Abu DhabiGP/Fernando Collects £800 & can pass go Thread - Contains Quali & Race spoilers

[Fernando]

First topic message reminder :

Yas Marina wants for nothing in terms of facilities. If only the same could be said of its track.

Track data: Yas Marina

Lap length 5.554km (3.451 miles)
Grand prix distance 305.355km (189.739 miles)
Lap record (race) 1’40.279 (Sebastian Vettel, 2009)
Fastest lap (any session) 1’38.434 (Lewis Hamilton, 2011, qualifying two)
Tyre compounds See drivers’ choices
2015 Rate the Race 5.25 out of 10
2015 Driver of the Weekend Sergio Perez
Yas Marina track data in full

But the circuit which has the honour of holding this year’s title-deciding race leaves everything to be desired when it comes to challenging the world’s best drivers and cars.

It’s wide, smooth, flat and – aside from a pair of lengthy straights – slow. Whatever brief the track designer was given, showcasing F1 at its best was not it.

“It’s not the most thrilling of tracks,” says master of understatement Daniil Kvyat, “as many of the corners are very similar”. Other drivers have been similarly dismissive of its untaxing, stop-start nature.

The track has produced few riveting races since it first appeared on the calendar in 2009. The surprise outcome of the 2010 title-decider and Sebastian Vettel’s race through the field two years later stick in the mind. But last year’s forgettable finale was more typical of what we’ve come to expect from this venue.

Abu Dhabi’s stable climate means we can discount the possibility of surprising weather changes playing a role in Sunday’s championship finale. But Pirelli’s decision to bring its most aggressive tyre selection could offer the drivers new strategic options this year.

A lap of Yas Marina


From the start line the drivers arrive quickly at turn one. This is the first of many 90-degree corners but is quicker than the rest, typically taken in fourth gear. Accelerating out of the left-hander the drivers approach what passes for the most interesting section on the track – the flat-out sweep through turns two, three and four.
The pit lane entrance joins the track at this point and we have seen some near-misses as drivers blend in with traffic. Fernando Alonso took a punishing ride over the kerbs here in 2013.

As the drivers leave turn four at speed they are quickly upon the next sequence of corners: a slow chicane followed by a hairpin. “You go down the hill, braking into six – very tricky braking turning into six, then straight away into seven,” explains Romain Grosjean. “You need to be well positioned for the hairpin going down the back straight. It’s tricky to get the car to turn.”

Two long straights separated by the turn eight/nine chicane follow. “Again you need to be well positioned between the left and right-hand side corners,” says Grosjean. “Then it’s another straight line on to 11, 12 and 13. It’s a triple chicane and as soon as you exit that part you go flat out then brake for turn 14, which is a 90-degree left-hand side corner.”


Following the tricky curved approach to turn 17 the final sector of the lap involves a sequence of slow bends, most of which are right-angles. “As soon as you go out of 17 you have to brake again for 18,” says Grosjean. Two left-handers lead them beneath the Yas Viceroy hotel, with a “tricky exit” as the cars straighten up ahead of the final pair of bends.
“The second to last corner is good,” comments Grosjean. “It’s high speed in fourth or fifth gear.”

After that the run-off area at the final corner invites drivers to run wide. “The last corner is very tricky,” Grosjean explains. “It’s very wide on the entry phase with the pit lane on the right-hand side. It’s not easy to find a line.”

[GSC]

Merc currently praying for no SC.

if there is Kimi could win this

[GSC]

Ferraris strategists have just bottled a podium. Why respond. Lewis would have to make up 2 seconds a lap on flaky brakes.

[Guest]

Ricciardo won't do it

Rosberg leads WDC by 8 points

[GSC]

Looking like Nico measured himself and Ricciardo just took too much out of his tyres trying to catch him. 2 laps to go, needs 3 seconds and to overtake him which is tricky outside of the first sector.

[GSC]

Rosberg wins, mature drive not to panic under some pretty hot laps from Ricciardo.

Ferrari's strategists throw away a podium, might be some heads rolling after this season.

Good recovery from Vettel to get 5th, good point for Magnusson.

Took about 50 laps to get going, but the last stint was what F1 should be about.

[Guest]

I did fear for Hamilton in this race, but I think this was a good result for him.

Red Bull must be a little disappointed. Not sure where else they are going to get an opportunity like this in the remaining season.

