Rosberg negotiates tire chaos to win British GP

(CNN) -- Earlier this month Formula One's governing body punished Pirelli and Mercedes for holding an unsanctioned tire test -- at the British Grand Prix it was Pirelli meting out punishment to the elite racing series.

British home hope Lewis Hamilton lost the lead when the left-rear tire of his Mercedes began to unravel on the eighth lap at the demanding Silverstone circuit.

It was the first of four incidents as Ferrari's Felipe Massa, Toro Rosso's Jean-Eric Vergne and McLaren's Sergio Perez also had their races ruined by failures to the exact same tire.

Hamilton -- and the 130,000 British fans who streamed into Silverstone to support the 2008 world champion -- were left counting the cost more than most.

Read: Hamilton produces scintillating lap to claim pole

His problem handed Sebastian Vettel the race lead and Red Bull's defending world champion marched ominously towards the checkered flag.

But there was a final twist -- and a dash of retribution for Mercedes -- as Vettel's Red Bull ground to a halt with 10 laps to go.

"We had a gearbox issue," said the German, who now leads the championship by 21 points from Ferrari's Fernando Alonso.

"Fifth gear broke and it was not possible to carry on. It was quite disappointing to stop and retire."

The Mercedes of Nico Rosberg inherited the lead from Vettel and the German, who celebrated his 28th birthday this weekend, raced to his first British GP victory and second of the season.

"When Seb stopped, I won't lie, I wasn't disappointed," smiled Rosberg, winner of the Monaco GP. "I definitely feel sorry for the British fans as it would have been a great ace for Lewis.

"But there were too many tire failures today and they need to look into that."

Mark Webber, who announced he was retiring from the sport at the end of the year, recovered from a dismal start to claim a brilliant second in his last-ever F1 race on British soil.

"The start was a big negative for us and then [Romain] Grosjean touched my front wing at Turn One and the race reset from there," Webber explained.

"I pushed very hard to do the business and in the end it was a very, very good result. It's been a real highlight for me to race at this circuit."

Ferrari's Fernando Alonso followed the Australian home and the Spaniard said he considered himself "lucky" to have avoided the tire issues that hit other drivers.

"It was a lucky race for us," said Alonso. "We recovered some points but we need to raise our game as our pace is not good enough."

There was some world-class racing in the final laps.

Hamilton fought his way back through the field to finish fourth ahead of Lotus driver Kimi Raikkonen, who is nine points ahead of the Briton in the championship.

Rosberg reprimand

But regardless of the driving drama, tire failures dominated the fall-out from the British race --- even Vettel's first retirement in 12 months seemed to dip under the radar.

In the immediate aftermath of the race, Pirelli responded to serious safety concerns as the drivers questioned whether they were pushing themselves and their cars to the limit in safe conditions.

"Someone could've crashed," said Hamilton. "I was thinking behind the safety car that it's only when someone gets hurt that something will be done about it."

Read: Silent heroes of the F1 circus

Massa, who was running in fourth before his tire failure, added: "What happened is unacceptable.

"It was very dangerous for all of the 22 drivers racing. In order for us to race we cannot have these problems. They need to do something for our safety."

In a short media conference after the race, Pirelli motorsport director Paul Hembery explained: "Today wasn't foreseen. We've seen a different type of problem.

"We are still doing our analysis so we have to go away and understand what's happened and get to the core of the issue. We take these things seriously. It was one tire, the left rear. When we have the answer we'll let you know."

Pirelli had wanted to introduce a new tire construction at the Canadian Grand Prix earlier this month but failed to get all the teams to agree to the change at a meeting in Monaco.

The weakness of the tires had been masked in Montreal but the high-speed nature of the Silverstone circuit in the heart of England brutally exposed their frailties.

"Pirelli appeared to come up with a solution with a different construction and that was being offered from Montreal," said Red Bull's chief technical officer Adrian Newey.

"Two or three teams vetoed that because they were worried it would suit other teams more than them and because of that short-sightedness we have F1 putting on the worrying performance it did today and concerns over driver safety."

The sport's governing body, the FIA, are coming under pressure to force through a change in tires with or without the consent of the teams.

As a result, the issue is due to be on the agenda at a meeting of the Sporting Working Committee on Wednesday ahead of the German Grand Prix with Pirelli invited to attend by the FIA.

Later Sunday Rosberg was subsequently handed a reprimand after the race for failing to reduce his speed under yellow flags, which are waved to warn drivers to slow down, but no further sanction was imposed.

Via: Rosberg negotiates tire chaos to win British GP

The most dangerous hobby?

(CNN) -- Amid the roar of the engines, the screech of the tires and the cacophony of the crowd, they diligently and silently go about their work.

In a sport where safety is paramount, if it wasn't for them the Formula One circus would come to an abrupt halt.

"I don't like the word heroes," Pete Berry, the man in charge of the marshals who will line the track at this weekend's British Grand Prix, told CNN.

"But when marshals give of their time freely to make motorsport successful, to make sure it's safe for the drivers, the last thing on your mind is that you may be seriously injured -- or you may not go home."

The role of these volunteer men and women has been put sharply into the focus by the recent death of marshal Mark Robinson, who was killed after falling under a crane in the immediate aftermath of the last race in Canada.

Marshaling is a dangerous hobby and feelings among its global community are still raw after the tragedy in Montreal.

Read: F1 mourns 'absurd loss of life'

"For one of our own to be involved in a fatal accident is truly shocking," explained Berry, who has been on duty at every British round of the F1 world championship since 1981.

"Any incident like that, wherever it is in the world, is something we feel personally.

"At the first race meeting that took place at the Silverstone circuit the week after Canada, many of the marshals came in and wanted to do something as a mark of respect.

"We observed a minute's silence trackside as a sign of unity in memory of our colleague. We all felt it very strongly."

There will be close to 1200 men and women volunteer marshals at Silverstone, the legendary circuit in the heart of England that is the home of the British Grand Prix and which staged the first-ever F1 world championship race in 1950.

Despite the reverberations of the accident in Canada, Berry says it will be business as usual for the marshals as they ensure the world's fastest cars and drivers race safely.

"I don't think there is anything procedurally we are going to change," said Berry. "We will be extra aware -- but at the end of the day what we do is dangerous.

"Racing drivers understand the consequences of what they're doing and so do marshals."

There is, of course, one obvious difference between those in the cockpit and those waving flags to communicate messages to the drivers, working in the hum of the pit lane, or waiting trackside for a gap in the traffic before leaping across the barriers to remove a dangerous piece of debris from the circuit -- money.

While Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton is F1's highest earner, reputedly commanding an annual salary of $31m with Ferrari's Fernando Alonso taking home $26m, the marshals are unpaid for the work that they do.

Read: Mercedes punished for tire test

They do not even receive expenses for spending a long weekend away from home. Instead the British race organizers give them one free guest pass, a commemorative baseball cap, free on-site camping and a voucher towards lunch.

The marshals -- many of them fresh from their day jobs -- arrive for "work" at the British GP at 6am and are on duty for the next 13 hours.

Despite the time and expense involved -- not to mention the danger -- Berry argues that if marshals were paid their sense of responsibility would diminish.

"There is no room for people who are there for the money and who don't give a damn," he explained.

"When someone steps out from the barriers they are at risk and you want people who are protecting each other's back, who understand the job and who aren't scared of the equipment.

"People who turn up for money are not going to be the people you can trust your life with."

Marshaling may not be for everyone but for those working in Britain, and at the other 18 grands prix around the world this season, the rewards would seem to outweigh the costs.

"You get very close to the sport, that's one of the things I love about it," explained Peter Greenlagh, standing, unruffled by the brisk, British breeze, at the famous sweeping curves of Maggotts and Becketts at Silverstone.

"You're not just close to the cars, you're involved with them and you're making sure these drivers carry on driving safely.

"If something happens it happens very, very quickly -- at about 160 mph. Once you step out from behind the barriers, the adrenalin does start to pump around the body.

"You do think 'This is a dangerous hobby.' It's slightly mad!'

"But there is a great camaraderie, we have good fun together and we're all 'expert' drivers of course!"

Read: Danish driver killed in high-speed crash at Le Mans

Many who try a marshaling taster day and choose to go through the required training quickly find themselves in it for the long-haul.

Bob Tripkovic has been volunteering since 1967 and when it comes to watching the generations of F1 drivers climb up the ranks, he has had the best seat in the house -- Silverstone's only permanent recovery vehicle.

"All the big names have ended up in the back of the truck," recalled Tripkovic. "The Sennas -- Ayrton and Bruno -- Alain Prost and Nigel Mansell. I've brought in grandsons of drivers who had broken down in the Sixties!

"We meet the drivers at the worst time [when they have crashed] but some of them are still very personable.

"I've done this in a voluntary capacity for years and years and years. I've hogged this seat for a very long time -- I expect some of the other marshals are waiting for me to retire."

When the F1 world championship began, marshals came from the ranks of various racing clubs. They could not afford to race in grands prix and so chose to still play a part in races by acting as marshals.

Today the marshals come to race tracks around the world from all walks of life and without them giving up their free time, whatever the costs, the wheels of Formula One simply could not keep turning.

The Silverstone circuit in the UK is always looking for new race marshals for all its race meetings. Those interested should contact the circuit.

Via: The most dangerous hobby?

Hamilton's 'phenomenal' lap to claim pole

(CNN) -- Lewis Hamilton rode a wave of patriotic support to claim pole for his home grand prix Saturday as Mercedes occupied the first two places on the grid at Silverstone.

Hamilton produced a lap of one minute 29.07 seconds, described as "phenomenal" by three-time defending champion Sebastien Vettel. who was third fastest for Red Bull.

The 28-year-old Englishman was fully four tenths of a second faster than his teammate Nico Rosberg in claiming the 28th pole of his career and second of the 2013 season.

It was the first pole by a home driver at the British Grand Prix since Hamilton himself achieved the feat back in 2007.

Read: Rosberg tops early Silverstone time sheets

Vettel, leading the title race yet again, paid compliment to Hamilton in the post race press conference, but appeared to reference the controversial Mercedes tire test earlier this season which Red Bull were particularly outspoken about.

"I don't know if Lewis found a short cut or he just found something special here -- it was a phenomenal lap," he said.

"It is always nice to position well in qualifying here. I am looking forward to the race tomorrow and we will see how we are with looking after our tires," he added.

Hamilton, in fourth place in the championship, will be hoping his Mercedes can find more race pace to capitalize on their qualifying speed.

"It's an incredible feeling," he said. "The crowd have been great -- such a great turnout -- that was a lap for them.

"I hope we can do something special in the race. It's phenomenal because I haven't been feeling 100 per cent comfortable in the car."

Read: Mercedes punished for tire test

Vettel's teammate Mark Webber took fourth on the grid with Scot Paul Di Resta a fine fifth in the Force India.

Australian Daniel Ricciardo of Toro Rosso and German Adrian Sutil in the second Force India will occupy the third row.

Frenchman Romain Grosjean, Lotus teammate Finn Kimi Raikkonen and two-time champion Fernando Alonso of Ferrari filled out the top 10.

Alonso, looking to mount a sustained challenge to Vettel as per last season, was left frustrated by the lack of pace in qualifying.

Visit: CNN's special F1 interactive

"We were not competitive all weekend. We need to recover now and it was a bad Saturday." he told reporters. Teammate Felipe Massa could only manage 12th, just behind McLaren's Jenson Button who also missed out on the final phase of qualifying to the disappointment of home supporters.

But Hamilton's stellar performance left them plenty to cheer although with warmer conditions forecast for Sunday he may struggle to take full advantage if the lessons of previous races this season are any guide.

Via: Hamilton's 'phenomenal' lap to claim pole

Rosberg tops timesheets for Mercedes

(CNN) -- Mercedes occupied their usual position at the top of the practice time sheets Friday as Nico Rosberg recorded the quickest lap head of this weekend's British Grand Prix.

The 28-year-old German, who won the Monaco Grand Prix earlier this season from pole, edged out the Red Bull pair of Mark Webber and three-time defending champion Sebastian Vettel in the second session at Silverstone.

His Mercedes teammate and crowd favorite Lewis Hamilton claimed the fifth best time in drying conditions after morning rain had rendered the first runs largely irrelevant.

Fellow Briton Paul Di Resta was fourth for Force India.

Rosberg's time of one minute 32.248 seconds edged out Webber, who earlier this week announced he would be quitting Red Bull and F1 at the end of the season.

Read: Red Bull's Webber to quit Formula One

Webber has claimed podium positions in his last four races on the track and once again showed his liking for its high speed straights and corners.

But Rosberg, who has headed the grid in three of the last four races, proved unstoppable again in the early sparring although he has some concerns for the weekend.

