$3.26 million 2013 entry fee for Red Bull

The 2012 constructors champions Red Bull Racing currently face a $3.26 million entry fee to race in 2013.

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The triple world champions have to pay so much thanks to a sharp increase in entry fee costs, in the hope of the FIA gaining more revenue. 

Winter Testing 2013 Guide

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After the success of the guest piece on the Australian Grand Prix 2013, a guide to what to do if you are thinking about going as a spectator, Ashley James has written a brilliant and insightful piece on Winter Testing. It is a cheap and cheerful way to enjoy Formula 1 cars, here are his tips for visiting the Circuit de Catalunya winter tests.

Last year (2011) I decided for the first time to travel to an F1 test. Working in the travel industry, the initial thought of it didn’t really faze me, so I thought I would test the water and see how a night in Barcelona would work, so this is my advice when planning an F1 test (or Race!) trip to Barcelona.

My thoughts on Michael Schumacher

I’ll be honest with you. I have never really been a fan of Michael Schumacher. 

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I started watching F1 casually as a youngster but I really started watching the sport religiously in 2004. This came at the end of his domination or the "Schumacher years" as some say. My 10 year old self was constantly disappointed and confused as to why he was winning everything.  This was because whilst the racing in the midfield was close and dramatic, it was all a bit dull out front.

Bottas gets race seat at Williams

Williams have confirmed that their second driver for the 2013 season will be Valtteri Bottas.

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The Finn is a GP3 champion, who has had to sit on the sidelines in 2012. He took the role of “test and reserve driver”, but he still managed to get some useful F1 experience. This was thanks to Williams gifting him 15 outings in the FW34 during Free Practice 1, taking over Bruno Senna’s car.

Kobayashi thanks fans for fundraising

Kamui Kobayashi has thanked his adoring and dedicated fans for their fund raising efforts.

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The Japanese driver does not currently hold a seat for 2013, and set up the page "Kamui Support" to ask fans for their help getting him on the grid next season.

Tooned, Episode 12

Yes, the time has come. With the season finale coming to a close, it also means the end of the hugely popular Tooned series by Framestore, starring Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button. In the last episode, we say goodbye to Lewis as he moves to Mercedes and get a sneak peak at his replacement, Sergio Perez. Enjoy!

 

Footage (c) McLaren and Framestore

Horner, Brazilian Grand Prix "most stressful ever"

Red Bull Racing boss Christian Horner has labelled the Brazilian Grand Prix the "most stressful race" in his career.

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Both of his drivers experienced set backs during the race, with a lot riding on Sebastian Vettel's result. Mark Webber dropped down the field after contact with Kobayashi, but stormed through to claim fourth place.

Sebastian Vettel - Formula 1 2012 World Champion

Sebastian Vettel has clinched the Formula 1 2012 Drivers Title after a thrilling season finale in Brazil.

The German became the youngest ever triple world champion after finishing the race in sixth place, beating Fernando Alonso to the title by just 3 points. 

Jenson Button won the race but all eyes were on Vettel. The German had a below par start to the year but he really got into the groove towards the end. He won four races in a row towards the end of the year, and continued his strong form to overhaul Fernando Alonso.

What a season 2012 has been. It now comes to a close, with so many fantastic memories and highlights. Formula 1 continues to look forward, what I say? Bring on 2013.

Infiniti become title sponsor of Red Bull

Japanese car manufacturer Infiniti will become title sponsors of the Red Bull Racing team, from 2013 onwards.

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The luxury car brand signed a 4 year extension to its partnership. They already sponsor Red Bull, but will be promoted to title sponsor for 2013.

Brazilian Grand Prix Race Report

The climax of the season has (unfortunately) arrived. The F1 2012 season finale in Brazil. The championship had been whittled down to two drivers, but who would take the title?

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Interlagos was the location for the last race of the season. The old-school track is a driver favourite, with its high speeds and challenging infield. Check out my race preview for the track guide. 

Pic moves to Caterham for 2013

The F1 2013 driver line up is really shaping up. With the "transfer window" in full flow, The latest is that Charles Pic will move from the Banbury based Marussia F1 Team, to the Leafield based Caterham F1 Team.

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The change means it is almost inevitable that Max Chilton will join Marussia for 2013, after already admitting he has the budget. Pic moves to Caterham on a multi-year contract. It now means that just 1 seat at the squad is available, with either Kovalainen or Petrov (or possibly both) being dropped for next season.

Brazilian Grand Prix, Thursday Snap Shot

It's the final Thursday Snap Shot of the season! Here are a selection of images from Thursday at the Brazilian Grand Prix. I hope to continue this feature in 2013.

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Sebastian Vettel and Michael Schumacher were in the driver press conference. Schumacher goes in to Brazil waving goodbye to the sport, while Vettel could clinch his third world title.

