F1 Traveler - March 2013

F1 Traveler Magazine | March 2013

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•DriverInterviews•ExclusivePhotos•Features•Videos

www.f1traveler.us


PUBLISHER LORENZO TARTAMELLA EDITOR IN CHIEF JOEY FRANCOMANAGING EDITOR LARRY HARGROVE ASSOCIATE EDITOR MARIA CHIAZZESE EDITORIAL ASSISTANT ANNA CHIAZZESE COPY EDITOR DAWN BARRETTO PROOF READER DEBORAH JACOB , RACHEL FARBERCREATIVE DIRECTORS LORENZO TARTAMELLA, ASHLEY MCLEAN, SARAH-LOUISE JEAN-LOUIS PHOTOGRAPHY JOEY FRANCO LAYOUT DESIGN SARAH-LOUISE JEAN-LOUIS CONTRIBUTORS LORENZO TARTAMELLA, JOEY FRANCO, JAY EFF, SYDNEY SPENCE

F1 Magazine | Vol.1 n.1 | March 2013

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F1 Traveler MagazinePUBLISHER’S NOTE

It is with great pleasure and enthusiasm that we launch F1 Traveler Magazine, under the iDataware Publishing Division.

iDataware is a media holdings company with interests in the Internet, Publishing, Music, and Film industries. Our company owns and operates global brands in over 50 countries worldwide.

Formula 1 is the biggest sporting event in the world. We are proud to be a part of a new F1 culture emerging in North America, notably in Austin, Texas. We aspire to make F1 Traveler Magazine your publication of choice.

Enjoy!Lorenzo TartamellaPublisher – F1 Traveler MagazinePresident & CEO iDataware Holdings Company

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8Harder, Better, Faster - Enstone’s systematic climb back to the top

COVER STORY

The Shy ChampionPHIL HILL

CONTENTS

Q&A WITH VALTTERI BOTTAS

Introducing Valtteri Bottas

16 THE CIRCUIT AMERICAS RISING ABOVE

20 2012 USA GRAND PRIX AUSTIN TEXAS REPORT 26 CHRISTIAN HORNER WEIGHS IN

27 THE VALUE OF THEUS GRAND PRIX

28 RED RED TEXAS30 PIRELLA & COTA

32 F1 & AMERICA; A LOOK AT THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE UGLY OF FORMULA 1 IN THE US.

34 PRE SEASON PREPARATION38 2013 FORMULA1 SCHEDULE

44 USGP TROPHIES48 PIRELLI 2013 FORMULA 1 TYRES

50 THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF FORMALA 1 56 Q&A WITH VALTTERI BOTTAS

60 KING POWER AUSTIN62 EVENTS AND PHOTOS

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Harder, Better, Faster - Enstone’s systematic climb back to the top.

COVER STORY


by Jay Eff

If there were any doubts behind Kimi Raikkonen’s return to F1 last season, the iceman clearly proved everyone wrong by finishing third in the 2012 driver’s championship with 207 points and one win. The Lotus team however finished fourth overall, behind Mclaren, Ferrari, and Red Bull. Will 2013 see Lotus as a top podium contender ? Eric Boullier and Co. sure seem confident.

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A HISTORY OF SUCCESAltought the current incarnation of the Lotus F1 Tean is fairly recent, the soul of the team has been around since 1981 as the Toleman team. Toleman debuted at the 1981 San Marino Grand Prix and would continue until the 1985 season. The Toleman team never won a Grand Prix, and only finished on the podium three times, however they are responsible for introducing the world to the sport’s greatest hero; Ayrton Senna.

The team would assume the Benetton name, and Michael Schumacher would win two Driver’s Championships. Alonso would win another two Driver’s titles behind the wheel of the Renault Team, as it was known from 2002 to 2010.

“Our ambitious plan to turn ourselves into one of the top teams in Formula 1 is coming to fruition and now we need to harness this with strong and regular podium results,” said Boullier, Team Principle of the Enstone based Lotus Team.

Boullier believes that the Enstone’s ability to win championships (three constructors’ & four Drivers’ championships) combined with a world champion driver and an ambitious young driver is a good mix for a competitive team. “We have a fantastic facility at Enstone and one which has benefitted from significant and strategic investment over the past couple of years.”

Enstone in NumbersGrand Prix Starts: 515

Wins: 48

Podiums: 174

Pole Positions: 36

Front Row Starts: 69

Fastest Laps: 54

World Championship Points: 2,196.5

Race Drivers: 42

ERIC BOUILLER


THE KIMI FACTORAfter having spent a couple of years disputing the FIA World Rally Championship, Kimi Raikkonen returned to F1 with determination and conviction, winning the Abu Dhabi GP and finishing an overall third in the Drivers Standings. The Finn has contested 177 Grand Prix, and has lifted the winner’s trophy 19 times in F1.

The 2007 World Champion believes Lotus has what it takes to win a championship. “It’s clear from work-ing with them that they are racers, and you can see in their history that they’ve won championships,” says Raikkonen. “Nothing I saw last year made me think that another championship was impossible in the future. Of course, there is some pretty tough competi-tion out there and everyone wants to win. The team have beaten everyone before and there’s nothing to say they can’t do it again.”

Kimi in NumbersGrands Prix Contested: 177

World Championships: 1

Race Wins: 19

Podiums: 69

Pole Positions: 16

Fastest Laps: 37

KIMI RAIKKONEN

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THE E21 Lotus F1’s Technical Director James Allison has made it clear that they are entering the 2013 championship with high expectations. “The official target established by the team’s owners is to achieve a minimum of third place in the Constructors’ Championship,” stated Allison. “In terms of goals and targets, we never set out to build the second-fastest or third-fastest car; we set out to build the fastest and most effective car that we possibly can.”

The E21 in numbers

1.6 The time in seconds for the E21 to decelerate from 100 km/h to standstill.

6 How many hours it takes for a complete rebuild of the car at the track with 12 mechanics (assuming sub-assembly is already complete). From scratch at the factory it would take 150 people seven days. days.

4.9 How many seconds it takes for the E21 to reach 200 km/h from standstill.


As for the E21, the latest machine from Enstone- some technical al-terations have been made which build on last year’s E20. The front and rear suspension layouts have been substantially revised to try to give the car better aerodynamic opportunities. The rear wing system has been further developed in order to acheive a satisfactory level of rear downforce stability while maintaining maximum DRS switching potential. Of course, having the same driver combination also offers several mi-nor advantages such as not having to re-design seats, pedals, and steering components.

130 Measured in decibels, this is how loud the RS27-2012 engine is at full revs. 30,000

The number of individual parts that make up each E21.

250,000 The amount of man hours that have gone into the design of the E21.

1,100 In degrees Celsius, this is the temperature a brake disc can reach during the race.

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Illustrations F1 Traveler magazine

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The Shy

Champion In racing, there are champions on the track, and there are champions off the track. Phil Hill was a champion on and off the track.