"Then the only question mark is our race speed. We practised for the race speed today. It seemed to be OK, decent, but I'm sure it's still going to be a little bit of a problem for us," he told AFP.

"The next thing is that it's going to be another 10 degrees more tomorrow and Sunday and that could completely change the picture again."

Vettel's nearest challengers in this year's title race, Ferrari's Fernando Alonso and Kimi Raikkonen for Lotus were were 10th and 13th respectively.

Alonso's teammate Felipe Massa again crashed out, damaging his front suspension, and ended with the 22nd fastest time.

2009 world champion and another home favorite, Jenson Button, was 11th best for the struggling McLaren outfit.

Saturday will see further practice ahead of final qualifying for Sunday's race.

Via: Rosberg tops timesheets for Mercedes

Webber to quit Formula One

(CNN) -- Mark Webber will quit Formula One at the end of the season after signing a deal with Porsche to race at Le Mans.

The Australian, who will turn 37 in August, made the announcement Thursday, ending speculation over his future at Red Bull.

Webber has won nine grands prix, achieved 36 podium finishes and secured 11 pole positions during his 12-year career.

But his fractious five-year relationship with teammate and triple world champion Sebastian Vettel meant that his future at Red Bull was always the subject of conjecture.

Read: Vettel apologizes

Only last March, the pair were involved in a public feud after Vettel ignored team orders and passed Webber to win the Malaysian Grand Prix.

The incident left Webber incandescent with rage and although the German offered an apology, he later said he would do the same thing again.

Webber, who is fifth in the championship title race going into Sunday's British Grand Prix at Silverstone, came close to winning the crown in 2010 before faltering in the final three races.

Webber had previously enjoyed spells at Minardi, Jaguar and Williams, before joining Red Bull.

He will now turn his attention to helping Porsche win its 17th Le Mans race -- a feat it has not achieved since 1998.

Read: Fuming Webber goes surfing to cool off

"It's an honor for me to join Porsche at its return to the top category in Le Mans and in the sports car World Endurance Championship and be part of the team," said Webber in a statement on his website.

"Porsche has written racing history as a manufacturer and stands for outstanding technology and performance at the highest level.

"I'm very much looking forward to this new challenge after my time in Formula 1.

"Porsche will undoubtedly set itself very high goals. I can hardly wait to pilot one of the fastest sports cars in the world."

Webber has already experienced the 24-hour race at Le Mans after racing there with Mercedes in 1998 and 1999.

His first attempt ended after just 19 laps, while he somehow escaped injury the following year after his car was tipped over while he drove at a speed of 200mph.

"I'm very pleased to have secured Mark Webber for our LMP1 project as one of the best and most successful Formula 1 pilots of our time," Wolfgang Hatz, Board Member for Research and Development at Porsche AG said in a statement Thursday.

"Mark is without doubt one of the world's best race drivers, he has experience at the Le Mans 24 hour race and on top of that he's been a Porsche enthusiast for many years."

The race to replace Webber is expected to include 2007 world champion Kimi Raikkonen, who currently stars for Lotus, while Torro Rosso's Australian driver Dan Ricciardo could also be in the frame.

Via: Webber to quit Formula One

World champion Lorenzo in 200 kmh crash

(CNN) -- MotoGP world champion Jorge Lorenzo will be kept under observation in hospital after flying off his bike in a 200-kilometers an hour crash during a wet practice session at Assen Thursday.

Lorenzo will miss Saturday's race in the Netherlands after being caught out by standing water on the track and flying over his handlebars, eventually landing heavily on his left shoulder and fracturing his collarbone.

The Spaniard, who won in Spain and Italy, came off during the second session of practice at Turn 13.

According to race organizers, Lorenzo will be flown to Barcelona for surgery late Saturday or early Sunday.

Xavier Mir, the doctor who carried out the examination on Lorenzo, confirmed the rider would undergo scans and be kept in for observation.

"Jorge has suffered an accident at over 200 kilometers an hour and the obvious injury at this point is a broken left clavicle," he told the competition's official website.

"However, as this was a significant accident, we have to take into account that there could also be head, thoracic or abdominal injuries.

"For now, we have taken him to hospital in Assen where CT scans will be carried out in those three areas to rule out any further injuries.

"It would also be a prudent move to observe him over 12 hours to make sure he can be treated by the appropriate parties when he arrives in Barcelona tomorrow (Friday)."

Lorenzo had moved to within seven points of world championship leader Dani Pedrosa following his recent victories.

But he will now have to watch from the sidelines at a venue where he failed to make it past the first corner last year.

Via: World champion Lorenzo in 200 kmh crash

Le Mans winner dedicates it to Simonsen

(CNN) -- Audi's Tom Kristensen recorded a record ninth victory in the Le Mans 24 hour race Sunday and dedicated it to fellow Dane Allan Simonsen, who died in a high speed crash the previous day.

Kristensen, 45, has been touched by personal tragedy after the death of his father earlier this year, but paid wanted to pay special tribute to Simonsen.

"He can wait for the next victory of mine," he said.

"This victory today I dedicate to Allan Simonsen, a great fellow Dane."

Kristensen shared his triumph, his first at Le Mans since 2008, with co- drivers Britain's Allan McNish and local star Loic Duval.

It was Audi's fourth in row and 12th in 14 years.

Before the victory ceremony a brief tribute to Simonsen was paid. The Aston Martin driver crashed at speed early in the famous endurance race Saturday and died of his injuries at the track.

"We lost someone yesterday who had the same dream as I did, a good bloke," added Kristensen.

Read: Simonsen killed in Le Mans 24 hour race

His car came home a lap clear of the first from arch-rivals Toyota, who included Engand's former F1 driver Antony Davidson.

The ex-Minardi driver suffered a heavy crash at Le Mans last year and said Simonsen's death had been at the back of his mind as he raced.

"It's very hard, especially with what happened to me last year, to fight my own demons and carry on driving," he said.

"It's sad, sad news and it puts everything into perspective."

The Aston Martin team, fielding five entries in the GTE-Am class, continued to race after the tragedy at the express wishes of Simonsen's family.

Aston Martin chairman David Richards said it had been a tough experience for all concerned, although their leading car managed third place in the category.

"The team continued its participation in the race which was obviously very emotional and difficult for everyone," he told the official Aston Martin website. "I'd like to thank everyone who has shown us such support over the weekend and sent the messages of condolence to Allan's family," he added.

Wet conditions and the one-hour delay after Simonsen's fatal accident made for a difficult race on the Circuit de la Sarthe in western France.

