansell who eventually triumphed, winning the inaugural Catalunya
race, while Senna finished fifth. In 2006 Fernando Alonso became the first Spanish F1 driver to
win at his home circuit.


CIRCUIT DE MONACO MONTE-CARLO
Circuit 3.340 km
Laps 78


Circuit Info
Probably the most famous and recognisable circuit on the F1 Calendar, racing has taken place in
the principality since 1929, it was included in the first Formula One world championship season in
1950 and has been an ever-present feature on the calendar since 1955.

The race is considered as a 'must win' race for drivers, as the race is not only technically difficult
but also extremely glamorous and high profile. The circuit is one of the most demanding on the
calendar with no margin for error as the Armco barriers that line the track are at some points just
inches from the cars. Triple world champion Nelson Piquet described the race as similar to 'trying
to cycle round your living room'.

The circuit itself has remained virtually unchanged from its original, the Rascasse turn was slightly
altered for the 2003 race but the major change was in 2004 when the formerly cramped pit
complex was replaced and spectator capacity was increased.

Prior to the race, construction of the circuit takes around six weeks, dismantling takes just three.
Monaco is the only race on the calendar not to have a podium; the traditional winners' celebration
takes place on the steps of the royal box.

Despite the dangerous nature of the circuit and although there have been numerous serious
accidents there has to date only been one death, 1967 when Lorenzo Bandini died as result of
burns suffered. The most famous accident must be that of Alberto Ascari, one of only two people
to end up in the harbour.
Graham Hill was often referred to as Mr Monaco as he won five races in the 1960s; this record
was beaten by Ayrton Senna who holds the record of six wins at the venue.


ISTAMBUL PARK
ISTAMBUL
Circuit 5.388 km
Laps 58


Circuit Info
One of a batch a modern-day circuits designed by Hermann Tilke, Istanbul Park is a high speed
track where F1 cars can reach speeds of over 205mph. Istanbul is one of only four current F1
circuits that runs anti-clockwise, the others being Singapore, Brazil and the new track in Abu
Dhabi.

Although the circuit does not feature Tilke's trademark long straight followed by a hairpin to
encourage overtaking there are still numerous opportunities throughout the lap. The most
challenging corner on the track is the multi-apex turn eight where drivers experience a load of 5G.
The circuit offers excellent spectator facilities with a capacity of 130,000 people; the race however
is often badly supported by spectators. Felipe Massa is the most successful driver in the short
history of the circuit, winning three consecutive races between 2006 and 2008.


CIRCUIT GILLES VILLENEUVE MONTREAL
Circuit 4.361 km
Laps 70


Circuit Info
Formerly called the Ile Notre-Dame Circuit, the first Canadian Grand Prix was held at its current
location, a partly man-made island in the Saint-Lawrence River, in 1967. The track was renamed
in 1982 to honour the late French-Canadian driver Gilles Villeneuve who claimed his maiden
Formula One victory at the venue's inaugural F1 race in 1978.

Known for its tricky hairpin bends and the kilometre-long straight, the circuit is also famous for its
"Wall of Champions". Situated at the end of the very long high-speed straight, the chicane has
caught out many drivers over the years, notably in 1999 when three world champions, Michael
Schumacher, Jacques Villeneuve and Damon Hill all fell foul of the tricky chicane.
The first lap is notorious for accidents, the cars are funnelled from the grid into the tight Senna
curves, and so frequent is the safety car deployed that teams actually prepare strategies with one
or two safety car periods in mind.

The 2009 Canadian Grand Prix was dropped from the calendar following the failure to reach a
deal with F1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone. The government refused to pay the increased fee that they
were faced with on renewal of the contract. However, after further discussions a deal was
brokered that saw the popular event making a return to the 2010 calendar


VALENCIA STREET CIRCUIT
Circuit 3.376 km
Laps 57


Circuit Info
The deal to bring the European Grand Prix to Valencia was signed in 2007 between Bernie
Ecclestone and promoters Valmor Sport Group, headed by ex-motorcyclist Jorge Martinez Aspar.
The deal will see the race in Valencia for seven years, despite Ecclestone previously insisting no
European country should host more than one grand prix a season, with Barcelona hosting the
Spanish race.

The new road circuit is based in Valencia's harbour area which was heavily rebuilt as a home for
the America's Cup Yacht race which was hosted by the city in 2007 and 2009.
There seems to be an unwritten rule in modern F1 that you can't design a new circuit without the
expertise of Herman Tilke, and Valencia is no exception. He designed infrastructure and buildings
including a 140-metre long swing bridge that links the two sides of the harbour and allows the
track to make the best use of the natural features. Although essentially a road course, the
designers have tried to incorporate all the safety features of a permanent circuit.

The circuit was tested for F1 by running a meeting at the end of July 2008 which featured Spanish
F3 and International GT's; the F3 race was won by new local F1 hero Jamie Alguersuari. The first
grand prix was held nearly a month later, and was won by Ferrari's Felipe Massa from pole, who
was later fined 10,000 euros for nearly colliding with Adrian Sutil's car in the pit lane but retained
his victory.

Ticket sales for the race were sluggish for the second race in 2009 but were stimulated on the
news that Michael Schumacher would return to F1 to deputise for the injured Massa. The
organisers refused to refund tickets after he cancelled his comeback.


SILVERSTONE GRAND PRIX CIRCUIT
Circuit 5.141 km
Laps 60

Circuit Info
Like many UK historic tracks, Silverstone was built on the site of an old RAF airfield with the
original circuit making use of the three runways in a triangle formation, so common to World War
Two airfields.

The first race at the circuit is reported to have taken place in September 1947 between local
resident Maurice Geoghegan and 11 friends who raced on a two-mile ad-hoc circuit. The race
was plagued by sheep wandering onto the circuit; the event was nicknamed the 'Mutton Grand
Prix' after Geoghegan hit one of the unfortunate creatures, signalling the end for both car and
sheep.

The following year the Royal Automobile Club (RAC) took a lease on the airfield and set out a
more formal circuit marked by hay bales. The layout still retained use of the original runways and
led to a circuit consisting of long straights joined by hairpin corners. In 1949 the layout was
revised to use the perimeter track and this layout formed the circuit for the first Grand Prix held
there in 1950.

In the presence of King George VI, the race was won by Nino Farino in his Alfa Romeo, finishing
two laps ahead of team-mate Luigi Faglioli.
The start-line was moved from Farm straight to the current location for the 1952 Grand Prix and
the layout remained largely unaltered for the next 35 years. The circuit continued to host grand


prix events but shared hosting duties with Brands Hatch and Aintree up to 1986. As the speeds of
the cars began to rise, a chicane was introduced in order to slow the competitors through
Woodcote corner, Bridge was also subtly altered in 1987, also for safety reasons.

After the 1990 Grand Prix, Silverstone underwent a major redesign in time for the 1991 race which
proved popular with fans. The circuit's cause was no doubt helped when local hero Nigel Mansell
won the race. At the end of the race Mansell stopped to give stranded Ayrton Senna a lift back to
the pits on the side pod of his car, a now iconic F1 image.

Following the death of Senna at Imola in 1994, many F1 tracks were modified in a bid to
drastically reduced speeds and increase safety. For Silverstone this meant modification to Stowe
corner and the flat-out Abbey kink converted to a chicane. Having hosted the British Grand Prix
permanently since 1987, rifts began to show between the British Racing Drivers Club (BRDC),
who now owned the facility, and the FIA. It came to a head when in September 2004 BRDC
president Sir Jackie Stewart announced that Silverstone would not feature in the 2005 provisional
F1 calendar. A last-minute agreement was reached in December, securing the race's future at
Silverstone until 2009.

The circuit's future post-2009 looked rocky when Bernie Ecclestone said that he no longer
wanted to deal with the BRDC and instead wanted an official promoter appointed. He also said
major redevelopment was required for them to regain the race, including a new pit and paddock
complex. In August 2007 Silverstone got the go-ahead to start renovations; however on July 4,
2008 Ecclestone dropped the axe on the Northamptonshire venue by announcing the event would
move to Donington Park in 2010.

As Donington's plan appeared more and more shaky Ecclestone softened his "Donington or
nothing" policy and admitted that Silverstone may get a chance to host the event. When
Donington failed to raise the £135million it required for renovations Ecclestone once again opened
discussions with Silverstone.
In December 2009 British Racing Driver's Club (BRDC) president Damon Hill announced that they
had agreed a 17-year deal to keep the race at Silverstone.


HOCKENHEIM-RING
HOCKENHEIM
Circuit 4.574 km
Laps 67


Circuit Info
Built by Mercedes-Benz as a test track in the 1930s, Hockenheim first welcomed F1 to the circuit
in 1970 when drivers threatened to boycott the German Grand Prix at the Nürburgring on safety
grounds. Safety measures had already been introduced at Hockenheim following the death of Jim
Clark in 1968, where chicanes were added to the track's two main straights.