Perez confirms Gutierrez as 2013 Sauber driver

Sergio Perez accidentally let slip that Esteban Gutierrez will take his place at Sauber for 2013.

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During an interview in Brazil, the McLaren bound driver revealed that fellow Mexican Gutierrez will partner Nico Hulkenberg at the Swiss team.

Coca-Cola to sponsor Lotus

The Coca-Cola Company are set to sponsor the Lotus F1 Team for 2013, through its "Burn" brand.

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Burn is the brands energy drink, joining other energy drink sponsors Red Bull, TNT and Monster in joining the Formula 1 fraternity.

Schumacher, second farewell will be "less emotional"

Michael Schumacher had admitted that his second farewell to Formula 1 will be "less emotional".

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The German waved goodbye to the sport at the 2006 Brazilian Grand Prix, only to return 4 years later. His comeback with Mercedes comes to an end at the 2012 Brazilian Grand Prix, after a disappointing season.

Brazilian Grand Prix Preview

Hasn't this year gone by quickly. Here we are, previewing the Formula 1 2012 season finale held at the famous Interlagos circuit in Brazil.

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Fernando Alonso still has a shot at clinching the title, but Sebastian Vettel is on form. A two horse race, with both drivers going for their third world title. It's the battle of the best. Here's my preview of the 2012 Brazilian Grand Prix, with my thoughts on Austin, the title and an Interlagos track guide.

Australian Grand Prix 2013 Guide

Want to go to the 2013 Australian Grand Prix, but need some advice? Check out a guest piece for the blog by Dave Gregory.

Melbourne Grand Prix 2013 – Advice For Spectators

The Australian Grand Prix has been held annually at Albert Park in Melbourne since 1996 and for the majority of that time it’s been the traditional F1 season curtain raiser. It’s the time of year when, after months of hard work and mind games from the teams, the cars go head to head and race. Spectator numbers have been consistently high over the years and it’s one of the most popular races on the calendar for fans and teams alike.

Even though the 2012 season hasn’t finished yet, tickets are on sale for the 2013 season. Here’s some advice for spectators to make the most of the weekend.

Tooned, episode 11

The penultimate round of the F1 2012 season means the penultimate Tooned episode of the series. Check out the United States Grand Prix episode.

Footage (c) McLaren and Framestore

 

United States Grand Prix Race Report

F1 returned to America with a bang, on the brand spanking new Circuit of the Americas.

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The track known colloquially as "COTA" is situated in Austin, and fans and drivers a like had high expectations of the Tilke designed circuit. They were not disappointed.

Austin "perfect showcase for F1"

Jenson Button has shared his views on the new Austin circuit, claiming it is the "perfect showcase for F1".

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The Brit said it was a great circuit for showcasing the cars limits and capabilities.

FIA to restrict DRS use for 2013

The FIA is to restrict the DRS use for 2013, meaning in Qualifying and Practice it can only be used in certain zones.

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Currently cars can use DRS wherever they please in Practice and Qualifying, with just the race being restricted to certain zones.

McLaren not taking cautious approach to Austin

Despite a number of retirements this season, McLaren are not taking the cautious approach.

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With just two rounds left, and the inaugural Austin Grand Prix fast approaching, they are determined to win and do everything they can. Taking a safe strategy is not an option.

Marussia confident of 2013 breakthrough

Marussia's sporting director Graeme Lowdon has said that the team are poised for a breakthrough 2013 season, after describing the Banbury based squad as "on a roll".

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The team currently lie 10th in the constructors standings, and if they can stay there it will mean more money for their higher finishing position, a very important variable for a "newer" team.

3 Safety Tips for Driving Like a Formula 1 Driver

Here is a brilliant guest post by McMackin, linking driving an F1 car to the road.

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Racing cars were not designed for cruising down the highway or around the neighborhood. Those who drive a racing car have no desire to just cruise along either. Speed, acceleration and racing cars go hand in hand to create the thrill that goes along with driving at top speed. Getting behind the wheel on the road or on the race track is inherently dangerous to some extent. This post will offer three safety tips for driving on the race track or on the open road.

HRT F1 Team for sale

The HRT F1 Team has been put up for sale by its current owners Thesan Capital.

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The Spanish investment company revealed that they are looking for potential buyers for the team. Thesan took over the squad in July 2011 and helped them move in to their new base in Madrid.

Austin GP Preview

It is one of the most highly anticipated races of the season, with high expectations of both the track and race.

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F1 returns to the United States after a few years away, with a dedicated and permanent home in Austin. Here's my preview, looking at the track and what to expect.

Meeting Jake Humphrey

Today I had the pleasure of meeting Jake Humphrey, BBCF1's lovable presenter. Despite the encounter only lasting a few brief minutes, I was so pleased to meet him, whilst also feeling amazed by the response I received when I introduced myself.
 
