Obviously from the last race we were already aware of who was going to be this year’s Driver’s Champion – and indeed Constructor’s Champion. Once again, our congratulations go to Jenson Button and Brawn GP for all of the hard work that they’ve put in to ensure that the team that rose from nowhere became the most talked about, and most successful, of 2009.
How about Abu Dhabi though? The race took place on the new circuit that features 3 very different sections and a wonderful tunnel exit from the pit lane. The scene was set for a race that would go from day into dusk and apparently the facilities were first rate. What about the action though? Well, following qualifying was brisk and Hamilton showed that he continues to have the pace and the skill to bring his car to the front of the pack. Vettel similarly was looking strong, as was Webber.
Unfortunately for Lewis Hamilton, a brake problem on lap 20 saw his race brought to an early halt – leaving Sebastien Vettel to cruise on to a more than deserved victory. Webber then came in second, closely followed by none other than Jenson Button – showing just what a class act he really is to be on the podium.
So, what did you make of this year’s Formula 1 season? There’s of course been a ton of controversy – in fact probably more than I can remember in a long time. Most of it, unfortunately, has been bad for the sport. Everything from ‘crashgate’ through to the racist incidents at a couple of grand prix events took a shine off the sport. Worst of all was the apparent disparity between the technology/car set up of the teams. Whilst some took the opportunity and fitted a rear diffuser, it meant that others simply lagged behind the pack and no doubt meant that Brawn were in an excellent position to take advantage with their superbly set up car.
Next year brings some sweeping changes to F1 – most notably a ban on refuelling during races. The biggest net effect this will have is that cars will start off extremely heavy and drivers will have to manage their tyres and other ‘perishables’ much more carefully. Other than that, we’ll see the KERS system going by the consent of all teams.
So, what other announcements can we expect before the inaugural F1 grand prix in 2010? Well perhaps the biggest will be just where many of the drivers are going to be end up. I’ve heard rumours that we may even be looking at a 1-2 of Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton at McLaren. Now wouldn’t that be an interesting team up!
Lewis Hamilton is not in the same league as Jenson Button and I think the coming years will prove this. Jenson Button has more skill and natural talent whereas Hamilton is a mediocre driver driving textbook corners. Just my opinion. At least they are both Brits and I hope Britain still has a Formula One event in coming years between the two drivers