However, the race returned to the Nürburgring the following year, where it remained until 1977
when Hockenheim became the regular home of the German Grand Prix until 2006.
In 2002 the circuit underwent major alterations for safety reasons, with the new layout significantly
reducing the speed of the circuit and increasing the spectator seating available.

Since 1995 there had been two grand prix held in Germany every year; the German Grand Prix at
Hockenheim and either the European Grand Prix or the Luxembourg Grand Prix at the
Nürburgring, but in 2006 Bernie Ecclestone announced there would only be one race held in
Germany from 2007, alternating between the two historic circuits.

While no driver has ever been killed in an F1 race at Hockenheim, two-time F1 world champion
Jim Clark died in a Formula 2 race in April 1968 after he crashed into trees at 140mph. A
memorial used to mark the spot where he crashed but after the redevelopment of the circuit the
memorial was replaced by a more impressive structure at turn one.


HUNGARORING SPORT RT BUDAPEST
Circuit 4.381 km
Laps 70


Circuit Info
Although Hungary first hosted a grand prix in the 1930s, the Second World War and the advent of
the Iron Curtain meant motor racing in Eastern Europe was seriously limited until the late 60s.
In the 1980s Bernie Ecclestone looked to introduce a race behind the Iron Curtain, looking initially
at Moscow before turning to Budapest, with a plan to run a race on a temporary road circuit in the
city centre.

Organisers made the bold move to build a completely new circuit in a valley 12 miles from
Budapest; the circuit was completed in just eight months and the landscape offering amazing
spectators facilities with around 80% of the circuit visible from any vantage point.

The circuit held its first race in August 1986; it was a huge success attracting a crowd of nearly
200,000. The tight and twisty track has offered some excellent close races over the years, notably
the 1990 race when Thierry Boutson won the race by less than 0.3 of a second from Ayrton
Senna. The circuit is loved by some and considered twisty, hot and dusty by others.


CIRCUIT DE SPA FRANCORCHAMPS
Circuit 7.004 km
Laps 44


Circuit Info
Belgium's Spa Francorchamps circuit is one of the oldest on the current F1 calendar; with records
showing that it hosted its first non-championship grand prix in 1924.
The original circuit made up of narrow roads was 9.3miles long (14.9km) and was notoriously
dangerous. Despite this only two people have died at the circuit, Chris Bristow and Alan Stacey
during the 1960 grand prix. The old track hosted its final race in 1970, when it was deemed too
dangerous for F1.

Spa was missing from the F1 calendar until 1983 when it returned with a drastically reduced
circuit of almost 4.5miles. Despite the cuts in length the circuit still managed to retain its magic.
The mix of long straights and fast corners, combined with a picturesque setting and notoriously
changeable weather keeps it at the top of both drivers and spectators favourite circuits.

Part of the magic of Spa is that it is known and respected as one of the most challenging in the
world, and to prove that fact only six drivers have managed to win the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa
more than twice: Juan Manual Fangio and Damon Hill both have three wins to their name, Jim
Clark and Kimi Raikkonen managed one better with four wins and Ayrton Senna won the race five
times. The undisputed Spa master though, is Michael Schumacher who has won a record six
times.


AUTODROMO NAZIONALE DI MONZA
Circuit 5.793 km
Laps 53


Circuit Info
One of the old-school of grand prix circuits Monza has a very special atmosphere; the Italians
often refer to it as "La Pista Magica" or the magic track. It is set in a royal park and has played
host to motorsport since 1922. After Brooklands and Indianapolis, Monza was the third
permanent racing circuit in the world, and like many circuits of that era, the lap was over six miles.
The remains of the old banked track can still be found in the park grounds.

The high-speed nature of the track means it has had more than its fair share of serious accidents
and fatalities. Monza has claimed the lives of high profile drivers including F1's only posthumous
world champion Jochen Rindt in 1970. Despite numerous modifications over the years to improve
safety for both drivers and spectators, the circuit faces criticism for its lack of run-off especially at
the Variante della Roggia corner.

Despite the ongoing safety debate the circuit is still a firm favourite with fans who can always
expect an action-packed high-speed race. Legendary Ferrari fans, known as the Tifosi, turn the
stands to a sea of red on race day, as they cheer on their team at their local circuit.


SINGAPORE STREET CIRCUIT
Circuit 5.067 km
Laps 61


Circuit Info
Although Singapore hosted numerous non-championship races in the late 60s and early 70s,
there was not a race after 1974. The announcement of the new event came at the end of 2007
and was met with mixed reaction from fans. Excitement began to build when the FIA announced
that to ensure prime-time viewing for the European market the Marina Bay circuit would host F1's
first ever night race.

The non-permanent road circuit brought in innovative lighting techniques to ensure daylight
conditions for the drivers and those working in the pits, while still offering spectators the
atmospheric conditions of a night race. The first race in 2008 was won by Renault's Fernando
Alonso, it was a complete sell-out, but will always be marred by the crashgate scandal. It later
emerged that Renault asked driver Nelson Piquet Jnr to deliberately crash his car, in order to help
his team-mate Alonso win the race.

For the 2009 race the circuit was modified through the first three turns to encourage more
overtaking, modifications were also made to the high kerbs at turn ten that had caused so many
accidents the previous year.


SUZUKA INTERNATIONAL RACING COURSE
SUZUKA-CITY
Circuit 5.451 km
Laps 53


Circuit Info
Although unique is a much over-used word in F1, it can rightly be referred to Suzuka. Not only is
the Japanese circuit the only one that crosses over itself, in a figure of eight format, but this fact
means that it is also the only circuit that runs both clockwise and anti-clockwise. The grounds
play host to a huge funfair, and the big wheel is prominent on the skyline.

Designed as a test track for the Honda Motor Company in 1962 by Dutchman John Hugenholtz, it
was mainly used for vehicle development. After hosting numerous races in lower formulae Suzuka
began its quest to host the Japanese Grand Prix, a feat it managed in 1987, when it took the
honour away from Fuji, Toyota's test track. Although the grand prix returned to Fuji for 2007 and
2008 the race is now confirmed to take place at Suzuka till 2011.

An extremely fast and technical circuit, Suzuka is popular with drivers and spectators alike and
has some notorious corners including Spoon Curve and 130R. The circuit closed for a year in
2008 in order to make revisions necessary for F1, it re-opened on April 12, 2009.


KOREAN INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT YEONGAM
Circuit 5.621 km
Laps 55


Circuit Info
A brand new venue for 2010 is the Korean International Circuit in South Korea. This $264million
dollar project, situated in Yeongam County is being supervised by F1's new circuit guru Hermann
Tilke.

The project is a joint venture between private firm M-Bridge Holdings and South Jeolla provincial
government known as Korea Auto Valley Operation (KAVO). Work is apparently well underway at
the site 320km south of the capital Seoul, but information and pictures have so far been limited.

Organisers say the 3.5-mile circuit which is being built on 425 acres of reclaimed land beside an
artificial seaside lake. The anti-clockwise track will feature Asia's longest straight, allowing for
speeds of up to 320km per hour. The grandstands will accommodate up to 135,000 people.

KAVO have a seven-year deal to host the race, with an option to renew for a further five-year
term. The organisers are happy with the progress of the facility and confidently predict that it will
be ready in time for their debut race in October 2010.


AUTODROMO JOSE’ CARLOS PACE INTERLAGOS
Circuit 4.309 km
Laps 71


Circuit Info
Interlagos literally means 'between the lakes' referring to two large manmade lakes built in the
early 20th century to supply the city with water and electricity. The land on which the circuit
stands was originally bought in 1938 by two property developers who intended to build houses on
the site. When they discovered that the site was not suitable they decided to build a circuit
instead, and as Sao Paulo continued to grow at an astounding rate it was not long before the
track was surrounded by houses.

Owing to the success of Emerson Fittipaldi, the country expressed an interest in hosting a race.
Interlagos held two non-championship races in 1971 and '72 before joining the full championship
calendar in 1973, and the circuit proved to be a lucky one for the local racers Fittipaldi, Carlos
Pace and Carlos Reutemann who all won races there. In fact, it was the scene of Pace's only F1
win, and following his death in a plane crash in 1977 the circuit was renamed in his honour.

In 1978 the Brazilian Grand Prix moved to the Jacarepagua circuit in Rio de Janeiro, but it
returned to Interlagos the following year. In 1981 it was moved to Rio permanently as the
organisers felt the slums of Sao Paulo were at odds with the glamour of F1. It would take a
promise of a US$15million redevelopment programme to bring the race back in 1990.

The circuit itself is one of the very few circuits on the calendar that runs anti-clockwise, and this,
combined with its bumpy surface means it is considered hard on cars and drivers alike. The
resurfacing of the track in 2007 ironed out most of the worst bumps but the circuit still retains the
character as it follows the lands contours making it an interesting circuit to drive.
Despite the lack of a real Brazilian hero since Senna's death the passion of the local fans has not
diminished and the race continues to draw good crowds.


