Jenson’s form has certainly given Lewis Hamilton something to think about and
the dynamic between them at the moment is absolutely fascinating. Suddenly
Jenson’s contract situation is clear; he is the one with the long-term
McLaren contract, he is the one leading Lewis by 17 points in the standings.
It all adds up to yet more pressure on Lewis but one thing is certain and that
is that Lewis will get his act together soon. There is a lot more life left
in this season.
Who’s Hot?
Bernie Ecclestone has bought 3,000 tickets for this weekend’s race at an
average price of 35,000 yen to give to people who have suffered because of
the tsunami. In fact, the entire F1 community — led by Sauber’s Kamui
Kobayashi — has rallied well, auctioning equipment and raising funds. It
reflects well on the sport.
Who’s Not?
Williams, without technical director Sam Michael for the first time in a
decade, had another difficult day yesterday. Rubens Barrichello will be
particularly frustrated.
My old adversary is battling to hang on to his seat at the moment, amid
rumours of a return for Kimi Raikkonen, and a puncture during FP1 and an off
in FP2 will not have helped his mood.
The Circuit
One of the best in terms of driving experience. Suzuka’s first sector is the
probably most exhilarating sequence of corners in Formula One.
At Silverstone you have the Becketts complex, which is classic, but this is on
a different scale in terms of its size. It is non-stop for half a minute or
so. What a lot of people don’t realise is that Suzuka is built on a hill and
the run down to Turn One is steep.
Other highlights include 130R, although since the run-off was extended it is
not quite the challenge it used to be. And then there is the final chicane,
the scene of those infamous clashes between Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost
which decided the 1989 and 1990 championships.
Weather Watch
Rain is not expected to be a factor this weekend. Unlike last year. Anyone
remember those origami boats floating down the pitlane during qualifying?
Prediction Vettel is the 8/13 favourites with Ladbrokes for a reason.
TV Times
Qualifying: Saturday, 6am, BBC1.
Japanese Grand Prix: Sunday, 7am, BBC1.