Oct.5 (GMM) Rain fell overnight at Suzuka, but the only remnants of wet weather were damp patches in the paddock as the formula one circus on Thursday re-congregated for the penultimate race of 2006.
Local reports, however, indicate that Friday will definitely be wet, ahead of a clearer outlook for qualifying and the grand prix on Sunday.
The Mercedes-Benz safety car was doing laps of the Japanese circuit for system checks, as a sign at the end of pit lane indicated. But, perhaps lost in translation, the sign also advised: 'Don't get muddy on the track!!!'.
After the expanse of Shanghai's surrounds just a few days ago, Suzuka's paddock seems a little cramped. The tight confines, however, make for more of a community feeling. Technical directors Ross Brawn (Ferrari) and Pascal Vasselon, for example, were spotted in rare conversation.
Pit lane on Thursday was also cramped as hundreds of Japanese fans shuffled to catch a close up glimpse of their heroes. Many F1 drivers, meanwhile, attended an official autograph session.
Championship challengers Michael Schumacher and Fernando Alonso, though, were the centre of the media's attention. Alonso, who repeated his critical comments about his Renault team and Giancarlo Fisichella in the press conference, took the flight from China to Japan this week accompanied by his girlfriend, Spanish pop star Raquel del Rosario.
Schumacher was also in a fighting mood, with his casual t-shirt bearing the words 'Kick Boxing'.
Written: Thu, 05 Oct 2006 08:58:47
[ Print View ][ E-Mail Article ]
- October 02, 2009Second practice wash-out
- February 21, 2009Honda says Suzuka revamp on track
- May 23, 2007Suzuka may return for '08
- December 29, 2006Honda to revamp axed Suzuka
- October 10, 2006Another engine problem for Schu
- October 05, 2006Latest from Japan
- October 03, 2006Unpredictable weather in Japan
- September 21, 2006Imola faces competition for 18th race of 2007
- April 11, 2006Suzuka tickets sell out in record time
- March 25, 2006Toyota confirm Fuji's Suzuka steal
- (October 05, 2006)View all headlines from this date