YAS MARINA CIRCUIT
ABU DHABI
Circuit 5.550 km
Laps 55


Circuit Info
The circuit is one of very few on the F1 calendar to run in an anti-clockwise direction, and it is also
unique as the only track with an underground pit lane. Leaving the track on the right, it crosses
underneath and rejoins on the left. Concerns were raised that the tunnel was too narrow and
dangerous, and any accidents would be difficult to clear quickly.

Granted the final go-ahead by the FIA in 2009, Bruno Senna was the first driver to complete a test
lap during the GP2 testing. When the teams arrived in Abu Dhabi for the season finale in October
2009, not a single driver had driven the track.

Much more spectator-friendly than soulless near-neighbour Bahrain, some drivers have
complained the circuit is too safe. "The car can go everywhere, cutting off corners, and you don't
ever lose time," moaned Adrian Sutil after the 2009 grand prix. "That can make racing very boring.
There's no real flow." Purists also lamented the need to build chicanes on a new track given their
only purpose was to slow down cars on existing circuits.

Yas Marina made history when the 2009 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix hosted F1's first day-night race,
starting at twilight with the race finishing in the dark. Floodlights were used from the start of the
event to illuminate the circuit and ensure a seamless transition from light to dark. Lewis Hamilton
started the race on pole but was forced to retire with brake problems. Sebastian Vettel won the
race, the fifth victory of his F1 career, beating team-mate Mark Webber and 2009 champion
Jenson Button to seal second place in the championship.


2010 Teams and Drivers


McLaren – Mercedes 2.4 V8 – Bridgestone

Sede: Working Business Park, Albert Drive, Sheerwater, Working, Surrey GU21 5JY (UK)
Executive Chairman of McLaren Automotive: Ron Dennis
Team Principal: Martin Whitmarsh
Engineering Director, McLaren Racing: Paddy Lowe
Managing Director, McLaren Racing: Jonathan Neale
Chief Engineer MP4-24, McLaren Racing: Pat Fry

Specifications
Monocoque: McLaren-moulded carbonfibre composite incorporating front and side impact
structures
Front suspension: Inboard torsion bar/damper system operated by pushrod and bell crank with a
double wishbone arrangement
Rear suspension: Inboard torsion bar/damper system operated by pushrod and bell crank with a
double wishbone arrangement
Suspension dampers: Koni
Electronics: McLaren Electronic Systems control units incorporating electronics for chassis,
engine and data acquisition. McLaren Electronic Systems also supplies the electronic dashboard,
alternator voltage control, sensors, data analysis and telemetry systems
Bodywork: Carbonfibre composite. Separate engine cover, sidepods and floor. Structural nose
with intergral front wing. Paint solutions provided by AkzoNobel Car Refinishes using Sikkens
Products
Tyres: Bridgestone Potenza
Radio: Kenwood
Race wheels: Enkei
Brake calipers: Akebono
Master cylinders: Akebono
Batteries: GS Yuasa Corporation
Steering: McLaren power-assisted
Instruments: McLaren Electronic Systems

Transmission
Gearbox: McLaren-moulded carbonfibre composite. Integral rear impact structure
Gears: Seven forward and one reverse
Gear selection: McLaren seamless shift, hand-operated fly-by-wire
Clutch: Carbon/carbon, hand-operated fly-by-wire


Engine
Type: Mercedes-Benz FO 108X
Capacity: 2.4 litres
Cylinders: 8
Maximum rpm: 18,000
Bank angle: 90°
Piston bore maximum: 98mm
Number of valves: 32
Fuel: ExxonMobil High Performance Unleaded (5.75% bio fuel)
Spark plugs: NGK racing spark plugs specially designed for Mercedes-Benz F1 engine
Lubricants: Mobil 1 – for higher performance, lower friction, better protection, cooling and wear
resistance
Weight: 95kg (minimum FIA regulation weight)


Jenson Button
Great Britain

Full name Jenson Alexander Lyons Button
Birth date January 19, 1980
Birthplace Frome, Somerset, Great Britain
Current age 30 years 75 days
Height 1.82 m
Weight 72 kg
Current team McLaren
Previous teams BAR, Benetton, Brawn, Honda, Renault, Williams

Year Car Race Start Won Pod Class Best Pole Front Best Lap Hat Pts Pos
2000 Williams 17 17 0 0 11 4 0 0 3 0 0 12 8
2001 Benetton 17 17 0 0 12 5 0 0 9 0 0 2 17
2002 Renault 17 17 0 0 12 4 0 0 6 0 0 14 7
2003 BAR 16 15 0 0 10 4 0 0 5 0 0 17 9
2004 BAR 18 18 0 10 15 2 1 3 1 0 0 85 3
2005 BAR 17 16 0 2 12 3 1 4 1 0 0 37 9
2006 Honda 18 18 1 3 14 1 1 3 1 0 0 56 6
2007 Honda 17 17 0 0 11 5 0 0 6 0 0 6 15
2008 Honda 18 18 0 0 14 6 0 0 9 0 0 3 18
2009 Brawn 17 17 6 9 16 1 4 5 1 2 1 95 1
2010 McLaren 3 3 1 1 3 1 0 0 4 0 0 35 4*
Total 175 173 8 25 130 1 7 15 1 2 1 362

It took nine years in the top-flight of motorsport before Jenson Button finally achieved his
boyhood dream in 2009 and became Formula One World Champion. His talent and desire had
been questioned on a number of occasions during his F1 career, but with the ultimate accolade
next to his name he is now one of the paddock's hottest properties.

When he signed for McLaren on November 18, 2009 he joined Lewis Hamilton to form the
ultimate British dream team. If it was the smartest career move for him remains to be seen.
Button made it to Formula One remarkably quickly, graduating from karting to grand prix racing in
just two years. His skill was obvious from the start and was revered by his karting contemporaries
Anthony Davidson and Hamilton.

Formula Ford was the next proving ground and he duly won the British Championship in his debut
year. The following year he moved to Formula 3 and again impressed.


A test with the Prost F1 team led to his name being mentioned up and down the paddock. A
number of testing contracts were offered, but Frank Williams shocked everyone by signing the 20-
year-old to be his second driver for 2000.

A solid rookie year followed but Williams replaced him with Juan Pablo Montoya for 2001 and
Button moved to Benetton. At his new team he had his first experience of driving an
uncompetitive car and was overshadowed by his experienced team mate Giancarlo Fisichella.
Benetton morphed into Renault in 2002 but by 2003 Button had to make way for Flavio Briatore's
protégé Fernando Alonso. However, BAR team principal David Richards still saw potential in the
Brit and signed him to partner Jacques Villeneuve. The move began a long, at times torturous, but
ultimately fruitful period with the Brackley-based team.

His first podium finally came in 2004, along with a pole position at Imola and third place in the
championship behind the dominant Ferraris of Michael Schumacher and Rubens Barrichello. Yet
questions were still being asked, as by his 114th race Button still hadn't won a grand prix. Then
came the 13th round of the 2006 World Championship in Hungary and at last a change of luck. An
unexpected rainstorm meant the tight Hungaroring circuit was open for overtaking and allowing
him to pick his way through the field from 14th place on the grid to the top step of the podium.
Despite the win the worst was yet to come. Honda produced a pair of forgettable cars for the
2007 and 2008 seasons before pulling out altogether and leaving Button with just nine points over
the previous two seasons and no drive for 2009.

The well worn but still magical Brawn fairy-tale then followed and, to the delight of John Button
and son, the rest is history.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Telemetry can prove that Button is one most technically perfect drivers ever to sit behind the
wheel of a Formula One car. However, throw in a few variables, such as cold tyres or a car with a
tendency for oversteer, and Button sometimes struggles to adapt.
Career High
His championship winning 2009 season and his performance at the Brazilian Grand Prix which
finally sealed the deal and silenced the critics who were suggesting he was not earning his title.
Career Low
114 races without a victory.
Quotes
"If I'm not winning, I don't give a damn who else is. It doesn't make any difference to me if I'm not
in a competitive car. I can't be bothered with working my nuts off and qualifying fourteenth any
more. It's making me unhappy."
When asked to choose between Mansell and Piquet: "Mansell. Because I like the guy and he's
got a great moustache - or at least he used to have a great moustache."
Trivia
Button is the proud owner of a 1956, split windscreen, Volkswagen campervan. The Brit has a
large garage of exotic cars but recently sold his Bugatti Veyron for around £900,000.