Hill is quoted to have once said, “I’M IN THE WRONG BUSINESS. I DON’T WANT TO BEAT ANYBODY, I DON’T WANT TO BE THE BIG HERO. I’M A PEACE-LOVING MAN, BASICALLY.” His tyres told a different story. He won with elegance, with class, and with determination.

Hill, a Miami native, is the only US born pilot to have won a Formula One World Championship. Mario Andretti, an American driver who won an F1 title, was actually born in Italy.

Hill won the 1961 F1 Championship behind the wheel of a Ferrari 156. His other teams included Maserati, Cooper, Porsche, Automobili Turismo E Sport, Lotus, and Eagle.

PHIL HILL

THE CIRCUIT OF THEEAMERICAS, RISING ABOVE.

The Circuit of the Americas is being hailed as the new benchmark in world motor sport complexes. The facility combines ultramodern infrastructure with a track that has been molded after some of the great circuits of the world.

The track’s signature element is the colossal turn 1, which rises 133 feet from the initial straight and sweeps into a blind first-gear left-hand turn. The circuit is 3.4 miles (5.5km) long and features eleven left turns and 9 right turns.

The Circuit of the Americas is the eleventh US circuit to host a Formula One race. This marks the first time in the history of Formula One in the United States that a race track has been purposely built for the F1 World Championship; COTA is a pure bred F1 Circuit.

The overall layout of the three-and-a-half mile cir-cuit is the brainchild of three men: promoter Tavo Hellmund, former Motorcycle World Champion Kevin Schwantz, and acclaimed circuit architect Hermann Tilke. Tilke has designed several circuits on the Formula One world circuit including Sepang, Shanghai, Yas Marina, Istambul, Bahrain, Yeon-gam, and Buddh. He has also been involved in the

redesign of the Hockenheim, and Fuji Speedway.

Circuit of the Americas follows the European tradi-tion of being sculpted to the contour of the land, the final product is a true result of nature, engineering, and design.

On October 22nd, American racing legend Mario Andretti, actor and part-time race driver Patrick Dempsey and Lotus F1 Team test driver Jerome D’Ambrosio took part in the First Lap Ceremony on the circuit. Andretti drove his Lotus 1979 For-mula 1 car, the same vehicle in which he won the Formula 1 World Championship. D’Ambrosio and Dempsey were able to drive a more modern R30 Lotus vehicle around the track.

“It’s everything I expected, and more,” Andretti said following the ceremony. “With each and every lap, the driver learns a little bit more. But quite honestly, I think the track is phenomenal. It has all the features that race car drivers are looking for, as far as giving them the opportunity to overtake other drivers in the tighter corner. But then it widens out so there’s plenty of room to maneuver.”

(J.F)


FIRST REACTIONS TO THE COURSE

“Not only is it a thrilling course, it’s a very technical course. There are some genuine challenges out there, too. There are some technical aspects of the track that are really going to chal-lenge a driver’s skills. It’s a very fast track, and has a great rhythm to it.”

Patrick Dempsey

“Quite honestly, I think the track is phenomenal. It has all the features that race car drivers are looking for, as far as giving them the opportunity to overtake other drivers in the tighter

corner.”

Mario Andretti

“It has several unique features that make it quite complex. It will challenge the skills of even the most experienced drivers. It will certainly expose any weaknesses a driver may have, espe-cially when it comes to handling the cars through the turns, especially the esses in turns 12 to 15”

Jerome D’Ambrosio

Senna S Interlagos

Maggots-BeckettsSilverstone

Hockenheim StadiumTriple Apex

Instanbul Turn 8

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American racing heroBob Bondurant drives around an unfinished circuit in a Corvette.

Construction of COTA continues.

The pavement of the Circuit is laid on.

COTA is declared race ready by FIA Formula One Race Director Charlie Whiting.

Fresh paint is laid on the track

August 23rd August 28th September 24th September 25th October 9th

THE TIMELINE

Click or scan to view the videos.

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Fresh paint is laid on the track

Pirelli tests the surface of COTA.

The First Lap Ceremony takes place at the track.

Kimi Raikkonen is the first pilot on track at the first F1 practice session

The 1st US GP at COTA is won by Lewis Hamilton

October 9th October 19th October 21st November 16th November 18th

FRIDAY SATURDAY AND SUNDAYREPORT 2012

2012 USA GRAND PRIX AUSTIN TEXAS NOVEMBER 16,17and 18

By Joey Franco

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Excitement and emotion ran high at the Circuit of the Americas as this Friday practice day marked the first time that a Formula One car would run competitively on the circuit. Kimi Raikkonen of the Lotus team was the first pilot to hit the COTA pavement on this historic day.

It was Red Bull driver Sebastian Vettel who set the pace in the opening free practice session. Vettel set a best time of 1:38.125 on his 30th and last lap of the 90-minute session. Only two drivers beat the 1 minute 40 barrier during this first practice session. McLaren Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton posted a time of 1:39.543. There was plenty of slipping and sliding on the brand new pavement.

The second practice session saw a Red Bull one two, with Vettel finishing ahead of his teammate Mark Webber. Vettel posted a time of 1:37.718. This time around, nine pilots broke the 1 minute 40 second mark.

“Looking at the track, well, it looks challenging. It looks great in terms of the layout. It looks like, also, it’s quite icy, both in the air but also on the track – quite slippery.”

Cyril ABITEBOUL, Caterham Team Principal

“The US is so important for Formula One. A race here belongs to a world championship, a true world championship. We have been here before and after a five-year break we are back again. The circuit is very, very demanding, very challenging.”

Norbert HAUG, Head of Mercedes Benz Motorsport

“The first lap we did in FP1 was on a track that probably had less grip than anywhere else I’ve ever driven! As we’re at a new circuit that was to be expected but the track layout lived up to expectations – it’s a proper driver’s track and as it keeps evolving it’s going to get even faster which will give us a chance to really find out what it’s all about.”

Heikki Kovalainen, Caterham Driver

“I think the organisers have given us an awesome circuit. It’s good fun to drive and there is a nice variation of corners, which gives a nice rhythm to the track. In terms of the new generation of tracks, I’d say it’s one of my favourites.”

Nico Rosberg, Mercedes Driver

F RIDAYREPORT

QUOTES OF THE DAY


S ATURDAYREPORT

Sunny, cool weather greeted the crowd of 82,710 in attendance for the Saturday session at COTA.

After dominating the initial two practice sessions on the prior day, Vettel continued his ascendancy as he posted a track time of 1:36.490. His teammate Mark Webber was the only other driver to post a time in the 1 minute 36 second mark. This time around, 18 of the 24 drivers, beat the 1:40 mark, which showed an incredible amount of improvement from the drivers.

All eyes were on Sebastian Vettel during the qualifying session. Following his consistent pattern, Vettel captured his sixth pole position of the season with an outstanding Q3 time of 1:35.657 with Pirelli’s P Zero White medium tyre. Hamilton placed second, and Webber third.

