Formula 1 is back!
In all of my confusion with projects and promotions, I totally forgot that this weekend is the FIRST F1 RACE OF THE SEASON! I do not think any of you appreciate the gravity of this weekend. F1 is my favorite sport, and as an American fan it is very difficult to find peers that are just as excited as I, when it comes to the top racing championship in the world.
Formula 1 is a glorious sport with a rich and interesting pastime. Names like Ferrari, Lotus, Renault, and McLaren have made their names on the shoulders of Formula 1 seasons. Since 1894 there have been Grand Prix races which were the roots of Formula 1. The “formula” is a set of rules and regulations that each team must adhere. After World War II, the FIA, racing’s world governing body, established Formula 1 as the highest class of auto racing. Through the years the rules have been changed to reflect the times, but for the most part it has always been the cutting edge of automotive engineering.
I became a fan about 6 years ago, when I started to do research into auto racing leagues and sunk my teeth into some of the cars I could drive very well in Grand Turismo. When I first started watching I just became absolutely enthralled by the technology, and engineering that went into these fantastic machines. With the help of Speed Channel and its supplement’s, I emersed myself into the drama, rules, competitions and races that would take place through the season.
11 teams compete in the FIA Formula 1 World Championship, for two titles; the constructors championship and the drivers championship. This splits some fans down the middle in such a way where you may have a favorite driver, but he may not drive for your favorite constructor! I am a prime example of this. I have become a devout BMW-Sauber fan however, as much as I like their drivers, Nick Heidfeld, and Robert Kubica; I also support “The Iceman” Kimmi Räikkönen, who now races for Ferrari.
Although I was drawn to the sport by the amazing speed, competition, and the shear fact that the aerodynamics on these cars could literally allow them to drive upside down. There is such a backstage of drama, bitter rivalry, and racing politics, unfolding in the halls of the highest of world racing authorities; that I follow it like a soap opera.
This year looks to be one for the books, and come this Saturday at 10:30pm, this ecstatic fan will be ready to partake in what promises to be the most exciting F1 season in years!