Lewis Hamilton
Great Britain

Full name Lewis Carl Hamilton
Birthplace Tewin, Great Britain
Height 1.75 m
Weight 66 kg
Current team McLaren

2007 McLaren 17 17 4 12 16 1 6 12 1 2 1 109 2
2008 McLaren 18 18 5 10 17 1 7 9 1 1 1 98 1
2009 McLaren 17 17 2 5 14 1 4 4 1 0 0 49 5
2010 McLaren 3 3 0 1 3 3 0 0 4 0 0 31 6*
Total 55 55 11 28 50 1 17 25 1 3 2 287

From an early age, Lewis Hamilton attracted attention as a potential F1 champion and he did not
disappoint: he narrowly missed out on the championship by a single point in his maiden season in
2007 before securing it the following year, to become the youngest world champion in the sport's
history.

Hamilton has always been in the enviable position of having a car capable of winning the
championship, but in 2009 that all changed and it showed that not even he could take an under-
performing car to the top of the podium.

Hamilton took his first steps towards F1 in 1993, aged eight, when he started karting at Rhye
House Kart Circuit in his home county of Hertfordshire. By ten he was British Champion, on
collecting his award at the Autosport Awards Ceremony the youngster approached McLaren team
boss Ron Dennis, telling him, "I want to race for you one day." Dennis wrote in his autograph
book that he should "give him a call in nine years". Less than three years later Dennis signed
Hamilton to the McLaren Mercedes Young Driver Support Programme.

The funding enabled Hamilton to progress to single-seaters and the Formula Renault series in
2002, a championship he won the second year with two rounds remaining. In 2004 he moved up
to the European Formula 3 series and again in his second year took a dominant win. He followed
this up by winning the GP2 series at his first attempt in 2006.

After the departure of Raikkonen to Ferrari and Juan Pablo Montoya to NASCAR, McLaren found
themselves requiring two drivers. In November the news came that the racing fraternity had long
been expecting - Hamilton would drive for McLaren in 2007 alongside Spaniard Fernando Alonso.


Although stunning, Hamilton's first season in Formula One was not without drama. He regularly
outperformed reigning world champion Alonso, standing on the podium after each of the first nine
races. He scored his first race win in Canada, and followed it up one week later with a win at the
US Grand Prix. Leading the championship, Hamilton was now being billed to do the unthinkable -
winning the world championship at his first attempt.
After a mixed second half to the season which saw heavy crashes and conflict with Alonso, the
teams arrived in Brazil for the final race of the year. Hamilton was leading Alonso and Raikkonen
by four and seven points respectively. He could have so easily taken the championship if it were
not for a gear box issue mid-race - he missed out on the title by just one point.

With Alonso heading back to Renault for the 2008 season, harmony was restored at McLaren. His
determination was fired once more and he took a string of wins, despite some errors including a
huge practice crash in Bahrain and running into the back of the stationary Alonso at the end of the
pit lane, but by Monaco he was back at the top of the drivers' standings. Once more the season
went to a final-race decider in Brazil - Hamilton arrived with a seven-point advantage, needing to
finish in the top five to win the title. As rival Massa crossed the line to win the race, Hamilton was
sixth prompting celebrations in the Ferrari camp. But moments later Hamilton put in a last-dash
move on Timo Glock to finish fifth and take the title by a point.

If his first two seasons in F1 had been a dream for Hamilton the third could be seen as a
nightmare, only managing to score nine points by the tenth round of the season. Aero changes to
the underperforming McLaren for the German Grand Prix showed promise, and he took two wins
and two podiums in the last half of the season, but only managed fifth in the standings.

Set to remain at McLaren till 2012, the 2010 season promises to be a challenge for Hamilton, as
he lines up against reigning world champion and team-mate Jenson Button in the first pairing of
British world champions since Graham Hill and Jim Clark at Lotus in 1968.
Hamilton's driving style has always ensured he stands out from the crowd, with the confidence to
attempt overtaking manoeuvres not even considered by his rivals, and most of the time having the
skill to pull them off. His preference for a car set up to over-steer shows off his lightning reactions.
However, his desire to win every race can often backfire when he crashes out trying to gain a
place rather than collecting the safe points.
Career High
Winning the world championship in 2008 after missing out by just one point in his debut season in
2007.
Career Low
Being disqualified from the Australian Grand Prix in 2009 after being found guilty of "misleading
the stewards" over a yellow flag incident with Jarno Trulli.
Quotes
"I have no fear of death, so I don't think about it. I love the adrenalin kick that danger brings.
Others get their kicks bungee jumping from tall buildings. I'm very, very competitive. I want to be
the best at everything I do. It's not just driving - it's everything - it might be playing my guitar, I try
to be the best at it as I possibly can."
Trivia
Hamilton is the proud owner of three Blue Peter badges - he received his first aged six when he
appeared on the programme to drive remote control cars, his second and third aged 12 and 16
for karting.


Mercedes – Mercedes 2.4 V8 – Bridgestone

Sede: Brackley, Northants, NN13 7BD (UK)
Team Principal: Ross Brawn
Chief Executive Officer: Nick Fry
Vice President, Mercedes-Benz Motorsport: Norbert Haug
Managing Director, Mercedes-Benz: Thomas Fuhr

Specifications
Chassis: Construction Moulded carbon fibre and honeycomb composite structure
Suspension: Wishbone and pushrod activated torsion springs and rockers
Dampers: Sachs
Wheels: BBS forged magnesium
Tyres: Bridgestone Potenza
Brakes: Brembo calipers
Brake: discs/pads Carbon/Carbon
Steering: Power assisted rack and pinion
Steering: wheel Carbon fibre construction
Electronics: FIA standard ECU and FIA homologated electronic and electrical system

Transmission
Gearbox: Seven speed unit with carbon composite maincase
Gear selection: Sequential, semi-automatic, hydraulic activation
Clutch: Carbon plate

Dimensions
Overall length: 4800mm
Overall height: 950mm
Overall width: 1800mm

Engine
Type: Mercedes-Benz FO108X
Capacity: 2.4 litres
Cylinders: 8
Maximum rpm: 18,000 (maximum FIA regulation)
Bank angle: 90°
Piston bore: 98mm (maximum FIA regulation)
No of valves: 32
Weight: 95kg (minimum FIA regulation weight)


Nico Rosberg
Germany

Full name Nico Rosberg
Birth date June 27, 1985
Birthplace Wiesbaden, Germany
Height 1.78 m
Weight 71 kg
Relation Father - K Rosberg
Current team Mercedes
Previous teams Williams

2006 Williams 18 18 0 0 9 7 0 0 3 1 0 4 17
2007 Williams 17 17 0 0 14 4 0 0 4 0 0 20 9
2008 Williams 18 18 0 2 16 2 0 0 5 0 0 17 13
2009 Williams 17 17 0 0 16 4 0 0 3 1 0 34.5 7
2010 Mercedes 3 3 0 1 3 3 0 1 2 0 0 35 5*
Total 73 73 0 3 58 2 0 1 2 2 0 110.5

Despite spending his childhood around the paddock with his father, 1982 world champion Keke,
Nico Rosberg was never guaranteed a future in F1. Brought up in Monaco, he was encouraged to
pursue other hobbies, and even considered becoming a professional tennis player.

He started karting at the age of 11, and in 2002, he moved up to German Formula BMW, winning
the title in his first season with nine victories. At 17 he became the youngest person to drive an F1
car when he was given a test with Williams, and he never looked back. Driving for his father's
team, Team Rosberg, he graduated to Formula 3. In 2005 he was offered a place at Imperial
College in London to read for a degree in Aeronautics, but decided pursue a career in racing.

His gamble paid off and that year he moved into the GP2 series with ART racing, winning the
championship in his rookie year, beating rival Heikki Kovalainen by 15 points. Such an impressive
display earned him with a seat with Williams for the 2006 season, alongside Mark Webber.

His debut at the 2006 Bahrain Grand Prix could not have been much more impressive. After an
early collision with Nick Heidfeld, that saw him slip to the back of the field he recovered to secure
his first points, finishing seventh. In doing so, he became the youngest driver ever to record a
fastest lap. In his second race he qualified third, only to bow out on the third lap with engine
failure. He ended his rookie season in 17th, with four points.


In 2007 Rosberg improved on his debut season result with 20 points, enough for ninth in the
drivers' standings. His best result came in Brazil on the final race of the season, where he finished
fourth. He had to wait until the following year, however, to secure his first podium finish. On the
opening race of the 2008 season he took third, and bettered this in Singapore with a second
behind Fernando Alonso. However, mixed results throughout the season meant he completed the
season down in 13th.

