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By
Jason Ang
Photos By Respective Sources |
motioncars.com
Magazine
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The season’s first race in Melbrourne two
Sundays had the F1 gladiators pick up from where they left off from 2000. Expect
the battles to be fierce and furious as new combatants enter the ring along with
the old warriors. The main
contenders of last year still have the upper hand, as they retain the best
machinery and the talent and experience to earn maximum points. So its still a
toss up between Hakkinen and Schumacher, McLaren and Ferrari.
Coulthard and Barrichello are unfortunately overshadowed by their
teammates; for them to have any chance they must mount their challenge early in
the season. Expect the midfield battle to be much closer
this year. Williams-BMW surprised many by finishing 3rd last year.
Juan Pablo Montoya joins the F1 circus as a driver for the first time.
He's been a test driver for Frank Williams 3 years ago, but this is his first
race season. He's been fast so far and will surely give Ralf Schumacher a run
for his money. Jordan had a disappointing 2000 season but is rejuvenated with
factory Honda engines. The Hondas were reliable last year.
This year they should be powerful as well.
Heinz-Harald Frentzen should return to the podium. His accusations on
Ferrari traction control won’t do him much good though; he’ll have to prove
his mettle on the race track. The other Honda-powered team, BAR, were quick to
the pick up the points when other cars retired.
This may be the year when they can go for the win even if the Ferraris
and McLarens are still around--at least on some circuits like Hungary.
Lightning starter Jacques Villenueve and McLaren’s “Driver No. 3”
last year Olivier Panis, should make midfield battles interesting.
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