Audi's two-time defending champions Marcel Faessler, Andre Lotterer and Benoit Treluyer had led the race, but lost 43 minutes when they were forced to change the alternator in their sportscar during Saturday night.

Kristensen, who scored his first win at Le Mans back in 1997, took full advantage to register an emotional win.

Via: Le Mans winner dedicates it to Simonsen

Simonsen killed at Le Mans 24-hour race

(CNN) -- Danish driver Allan Simonsen died in a high-speed crash at the famous Le Mans 24 Hour endurance race, organizers said Saturday.

Simonsen, 34, one of the most experienced sports car drivers in the world, was competing for Aston Martin in the GTE-Am class.

He was at the wheel -- less than 10 minutes into the race -- when his car left the circuit on the Tertre Rouge corner and crashed heavily into the safety barriers.

Simonsen was immediately treated at the scene before being taken to the circuit's medical center where he died shortly afterwards, officials said.

"The Automobile Club de l'Ouest wishes to express its great sadness following this incident, and extends its deepest condolences to the family and those close to Allan Simonsen," read a statement.

Simonsen was competing for the seventh time in the Le Mans 24-race and his teammates were fellow Danes Christoffer Nygaard and Kristian Poulsen.

The trio had won their class in the season opener for the World Endurance Championship at Silverstone and claimed pole position for Le Mans in their category in qualifying earlier this week.

After the accident, the race was halted for an hour before resuming with Simonsen's Aston Martin teammates still racing despite the tragedy.

"At the specific request of his family, the team will continue to participate in the 24 Hours of Le Mans in tribute to Allan," read a statement on the official Aston Martin Racing website.

"On behalf of all of us at Aston Martin Racing, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to the individuals, and families whose friends or loved ones were involved in today's terrible tragedy," said the team's managing director John Gaw.

Formula One star Jenson Button gave his reaction on Twitter: "Allan Simonsen RIP.such a tragic loss. A true fighter & a true racer. Safety is something we need 2 improve on in Motorsport."

This year's Le Mans marks the 90th anniversary of the race and its 81st edition on the Circuit de la Sarthe in south west France.

Via: Simonsen killed at Le Mans 24-hour race

Mercedes punished for tire test

(CNN) -- Mercedes and tire supplier Pirelli have been punished by world motorsport's governing body after conducting an unsanctioned tire test.

The Formula One team and Pirelli were called to an FIA tribunal following a three-day, 1,000 kilometer trial in Spain last month.

The FIA ruled Friday that the German manufacturer would not be able to take part in the upcoming young driver test event, with the team also having to split costs for the tribunal equally with Pirelli and the motorsort regulator.

Mercedes escaped a more severe penalty, with the tribunal having had the power to impose points penalties, fines or complete exclusion from the F1 world championship.

Read: Button -- McLaren will bounce back

Despite punishing Mercedes, the tribunal concluded the team had no reason to think the test contravened competition rules, which forbid unsanctioned in-season testing.

It also ruled Pirelli had failed to offer other teams the chance to participate in the test.

The case was brought to a tribunal after rival teams Ferrari and Red Bull lodged a protest having learned of the test at the Circuit de Catalunya.

CNN's Formula One interactive

"The Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team acknowledges and accepts the decision of the FIA international tribunal published today," read a statement from the team released on Friday.

"Mercedes accepts the proportionate penalties of a reprimand and suspension from the forthcoming young driver test that have been decided upon by the tribunal.

"Mercedes would like to once again restate its firm belief in proper due process and commend the FIA for the principle of an independent disciplinary body.

"The team would furthermore like to thank the international tribunal and its president for the fair hearing it received.

"In the best interests of the sport, the team does not intend to avail itself of any right to appeal the decision."

Mercedes will be on the grid when the 2013 Formula One season continued with British Grand Prix on June 30.

Via: Mercedes punished for tire test

FIA: Mercedes did not get test permission

(CNN) -- Formula One's governing body the FIA has told a tribunal in Paris that Mercedes did not get permission for an alleged illegal tire test with Pirelli, according to the sport's official website.

The German marque conducted a three-day, 1,000 km tire test with the sport's official supplier Pirelli in May.

The FIA launched an investigation after rival teams Red Bull and Ferrari lodged an official protest upon learning of the development test in Spain, which was reported by race stewards.

The tribunal has the power to impose fines and bans, including exclusion from the F1 world championship.

Read: Mercedes and Pirelli face sanctions over test

At the hearing in France, the FIA reiterated that it did not give official permission for the test and argued that Pirelli had not offered other teams the chance to participate.

It said although FIA race director Charlie Whiting had suggested a test was possible if all teams were offered the chance to take part, that did not represent an agreement.

According to the FIA, Mercedes could have fallen foul of the International Sporting Code which prevents: "Any fraudulent conduct or any act prejudicial to the interests of any competition or to the interests of motorsport generally."

Mercedes insisted the test had been conducted by Pirelli and not them, and as such, they had not broken the rule which states: "Track testing shall be considered any track running time not part of an Event undertaken by a competitor entered in the Championship."

The German team also claimed that if the test they took part in had breached the rules then so had one conducted by Ferrari. They claimed the Italian team had discussed tire data from the test with Pirelli.

Mercedes' rivals objected because it used race drivers Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg to carry out the test in the team's 2013 car -- and it is primarily for these reasons the sport's governing body has brought the case before its tribunal.

Rival teams have accused Mercedes of gaining a significant competitive advantage from the test and of conducting it in secret two days after the Spanish Grand Prix, where both Rosberg and Hamilton suffered tire problems despite the German having started in pole position for the second successive race.

Mercedes team principal Ross Brawn stressed his team could not have prospered from the test data.

Via: FIA: Mercedes did not get test permission

Button: McLaren will bounce back

(CNN) -- Formula One driver Jenson Button insists McLaren will bounce back from a disappointing start to 2013, but the Briton has written off his team's chances of competing for the world championship this season.

The 2009 world champion started the year in confident mood after finishing the 2012 by winning the season-ending Brazilian Grand Prix.

But the current campaign has been a miserable one for the British team, with Button languishing 10th in the drivers' standings after finishing 14th and out of the points at the recent Canadian Grand Prix.

However, Button is confident McLaren, one of the most successful teams in F1 history, will restore its reputation in the year's remaining races and in the coming seasons.