“Yeah, I’m very, very pleased with the result obviously,” said Vettel. “We started off on the right foot I think yesterday. The

first practice was very good for us. It was extremely slippery to be honest to start with. Obviously the circuit is brand new, the asphalt is brand new and it takes a while for the track to come in but it’s also quite a lot fun to slide around a couple of corners and it just got better throughout. I think you can see the lap times just got quicker.”

Most of the drivers began Q1 on the hard compound Silver tyres, but with the track still evolving as more rubber was laid down, all the teams apart from Ferrari, McLaren and Red Bull went on to the medium compound towards the end of the session.

Vettel’s title rival Alonso had a catastrophic qualifying session, the Spaniard finished 9th, but would start 8th. “We never managed to put together the best lap,” said Alonso during a post qualifying comment. “We knew it would be a complicated weekend but clearly today we were too slow.”

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“The performance wasn’t there yesterday so today was much better for us. Unfortunately in Q3 the grip wasn’t there, as it was difficult to get the tyres working correctly. It’s important we are in the top ten for tomorrow though. We have a good car so we are looking to get more points tomorrow in what looks set to be a good race. All around the track are Venezuelan flags and there is a lot of support here for me as it’s so close to my home, so

hopefully that will help give me an extra boost tomorrow!”

- Pastor Maldonado, Williams Driver

“That was a difficult and frustrating session for me. We knew it would take a long time for the tyres to come in, especially as the asphalt is still so slippery. We never really got them to work properly as I got stuck in traffic in the early part and then came the yellow flags when I was about to try for my last two laps. It meant I never got a clean run. This is one of my worst qualifying performances of the season, the first time I haven’t made it to Q2 for seven races, so I just want to put it behind me now and aim to have a better Sunday, which should be entirely within our capabilities.”

-Daniel Ricciardo, Toro Rosso Driver

“It was not easy and still not perfect but I knew that it wouldbe a lot better than yesterday and this morning on my out lap. I could already feel the tyres switching on. We struggled with bringing them up to temperature all weekend and finally in qualifying we managed. Both because the temperature of the asphalt picked up and we improved the the balance of the car, but grip level is still pretty low. It felt good and hopefully it will be like this tomorrow for the race but at this track we are still far from our direct competitors. In any case, we will do our best tomorrow and

fight until the end”. - Pedro de la Rosa

“I’m happy to get another top ten result and it’s been a good effort by the whole team, especially given where we were yesterday evening. My lap in Q3 was not too bad, but I was a little compromised by a Williams in the last couple of corners, so maybe there was a little bit more to come. Generally I’m quite happy and confident we can race strongly because our long-run pace looked competitive yesterday. There are lots of unknowns about tomorrow because there is no data from the past to help us, but we’re in good shape and I’m really enjoying driving at this

new track.”

- Nico Hulkenberg, Force India Driver

QUOTES OF THE DAY2012 FORMULA 1 UNITED STATES GRAND PRIX

1.Sebastian Vettel Red Bull Racing-Renault

2. Lewis HamiltonMcLaren-Mercedes

3. Mark WebberRed Bull Racing-Renault

4. Romain GrosjeanLotus-Renault

5.Kimi RäikkönenLotus-Renault

6. Michael SchumacherMercedes

7. Felipe MassaFerrari

8. Nico HulkenbergForce India-Mercedes

9. Fernando AlonsoFerrari

10. Pastor MaldonadoWilliams-Renault

11. Bruno SennaWilliams-Renault

12. Jenson ButtonMcLaren-Mercedes

13. Paul di RestaForce India-Mercedes

14. Jean-Eric VergneSTR-Ferrari

15. Sergio PerezSauber-Ferrari

16 Kamui KobayashiSauber-Ferrari

17 Nico Rosberg.Mercedes

18. Daniel RicciardoSTR-Ferrari

19. Timo GlockMarussia-Cosworth

20. Charles PicMarussia-Cosworth

21. Vitaly PetrovCaterham-Renault

22. Heikki Kovalainen Caterham-Renault

23. Pedro de la RosaHRT-Cosworth

24. Narain KarthikeyanHRT-Cosworth


S REPORTUNDAY

A crowd of 117,429 spectators packed the new 330-acre facility to witness the first ever Grand Prix at the purpose built Circuit of the Americas. The total attendance over the three-day event was 265,499, a staggering amount!

One of the most exciting moments of the race was when Lewis Hamilton slipped past pole sitter Sebastian Vettel on Turn 12 to take the race lead during Lap 43. Hamilton never looked back and captured his fourth Grand Prix win of the season, and what would be his last win for the McLaren team as he departed for the Mercedes team in 2013.

“I think this is probably one of the best, if not the best Grand Prix we’ve had all year,” exclaimed an emphatic Lewis Hamilton from the podium. “It’s been a long, long time since I had a win and I’m just so proud, so proud of the work the

guys did, so grateful for the support we’ve had,” added the British driver. Hamilton was also the last F1 Driver to win on US soil after his victory in Indianapolis is 2007.

Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel finished in second place and was not able to clinch his title. This was Vettel’s 100th Formula 1 Grand Prix. Red Bull was able to clinch the Constructors’ Championship.

Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso finished on the lowest step on the podium. “The circuit was fantastic but the fans were fantastic all weekend,” stated Alonso. “We really enjoyed and we really have to say big thanks to all the fans coming here, all the Americans, the Mexicans and all the South Americans that came also to support us.”

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Pos No Driver Team Laps Time/Retired Grid1 4 Lewis Hamilton McLaren-Mercedes 56 1:35:55.269 2

2 1 Sebastian Vettel Red Bull Racing-Renault 56 +0.6 secs 1

3 5 Fernando Alonso Ferrari 56 +39.2 secs 7

4 6 Felipe Massa Ferrari 56 +46.0 secs 11

5 3 Jenson Button McLaren-Mercedes 56 +56.4 secs 12

6 9 Kimi Räikkönen Lotus-Renault 56 +64.4 secs 4

7 10 Romain Grosjean Lotus-Renault 56 +70.3 secs 8

8 12 Nico Hulkenberg Force India-Mercedes 56 +73.7 secs 6

9 18 Pastor Maldonado Williams-Renault 56 +74.5 secs 9

10 19 Bruno Senna Williams-Renault 56 +75.1 secs 10

11 15 Sergio Perez Sauber-Ferrari 56 +84.3 secs 15

12 16 Daniel Ricciardo STR-Ferrari 56 +84.8 secs 18

13 8 Nico Rosberg Mercedes 56 +85.5 secs 17

14 14 Kamui Kobayashi Sauber-Ferrari 55 +1 Lap 16

15 11 Paul di Resta Force India-Mercedes 55 +1 Lap 13

16 7 Michael Schumacher Mercedes 55 +1 Lap 5

17 21 Vitaly Petrov Caterham-Renault 55 +1 Lap 21

18 20 Heikki Kovalainen Caterham-Renault 55 +1 Lap 22

19 24 Timo Glock Marussia-Cosworth 55 +1 Lap 19

20 2 Charles Pic Marussia-Cosworth 54 +2 Laps 20

21 22 Pedro de la Rosa HRT-Cosworth 54 +2 Laps 23

22 23 Narain Karthikeyan HRT-Cosworth 54 +2 Laps 24

ret 2 Mark Webber Red Bull Racing-Renault 16 Alternator 3

ret 17 Jean-Eric Vergne STR-Ferrari 14 Suspension 14

2012 FORMULA 1UNITED STATES GRAND PRIX

Note - Grosjean dropped five grid places for unscheduled gearbox change. Massa dropped five after Ferrari broke FIA gearbox seal.