[GSC]

Rosberg just had enough to keep Ricciardo at arms length all race.

Lewis not really on the pace of the top 2 this weekend, so P3 a good result, considering brake issues brought him down to around Kimis level.

[Jermaine2015]

Perhaps the most complete weekend of Nico Rosberg's entire career. He was on it from the outset(excluding when he parted into the barriers in FP1). Even at the end when Daniel Ricciardo was charging, Rosberg kept calm and didn't panic. A real mature way to handle the situation. Daniel Ricciardo had a fine race but just didn't have enough to get that long overdue victory he's so desperate to get. Lewis Hamilton was handicapped all weekend but go strategy and speed saw him leapfrog Kimi. 8 points is nothing really when there are still 150 up for grabs. Kimi had a fine race but got screwed over by the inept Ferrari strategy again. Sebastian Vettel was outstanding 22nd to 5th was a superb driver from the 'King of Singapore'. Also excellent drivers from Alonso, Kvyat and Magnussen.

[Guest]

As you say, 8 points is nothing. Lewis just needs to find his mojo though & put an end to the conveyor belt of gifts, being sent to Nico every weekend. Looks almost certain that the championship goes to the wire in Abu Dhabi. Historically, Nico has the upper hand in Brazil & Mexico, whereas Lewis is stronger in Malaysia, Japan & USA.

[Jermaine2015]

In my honest opinion I think Rosberg has the edge only at Sao Paulo. Mexico was the maiden race there so nothing can really to speculated there for the 2016 race. Hamilton has a clear advantage at Suzuka, Malaysia and Austin. So essentially if Mercedes sweep the final 6 races, whichever driver bags 4 wins will probably end up champion.

[dyrewolfe]

Something tells me the swings and roundabouts at Mercedes will continue to the end of the season. Abu Dhabi will be the decider.

Surprised that Lewis was so downbeat and reticent to talk after the race. He's been in far worse situations. Nice that he shook Nico's hand as they were getting out of their cars.

As for the race itself, the only notable things were Vettel's drive through the pack and Ricciardo's chase at the end (if only he could have started a lap or two earlier).

Turned out to be a decent race for Ferrari, despite Kimi losing the podium. Another points finish for Alonso and a great 10th place for Magnussen...did not see that coming.

[GSC]

Dunno, for the first time really Rosberg smashed him over a weekend. Shouldn't dent his confidence that much.

[Jermaine2015]

TBH I don't see Hamilton's body language really effecting him heading into the last 6 races. I think Hamilton's probably more annoyed than anything else. Rosberg had never previously won in Belgium(nothing Hamilton could there starting last). But Italy and Singapore are tracks Hamilton excels at and a poor getaway in Monza and a sloppy weekend in Singapore just probably agitated him.

If Hamilton was battling say Vettel or Alonso then he'd probably have reason to worry as they have shown they can seal the deal and win championships. In Rosberg's case it's unknown territory. Can he handle the pressure? It remains to be seen

[Jermaine2015]

http://www.eurosport.co.uk/formula-1/fia-closes-engine-penalty-loophole_sto5878144/story.shtml

Taking multiple extra engines in the same event will carry extra penalties in 2017

[dyrewolfe]

Well I suppose it makes more sense from a penalty point of view. Instead of being given nonsensical 50-60 place grid penalties, drivers can be punished in successive races until the full penalty is served.

Also, as mentioned it will stop teams stockpiling engine components.

Still think its a ridiculous rule, but at least the penalties will have some meaning beyond drivers starting at the back of the grid, or from the pit lane.

[GSC]

I thought it was you can only use the new components you used last at that weekend for successive races.

[Jermaine2015]

Hamilton looks on it this weekend looks ominous, if he doesn't make any silly errors he will beat Rosberg rather easiest IMO. Ferrari could get amongst the Mercedes as well.

[Guest]

Hamilton looks on it this weekend looks ominous

Can't really get too excited for Lewis' chances just yet, as the key for his entire weekend, is simply the start. No point grabbing pole, to then be fourth or fifth by turn 1. No wonder Lewis has been so downbeat about his own chances, given Mercedes admission that the clutches won't be fixed this year & that the championship maybe decided by the 'random behaviour' of the clutch.

