Heavy Rain Causes Unexpected Results in Irkutsk

by Klon  30/04/2016 | 5:11 0 Posted in 2010 - Present, FIA, Formula 1 

Qualifying:

* demoted five places for changing engine/gearbox

Report:

Bourdais without a front wing was just one of the many examples of drivers struggling in the rain.

Russia was not particulary welcoming to the Formula One circus. Perhaps understandable, given as this may be the last Russian Grand Prix in a long time. Rain, however, was a very valueable asset for some drivers. Not for nothing it is known in Formula One circles as “the big equaliser” and that was the role it served as.

Qualfiying was a reasonably predictable affair out top, with both Caterhams being ahead the Precisions. Behind them, some drivers had a very successful run: unexpected names such as Chinese rookie Ma Qinghua were able to progress further in qualifying as they usually did which set the stage for a thrilling race.

Indeed it turned out to be an astonishing event. Outside of Lewis Hamilton being untouchable in the very heavy rain, all positions were on the line. Due to a failure to pay attention at the end of the SC phase to open this Grand Prix, even Sebastian Vettel had to fight hard, having to overcome a ruthless Daniel Ricciardo to get on the podium.

Unfortunately, two teams stuggled heavily in the wet weather: both Haas and Sauber were completely unable to get a proper rain setup ready and that resulted in a very bad race, not helped by Maldonado and Vandoorne colliding. Their failure played into Calinetic’s and Williams’ hands, both teams able to score some good points.

Race:

Fastest Lap:

Lewis Hamilton – 1:20.240

Infinite Improbability Drive Of The Race:

Rhys Davies – old F1 star was able to remind everyone of his greatness as a driver.

Reject Of The Race:

Sauber-Judd – everyone knows the Swiss team can do a lot better than this.

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