Christian Horner Weighs Inby Joey Franco

Christrian Horner, the 39-year-old team prin-cipal of Red Bull Racing captured his third Constructor’s Championship on Texan soil at the US Grand Prix. Horner weighed in on the importance of F1 in the US.

“It’s crucial for Formula One. To be a true world championship you’ve got to have a race in America,” stated Horner after the first free prac-tice runs on the Friday session of the inaugural US event. “For the first time ever we’ve got a circuit that’s specifically made to bring out the best and showcase Formula One cars.”

Horner was astonished at how much enthu-siasm was shown by American race fans. “In some ways it’s surprising for us to see how much interest there is in the US, how much knowledge about Formula One, how the town has come alive with Formula One coming into Texas,” stated the team boss.

The United States is Red Bull’s biggest market, therefore it is a very important race in the calen-dar for Red Bull Racing. Infinity, which is also one of Red Bull’s main sponsors, sells more cars in the US than anywhere in the world. The team is also backed by AT&T. “It’s an important market for us, it’s our biggest-ever race from a hospital-ity and guest point of view in our short history, ” said Horner.

Horner’s only concern was that there would be a conflicting NASCAR race on the same day as the US Grand Prix. The 2013 US Grand Prix will also coincide with NASCAR. “I think the major prob-lem is that whatever weekend you stick a For-mula One race on there’s going to be a NACAR race. Looking at their calendar, they seem to race every single weekend.”

Regardless of the conflict, Horner remained confident that the US is part of a healthy world Circuit for Formula 1.


Anyone who follows Formula One is aware of the millions of dollars that are invested in the sport through sponsorship and advertisement. However, is there a way of measuring the return on investment that Formula One gives back? Formulamoney, an annual data report on the business of F1, certainly believes that there is a number.

According to Formulamoney, the city of Austin gained global media coverage worth $191.2 million from host-ing the 2012 United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of The Americas.

This figure includes $166.7 million in exposure gener-ated verbally and visually through television broadcasts and a further $24.4 million through mentions of Austin and F1(TM) in print and major online media.

Formulamonay also claims that the 162 brands which were displayed on cars and around the venue during the

race gained exposure with an advertising value equivalent of $150.9 million, making the event the best race of the sea-son in terms of brand exposure!

Pirelli was the brand that benefited the most, gaining $24.5 million worth of exposure. Red Bull was second with $19.3 million, LG with $14.1 million, and Verizon gained $14.0 mil-lion.

The best-exposed sponsor of the race was series tyre sup-plier, Pirelli, which in the absence of a race title sponsor took several prime trackside advertising slots for the event. This resulted in total exposure worth $24.5 million, or 16.2 percent of the overall exposure value.

( Jay Eff )

For more information visit Formulamoney.com

The Value of theUS Grand Prix


Red Red Texas.by Joey Franco

Umberto Bonfa and Emmanuel Anassis

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The 2012 United States Grand Prix was an event not to be missed by any Ferrari fan in Texas.

Between the 32 Ferrari 458s that com-peted in the Ferrari Challenge, the vintage F1 ve-hicles in the Historic Grand Prix, and the six teams (Ferrari, Sauber, Toro Rosso) powered by the Ma-ranello based marque, there were probably more Ferrari engines at COTA during GP weekend than any other manufacturer in racing.

This should come as no surprise to anyone who un-derstands the fabled history of the prancing horse.

The Ferrari Challenge, a single-marquee racing series created to allow Ferrari owners to compete with fellow Ferrari owners on some of the world’s greatest race tracks came to COTA during this his-toric weekend. Emmanuel Anassis of the Ferrari Quebec team won both races which took place dur-ing the weekend.

Ferrari Quebec President Umberto Bonfa could not be prouder of the outcome, stating, “When the Fer-rari Challenge series takes part at a Formula One venue, it gives the series and our dealership much more visibility- thus putting the Montreal and Aus-tin venues on a whole different level.”

Bonfa is quick to note that Enzo Ferrari went into business in 1947 to race and that the street cars which he produced at the time were initially only a source of income to finance his racing ac-tivities. “Today we should be honored that this race car company also builds the best luxury street and sports cars using that same racing DNA,” said Bonfa.

Altough many spectators at COTA might see a clear difference between a “street Ferrari” and an “F1”, Marco Mattiacci, President & CEO of Fer-rari North America delineated a clear relationship between what happens at the street level and on an F1 circuit. “It [the relationship] is fundamental be-cause there is a very important transfer of technol-ogy,” said Mattiacci.

“Our clients understand the return on the develop-ment in Formula One, which is the most important automotive competition in the world. It is absolute-ley appreciated,” added the Chief Exectutive of Ferrari’s North American operations.

“Ferrari is emotion and passion,” explained Mr. Bonfa, noting that this phenomenon is easy to explain just by looking at the COTA grandstands where the majority of fans are wearing red and waiving around a prancing horse flag.

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Pirelli&COTA

The Circuit of the Americas was on of only two circuits (Hockenhein in Germany be-ing the second) on the 2012 calendar that Pirelli was not familiar with since enter-ing F1 in 2011 as the sole tyre supplier. It was a difficult task for the Italian manufac-turer to fully grasp the brand new track; un-derstanding the nature of a new surface is always complicated.

by Jay Eff


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Pirelli conducted extensive testing at the circuit by using sophisticated laser measuring equipment in order to as-sess the abrasiveness of the circuit by examining closely the spacing and shape of the stones that make up the ag-gregate. Several readings were taken from the machine, in order to ensure an accurate representation

The complex testing, as well as some asphalt samples from the new venue, allowed Pirelli to calculate the likely wear rate and the effect of the asphalt and ambient tem-peratures on the tyres at different points on the circuit.

Following the tests, Pirelli decided to opt for the P Zero Silver hard and P Zero White medium tyres: a reasonably conservative compound choice for a circuit where there are still a number of unknown factors when it comes to tyre performance.

The fast and challenging 5.515-kilometre track features varying elevations that alternate slower and more techni-cal sections with other areas that are very quick.

The opening sector of the lap is particularly demanding, with a uniquely profiled hairpin turn one and then a rapid sequence of direction changes from turns four through six: reminiscent of Silverstone or Spa. This puts a lot of energy through the tyre structure, particularly the outside tyre that has to withstand the majority of the cornering forces. Trac-tion is also a vital aspect of tyre performance in America in order to find optimal grip coming out of the slower corners.

KEY POINTSTurn 11 is particularly demanding in Texas as the drivers start to brake heavily with the car already turning, creat-ing an uneven distribution of forces across the tyres. Good grip from the compound is essential for an effective turn-in.