[dyrewolfe]

Well both drivers were making errors in quali. Hamilton eventually setting an unbeatable time. Rosberg looked in with a shout until he fluffed the last corner. Still another Merc front row lockout. Now its down to who makes the better start.

Red Bull locking out the 2nd row and Ferrari the 3rd, so any mess-ups could be severely punished.

[Jermaine2015]

If Hamilton aces his start he wins rather easily. Rosberg has a poor record in Malaysia and I wouldn't be surprised if he failed to get on the podium. Verstappen could get amongst the Mercedes, feisty little Dutch kid doesn't mind getting his Elbows out!

[Jermaine2015]

Reports in Germany(bit weird) suggesting Renault have informed both incumbents that they have no future at the team. The report also states Renault want two of Hulkenberg, Sainz and Bottas to leave their revival.

Sergio Perez has finally agreed a new deal at Force India with India the official announcement expected tomorrow, thus ending Renault's interest in the Mexican.

[Guest]

Sums up Hamilton's season as the engine blows. Give Rosberg the title.

Goodnight

[Jermaine2015]

This is a savage low blow for Hamilton. He's was a class apart this weekend but was robbed a nailed on victory. Fives races left and only two engines, Hamilton's pain might be more severe with a potential penalty for yet another new engine.

Mercedes still have tokens left might be wise to used them ASAP

[Guest]

Been a joke of a season, in terms of the unreliability. The championship fight have been woeful, they've barely even raced each other all season, thanks to these engines & the clutches, leading to poor starts.

Nico was waiting for one of these seasons to occur to Hamilton & it's arrived. What is it now, 23 point lead with five races left? Nico can win one race & then coast home to second in all the rest.

Also, had to laugh at that 10 second timed punishment for Nico. Just flicks a switch & the penalty punishment goes away.

[Jermaine2015]

Hamilton pulling to punches launching a furious tirade at his team. As you guys know I like speculating. Depending on the changes in 2017, could Hamilton and Vettel switch cars for 2018?

[GSC]

Can't see Vettel leaving Ferrari.

Not going to engage in conspiracy theories because they're for morons. Still a long way to go.

One DNF for Nico and Lewis wins, and Lewis leads again.

[GSC]

I'll also say, Nico does get some relatively ticky tack penalties when Verstappen can drive like a lunatic and be ignored by race control.

[Jermaine2015]

I don't buy into the conspiracy stories as when a team employs 1500 members of staff if would be idiotic to handicap yourselfs after putting in all that effort.

[GSC]

Exactly, Mercedes have poured far too much cash into their cars to have a switch that sets the engine on fire.

[Jermaine2015]

Even when Vettel/Red Bull dominated they have issues with their Renault engines. But the main difference is Vettel's team mate Webber wasn't much of a challenge to Vettel

[GSC]

Webber famously having more of the issues.

Then Vettel had them against Ricciardo.

[Guest]

Vettel had three retirements, to Ricciardo's two + he had a DSQ. Vettel just got purely out-driven by the Aussie, as he struggled to adapt to not having the blown diffuser. Wasn't really a case of him having the worse side of the unreliability.

Hamilton has not done his written media. Mercedes have heard enough & decided against it apparently.

[GSC]

Vettel gets 3 place grid drop for hitting Rosberg

[dyrewolfe]

Just what is it with Hamilton and engines? He only got that one 2 races ago, didn't he? Someone at Mercedes owes him an explanation for all the problems he's had this season. Its just getting ridiculous.

Good recovery by Rosberg after getting spun by Vettel at the start. Liked his Hamilton-esque dive up the inside of Raikkonen later on, but again I think he hung his car out too far, instead of trying to hug the kerb. Think he could have tried harder to avoid hitting Kimi.

Some great racing between Ricciardo and Verstappen - nice to see an actual tussle for the lead for once. Opportunistic 1-2 for Red Bull but they took their chance and made the most of it. Really chuffed for Daniel - the win clearly meant a lot after missed chances earlier in the season. Not so sure about his boot champagne celebration though!

Solid race for Force India and McLaren - both teams getting both cars in the top 10. Jolyon Palmer emulating Magnussen's result in Singapore and scoring his first ever point in F1.

[Jermaine2015]

Anyone watch the post race footage in the room before the drivers headed out for the podium formalities? Christian Horner is clearly heard talking taking about multi 56(the official constructors numbers for Red Bull last year). It's a bit disappointing that they didn't allow a straight up fight. No one deserves to win any race. It should be earned.