2009 was Rosberg's best season, but although he was consistently quickest in practice, he failed
to replicate the speed in qualifying. Although he didn't to reach the podium, consistently finishing
in the points was enough to see him take seventh, and get a drive with the new Mercedes team
for 2010.
Rosberg is one of the most talented drivers on the circuit, with natural pace and ability. However,
his failure to keep his cool when the pressure is on still remains a problem.
Career High
Becoming the youngest driver to set a fastest lap on his F1 debut in the 2006 Bahrain Grand Prix.
Career Low
After qualifying third at the Singapore Grand Prix, Rosberg was a comfortable second, and in with
a chance of catching leader Lewis Hamilton for his first race victory. He pitted on lap 18, but
crossed the white line exiting the pits and recieved drive-through penalty, eventually finishing a
disappointing 11th.
Quotes
"Generally it is just annoying. I know that I am very lucky to have a father like that and it has
helped my career but in the end you are the one who is racing and results are yours." Rosberg on
being compared to his father, Keke.
"He is the most exciting driver on the track. He digs himself out of some holes that we put him in
some times - comes by three places up at the end of the first lap. He is single-minded, chirpy, a
little arrogant which is good - he is always very good with the promo people, never an objection,
he is very good." Williams team principal Frank Williams.
Trivia
Although his father, former F1 champion Keke Rosberg, is Finnish, Nico, whose mother is
German, races under the German flag. He speaks fluent German, English, Italian and French, but
does not speak Finnish.


Michael Schumacher
Germany

Full name Michael Schumacher
Birthplace Hürth-Hermülheim, Germany
Height 1.74 m
Weight 75 kg
Relation Brother - R Schumacher
Current team Mercedes
Previous teams Benetton, Ferrari, Jordan

1991 Jordan, Benetton 6 6 0 0 3 5 0 0 5 0 0 4 14
1992 Benetton 16 16 1 8 12 1 0 1 2 2 0 53 3
1993 Benetton 16 16 1 9 9 1 0 1 2 5 0 52 4
1994 Benetton 14 14 8 10 10 1 6 12 1 8 4 92 1
1995 Benetton 17 17 9 11 13 1 4 10 1 8 1 102 1
1996 Ferrari 16 15 3 8 10 1 4 5 1 2 0 59 3
1997 Ferrari 17 17 5 8 13 1 3 7 1 3 1 78 2
1998 Ferrari 16 16 6 11 13 1 3 6 1 6 0 86 2
1999 Ferrari 10 9 2 6 8 1 3 5 1 5 0 44 5
2000 Ferrari 17 17 9 12 13 1 9 12 1 2 0 108 1
2001 Ferrari 17 17 9 14 15 1 11 13 1 3 2 123 1
2002 Ferrari 17 17 11 17 17 1 7 13 1 7 4 144 1
2003 Ferrari 16 16 6 8 15 1 5 6 1 5 3 93 1
2004 Ferrari 18 18 13 15 17 1 8 12 1 10 5 148 1
2005 Ferrari 19 19 1 5 13 1 1 3 1 3 0 62 3
2006 Ferrari 18 18 7 12 16 1 4 9 1 7 2 121 2
2010 Mercedes 3 3 0 0 2 6 0 0 7 0 0 9 10*
Total 253 251 91 154 199 1 68 115 1 76 22 1378

His insatiable desire for success took him to seven world titles before he retired as a household
name in 2006. He is by far and away the most successful driver of all time, but remarkably that


isn't enough for him and in 2010 he will return to Formula One to try to add to his huge catalogue
of records.
His domination of the sport in the 2000s was remarkable. His natural ability, sheer determination
and political nous proved to be the perfect combination for success in F1. When teamed up with
Jean Todt and Ross Brawn at Ferrari these factors led to five consecutive titles from 2000 to 2004
and will likely bring success when he returns in 2010.

At times he has been accused of overstepping the fine line between being determined to win and
cheating. In 1994 he caused uproar when he took his first championship at a tight title showdown
with Damon Hill in Australia. Hill had the superior car and looked set to clinch the title if he could
pass Schumacher on track. But as Hill made his move, Schumacher clipped the wall and caused
an accident that forced both to retire. In doing so he ensured he won the championship. There
was more controversy in 1997 when Schumacher, fighting for the title with Jacques Villeneuve,
pulled a similar stunt. This time, however, it didn't pay off and Villeneuve took the title while
Schumacher was stripped of his runner-up spot.

His talent was first spotted by his career-long manager Willi Weber while racing in karts. Weber
guided him to the German Formula 3 championship in 1990 and then to success in sportscars
and F3000 in 1991. In the same year Eddie Jordan gave him his first drive in F1 at the daunting
Spa Francorchamps circuit. The opportunity came about when Jordan's regular driver Bertrand
Gachot was jailed for spraying CS gas in a London taxi driver's face. Schumacher seized the
chance and he qualified in an impressive seventh place on his first attempt. Unfortunately his start
was a little bit too enthusiastic and he burnt the clutch, forcing him into retirement. But he had
impressed the right people, and was instantly signed up by Flavio Briatore to drive for Benetton
for the rest of the season.

His first win came a year later, and by 1994 he was world champion. In 1995 he made it back-to-
back titles, beating Hill again but this time without the controversy. For 1996 he moved to Ferrari
and, alongside Todt, began building the team that would eventually dominate the sport. He
started reaping the rewards in 2000 when he took his first title with the Italian marquee. It could
have come a year earlier, but he was ruled out of half of the 1999 season when he crashed at
Silverstone and broke his leg.

Championships followed in 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 as he went from strength to strength and
took a record 13 wins in the '04 season. 2005 then proved difficult, as Ferrari's tyre supplier
Bridgestone struggled with new regulations. He still finished third in the championship but his only
win came at Indianapolis when 14 Michelin runners were prevented from racing. In 2006 he came
close to the title but was beaten by Fernando Alonso and Renault. He had proved he was still
competitive but his mind was made up, and at an emotional press conference at Monza, he
announced his retirement.

He became a trackside consultant at Ferrari and started racing motorbikes as a hobby. However,
after several accidents and few successes he jumped at the opportunity to return to F1 with
Ferrari in 2009 to replace the injured Felipe Massa. Unfortunately one of his motorbike accidents
proved more serious than first thought and doctors warned him against making a return. But the
desire to race was still there and in late 2009 a deal was signed with Mercedes to return in 2010.
He is now fully fit and ready to pick up where he left off in 2006, in what is bound to be one of the
most exciting seasons of his career.
Strengths and weaknesses
He is close to being the complete package as a racing driver but his desire to win has led him
astray. Even later in his career he caused controversy when he blocked the track at Monaco
during a qualifying session in order to try and take pole.


Career high
Winning his seventh title in 2004 in very dominant fashion
Career low
Being stripped of his second place in 1997 when the FIA accused him of trying to crash into
Villeneuve at the final round.
Quotes
"I can't really imagine life without Formula One."
Schumacher on his approach to F1: "You know the song My Way? I think that fits how I feel."
Trivia
He turned down the opportunity to play football in the UEFA Champions League, having been
offered the chance to play for San Marino champions SS Murata in the opening round of the 2008
competition


Red Bull Racing – Renault 2.4 V8 – Bridgestone

Sede: Bradbourne Drive Tilbrook, Milton Keynes, MK7 8BJ United Kingdom
Team Principal: Christian Horner
Chief Technical Officer: Adrian Newey
Head of Aerodynamics: Peter Prodromou
Chief Designer: Rob Marshall

Specifications
Chassis: Composite monocoque structure, designed and built in-house, carrying the Renault V8
engine as fully stressed member
Front suspension: Aluminium alloy uprights, carbon-composite double wishbone with springs and
anti-roll bar, Multimatic dampers
Rear suspension: Aluminium alloy uprights, carbon-composite double wishbone with springs and
anti-roll bar, Multimatic dampers
Brakes: Brembo calipers, Brembo carbon discs and pads
Electronics: FIA (MESL) standard control unit
Fuel: Total Group
Wheels: OZ Racing (front: 12.7in x 13in; rear: 13.4in x 13in)
Tires: Bridgestone
Brakes: Brembo

Transmission
Gearbox: Seven-speed gearbox, longitudinally mounted with hydraulic system for power shift and
clutch operation.
Clutch: AP Racing

Engine
Type: Renault RS27 - 2010
Configuration: 90° V8
Capacity: 2400cc
Max RPM: 18,000 rpm (limit mandated by FIA)
Number of Valves: 32
Engine construction: Cylinder block in cast aluminium
Engine management: FIA (MESL) standard control unit TAG310B
Oil: Total Group
Weight: FIA minimum weight of 95kg


Sebastian Vettel
Germany

Full name Sebastian Vettel
Birth date July 3, 1987
Birthplace Heppenheim, Germany
Height 1.76 m
Weight 58 kg
Current team Red Bull
Previous teams BMW Sauber, Toro Rosso

2007 BMW Sauber, Toro Rosso 8 8 0 0 5 4 0 0 7 0 0 6 14
2008 Toro Rosso 18 18 1 1 12 1 1 1 1 0 0 35 8
2009 Red Bull 17 17 4 8 14 1 4 8 1 3 1 84 2
2010 Red Bull 3 3 1 1 2 1 2 2 1 0 0 37 3*
Total 46 46 6 10 33 1 7 11 1 3 1 162

Now an established race winner, Sebastian Vettel is arguably the star of the new generation of
drivers. With a long-term Red Bull contract in place and the rougher edges smoothed it leaves
many - himself included - expecting a regular wins and even a championship.