The cars are likely to run with low gearing and medium downforce, with the set-up expected to be similar to that of Istanbul Park in Turkey.

America is a key market for Pirelli, where the full range of P Zero tyres is sold for Ultra High Performance vehicles, as well as a unique P4, P6 and Cinturato P7 ‘Four Seasons’ range for year-round motoring. Pirelli also sells its com-plete line-up of premium winter tyres in the United States: Winter Sottozero, Winter Carving and Winter Snowcontrol.

Pirelli’s American headquarters is located in Rome, Geor-gia – which also houses a Research and Development facility along with a factory that uses the patented MIRS (Modular Integrated Robotised System) process. However, 90% of Pirelli tyres sold in the United States are actually made in Latin America.

The Georgia plant produces approximately 400,000 tyres per year. By 2015, Pirelli’s total production in the American continent is expected to rise to 3.9 million tyres. The tyre market in America is growing by an average 2.1% per year.

Click or scan to view a video of Pirelli and Cota.

photos and video courtesy Pirelli


F1 & America; a look at the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Formula 1 in the US.

Although many people might think that Formula One is relatively new in the US, the

truth of the matter is that The F1 World Championship has had a presence in America for as far back as 1956!Nevertheless, despite F1’s long-standing presence in the country, the sport has been more like a travelling circus than an established sport. Eleven locations have hosted Grand Prix events throughout the years. Here is a look at three past events which have marked the sport in very different ways.

Two Formula One races were held in the US dur-ing the 1977 season. The US Grand Prix West was held in Long Beach, California. The addi-tion of the US Grand Prix West made the United States just the second country after Italy to host two races within a single season. This race was a street circuit, and was supposed to be the US’s answer to the Monaco Grand Prix.

It was over 100 degrees in Long Beach at the start of the race, which attracted over 70,000 spectators. The circuit changed three times over the course of its eight year run- however all of the layouts featured a sweeping straight down Shoreline Drive.

During this fateful day on April 3rd, Mario An-dretti became the first American to win a For-mula One race on home soil. Andretti, racing in a Lotus-Ford, beat Fer-rari’s Niki Lauda by less than a second (0.773s to be exact)!!! Wolf-Ford’s Jody Scheckter finished in third place.

THE GOOD:1977 United StatesGrand Prix West

by Joey Franco

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The 2005 US Grand Prix will go down in history as one of the most controversial F1 races of all time. This was to be the last F1 event before the sport’s return to Texas in 2012.

At the time, there were two tyre suppliers; Bridgestone and Michelin. The 2005 F1 rules also stipulated that teams were not allowed to change tyres during any given race. Following several tyre failures from Michelin prior to the race, the French tyre manufacturer deemed that the tyres which had been provided were not safe to use for the entire race. After completing the parade lap (thus taking part in the race to avoid penalties from the FIA) all seven teams (14 cars) using Michelin Tyres retired to pit lane. Only three teams (Ferrari, Minardi, Jordan) and six cars who were supplied by Bridgestone took part in the race. This infamous incident has been labeled “Indygate”. Ferrari’s Mi-chael Schumacher won the race, and his teammate Rubens Barrichello finished second. Jordan’s Tiago Monteiro finished third.

You might think that the frenetic and glamor-ous Las Vegas would be the perfect setting for a Grand Prix- this was not the case for the Las Vegas Grand Prix, held in 1981, and 1982.

The track has been described as one of the worst Formula One tracks ever. The temporary circuit was laid out in the parking lot of the Caesars Pal-ace hotel. The course was not very popular with drivers for two main reasons. The first was the scorching dessert heat. Secondly, the counter-clockwise direction put a huge strain in the driver’s necks. The track doubled back on itself in an attempt to make use of the limited space; the result- one of the weirdest tracks ever!

Alan Jones of the Williams-Tyrell team won the inaugural event in 1983. Michele Alboreto of Tyrell-Ford won the second and last edition of the event. Like Caesar, this race will forever rest in peace.

THE BAD: 2005 Indianapolis Grand Prix

THE UGLY:1981-1982 Caesars Palace Grand Prix

Illustration F1 traveler Magazine


Team Principal of Vodafone McLaren Mercedes, Martin Whitmarsh, officially welcomes Sergio Perez to the team at the McLaren Technology Centre. The Mexican driver will drive alongside Jen-son Button for the 2013 Formula 1 sea-son. He replaces Lewis Hamilton who has moved to the Mercedes F1 Team. Sergio Perez drove for the Sauber Team last season .

SERGIO PEREZ arrives at Vodafone McLaren Mercedes

9 | 01| 2013

Pre Season Preparationphotos courtesy Vodafone McLaren Mercedes F1 Team

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SERGIO PEREZ

Pre Season Preparation

Leafield Technical Centre, UK

David Cameron was given a tour of Caterham Group’s Leafield Technical Centre on Friday the 15th of February by Caterham Group Co-Chairman Tony Fernandes.

Leafield Technical Centre has been home to Caterham F1 Team since the team moved its factory base and over 200 staff from Norfolk to the site in Oxfordshire in August 2012.

DAVID CAMERON Visits Leafield Technical Centre

19 | 02 | 2013

photos courtesy Caterham F1 team


Sahara Force India completed its fourth and final day of testing in Jerez as Jules Bianchi shared driving duties with Paul Di Resta. Bianchi set a fastest lap time of 1:18.175, while Di Resta set a time of 1:23.435 in the Sahara Force India VJM06-02. In total, both driv-ers tested a total of 105 laps at the Jerez circuit.

JEREZ Test Report

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Scuderia Toro Rosso revealed its new car, the eighth in the team’s history, in the Jerez de la Frontera pit lane, at an event organised by the team’s Span-ish sponsor, CEPSA. The wraps were pulled off the STR8 by their unchanged driver line-up of Daniel Ricciardo and Jean-Eric Vergne.

The STR8 is the first car to be designed by a group led by chief designer Luca Furbatto, who joined the company just over a year ago, while the whole project was overseen by James Key, who has been the team’s technical director since last September.

STR8 AWAY!

