Imola Friday First Practice ****SPOILER****

Hmmm, where did THAT lap come from? Schumacher, M blows everyone into the weeds in two flying laps.

I like it!

 

Well this is a good sign....now only if the engine can hold.

Mark

 

They say they have their last 400 revs back, because they solved the piston problem. However, I suspect these early fast laps are mostly a PR move.

 

Maybe since this is Imola.

OTOH MS said they have solved all the problems, so just maybe this is the turnaround. If they want to stand a chance in the title chase this better be it.

 

I hope this is the begining of the turnaround, it'll be another long season if they continue with these mixed placings. Let's see how things go during qualifying tomorrow.

 

They did mention a new suspension system to help keep the tires warm. Great practice so far.

 

Looking at the sector times the both Ferraris are losing about half a sec to the Renault of Alonso in the third sector. The first 2 sectors are a wash with the Renault. In fact it looks like 3rd sector is killing everyone but FA. But all in all it looks like the Ferraris are good shape for the weekend.

 

Looked strong in the second practice too. MS was at the top of the sheets for most of the session. I'm starting to get more and more excited hoping this is the turn around point and they have actaully solved some of their problems.

Mark

 

lets hope so...

 

Alonso was running something like 18K revs so I think he has some speed in reserve. I didnt see any telemetry of the F248 to see how much revs Schumi was pulling. I wonder if the McLaren's were running more fuel because they weren't really lighting up the timecharts. Hmmm

Anyway its seems it will be a good battle going into tomorrow's qualifying

 

This is a very interesting season, to be sure. McLaren, Renault, Williams, Honda, and Ferrari all very close. Sure makes the F1 tipping game difficult!

 

Does anyone know if there's a file somewhere online that I can download of the session (because I didn't wake up in time to catch it)?

 

Schuey has had a long and wonderful career, which is nearing its end. He has broken every meaningful record except one: career pole positions. We all know how competitive this guy is. Do you not think that his every thought of every day does not revolve around getting just one more pole? Do you not think that getting a pole winning car to Michael is Ferrari's number one goal at the moment? Life cannot go on for Michael (and, hence, Ferrari) until he accomplishes this feat. Don't be surprised that Michael is out there running fastest laps (or close to) during practice. The car is being tailor made for this very purpose. Michael is far more concerned about getting pole than worrying about his engine detonating mid race.

 

^^ Agree

Beating Senna's pole record on the last circuit the great man raced at would be poignant. I am sure Michael will give his all. My point was whether his all is enough - Alonso on the slightly less powerful engine (older spec to Fisi) is matching him on pace pretty easily.

 

Hey Michael, watch the wall this time.... NO ACCIDENTS PLEASE!

Go Ferrari... Kick some a$$ this weekend

 

What about Toyota? They're up there this weekend. And if you take out the test drivers Truli's 2nd and 4th in the first and second sessions. They could certainly be a spoiler this race.

An interesting comment came yesterday with Jarno during the press conference. When asked about Ralph's podium finish and if it had any positive effect on the team he replied "...we are definitely moving forwards because Ralf's podium showed that the performance can be reached during a test weekend." That tells me they were running the Australian race as they eventually ran the second race. As a test session. I’m surprised none of the press in attendance asked him to clarify that statement.

Just something to think about when you’re listing who’s going to finish were this weekend. After all I hear there’s a prize for who get’s it right this time.

 

damn...been 2 weeks since i came online and check things out. damn happy to see everythings ok with the scuderia....how's everyone???

 

Say, Ferrari has done well today.



12 cylinders or walk

 

Who the hell is Kubica?

3rd #38 KUBICA BMW Sauber M 1'25"421 + 0'00"378

 

test driver...or is it friday driver?

 

Not certain about this. On Alonso's best lap (which is .30 sec slower than MS's) he had a wide open track in front of him. Schu was hindered by traffic on each hot lap.

I think Ferrari wants to win this race for the Tifosi...I don't think that getting the pole record is the main deal here. Winning in Italy in a track named after Enzo and Dino is. I fully expect that Ferrari want this race and have a good chance of getting it. Regarding Alonso, this is the second race on that engine. Rev limits probably make sense to ensure he finishes Sunday.