Start Over For Kimi

It was in Magny Cours last year that Kimi turned his season around. He has dropped from first to fourth in the drivers standings this year, seven points behind Kubica. After two races in a row with no points, will this be his chance to re-charge his place in the standings? This is a great circuit for the F2008, the fast changes of direction, demanding corners, and a smooth surface. It requires a high downforce set-up for stability through the hairpin corners balanced with the need for straight line speed. Tyre management is once again crucial at Magny Cours which is extremely hard on rubber due to side loads from tight corners and thermal loading from high tract surface temperatures. Kimi is a master of tyre and fuel management. Kubica is also a conscientious driver, gentle with his equipment. McLaren tends to select the harder compound which will not be available this weekend putting Hamilton at another disadvantage.

Hamilton's penalty will make for extra effort on his part to catch up here but there are certainly opportunities for over taking. And he is feeling an extraordinary amount of pressure which is beginning t0 effect his drive. Maybe a chance for Heikki to do better. It will be interesting to see how the high kerbs on the modified final chicane effect the race also. Every Grand Prix holds a surprise this season!

Friday Afternoon
Practice was not a surprise, the drivers experienced the predictable challenges of Magny Cours. The need to build speed through the turns to get the most out of the straight aways coupled with the lack of camber on the very smooth track surface contributed to quite a few runs through the litter. This is going to be interesting in terms of pit stops. I expect most drivers will make three stops and possibly four for Hamilton due to his braking style on top of a track that demands hard braking anyway. The short pit lane allows for quick entry and exit to the pits. Good thing, tyres will be an issue. The cars are set up low on this circuit and the kerbs are high. Heidfeld left a piece behind after exiting turn three and bottoming out in afternoon practice. Possibly another factor Sunday. Weather may also be a factor!