He started his career in karting before moving to Formula BMW in 2003 taking rookie honours; he
followed that up by winning 18 of the 20 events on the way to the title the following year. A move
to European F3 followed in 2005 and he became BMW Sauber test and reserve driver on 2006.
Vettel stayed race sharp by competing in the World Series by Renault before making his F1 debut
at Indianapolis in 2007.

Standing in for the injured Robert Kubica, he qualified a solid seventh and finished the race in
eighth before moving to Toro Rosso for the Hungarian Grand Prix. Following a few novice
mistakes, he finished a strong fourth in the wet Chinese Grand Prix.

He endured a tough start to the 2008 season courtesy of numerous accidents, but Monaco
brought the first reward when he finished fifth. Gaining confidence, he recorded his first victory at
the rain-hit Italian Grand Prix. Having finished eighth in the championship, he moved to Red Bull
Racing challenging for the championship with wins at Shanghai, Silverstone and Suzuka.

Vettel remains under contract to the end of the 2011 season with Red Bull, with an option for
2012. Now with two full F1 seasons behind him, he has the experience to match his natural pace
and is expected to spearhead the title aspiration of Red Bull Racing in the coming years.


Having shown outstanding pace in wet weather conditions, his will to win is very much a strength
in his character. However, while still relatively inexperienced, this desire for success has resulted
in several accidents that could have been avoided.
Career High
After only two full seasons in the sport, Vettel already has a number of high notes, including his
first grand prix win. Driving the unfancied Toro Rosso, Vettel claimed pole position in the rain at
Monza, in 2008, and went on to dominate the race in tricky conditions. His victory made him the
youngest ever grand prix winner.
Career Low
Chasing a podium position in the 2007 Japanese Grand Prix at Fuji, a lapse of concentration saw
him run into the back of second placed Mark Webber whilst running behind the safety car. Both
drivers were eliminated with Webber highly critical of the then rookie driver, while Vettel returned
to the Toro Rosso pit in tears. He received a ten position grid penalty for the next race for the
incident.
Quotes
"The chequered flag is really just a stupid wooden stick and a piece of cloth. It's a small thing, but
it means so much when you cross the line."
"Like a ship, a car should be named after a girl as it's sexy. My original car was called Kate. But
then it got smashed at the opening race in Australia. So we called this one Kate's Dirty Sister
because it is more aggressive and faster."
"I sort of imagine Vettel laughing to himself and telling himself jokes down long straights like this.
He seems to have that demeanour about him." Martin Brundle on Vettel.
Trivia
Vettel is something of an anglophile and is well known for his love of British comedy and music
including Monty Python, Little Britain and The Beatles. He is also partial to an English breakfast.


Mark Webber
Australia

Full name Mark Alan Webber
Birth date August 27, 1976
Birthplace Queanbeyan, New South Wales, Australia
Height 1.85 m
Weight 75 kg
Current team Red Bull
Previous teams Jaguar, Minardi, Williams

2002 Minardi 17 16 0 0 10 5 0 0 18 0 0 2 16
2003 Jaguar 16 16 0 0 11 6 0 0 3 0 0 17 10
2004 Jaguar 18 18 0 0 10 6 0 1 2 0 0 7 13
2005 Williams 19 18 0 1 13 3 0 1 2 0 0 36 10
2006 Williams 18 18 0 0 7 6 0 1 2 0 0 7 14
2007 Red Bull 17 17 0 1 10 3 0 0 5 0 0 10 12
2008 Red Bull 18 18 0 0 15 4 0 1 2 0 0 21 11
2009 Red Bull 17 17 2 8 15 1 1 2 1 3 0 69.5 4
2010 Red Bull 3 3 0 1 3 2 1 2 1 2 0 24 8*
Total 143 141 2 11 94 1 2 8 1 5 0 193.5

Mark Webber had to wait until his eighth F1 season to start to realise the potential he showed
when he burst onto the scene with a surprise fifth-place finish in a sluggish Minardi in his debut
grand prix in 2002.

His first two wins and a career-best fourth in the drivers' championship finally arrived in 2009 with
Red Bull, ending years of frustration as F1's 'nearly man'. It seems like only recently Webber was
a young gun who was the talk of the infield, drawing comparison with some of the greats. Given
the season has almost always opened with Webber's home race in Melbourne, hype has always
surrounded his chances of pushing for end of year honours.

Now one of the elder statesmen of the sport, Webber has belatedly started to turn sheer potential
and determination into podiums and race wins with the fastest and most reliable car he has
driven.


Webber had long been referred to as the unluckiest driver in the sport - it seems mechanical
failures, accidents and other incidents have followed him wherever he has gone, holding him back
from greater triumphs.

Although that curse has dissipated somewhat in recent years, the former Minardi, Jaguar and
Williams driver still hasn't quite found the consistency required to mount a serious championship
challenge. With Webber re-signed for arguably one of the top teams in the paddock for 2010 -
Red Bull - he stands his strongest chance yet of delivering a championship winning performance.
Although highly regarded among his peers in the sport, Webber has failed to live up to his early
promise. However, despite only achieving limited success, he has remained determined and
focused on his race craft. He is a strong qualifier who has a history of getting good performances
out of weaker cars despite being constantly let down by his race form.
Career High
After waiting over seven years and 130 races, Webber finally scored his first race victory at the
German Grand Prix in 2009.
Career Low
While leading his home race in 2006, a gearbox problem forced Webber to retire. His Williams
finished just seven times out of 18 starts that season.
Quotes
"It's an incredible day. I wanted to win so badly after Silverstone as I thought I had a good chance
there, then after yesterday's pole, I knew I was in a good position to try and win the race today.
It's just an incredible day for all the people who have helped me to get to where I am today." Mark
Webber after his first race win, July 2009
"If you have that kind of absolute dedication ... and there's only one driver other than Michael
Schumacher out there that lives, breathes, sleeps, eats Formula One 110% - and that's Mark
Webber," Paul Stoddart, 2005
Trivia
In 2006, Webber was officially appointed as the number one ticket holder of the Canberra
Raiders, an Australian rugby league team. He worked as a ball-boy for the Raiders during the late
1980s.


Ferrari – Ferrari 2.4 V8 – Bridgestone

Sede: via Ascari, 55/57 – 41053 Maranello (MO)
Presidente: Luca Cordero di Montezemolo
Direttore della Gestione Sportiva: Stefano Domenicali
Direttore Tecnico: Aldo Costa
Direttore Motori ed Elettronica: Luca Marmorini
Chief Designer: Nikolas Tombazis

Chassis
Carbon-fibre and honeycomb composite structure
Ferrari longitudinal gearbox
Limited-slip differential
Semi-automatic sequential electronically controlled gearbox – quick shift
Number of gears: Seven, plus reverse
Brembo ventilated carbon-fibre disc brakes
Independent suspension, push-rod activated torsion springs front and rear
Weight with water, lubricant and driver: 620 kg
BBS Wheels (front and rear: 13 inch)

Engine
Type: 056
Number of cylinders: Eight
Cylinder block in sand cast aluminium: 90-degree V
Number of valves: 32
Pneumatic distribution
Total displacement: .2398 cm3
Piston bore: 98 mm
Weight: > 95 kg
Electronic injection and ignition
Fuel: Shell V-Power
Lubricant: Shell Helix Ultra


Fernando Alonso
Spain

Full name Fernando Alonso Díaz
Birth date July 29, 1981
Birthplace Oviedo, Spain
Height 1.71 m
Weight 68 kg
Current team Ferrari
Previous teams McLaren, Minardi, Renault

2001 Minardi 17 16 0 0 9 10 0 0 17 0 0 0 -
2003 Renault 16 16 1 4 11 1 2 2 1 1 0 55 6
2004 Renault 18 18 0 4 13 2 1 1 1 0 0 59 4
2005 Renault 19 18 7 15 17 1 6 9 1 2 0 133 1
2006 Renault 18 18 7 14 16 1 6 6 1 5 1 134 1
2007 McLaren 17 17 4 12 16 1 2 9 1 3 2 109 3
2008 Renault 18 18 2 3 15 1 0 1 2 0 0 61 5
2009 Renault 17 17 0 1 14 3 1 2 1 2 0 26 9
2010 Ferrari 3 3 1 1 3 1 0 0 3 1 0 37 2*
Total 143 141 22 54 114 1 18 30 1 14 3 614

Following a disappointing second spell with the Renault team, Fernando Alonso joins Ferrari in
2010 with a clear aim of adding a third championship to his already impressive resume.

