Exclusive Formula 1 Preview

Well, here we are in the European season: Turkey is next. Strangely, this is a country that was not readily admitted into the European Union (EU), and has zero tradition about car racing – the Ottomans raced horses and never went beyond. Bernie Ecclestone must have had 1001 nights of strange thoughts when he put that deal together.

At any rate, and fortunately for this writer, there’s plenty of off-track action to write about. Let’s review:

• Michael Schumacher must now show up with the goods. His performance in Monaco was nothing to write home about. His new stint in F1 is at this point clearly turning into a “now or never situation.” Something to watch.

• Aussie Mark Webber is the hottest man in F1 right now. He’s suddenly overshadowed his young and very talented teammate, Sebastian Vettel. Will Vettel be able to strike back?

• Talking about those two drivers, here comes the other big question: can anybody beat the Red Bulls? Rumor has it that Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz and McLaren had a joint meeting to figure out what makes the Red Bulls so much faster. It’s a strange thought; maybe Max Mosley secretly chaired the meeting.? At any rate, the Red bulls don’t even have an “F-duct” yet. Go figure.

Next comes the early “silly season talks.” Like: “Who will replace Massa at Ferrari In 2011?” Or “”will it be Kubica, or is the Pole tied to Renault?”

Just imagine what’s going on in the lesser teams. What team wants to see its $50,000 steering wheel being illegally thrown on the track? Not Lotus, but they have yet to score. So who knows?

Now for the biggest news: not only is Formula 1 finally returning to America (Montréal, Canada) this year, but Bernie Ecclestone just issued a press release that Austin, Texas, would stage the first dedicated U.S. Grand Prix since Watkins Glen I 2012. Wow! That would be terrific. Details to follow.

OK, so what’s our prediction for Turkey?

Assuming no rain, another Red Bull one/two, with Fernando Alonso straight behind, and the McLaren pair trailing in despair. The M-B’s are behind, mourning the glory days of the “Silver Arrows.” Schumi is thinking motorcycles again.

Stay tuned.

Philippe Defechereux
New York City

May 26, 2010