Read: Suzuki to rejoin MotoGP in 2015

"Clearly, we'd hoped for more success this season, especially after last season, during which we won seven grands prix, including two of the last three," the 33-year-old told the sport's official website.

"So, going forward, as I say, we'd hoped for more this season, but I firmly believe that there'll be good seasons ahead for us."

Read: F1 champ Vettel extends Red Bull deal

A fifth-place finish is the best Button has been able to muster in seven races this season.

There have also been reports of friction between Button and Mexican teammate Sergio Perez, the 23-year-old known as "Checo" who arrived as a replacement for Lewis Hamilton, now at Mercedes.

"Checo is a very nice lad," said Button. "Maybe he's a bit too forceful sometimes, by his own admission, but he's undoubtedly quick, and he's still learning because you never stop learning in this game.

"He's trying to make his mark -- but I think that's how it should be.

"Your teammate is never going to be your best friend, because people will always compare your performance with his and inevitably you want to emerge positively from that comparison, but Checo and I get on well -- and that is more than you can say about some teammate relationships these days!

Button is hoping McLaren's impending partnership with engine supplier Honda -- set to come into effect from 2015 onwards -- can propel the team back towards the front of the grid.

Originally partners between 1988 and 1992, McLaren and Honda won winning multiple drivers' and constructors' titles with legendary names like Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost.

"In 2004, McLaren won only one grand prix, but it won 10 grands prix in 2005, in 2006 McLaren won no grands prix, but it won eight grands prix in 2007," explained the former Brawn driver.

"So I think history shows us that McLaren will win again, well and often, and, as I say, I reckon the next McLaren-Honda era could be very exciting indeed."

Earlier this year Button said he intends to stay with McLaren until he retires, although he is not considering when that may be.

"I've had a great career," he added. "I've won 15 grands prix and one world championship. I intend to do quite a bit more winning in the future. As to how many years that future may reach forwards to, I haven't decided yet. Wait and see."

Via: Button: McLaren will bounce back

Suzuki to rejoin MotoGP in 2015

(CNN) -- Japan's re-emergence into global motorsport has gathered pace after Suzuki confirmed it will return to elite motorbike racing in 2015.

Suzuki withdrew from MotoGP at the end of the 2011 season, blaming the global recession for its decision to leave the sport, but has had a rethink to partly help develop its range of bikes.

"Suzuki Motor Corporation has organized its test team to undergo more practical running tests at its advanced development stage and will participate in the official joint testing to be held at the Catalunya circuit in Spain," said a Suzuki statement.

"Through continuing running tests at the circuits inside and outside Japan for further development and refinement, Suzuki will participate again in MotoGP racing from 2015.

"Suzuki will feed back advanced technology to be derived through MotoGP racing activity to develop further attractive production models."

Japan's Nobuatsu Aoki and current Aspar Racing team rider Randy de Puniet were in the saddle as Suzuki made its return to the track during Monday's official test event at the Circuit de Catalunya.

Read: Champion Lorenzo cuts Pedrosa's lead

"I am satisfied because the first test at Motegi was quite good and now we are at a GP track, with most of the other riders and running in the same conditions," France's De Puniet told the sport's official website after Monday's first run.

"I think we did a great job because I'm only seven tenths slower than the best lap time today and after only 50 or 60 laps; all of the other riders have already been here for three days. I am satisfied, but think we could be even faster if we had one more day.

"Anyway, it's a good start because we now go to Aragon for a two-day test, so I really hope to do the same job and have the same feeling with the bike."

Read: NASCAR veteran dies

Suzuki's return follows Honda's decision to make its Formula One comeback by agreeing to supply engines to the McLaren team from 2015 onwards.

Suzuki boasts a two-wheel racing heritage which dates back to the 1970s, with Britain's Barry Sheene winning the 500c world championship in 1976.

Five further championships followed, with the last being won by American Kenny Roberts Jr. in 2000.

Via: Suzuki to rejoin MotoGP in 2015

Champion Lorenzo cuts Pedrosa's MotoGP lead

(CNN) -- World champion Jorge Lorenzo trimmed the lead of this season's MotoGP pacesetter Dani Pedrosa with his second successive race victory on Sunday, overcoming scorching hot conditions in Spain.

Pedrosa had set a lap record in Saturday's qualifying for the Catalunya Grand Prix, but was upstaged from the start by his fellow Spaniard and had to settle for second place as he spent most of the race holding off his rookie Honda teammate Marc Marquez.

Lorenzo followed up his victory in Italy two weeks ago as the Yamaha rider moved to within seven points of Pedrosa after his third triumph in the sixth of 18 races on the 2013 calendar.

The 26-year-old from Mallorca also won at Montmelo last year, and in 2010 when he went on to clinch his first world title in motorcycling's elite class.

Read: Pedrosa sets lap record in qualifying

"To be honest I didn't expect to win," Lorenzo said after registering his 26th career victory, putting him seventh on the all-time list.

"I knew I had some chance, but not like in Mugello where I was more convinced we could get the victory. It was really difficult physically as it was the hottest race of the year. I kept pushing 100% all race because any mistake would have been a disaster.

"Because I was tough mentally and never gave up, I could open up a little gap in the last five laps that was enough to win."

Pedrosa, who is from the city of Sabadell in Catalonia province, has now been runner-up three times in his home race, which he won in 2008.

"I had to ride a defensive race for most of it as Marc was really attacking me," Pedrosa said.

"It was not a perfect race for me as I was never close enough to Jorge to pass him. It's not a good feeling from this race but still I am relieved to be in the overall lead."

Read: Lorenzo claims Mugello treble

Marquez, who started sixth on the grid, bounced back from his crash-ruined weekend at Mugello as he claimed his fifth podium position this season to stay third in the championship -- 30 points behind Pedrosa.

Seven-time world champion Valentino Rossi returned to form with fourth place, having failed to finish his home event in Italy after finishing 12th in France the previous race.

"Race by race, apart form the unlucky times especially like Mugello, we grow up and I am able to ride the bike in a better way," he said.

"We still have some challenges, especially in the first part of the race where I still don't have the right setting to push to the maximum."

Germany's Stefan Bradl was fifth on a Honda ahead of Britain's Bradley Smith -- who achieved a career-best finish for Monster Yamaha Tech 3 -- and Ducati's Andrea Dovizioso.

Spain's Aleix Espargaro was eighth for Aprilla while U.S. veteran Colin Edwards was ninth on a Kawasaki ahead of Italian Michele Pirro on another Ducati.