Following a successful period in karts, in which he became world champion, he stepped up to the
Euro Open Championship for Nissan in 1999 and won the title. He moved to F3000 the following
year, but F1 has already recognised his talents and he enjoyed a testing role with Minardi. He got
his first F1 seat with the team in 2001 and put some impressive performances. In order to further
his career he opted to return to a testing role this time with Renault the following year.

Renault rewarded him with the race drive in 2003, and he recorded his first win at the Hungarian
Grand Prix just a few months later. In 2005 he became the youngest ever world champion beating
Kimi Raikkonen to the title. Six wins from the first nine races followed in 2006, even though
Michael Schumacher kept the pressure on he could not deny Alonso his second title.


He joined McLaren in 2007 and while the opening races of the season went smoothly, it was soon
clear that tensions were building between Alonso, and team-mate Lewis Hamilton. Unhappy that
he had to battle with his own team-mate for success, he finished third in the championship and
left the team under a cloud to rejoin Renault.

With undisputed no.1 status he craved in 2008, his second two-year stint with Renault was
disappointing with just two wins, one of which included the fixed Singapore Grand Prix. The 2009
package was not competitive - he scored just one podium all year - and after months of rumour,
he agreed a multi-year deal to join Ferrari.
He has astonishing consistency and will battle hard regardless of his position and chances of a
strong finish. He has made it clear that he demands number one status in a team.
Career High
After qualifying 16th in Brazil in 2005, he raced to third position to claim his first championship
and ending Michael Schumacher's period of dominance in the sport.
Career Low
With tension between himself, McLaren and team-mate Lewis Hamilton reaching a peak in
qualifying for the 2007 Hungarian Grand Prix, he deliberately blocked the pit box to ensure that
Hamilton could not start his final qualifying lap ahead of the chequered flag. He claimed pole
position as a result but was subsequently penalised.
Quotes
"I might not be fastest, or the most technical but I am consistent."
"Instead of complaining, moaning and bitching, which is what Alonso is doing at the moment, all
he needs to do is concentrate on driving quicker." Niki Lauda.
"I don't see many weaknesses in Alonso when he is behind the wheel - he has the full deck of
cards. Right now [he] is the most complete F1 driver out there in my view. Now he has a chance
to push on again and there is no doubt he has more world championships in him." Martin Brundle.
Trivia
Alonso is claustrophobic and is terrified of being stuck in a lift.


Felipe Massa
Brazil

Full name Felipe Massa
Birth date April 25, 1981
Birthplace Sao Paulo, Brazil
Height 1.66 m
Weight 59 kg
Current team Ferrari
Previous teams Sauber

2002 Sauber 16 16 0 0 8 5 0 0 7 0 0 4 13
2004 Sauber 18 18 0 0 14 4 0 0 4 0 0 12 12
2005 Sauber 19 18 0 0 16 4 0 0 7 0 0 11 13
2006 Ferrari 18 18 2 7 16 1 3 7 1 2 0 80 3
2007 Ferrari 17 17 3 10 15 1 6 7 1 6 2 94 4
2008 Ferrari 18 18 6 10 16 1 6 10 1 3 2 97 2
2009 Ferrari 10 9 0 1 7 3 0 0 4 1 0 22 11
2010 Ferrari 3 3 0 2 3 2 0 1 2 0 0 39 1*
Total 119 117 11 30 95 1 15 25 1 12 4 359

A seasoned F1 veteran who has raced alongside some of the biggest names in the sport, Felipe
Massa has shown tremendous sporting prowess, skill and race craft but above all his enthusiasm
for being a race driver at the top of his game. Now very much a fixture at what is arguably the
most illustrious team in the world, he is a proven winner and still a potential world champion as he
returns to the sport following head injuries sustained in Hungary.

He spent eight years karting before graduating to the Formula Chevrolet championship in Brazil in
1998, winning the championship the following year. A move to Europe followed and in 2000 where
he took victory in the Italian Formula Renault and Eurocup series. A step up to the Euro F3000
championship followed where he claimed his fourth title in three years. Riding on the momentum,
Massa tested with the Sauber F1 team and was signed up for the 2002 season.

His debut season saw undisputed race pace but he decided to take a testing role with Ferrari the
following year before returning to Sauber in 2004. Having rid himself of some of his rougher
edges, he secured the services of Nicolas Todt (son of former Ferrari chief Jean Todt) as his
manager, and was a regular points scorer. He was joined by Jacques Villeneuve the following year


and undaunted by having a former champion as a team-mate, consistently outperformed the
Canadian.
He got his big break in 2006 as he rejoined Ferrari, this time as a race driver. Lining up with
Michael Schumacher, he was able to show his raw speed and on occasion even left the German
trailing. Despite playing the dutiful number two role, he was able to record his first grand prix win
from pole position in Turkey and finished the season in third in the standings.

Massa was paired Kimi Raikkonen for the 2007 season and two wins from the first four grand prix
was a promising start. His performance dwindled towards the end of the season however and he
was able to win just once more. He could have been champion in 2008 but was let down by errors
early in the season, both from himself and the team. He recorded his sixth win of the season in
Brazil, but lost the championship to Lewis Hamilton by a single point.

After being so close to championship success, 2009 was a complete turnaround. The package
was initially uncompetitive but a freak accident in qualifying for the Hungarian Grand Prix brought
an abrupt halt to his season and almost his life. Undoubtedly one of the best of his generation, he
returns in 2010 with a point to prove and a championship to finally win.
Certain circuits seem to suit Massa and on those he is all but unbeatable given a competitive car.
He does, however, remain prone to rookie style mistakes that have blunted his championship
challenge in recent years.
Career High
While he lost the championship to Lewis Hamilton at his home race at Interlagos in 2008, his
victory and attitude in defeat characterised Massa as the gentleman of F1.
Career Low
He was lucky to survive when he was hit in the head by a spring from a rival car in qualifying for
the Hungarian Grand Prix. Following surgery for serious head injuries, he remained positive and
bullish on his chances of returning at the very highest level in 2010.
Quotes
"If my weekend begins well, I use the same underpants on Saturday. If that is also a good day, I
wear them on Sunday. That is what I did in Brazil."
"What I don't quite understand is how Massa gets the lap times he does when he so often misses
the apexes of the corners. What really does impress me is the fact that he displays a
determination not to be counted out, or overlooked, when it comes to fighting for the world
championship." Damon Hill.
Trivia
In May 2007 Felipe's underwear sold at auction for just under US $775. It's an urban myth that
Massa had his first experience of F1 aged seven - when he delivered pizzas to the Brazilian Grand
Prix. He clarified the truth recently, he was actually 17.


Williams – Toyota 2.4 V8 – Bridgestone

Sede: Grove, Wantage Oxfordshire OX12 0DQ (UK)
Team Principal: Frank Williams
Director of Engineering: Patrick Head
Non Executive Director: Toto Wolff
Technical Director: Sam Michael
Chief Executive Officer: Adam Parr
Chief Designer: Ed Wood
Chief Aerodynamicist: Jon Tomlinson
Chief Operation Engineer: Rod Nelson
Team manager: Tim Newton

Specifications
Chassis construction: Monocoque construction fabricated from carbon epoxy and honeycomb
composite structure, surpassing FIA impact and strength requirements
Front suspension: Carbon fibre double wishbone arrangement, with composite toelink and
pushrod activated springs and anti-roll bar
Rear suspension: Double wishbone and pushrod activated springs and anti-roll bar
Transmission: Williams F1 7-speed seamless sequential semi-automatic shift plus reverse gear.
Gear selection: electro-hydraulically actuated
Clutch: Carbon multi-plate
Dampers: Williams F1
Wheels: RAYS forged magnesium
Tyres: Bridgestone Potenza, F 325mm wide, R 375mm wide
Brake system: 6 piston callipers all round, carbon discs and pads
Steering: Williams F1 power assisted rack and pinion
Fuel system: Kevlar-reinforced rubber bladder
Electronic systems: FIA standard electronic control unit
Cooling system: Aluminium oil, water, and gearbox radiators
Cockpit: Driver six-point safety harness with 75mm shoulder straps & HANS system,
removable anatomically formed carbon fibre seat covered in Alcantara
Dimensions & weight: Overall width: 1800mm

Engine
Designation: Cosworth 2.4L V8, 90° V angle engine
Valve train: pneumatic
Fuel management and ignition systems: Cosworth
Engine materials: include block and pistons in aluminium, crankshaft in steel billet, connecting
rods in titanium


Rubens Barrichello
Brazil

Full name Rubens Gonçalves Barrichello
Birth date May 23, 1972
Birthplace Sao Paulo, Brazil
Height 1.72 m
Weight 77 kg
Current team Williams
Previous teams Brawn, Ferrari, Honda, Jordan, Stewart