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2013FORMULA 1 SCHEDULE


MALAYSIAKuala LumpurRace Date: 24 Mar 2013Circuit Name: Sepang International CircuitCircuit Length: 5.543 kmLap Record: 1:34.223 - JP Montoya (2004)

CHINAShanghaiRace Date: 14 Apr 2013Circuit Name: Shanghai International CircuitCircuit Length: 5.451 kmLap Record: 1:32.238 - M Schumacher (2004)

BAHRAINSakhirRace Date: 21 Apr 2013Circuit Name: Bahrain International CircuitCircuit Length: 5.412 kmLap Record: 1:30.252 - M Schumacher (2004)

AUTRALIAMelbourneRace Date: 17 Mar 2013Circuit Name: Albert ParkCircuit Length: 5.303 kmLap Record: 1:24.125 - M Schumacher (2004)

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SPAINCatalunyaRace Date: 12 May 2013Circuit Name: Circuit de CatalunyaCircuit Length: 4.655 kmLap Record: 1:21.670 - K Raikkonen (2008)

MONACOMonte CarloRace Date: 26 May 2013Circuit Name: Circuit de MonacoCircuit Length: 3.340 kmLap Record: 1:14.439 - M Schumacher (2004)

CANADAMontrealRace Date: 09 Jun 2013Circuit Name: Circuit Gilles-VilleneuveCircuit Length: 4.361 kmLap Record: 1:13.622 - R Barrichello (2004)

GREAT BRITAINSilverstoneRace Date: 30 Jun 2013Circuit Name: SilverstoneCircuit Length: 5.891 kmLap Record: 1:34.908 - F Alonso (2011)


BELGIUMSpa-FrancorchampsRace Date: 25 Aug 2013Circuit Name: Circuit de Spa-FrancorchampsCircuit Length:308.052 kmLap Record: 1:47.263 - S Vettel (2009)

GERMANYNürburgringRace Date: 07 Jul 2013Circuit Name: NürburgringCircuit Length:5.148 kmLap Record: 1:29.468 - M. Schumacher (2004)

ITALYMonzaRace Date: 08 Sep 2013Circuit Name: Autodromo di MonzaCircuit Length: 5.793 kmLap Record: 1:21.046 - R Barrichello (2004)

HUNGARYBudapestRace Date: 28 Jul 2013Circuit Name: HungaroringCircuit Length: 4.381 kmLap Record: 1:19.071 - M Schumacher (2004)

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JAPANSuzukaRace Date: 13 Oct 2013Circuit Name: SuzakaCircuit Length: 5.807 kmLap Record:1:31.540 - K. Raikkonen (2005)

KOREAYeongamRace Date: 12 May 2013Circuit Name: Korea International CircuitCircuit Length: 5.615 kmLap Record: 1:39.605 - S Vettel (2011)

INDIANew DelhiRace Date: 27 Oct 2013Circuit Name: Buddh International CircuitCircuit Length: 5.125 kmLap Record: 1:27.249 - S Vettel (2011)

SINGAPORESingaporeRace Date: 22 Sep 2013Circuit Name: Marina Bay Street CircuitCircuit Length: 5.073 kmLap Record: 1:45.599 - K Raikkonen (2008)


UNITED STATESAustinRace Date: 17 Nov 2013Circuit Name: Circuit of The AmericasCircuit Length: 5.513 kmLap Record: 1:39.347 - S Vettel (2012)

BRAZILSão PauloRace Date: 24 Nov 2013Circuit Name: Autodromo Jose Carlos PaceCircuit Length: 4.309 kmLap Record:1:31.540 - K. Raikkonen (2005)

INDIANew DelhiRace Date: 27 Oct 2013Circuit Name: Buddh International CircuitCircuit Length: 5.125 kmLap Record: 1:27.249 - S Vettel (2011)

ABU DHABIYas MarinaRace Date: 03 Nov 2013Circuit Name: Yas MarinaCircuit Length: 5.554 kmLap Record: 1:40.279 - S Vettel (2009)

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USGP TROPHIES

by Joey Franco


In motor racing, nothing is sweeter that lifting a trophy on the podium. It is the grandiose moment of glory after a grueling race.

For the inaugural FORMULA 1 UNITED STATES GRAND PRIX in Austin Texas, Richard Fox, owner of Fox Silver in the United Kingdom, was responsible for designing and creating the trophies that were presented to the winning drivers. The design of the trophies combines signature elements from the Circuit with the colors of the American flag.

“To be involved in the trophy design for Circuit of The Americas is one of our most exciting endeavors. It is such an honor to be involved in the race that will introduce Formula 1 back to the United States. This is an historical time for the sport and we are thrilled to be a part of it, ” said Fox.

In addition to Fox’s expertise, the design process included significant input from Circuit Chairman and founding partner, Bobby Epstein. “Being involved in the trophy design was an exciting experience for me,” said Epstein. “I felt it was important to incorporate iconic Texan and American symbols into our trophy design to commemorate this exciting time in the history of Formula 1. The final product reflects the tremendous esteem associated with winning a Formula 1 Grand Prix, the pride of the host city and state and the unique aspects of our world-class facility.

When this trophy is placed in the hands of the first winner, it will also mark a milestone of success for our team and our community.”

One of Fox Silver’s first major commissions was the Bernie Ecclestone Trophy. Soon after, they created the FIA TV Trophy in 1984. Since that time, the company has designed and manufactured more than 600 trophies for Formula 1, World Rally, and NASCAR. The most prominent trophies that have been produced by Fox Silver include both the FIA Formula One World Championship Drivers’ and Constructors’ Trophies.

The Circuit of The Americas is represented in the supports, or handles, joining the trophy’s sterling silver cup to the base. These five supports are made of black and red gold-plated aluminum, with the red representing the sweeping canopy of the Circuit’s signature 250-foot Tower.

Atop the base rest three colored discs in red, white and blue representing the colors of the American flag. The base also includes the Texas “lone star” enclosed in laurels, which are a traditional symbol of victory in motorsports.

There is an inscription along the sterling silver collar of the winning trophy, the name of the winner- the name; Lewis Hamilton.

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Pirelli 2013Formula 1 TyresWith a new season comes new tyres. As we have seen in 2012, notably from the Canadian Grand Prix, tyre strategy can affect the outcome of a season. It can be the difference between a lost or won championship. For the 2013 season, Pirelli have created a line of P Zero F1 tyres which feature softer compounds and which will lead to at least two pit stops per race. Pirelli’s 2013 goals are evident – MORE pitstops, and MORE overtaking.

by Joey Franco

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A new color has also been introduced for the hard compound. Instead of the bleak silver sidewall, the hard compound tyre will bear a bright orange sidewall.

“The 2013 season continues the philosophy adopted by Pirelli last year in evolving the original 2011 range of Formula One tyres,” commented Pirelli’s motorsport director Paul Hembery. “The goal is to continuously set new challenges for the drivers and to ensure that all the teams start the new season on a level playing field when it comes to the tyres.”

Hembery points out that at the start of the 2012 season, there were seven winners in seven races, which was a result of the teams not understanding the tyres. Once the teams fully understood the way the P Zeros would react, the season became more predictable. “Our 2013 range of tyres mixes up the cards once more to help overtaking and ensure two to three pit stops per,” added Hembery.

The increase in thermal degradation and more pitstops will open up more strategic options for all the teams.

Each F1 car will have 11 sets of tyres available for the weekend, made up of six sets of the harder and five sets of the softer compound. Tyres are allocated to each team at random.

Click or scan to view a video of Pirelli

by Sydney Spence


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Texas is already considered to be the 11th strongest economy in the world and Austin is able to boast that it is the country’s 15th larg-est city. Well, it looks like the Texas economy just got a little bit better thanks to the Formula 1 Grand Prix.

Hosted in Austin every November at the new track built specifically for the race, it would appear the races are doing more for the Austin area than just bringing thousands upon thousands of visitors to the city

each year. It’s contributing to an already semi-stable economy. But with the dire state of the country presently, Austin isn’t complaining about the chance to boast new revenue.