Monster Yamaha Tech 3's Cal Crutchlow had started from second on the grid, but the British rider crashed out on the 10th lap along with Ducati's former world champion Nicky Hayden to be among eight retirements.

Via: Champion Lorenzo cuts Pedrosa's MotoGP lead

Pirelli tire plan on hold

(CNN) -- Formula One is supposed to be about drivers racing fast cars, but this season it seems to be all about the tires.

There have been complaints from teams and drivers, with an official investigation also underway over a development test, while the latest twist involves Pirelli putting its plan on hold to introduce new race tires at next month's Canadian Grand Prix.

Instead, each of the 22 drivers will be given two sets of development medium compound tires to try out during the first practice session at the Gilles Villeneuve Circuit in Montreal on 7 June.

A statement by the Italian manufacturer explained: "The Formula One teams will have an opportunity to test the new range of Pirelli tires during free practice at the Canadian Grand Prix, while the tires used for the actual race will remain in their original 2013 specification.

"Following feedback from the teams and drivers, the new specification of tire is then set to be introduced from the British Grand Prix at the end of June, and will remain in place until the end of the year."

Often dismissed by the sport's protagonists as the "black things in the corners," those spheres of rubber have very much moved to F1's center stage.

After the last race in Monaco, it emerged that Mercedes, who won the race thanks to Nico Rosberg, faced an official investigation over whether it carried out an illegal tire test.

The German team, who are based in Oxfordshire, England, helped Pirelli carry out a three-day tire test in Barcelona immediately after the Spanish Grand Prix but controversially the team used race drivers Rosberg and Lewis Hamilton and their 2013 car.

In May, Pirelli had asked the sport's ruling body -- the FIA -- if it could carry out testing with an F1 team.

The sport's rules state that 1,000 kilometers of testing with any marque is allowed during the season -- as long as every team is offered that opportunity.

But rival teams Red Bull and Ferrari protested to the FIA, arguing the Barcelona test contravened the rule banning in-season testing.

The FIA is now investigating the matter but neither the governing body or Pirelli expect a resolution before the Canadian GP.

Read: Mercedes faces FIA tire probe

Even prior to Monaco, tires had already been drawing plenty of heat.

Red Bull and their triple world champion Sebastian Vettel complained the 2013 rubber meant they could not push the car to the limits of its top-speed because the tires had to be so carefully managed.

There were further criticisms after the Spanish Grand Prix was won by Ferrari's Fernando Alonso on a four-stop strategy.

Like Spain, the race on Canada's temporary race circuit, which combines high-speed straights and slow corners, could well see teams make multiple pit-stops.

There were also more serious safety concerns following a spate of delaminations -- where the tire layers separate -- which affected Hamilton, Felipe Massa and Paul di Resta's cars.

Pirelli wants to introduce new tires that are not prone to dangerous delaminations as quickly as possible.

The Italian company is also aware it must protect its image both for its road car clientele and also as it hopes to sign a new deal to continue as F1's official tire supplier.

"The aim of introducing the new tire is to prevent any instances of the tread detaching itself from the structure," the Pirelli statement continued.

"However, the performance and wear characteristics of the new tire will not be significantly different, with the aim of keeping up the spectacle and retaining a strategic element to all the races."

In theory, the FIA does not interfere with decisions on tires.

"We only step in on safety concerns.," an FIA spokesman told CNN: "For us safety is paramount.

"When they decide to bring a new tire, it is normally given to everybody. The tire has to be the same for everybody... it is evaluated afterwards."

But with Mercedes facing an official investigation over its involvement in testing, the subject of tires has become an issue where everyone in F1 must now tread carefully.

Via: Pirelli tire plan on hold

Pedrosa outclasses rivals at Montmelo

(CNN) -- Dani Pedrosa appears set to extend his lead in the MotoGP series standings after clocking the fastest ever time at Montmelo in qualifying for the Catalunya Grand Prix.

Pedrosa delighted his home fans by registering a time of one minute 40.893 seconds to claim pole position on a sweltering day near Barcelona.

He was more than half-a-second quicker in his Honda than Yamaha teammates Cal Crutchlow and Jorge Lorenzo.

"It's difficult to do what I did especially when it is so hot," Pedrosa said. "Pace is the most important thing here. That and to start in front."

Lorenzo, the reigning world champion and Pedrosa's fellow Spaniard, made up ground in the standings when he triumphed at Mugello in Italy earlier this month. Pedrosa's advantage shrunk to 12 points through five races.

Read: Lorenzo claims Mugello treble

Despite being overtaken by Lorenzo at the first corner and not able to reclaim the lead, Pedrosa said he was happy with second place in what had been a "difficult weekend."

His sizzling time Saturday came midway in qualifying, while Lorenzo recorded his fastest time at the end of qualifying like Crutchlow.

He earlier had to switch bikes because of a clutch problem.

"We are on the first row, which is the most important thing for tomorrow," Lorenzo said. "We have to keep improving, but it will be a completely different race tomorrow.

"It will be very hot and we will run slower than our best lap today."

Rookie Marc Marquez, another Spaniard, endured more disappointment when he finished sixth in his Honda.

Read: Marquez makes history

He slipped to third in the standings after a crash-filled weekend at Mugello.

Valentino Rossi headed into Saturday in good spirits after leading the way in Friday's practice. But the seven-time world champion struggled in qualifying in his Yamaha, ending up more than a second behind Pedrosa in seventh.

Via: Pedrosa outclasses rivals at Montmelo

NASCAR veteran dies in dirt-track accident

(CNN) -- A violent crash on a dirt track in New Jersey has claimed the life of race car driver Jason Leffler, a NASCAR veteran lauded by fellow racers as a fierce and versatile competitor.

Leffler, 37, died Wednesday, a little more than three months after returning to the world of short-track open-wheel racing after focusing on NASCAR circuits for more than a decade, according to his website.

"Sitting here in disbelief. ... All I can think about is Charlie," NASCAR racer Elliott Sadler said, referring to Leffler's 5-year-old son.

Leffler's death at Bridgeport Speedway in Swedesboro, New Jersey, came during a qualifying race during the Night of Wings event, a 25-lap race for sprint cars equipped with stabilizing wings.

Sprint cars are high-powered cars that usually run on dirt or paved oval tracks.

Leffler was on the fourth turn of the preliminary heat when his car left the banked dirt track and flipped several times down the front straightaway, the South Jersey Times newspaper reported, citing witnesses.

He had to be pulled from the vehicle, the newspaper said.