1993 Jordan 16 16 0 0 8 5 0 0 8 0 0 2 18
1994 Jordan 16 15 0 1 8 3 1 1 1 0 0 19 6
1995 Jordan 17 17 0 1 8 2 0 0 5 0 0 11 11
1996 Jordan 16 16 0 0 9 4 0 1 2 0 0 14 8
1997 Stewart 17 17 0 1 3 2 0 0 3 0 0 6 14
1998 Stewart 16 15 0 0 6 5 0 0 5 0 0 4 12
1999 Stewart 16 16 0 3 11 3 1 1 1 0 0 21 7
2000 Ferrari 17 17 1 9 13 1 1 2 1 3 0 62 4
2001 Ferrari 17 17 0 10 14 2 0 3 2 0 0 56 3
2002 Ferrari 17 15 4 10 12 1 3 8 1 5 0 77 2
2003 Ferrari 16 16 2 8 11 1 3 6 1 3 1 65 4
2004 Ferrari 18 18 2 14 17 1 4 8 1 4 1 114 2
2005 Ferrari 19 19 0 4 17 2 0 0 5 0 0 38 8
2006 Honda 18 18 0 0 15 4 0 0 3 0 0 30 7
2007 Honda 17 17 0 0 15 9 0 0 9 0 0 0 -
2008 Honda 18 18 0 1 13 3 0 0 9 0 0 11 14
2009 Brawn 17 17 2 6 16 1 1 4 1 2 0 77 3
2010 Williams 3 3 0 0 3 8 0 0 7 0 0 5 12*
Total 291 287 11 68 199 1 14 34 1 17 2 612

The fourth-highest points scorer in F1 history, Rubens Barrichello begins his 18th season on the
F1 grid with Williams in 2010. One of the most popular drivers on the F1 circuit, he has emerged


from Michael Schumacher's shadow at Ferrari and in 2010 he will be looking to banish his
reputation as F1's 'nearly man'.

Born within a stone's throw of the Interlagos track, Barrichello was born into a motor racing
family, and was given his first kart at the age of six. In 1986 he was crowned South American
karting champion, and just a year later he finished ninth in the world championships, sponsored
by Ayrton Senna.

In 1989, aged 16, Barrichello graduated from karts to Formula Ford, before moving to England to
pursue his dream to become an F1 driver. He claims he used his father's driving licence as he
wasn't old enough to drive in the UK. He won the British Formula 3 championship in 1991,
becoming the youngest racing driver to do so, a feat only beaten by Nelson Piquet Jnr in 2004.

Barrichello made his F1 debut with Jordan in 1993, and finished on the podium just 13 months
later at the Pacific Grand Prix in Japan. He finished sixth in his second season, but it was marred
by the death of his friend and mentor Senna at Italian Grand Prix, while he himself escaped a
horrific accident in qualifying for the same race.

After three years at Jordan, Barrichello moved to Stewart Ford in 1997, where he scored three
third-place finishes enough to secure him a move to Ferrari in 1999, where he was second driver
to F1's most successful driver in history, Michael Schumacher. In 2000, after seven seasons in F1,
Barrichello secured his first race victory at the German Grand Prix at Hockenheim.

In 2007, aged 33, Barrichello moved to Honda, and endured the worst season of his career, failing
to score a single point, but remarkably finishing all but two races. At the 2008 Turkish Grand Prix
in May 2008, Barrichello became the sport's most experienced driver, overtaking Riccardo
Patrese's record of 257 F1 starts. In 2009, the Honda team, rescued at the 11th hour by
Barrichello's former Ferrari boss Ross Brawn, became the first team to win the constructors
championship in their inaugural season, and Barrichello's six podiums and two race victories
helped him to third-place in the drivers' standings.

In November 2009 Williams announced that Barrichello would join their team for 2010 season
alongside rookie driver Nico Hulkenberg. While Barrichello is the fourth-highest points scorer of all
time, behind Schumacher, Alain Prost and Senna, the one race that still eludes him is the Brazilian
Grand Prix in his home town of Sao Paolo. While Williams are unlikely to provide a car fast
enough to see the veteran win his first world championship, a win in Interlagos would be a dream
come true for one of the nicest men in motorsport.
Undoubtedly one of the most consistent drivers of all time, Barrichello has over 60 podium
finishes and six hundred career points to his name. Forced to play second fiddle for much of his
career, notably to Michael Schumacher at Ferrari and most recently Jenson Button at Brawn,
Williams could be his chance to shine as number one.
Career High
On his 123rd race, at the German Grand Prix in Hockenheim, Rubens Barrichello won his first
grand prix, after starting 18th on the grid. It was the first time the Brazilian national anthem had
been played since Senna's final victory in Australian in 1993, Barrichello was clearly overwhelmed.
Career Low
Suffering a near-fatal collision in qualifying at the Italian Grand Prix in 1994. Barrichello hit a kerb
at 140mph and his car launched into the air, rolled several times and he was knocked
unconscious. After waking in hospital with a number of injuries, Senna was by his bedside.
Barrichello never saw his mentor again, as the three-time world champion died on the same track
two days later, he considered quitting the sport for good.


Quotes
"Michael [Schumacher] might have more skill than I had, but if you threw both of us into a jail with
a tiger I might get out alive - I'm not sure about him." On former team-mate and rival Michael
Schumacher.
"Whenever I get home after a race, we chat about what he thought of it. Once, after one of my
toughest races, he asked me why I had gotten so angry at the podium if the podium is supposed
to be a wonderful thing. After that comment, I promised him nothing would ever make me get
angry when I got onto the podium again." On his son, Eduardo, born 2001.
Trivia
Barrichello's nickname is Rubinho, or little Rubens, as his father and grandfather are both called
Rubens. He also shares his birthday, May 23 with his father.


Nico Hülkenberg
Germany

Full name Nicolas Hülkenberg
Nickname The Hulk
Birth date August 19, 1987
Birthplace Emmerich am Rhein, Germany
Height 1.84 m
Weight 70 kg
Current team Williams

2010 Williams 3 3 0 0 2 10 0 0 5 0 0 1 14*
Total 3 3 0 0 2 10 0 0 5 0 0 1

Dubbed 'the next Michael Schumacher', F1 rookie Nico Hulkenberg has an astonishing record.
And with his manager Willi Weber, the man behind the seven-time world champion's career,
making the comparisons, Hulkenberg is surely destined for great things.

He made his karting debut aged 10, and soon enjoyed success before moving up to German
Formula BMW in 2005, dominating the championship and comfortably winning the title, following
in the footsteps of Nico Rosberg and Sebastian Vettel. In 2006 he joined the German A1 Grand
Prix team, almost single-handedly winning Germany the title, with nine victories in his debut
season.

After a year in German Formula 3, he moved across to the Formula 3 Euroseries, finishing third
behind Romain Grosjean and Sebastien Buemi, before taking the title in the following year. In
December 2007, Hulkenberg tested for Williams F1, outpacing official driver Kazuki Nakajima and
clocking a time only 0.4 seconds slower than Rosberg. His performance impressed Williams
enough to offer him a test driver seat for the 2008 season.

Juggling his commitments to Williams, Hulkenberg moved on to the GP2 Asia series over the
winter, taking pole in his first race and finishing sixth in the championship despite only competing
in four races. The following season he progressed to the GP2 series, where he wrapped up the
championship at the penultimate round at Monza, the first time the series had been won before
the final round.

In November 2009 Williams announced that Hulkenberg would partner veteran driver Rubens
Barrichello for the 2010 season. Although the comparisons between Hulkenberg and Schumacher
are obvious, Hulkenberg is keen to establish himself as an F1 name in his own right.
Undoubted talented, Hulkenberg will be hoping to emulate the success Hamilton and Vettel

enjoyed in their debut seasons. While much has been made of the 'next Schumacher', the
pressure could prove too much at the highest level.
Career High
For a driver who has won virtually every championship he has ever entered, choosing a single
high is not easy, but to win the GP2 championship in his rookie season, following in the footsteps
of Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel, is probably a worthy winner.
Career Low
After a phenomenal debut season in German Formula BMW in 2005, Hulkenberg went on to win
the world final, only to be stripped of the trophy after being accused of brake-testing one of his
rivals during a safety car period.
Quotes
"The drivers who have won GP2 in their first year - Nico Rosberg, Lewis Hamilton - are all pretty
outstanding, and I think Nico will be outstanding as well." Patrick Head, Williams director of
engineering.
"I can say that the boy has an unbelievable talent. So much about him already reminds me of
Michael Schumacher." Willi Weber, Hulkenberg's manager. "I won't be the next Michael
Schumacher or whatever. When I get to Formula One, and I believe I have still a long way to go, if
I do get there, I want to be the first Nico Hulkenberg."
Trivia
Manager Willi Weber has nicknamed Hulkenberg 'The Hulk', referring to his change in personality
when he gets behind a wheel.


Complete Guide To F1 2010 World Championship

Complete Guide To F1 2010 World Championship

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