F1: Grand Prix News Briefs (Update 3)

Formula 1

F1: Grand Prix News Briefs (Update 3)

Formula One Grand Prix news from around the world as the circus heads to Valencia

SPEED Staff / GMM | Posted August 12, 2009 GMM Newswire

Helmets have been improved in the last eight years, but more work could make them even safer, according to former Grand Prix driver Luciano Burti. (Photo: LAT Photographic)

Badoer To Drive F60 At Fiorano This Week: Luca Badoer will get a two-day stint at the wheel of Ferrari's 2009 car this week, prior to making his race debut in the place of injured Felipe Massa at the European Grand Prix. Massa's intended substitute Michael Schumacher tried to get authorization within the strict in-season testing ban to drive the F60, but not all rival formula one teams agreed. However, permission in the case of 38-year-old Badoer's two-day test at Fiorano beginning on Monday is not necessary, given that it falls under the category of allowed running "for promotional purposes". Ferrari confirmed that the Italian's test "will be part of a video shooting", while it is understood that Bridgestone's demonstration-specification of tires - which are much harder than those seen at Grand Prix’s and in real tests - will be used. Former triple world champion and Ferrari champion Niki Lauda told Germany's Sport Bild that he is not looking forward to Badoer's Valencia debut. "Ferrari will have only one car in Spain: for Kimi Raikkonen. Badoer will barely exist. He will not be good enough," the Austrian predicted.

Donington Rejects Latest Doubts Over GP Plans: A spokesman for the Donington Park circuit has rejected reports suggesting Silverstone is set to retain the British Grand Prix. With skepticism still rampant about Donington's ability to upgrade its track and honor its contract to begin hosting the grand prix next year, it is increasingly reported that the race will stay put rather than move away from its current home at Silverstone. The latest media reports suggest an Arab takeover might secure Silverstone's future on the F1 calendar, while managing director Richard Phillips has been quoted as saying the Northamptonshire circuit needs to know its plans for 2010 within the next six weeks. "There has been no response to the internet reports as they have no substance or factual basis," a Donington spokesman told the local Derby Telegraph. "Donington Park still holds the contract for F1 for 17 years from 2010," he added. The spokesman said details of the necessary funding for upgrade works will now be forthcoming in September, despite chief executive Simon Gillett earlier claiming the information would be available in March or July. Earlier this month Donington appointed Red Grouse Properties, involved in the Wembley Stadium and O2 Arena projects in London, to oversee the refurbishment of the Leicestershire circuit."(Red Grouse Properties chief) Jayne (McGivern) will ensure that all of the new work on site is completed in a timely manner and to the highest standards," said Donington in a statement.

Alguersuari Tries His Hand As A DJ: Formula One’s youngest ever driver Jaime Alguersuari has shown he is a also a deft hand at the wheel of a disc-jockey's turntable. While Formula One is in its August recess, Toro Rosso's 19-year-old newcomer was invited to stir some tunes at the 'Barcelona Summer Week' techno music festival.

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