"NASCAR extends its thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathies to the family of Jason Leffler who passed away earlier this evening," NASCAR said Wednesday in a statement. "For more than a decade, Jason was a fierce competitor in our sport and he will be missed."

Condolences poured in from fellow drivers.

"Lost a good guy tonight in Jason Leffler. Prayers with your family!" racer Bobby Labonte said in a Twitter post.

"My thoughts and prayers are with Jason's family and friends," driver Jeff Burton posted. "Breaks my heart thinking of his little boy."

Leffler began racing when was 12 years old, according to his website, and went on to win four U.S. Auto Club racing championships -- including three back-to-back championships from 1997 to 1999 -- and a place in the National Midget Auto Racing Hall of Fame.

In 2000, he finished 17th in the Indianapolis 500.

He switched his racing focus that same year to NASCAR's Nationwide Series and later to the Camping World Truck Series in 2002, according to his website.

The Long Beach, California, native won two Nationwide Series races and finished in the top 10 in points for six consecutive years, according to his website.

He decided to return to dirt racing for 2013, planning to compete in up to 65 sprint car races.

"I've got a lot of learning to do," he was quoted as saying on his website in March. "It's cool to be able to race 3 times a week and figure things out."

Sprint car racing can be a dangerous sport, and accidents are not infrequent.

A 22-year-old driver died three weeks ago in a crash at Bloomington Speedway in Monroe County, Indiana, CNN affiliate WTHR reported.

In March, two spectators died when a car veered off-track at Marysville Raceway Park, outside Sacramento, California.

In that incident, a car hit two tractor tires, sending it airborne and striking two spectators, a 68-year-old man and a 14-year-old boy. The driver was uninjured.

In 2012, a 20-year-old driver died when his sprint car hit the wall at Calistoga Speedway in Napa County, California, according to the Napa Valley Register.

CNN's Michael Pearson contributed to this report.

Via: NASCAR veteran dies in dirt-track accident

F1 champion Vettel extends Red Bull deal

(CNN) -- Three-time Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel has extended his deal with Red Bull through to the end of the 2015 season.

The German is on course for a fourth straight drivers' championship title after victory at the Canadian Grand Prix on Sunday saw him extend his lead at the top of the standings to 36 points.

Vettel has reigned supreme over the sport since landing his first title in 2010 and has now added an extra 12 months onto his current deal.

The 25-year-old had been linked with rival marques such as Ferrari and Mercedes but has put an end to the speculation by signing a new contract.

Read: F1 mourns 'absurd loss of life'

"Infiniti Red Bull Racing is happy to confirm that World Champion Sebastian Vettel has extended his multi-year contract with the team until the end of 2015," a Red Bull statement read.

"A previous member of the Red Bull Junior squad, Sebastian first drove for Red Bull Racing in 2009.

"During his Formula One career, the 25-year-old has achieved 29 wins, 51 podiums and 39 pole positions.

"He is the current Formula One World Champion and also a triple World Champion, having retained the title since he first won it in 2010."

Vettel and Red Bull have dominated the elite division of motorsport since the landmark campaign in 2010 when Vettel won the drivers' title and his team the constructors' championship.

The following year Vettel secured a record points total of 392, winning 11 of the 17 races that year.

In 2012 Vettel won by a much closer margin -- just three points separated him and Ferrari's Spanish driver Fernando Alonso.

Victory meant he became the youngest ever triple world champion at 25, and matched the hat-trick of titles achieved by Juan Manuel Fangio and Michael Schumacher.

Vettel has won three out of seven races this season and after leading from start to finish in Canada on Sunday he extended his lead over Alonso to 36 points.

Via: F1 champion Vettel extends Red Bull deal

F1 mourns 'absurd loss of life'

(CNN) -- The Sauber Formula One team has expressed its sympathy to the loved ones of the track marshal who died Sunday after falling under a crane that was removing one of its crashed cars from the Montreal circuit.

The man was helping move Esteban Gutierrez's vehicle during the Canadian Grand Prix when he tripped and fell into the path of the crane, the F1 website reported.

He was taken to Sacre-Coeur Hospital but died of his injuries.

"Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the marshal who sadly passed away and we would like to offer our sincere condolences," Sauber said on the team's Twitter page Monday.

Mexican driver Gutierrez had earlier tweeted: "My dearest condolences to the family of the marshal who lost his life today, our prayers for him & his family. RIP."

Race winner Sebastian Vettel also offered his condolences.

"The work of marshals is not always seen but it is vital to our sport and without their commitment, time and dedication, there would be no motorsport," Red Bull's triple world champion said on his website.

Interactive: Montreal track guide, results and standings

The Ferrari team of second-placed Fernando Alonso also issued a statement.

"The winners and losers from this seventh round of the championship, along with the workers and the fans who watched the race from the grandstands or on television, are all thinking of someone who lost their life in an absurd way while involved in what was surely their passion -- racing," its website reported.

"Indeed, without the work of people like him, events like Formula One grands prix could not even take place.

"Ferrari wishes to express its condolences for the death of this track marshal too: we are doing it here, via the internet, to invite everyone who shares our passion for motorsport to be thinking of the family and friends of the victim."

Motorsport's ruling body the FIA released details of the incident late Sunday .

"The worker, a member of the Automobile Club de l'Ile Notre Dame, was the victim of an unfortunate accident that occurred at the end of this afternoon's Formula 1 Grand Prix du Canada," it said in a statement.

Read: Vettel claims first Canadian victory

"The worker was helping to recover a car which had stopped during the race. The recovery vehicle had lifted the car to return it to the pits and while doing this the worker dropped his radio and attempted to pick it up. As he did this, he stumbled and was hit and run over by the recovery vehicle.

"The FIA, l'Automobile Club de l'Ile Notre-Dame and the Formula One Grand Prix du Canada want to communicate their deepest condolences to the family and friends of the victim. The identity of the worker cannot be revealed at this time."

It was the first time an F1 track worker has died since 2001, in Melbourne, while another passed away at the Italian circuit of Monza the previous year.

Graham Beveridge was killed at the Australian Grand Prix after being hit by a flying wheel from Jacques Villeneuve's BAR-Honda, just months after volunteer firefighter Paolo Ghislimberti suffered fatal head and chest injuries when a loose wheel from the Jordan of Heinz-Harald Frentzen struck him.

Those incidents prompted a major review of safety precautions at F1 races.