What better reason to build upon the already stabilized econ-omy of Austin than to ramp it up with an event that draws in over 300,000 visitors for one weekend? None that any of the locals can think of, you can rest assured. Those that are ben-efiting from the Formula 1 races make no complaints.

Austin is not only considered the live music capital of the world but is also deemed one of the most important regions in the technological world, with Texas holding more Fortune 500 companies than any other state in America.

Not only do the visitors that Formula 1 attracts contribute to the Austin economy but the area also benefits from the crea-tion of over three thousand jobs. With an increase of jobs comes an increased interest of real estate in the Austin area as well and the low interest rates.

Small business owners in the area don’t mind the extra busi-ness and increased sales either. With visitors in the area for approximately four days, Circuit of Americas anticipates out- of-state travelers will spend on average around $1500 per day. Even a small portion of that benefits small business owners.

Hotels aren’t left out either. They generated approximately $850,000 in revenue during the 2012 races, and 2013 is shap-ing up to be the same.

What does the long term plan hold for Austin’s newly found means of revenue? The Circuit of the Americas has predicted an economic impact on the State of Texas in the amount of $5 billion over the next 10 years. Austin welcomes Formula 1 and the income it will generate.


Turn any corner in Austin; you’ll hear a live band. Take a whiff of the night air and you are likely to smell an array of flavors in the wind. Austin’s reputation has grown from home of the Longhorns to being the live music capital of the world. But those aren’t the only things this bustling city is known for anymore.

Austin is now home of the Formula 1 Grand Prix, though many may be wondering how that came to be.

Austin wasn’t named one of the top three “Hippest Cities” in the country for any single reason; there are many reasons Austin was chosen. Thanks to the arrival of the Formula 1 Grand Prix however, Austin is now hipper than ever.

Although there were a number of other cities in the running, Austin beat out the competition for the “virtual”

first place. As it stands now, the race is scheduled to be hosted in Austin through 2021 though there is a good chance it could become a more permanent fixture. The reason for that exciting possibility is due to the fact that the track is the only one like it in the United States. That is because the sole purpose for its existence is to host the Formula 1 racing event.

One of the reasons it was selected is no doubt because of its location, location, location. The Circuit of the Americas Building Site is situated just east of the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, making travel convenient for the more than 200,000 visitors anticipated to converge on Austin every year for the races. The proximity to downtown was also a favorable factor.

Of course, it’s not just the location of the airport and the sparkly new track that captures a television audience of at least 30 million viewers and visitors from all over the world; it’s also due to the fact that Austin has so much going on. The Capital of Texas is now considered a highly regarded vacation spot as millions flood the state every year to take part in the area’s live music, local festivals, and state rodeos.

Other area attractions also make Austin a prime place to frequent. Austin is located between Houston and San

Antonio, making it a prime destination point for visitors from far and wide. While many come from all over to experience the music festivals, once here, they are drawn to Downtown Austin’s Sixth Street which is world renowned for being one of the most fabulous nightlife scenes in the state.

Austin is not only considered the Music Capitol of the World but is also considered to be one of the most important regions in the technological world, holding more Fortune 500 companies than any other state in America. Texas is considered to be the 11th strongest economy in the world while Austin can also boast that it is the country’s 15th largest city.

Another reason Austin was chosen to host the Formula 1 races is the abundance of hotels in the city. There are plenty of places to stay; 250,000 rooms to be exact. But

get in early; they do fill up quick according to a local hotel manager. Since the first Formula 1 race back in November 2012 patrons of the races have already started booking their rooms.

Weather also played a key part in the decision to host the Formula 1 races in Austin. The weather is beautiful all year long, even when it’s blistering during the summer months you’ll still have the area lakes to cool off in.

One of the final reasons Austin was honored with hosting the races would be the number of things to do all year long. This year November will be extra busy the weekend of Formula 1 with the UT Longhorns set to play Oklahoma State but even if you aren’t into football rest assured there is something for everyone. Austin is quickly becoming known for the eclectic shopping and downtown eateries as the city is full of mom and pop stands with some of the best tasting food you’ll ever find.

There are many more reasons Formula 1 settled into Austin but you’ll have to visit to find out for yourself.

IN AUSTIN

WHY FORMULA 1

by Sydney Spence

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TOPThings to Do in November

2013 the Week of Formula1

Ready, set, mark your calendars! November is shaping up to be a very busy month for the Austin area and you’ll want to make sure not to miss a thing.Naturally the two biggest events of November should be addressed first. After much debate in Austin, it has been decided that the Formula 1 race and the UT game against Oklahoma State will indeed be held on the same weekend. Aside from those two major events, there are plenty of other things going on in November to keep everyone occupied during this very busy month.

compiled by Sydney Spence


TOPThings to Do in November

2013 the Week of Formula1

November 9th

Don’t miss the 20th Annual Lone Star Vegetarian Chili

Cook-Off taking place at the Historic Austin Farmer’s

Market.

November 13th

Next on the list is the Rock Band Live Tour performing at

the Frank Erwin Center.

November 15-16th

Austin Natives Ghostland Observatory takes place at

Stubbs BBQ.

November 16th

The Public Festival at Blanton Museum of Fine Arts

will take place.

November 17th

The Formula 1 race; bringing in an additional 200,000

visitors.

November 18th

Methodman and Redman will perform at Stubbs BBQ.

November 19th

The Texas Conference for Women is scheduled to take

place at the Austin Convention Center.

To begin the month, consider checking out The Austin Celtic Festival at the Fiesta Gardens this year. Being held the first weekend of November, this festival celebrates the Celtic culture of Ireland, Scotland and Wales with authentic Celtic music, living history exhibits and lots of games.

November is also the time of year that Austin begins to prepare for the holidays by decorating downtown, lighting up Zilker Park’s Trail of Lights and winter parades complete with Santa. So when you are in town for Formula 1 or the UT game, be sure to take in other parts of Austin culture. You’ll be glad you did.

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Q&A WITH VALTTERI BOTTAS

Introducing Valtteri Bottas

If 2012 was a turning point for the Williams F1 team, then 2013 promises to be the revelatory season of Frank Williams’ march to past glory. Pastor Maldonado’s victory at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo was the team’s first win since 2004.

Underachievement is the best term to describe the Williams team in the past decade. This legendary team with 114 wins to their name in their fabled F1 history will seek to regain their position in F1 this year. They have chosen Valtteri Bottas as Pastor Maldonado’s wingman this

season as he replaces Bruno Senna.

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Q: You’ve been part of Williams since joining the team as a test driver in 2010. How does it feel to finally be a race driver for the team?

VB: It feels incredible to be driving in Formula One next season and to be with a team like Williams, with all its pedigree, is even more special. I’ve worked hard to get here ever since I started karting at six years old, but the real work starts now as I prepare myself for the biggest challenge of my career. The fact that I’ve been with Williams since 2010 will help a lot though because I know the engineers really well and have a good working relationship with them.