[GSC]

Probably told Max if he divebombed Ricciardo he's going back to TR

[Guest]

Ricciardo deserved a win, been unquestionably the best driver on the grid this year. Defended superbly to deny Verstappen once & the team usually allow one attack & then call holding stations. Not surprised they made the decision, you can't blow a 1-2, their first, during the hybrid era.

[Fernando]

Mercedes to run their engines at a lower level to try and avoid the engine blowing again. It's not surprisingly their blowing up since how tightly their car is wrapped up compared to others. Anywhere hot and it's always brake & cooling issues.

[Guest]

Yep, revised engine running settings, for this weekend. Tbh, Lewis could probably do with Mercedes reducing the power & allowing RB to mix it with himself & Rosberg.

[Fernando]

I don't see it being that close tbh they wouldn't do it unless confident can keep out of danger of RB. Plus Hamilton vs Max has incident written all over it.

[Jermaine2015]

Sauber have confirmed that they will run the 2016 Ferrari power unit in 2017. Why are they even bothering?

[Guest]

I can't be bothered to go back through the new rules which I read months & months ago, but wasn't the use of one year-old engines banned from next year, or that a manufacturer had to supply only one specification of power unit?

As for the decision, Team principal Monisha Kaltenborn said that the decision had been taken because the outfit wanted to be able to push on with designing its chassis for 2017, with a known power unit concept. They're possibly looking to repeat Toro Rosso's early-season results of this season & at least get some points on the board with a relatively stable configuration, while others are still learning how to optimise their new chassis and new engine. Might pay off, if there is massive unreliability with it's rivals, but doubt it.

As for qualifying, I hear it could be wet, so could mix up the grid for Sunday. 6am start though is a bummer.

[GSC]

Hamilton needs a big lap here, Rosberg fastest in all sessions so far

[GSC]

Hamilton came back on the first runs but Nico edged him out on the 2nd. Big lap when he needed it.

[Guest]

Decent q3 tbf, pretty tight. All about the start, as usual. Kimi really is at one with that Ferrari this year, can see him beating Vettel in the WDC.

[Jermaine2015]

Looks like the Sebastian Vettel/Ferrari relationship is heading the same way the Fernando Alonso/Ferrari relationship ended, damaged beyond repair. Think Vettel might retire at the end of 2017...

[Guest]

Think Vettel might retire at the end of 2017...

Similar words coming from Martin Brundle, this morning. Seeing as RB is locked in & both Mercedes drivers are contracted until the end of 2018, I think he's praying for a Lewis Hamilton meltdown or him to self-implode at losing the title this year to Nico, and forcing a move.

Unsurprisingly, Mercedes have also confirmed that the planned engine upgrade for Austin, whereby Rosberg would of taken his final engine, has been shelved. I think we know why.

[Jermaine2015]

Think Vettel might retire at the end of 2017...

Similar words coming from Martin Brundle, this morning. Seeing as RB is locked in & both Mercedes drivers are contracted until the end of 2018, I think he's praying for a Lewis Hamilton meltdown or him to self-implode at losing the title this year to Nico, and forcing a move.

Unsurprisingly, Mercedes have also confirmed that the planned engine upgrade for Austin, whereby Rosberg would of taken his final engine, has been shelved. I think we know why.

I wouldn't say Red Bull is locked in TBH. Vettel is Red Bull's favourite son. I wouldn't put it passed them to manufacture a move whereby they'd swap Ricciardo for Vettel. Ricciardo being half Italian would appease the Scuderia's hardcore fans.

Also Hamilton has previously said he would like to drive for Ferrari so a swap between those two can't be discredited, but only if Rosberg becomes champion.

[Jermaine2015]

Nico Rosberg extended his championship lead with victory at the Japanese GP. Rosberg's 9 win of the season and first at Japan. Lewis Hamilton had yet another awful start and fell down to 8th and from there he could only manage 3rd. Red Bull's Max Verstappen was 2nd as he held off the fast charging Hamilton in the closing laps.

Rosberg's lead is now 33 points, in theory he can finish second in remaining 4 races and become champion...but it doesn't work like that does it!

[GSC]

I do wonder how much Lewis, heart is still in F1

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