Typically for me, we were at the back of the queue despite getting to the Norwich branch of Waterstone's on time. We waited almost an hour, but it was worth it to meet someone who I have looked up to since he broke in to F1 in 2009. The people attending the book signing for his first release "The Inside Track" were a mix, some were avid F1 fans. In contrast, others just wanted the book signed as a Christmas present.

Hamilton may regret Mercedes move

Martin Whitmarsh has admitted that Lewis Hamilton may already be regretting his move to Mercedes for 2013.

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McLaren's boss said he still does not "fully understand" why Hamilton made the switch, and thinks Lewis may be regretting it just months after signing the contract.

F1 Race Stars Demo

Codemasters have made an F1 version of Mario Kart named "F1 Race Stars. Featuring all the F1 2012 teams and drivers, plus a few fictional ones, the Demo was released just a few days ago.

AlexZAfRo is one of YouTube's best and most popular Formula 1 gamers, and he gives his first thoughts on the F1 Race Stars game.

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Abu Dhabi Young Driver Test, Day 3

This years GP2 champion Davide Valsecchi topped the final day of the Abu Dhabi Young Driver Test.

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The Italian driver lapped the Yas Marina circuit in a best time of 1m42.667. He took over the Lotus E20 from DTM driver Edoardo Mortara and definitely impressed.

Abu Dhabi Young Driver Test, Day 2

Red Bull moved to the top of the Young Driver test times, with GP3 race winner Antonio Felix Da Costa setting the fastest time.

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It was his final day of running in the Red Bull RB8, before handing over to Robin Frijns, and he certainly impressed. Teams continued to test parts for the final two races of 2012, and the 2013 cars.

"The Inside Track" Book Review

Glitz, glamour, drama and action. Just a few words which fans often associate with Formula 1, but behind that allure it is a very different story.

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Formula 1 is a tough industry to get in to, so only a rare few get to really see the behind the scenes of the sport. One person who has that luxury is a certain Jake Humphrey, BBCF1 presenter and all round nice chap. Jake has published his first book, "The Inside Track", sharing his experience and access with the world.

Abu Dhabi Young Driver Test, Day 1

The first day of the Abu Dhabi Young Driver Test saw McLaren top the time sheets.

Kevin Magnussen moved to the top of the time sheets in the McLaren MP4-27, after a strong morning run. He edged out Red Bull's Antonio Felix Da Costa by just six hundredths of a second.

Raikkonen "it's just another win on the list"

Despite taking a brilliant victory at the Yas Marina circuit, Kimi Raikkonen see's it as "just another win on the list".

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Kimi is regarded for his cool and honest personality, but he does feel the team deserve it and that it is just what the team needed.

Rosberg defends Grosjean after contact

It is not often that we hear drivers defending each other, but Nico Rosberg believes Romain Grosjean was not to blame for their first lap incident.

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The two drivers made contact on lap 1 of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, at the tight turn 9. The touch left Rosberg with a damaged front wing, which dropped him down the field. Grosjean also suffered a puncture and did well to finish in the points.

Tooned, Episode 10

The continuously popular cartoon Tooned,  by Framestore, featured again in Sky Sports F1's build up of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Framestore and McLaren confirmed a second series of the cartoon which will be out in 2013, featuring McLaren's new signing Sergio Perez.

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Race Report

Abu Dhabi may not produce the most exciting Grand Prix's, but it sure is a wonderful place.

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With its modern, plush, luxurious facilities and stunning day to night racing the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is one of a kind. We see the F1 cars in all lights, from the day, the sunset and under the shining light bulbs of Yas Marina.

Here's my full weekend report of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Thursday Snap Shot

Here are a selection of brilliant images from track side on Thursday of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

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 McLaren get their MP4-27 prepared ahead of FP1.

Perez denies McLaren deal affecting focus

Sergio Perez has dismissed suggestions that his McLaren deal is affecting his focus on the 2012 season.

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The Mexican has not scored a point since his contract with McLaren was revealed, and uncharacteristically spun off in Japan while battling with the man he will replace at the British team.

Chilton future rides on Pic's decision

British driver Max Chilton has admitted that he does have the budget to race for Marussia in 2013, if a seat was to open up.

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The 21-year-old will drive for the team in First Practice for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, replacing Charles Pic. Chilton's future rides on whether the Frenchman makes the switch to another team.

On the Phone to Alice Powell

She is one of the most successful Female racing drivers in the UK, and last year raced to 19th in the GP3 championship in her debut year. She is a Formula Renault BARC champion, who has both mastered single seater and tin top racing.

Now Sky Sports F1 have given the fans insight into her career and life as one of Britain's fastest females on the planet. On Thursday the 1st of November at 7.30pm, Alice Powell's episode of Britain's Next F1 Star aired. To watch it again on the Sky Sports F1 website under the "video's" section, or on Sky Go (must have a UK Sky Go account).