Q: What are your objectives for the 2013 season?

VB: It’s difficult to set objectives before the season starts, so I’m just trying to make the most of this opportunity to prove the team has been right to promote me to a race seat. I want to look back on 2013 and feel that I’ve improved as a driver and helped the team improve its performance on the track.

Q: After being GP3 Champion in 2011, you spent last season out of racing focusing on your Reserve Driver role at Williams. How much will that effect you?

VB: I’m a naturally very competitive person and I’ve been competing in triathalons throughout 2012 to keep fit and keep my mind sharp. Obviously I’ve missed racing a great deal so can’t wait to get back onto a starting grid, but I’ve been racing constantly since a very young age so when the lights go out in Australia it will be business as usual.

Q: What do you make of your now teammate, Pastor Maldonado?

VB: Pastor showed at a number of tracks in 2012 that he’s very quick and the win in Barcelona showed that he can cope well with pressure. We get on well off the track as we’ve spent a lot of time together travelling to the various races, and I’ll certainly benefit and learn from his greater experience.

Q: How much of an advantage is it to know the engineers, team and Williams procedures so well already?

VB: I’ve been part of the Williams family since the start of 2010 and feel very at home both at Grove and at the track. I know my engineers very well so we already know how

to get the best performance from each other. I also live in the UK and last year moved just down the road from the factory so I am there quite a lot and know everyone well. . I also live in the UK and last year moved just down the road from the factory so I am there quite a lot and know everyone well. Because of that we can focus immediately

on the 2013 season and what we can achieve together.

Q: Williams Executive Director, Toto Wolff, is part of your management team. How much was he involved in the decision to promote you to race driver?

VB: Toto is part of my management team and has always supported by career, but because of his involvement with Williams he wasn’t part of the negotiations for my contract with the team. As with all decisions at Williams, Sir Frank and the Board of Directors get to make the final decision. I’m grateful to Toto for helping introduce me to the Williams F1 Team, but it has been up to me to prove to Frank and the rest of the team that I have the talent and commitment

to deliver the results they desire.

Q: What do you think it means for Finland to have another F1 driver on the grid?

VB: Hopefully they are proud to have another Finnish driver in Formula One and I hope to get a lot of support from the Finnish fans who have always been very good to me. To have another Finnish flag on the car next year will be very special.

Q: You have considerable support from Finland. Can you tell us about that? VB: I’ve had a lot of support from back home, starting way back in karting and since then I have been lucky to have been supported by some great Finnish companies. Without this sort of backing I would not be where I am today, so I’m very grateful and hopefully I can taste success with Williams and pay back those who have

helped me get to Formula One.

Photos, Videos, & Interview courtesy of the Williams F1 Team

INTERVIEW WITH VALTTERI BOTTAS

Click or scan to view a video of Valtteri Bottas

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Formula One is a race against time. Each millisecond can affect the outcome of a qualifying session or a race. F1 cars are precision instruments, just like the watch which has been designed to commemorate the return of Formula One racing to the United States; the F1 King Power Austin.

King PowerAustin

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Hublot, the official watch of Formula 1, produced 250 numbered pieces of the specially designed watch.

The timepiece features a lightweight titanium case which is resistant to corrosion. The watch also boasts a carbon and titanium bezel. The unique, high performance materials used to create this watch are inspired by F1. The titanium and carbon fiber of the bezel are directly inspired by the brake disc of an F1 car.

The strap is made from black Hornback alligator leather, accentuating the refined and powerful style of the timepiece.

Each instrument of time is numbered from 01/250 to 250/250.

Hublot’s reputation dates back three decades; at that time, it was the first prestigious Swiss watch brand to fuse precious metals with natural rubber.


EVENTBRITISH CONSULATE-GENERAL

On Friday November 16th, The British Consulate-General and UK Trade & Investment hosted a Best of Britain Reception: 416 W. Cesar Chavez in Austin. Among the VIPs present were Texas Governor Rick Perry, racing Legend Sir Jackie Stuart, F1 champion Damon Hill and the legendary F1 boss Frank Williams.The event was hosted by the British Ambassador to the US, Sir Peter Westmacott and Lady Westmacott.Over the last three decades UK-built cars have won the majority of F1 World Championship races.

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The UK motorsport industry represents the pinnacle of motorsport where every intricate detail contributes to the overall success of the car and the team. British motorsport firms command 80% of the global market share and contribute more than nine billion dollars yearly to the economy.

photos: Joey Franco


AUSTIN FANFEST

Three-Day Austin Fan Fest Powered by Mobil 1 As the live music capital of America, Austin showed the world that they can party. The Austin Fan Fest Powered by Mobil 1 took place during Grand Prix weekend in an area bordered by 5th Street, Congress Avenue, 2nd Street and Lavaca Street.

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Throughout Fan Fest weekend, fans experienced five free stages of music, four concert venues hosting major inter-national performers, local food and interactive F1 activi-ties, including show cars, simulators and street perfor-mances. Additionally, the Austin Convention Center was transformed into The COTA Club, becoming the prime upscale party spot.

photos: Circuit of the Americas

2013 US GRANDPRIXIN PICTURES BY JOEY FRANCO

Scuderia Ferrari mechanics hauling the number 5 car

Top: Red Bull Racing crew at work Right: Lotus driver Romain Grosjean

FRIDAY


Marussia car on the circuit

Top: Nico Hulkenberg of Sahara Force India Right: Lotus crosses the Pirelli overpass

Left: Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg signing autographs Top: A ferrari Challenge vehicle

SATURDAY

Left: Actor and race car driver Patrick Dempsey Top: Director George Lucas with Sir Jackie Stuart

Starting grid of the Historic Grand Prix


Top: HRT’s Pedro De La Rosa enters the pits Right: Actor Matt Le Blanc in pit lane

Left: Former F1 world champion Damon Hill Top: Current world champion Sebastian Vettel

Ferrari driver Felipe Massa

F1 Legend Niki Lauda

Williams driver Pastor Maldonado entering the garages

Lewis Hamilton at the post qualifying press conference

SUNDAY

Top: Ferrari emblem Right: Official host of the US Grand Prix Mario Andretti

LeftL Ferrari Challenge race Top: Sauber driver Sergio Perez

Top: Lotus F1 nose Right: F1 Boss Bernie Ecclestone with Texas governor Rick Perry

Top: Pole grid girl Right: Sahara Force India pit crew

Top: Cleaning an oil spill on track Right: F1 pit girls

Left:Michael Schumacher gets a lift from Kimi Raikkonen Top: Daniel Ricciardo

Left: Scuderia Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso in the driver’s parade Top: Marussia’s Timo Glock

Top: The race is underway Right: Red Bull vehicle

Left: Chrysler Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne Top: Williams Driver Pastor Maldonado Below: Jenson Button

Top: Driving past the tower Right: The winner Lewis Hamilton in parc ferme

Top: Third place trophy to Fernando Alonso Right: Second place, Sebastian Vettel

The winner Lewis Hamilton of Vodafone McLaren Mercedes

F1 Traveler - March 2013

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