Via: F1 mourns 'absurd loss of life'

Dominant Vettel breaks Canada duck

(CNN) -- Sebastian Vettel led from start to finish to claim the Canadian Grand Prix Sunday to extend his title lead as he searches for a fourth straight Formula One world championship.

The Red Bull star pulled clear from pole position and was never seriously challenged as he finished with a winning margin of over 14 seconds from second placed Fernando Alonso.

Lewis Hamilton, who started on the front row with Vettel in his Mercedes, claimed the final podium spot, overtaken in the closing stages by the charging Alonso, who had started sixth on the grid in his Ferrari.

But up front, Vettel was untouchable, claiming his first win at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal and his 29th career triumph.

Interactive: Results and standings

It has left him 36 points clear of two-time champion Alonso in the title race. Kimi Raikkonen occupied third spot, a further eight points adrift.

The Finn was way off the pace in his Lotus, but came home ninth to be in the points for a remarkable 24th straight race, equaling the record of seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher.

Mark Webber battled a damaged front wing to claim fourth for Red Bull, who increased their lead in the constructors' race over Ferrari.

Monaco winner Nico Rosberg finished fifth in the second Mercedes ahead of Jean-Eric Vergne in the Toro Rosso.

Britain's Paul Di Resta, adopting a one-stop strategy in the Force India, finished seventh with Felipe Massa in eighth for Ferrari. Adrian Sutil claimed the final point for Force India.

Read: Vettel takes pole in Montreal

Vettel was delighted to break his win drought in Canada after coming so close on previous occasions.

"We had good races here before but it didn't come together to win, " he said at the victory celebration.

"I lost it in the last lap two years ago which was my fault but I made up for that today."

Alonso, clearly the crowd favorite with the fans, who roared their appreciation as he overtook his old rival Hamilton for second, was pleased to limit his losses on Vettel.

"I think second tastes of victory, because we scored some good points after a very difficult weekend."

Hamilton, who is fourth in the title race, was also satisfied as Mercedes maintained their good start to the season.

"We just have to keep pushing so we can get closer to these guys."

His old team McLaren suffered another disappointing race, with Sergio Perez and Jenson Button in 11th and 12th.

It was the first time McLaren has been out of the points in 64 races.

Young Finn Valtteri Bottas, who was a surprise third on the grid for Williams, also slipped back through the field to come home 14th, continuing his team's pointless start to the campaign.

Via: Dominant Vettel breaks Canada duck

Vettel pips Hamilton to Canada pole

(CNN) -- Three-time defending champion Sebastian Vettel snapped the recent dominance of Mercedes in qualifying to claim pole position Saturday for the Canadian Grand Prix.

Red Bull's Vettel edged out Lewis Hamilton, who was bidding to give Mercedes their fifth straight top spot on the F1 grid.

In wet conditions on the Gilles Villeneuve Circuit in Montreal, Finland's Valtteri Bottas took a surprise third on the grid for Williams, who have yet to score a point all season.

"This means a lot. It's way more up in the grid than we could have imagined. The first six races have been so difficult," Bottas told the official post-qualifying media conference.

Vettel clocked one minute 25.425 seconds in the concluding top 10 shootout after the second section of qualifying had been briefly held up when Felipe Massa suffered another crash in his Ferrari, coming to grief at Turn Three.

Read: Alonso fastest as tire test row rumbles

He walked away unscathed, but had to settle for 16th fastest, while his teammate Fernando Alonso of Spain struggled to sixth in a disappointing day for the famous marque.

Alonso, who pushed Vettel so hard for the title last season, is currently third in the standings and the title holder will look to extend his current 29 point advantage over his arch rival in Sunday's race.

Kimi Raikkonen, second to Vettel, trailing by 21 points, is also way back after setting the ninth best time in his Lotus.

Hamilton, who has a fine record in Montreal with three previous wins, looked set to extend the run of his new team after setting the fastest time in the second part of qualifying.

Read: F1's luckiest escape

He was on a late charge in an attempt to beat Vettel's time, but ran wide at the chicane to end his hopes. "It was unfortunate but I'm still happy," said the Briton.

His teammate Nico Rosberg, who has taken pole the last three races and won the Monaco Grand Prix, could only manage fourth spot this time, just ahead of Mark Webber in the second Red Bull.

Jean-Eric Vergne and Daniel Ricciardo were seventh and 10th for Toro Rosso in another surprise with the McLarens of Sergio Perez and Jenson Button back in 12th and 14th.

Dry conditions are forecast for Sunday's race, with Vettel looking for his first victory on the circuit.

"I'm looking forward to the race tomorrow, I think we had a strong performance yesterday so whatever happens in terms of conditions it should be good," said the German.

Via: Vettel pips Hamilton to Canada pole

Alonso fastest in his Ferrari

(CNN) -- Ferrari's Fernando Alonso was the fastest in Friday's second practice session at the Canadian Grand Prix as the controversy surrounding an alleged illegal tire test in Formula One rumbled on.

Alonso, third in the individual standings this season, posted a time of one minute 14.818 seconds to beat three-time race winner Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes by 0.012 seconds on the Gilles Villeneuve track in Montreal. Lotus' Romain Grosjean finished third.

Alonso was fourth in the day's opening practice session in wet conditions, three spots behind Paul di Resta of Force India.

"We can expect a very complicated weekend, because the weather is due to remain changeable right up to Sunday and judging the grip level will be difficult, both in qualifying and in the race," Alonso said.

But while the Spaniard was talking, Pirelli wasn't.

A day after Pirelli and Mercedes were summoned to the International Tribunal of Formula One's governing body to explain the alleged illegal test, Pirelli motorsport director Paul Hembery skipped a scheduled news conference in Montreal on the advice of the tire supplier's lawyers.

Red Bull and Ferrari lodged a protest last month, before the Monaco Grand Prix, over the tire testing done following the Spanish Grand Prix.

Read: Mercedes, Pirelli face sanctions

Although in-season testing isn't allowed, Pirelli has an agreement that says it can run 1,000 kilometers of testing with any marque during the season -- as long as every team is offered that opportunity.

When questioned by reporters at the news conference, Red Bull's team principal, Christian Horner, said the "lack of transparency" was "disappointing."

"I think it is important that there is transparency, of course," he said. "If a supplier has issues then it needs to obviously deal with them but when all entrants are supposedly equal, it's only right and proper that information is made transparently clear."

Mercedes team principal Ross Brawn said claims that it was a secret test were off the mark.

"I think anyone who believes you can go to Barcelona and do three days of testing, or 1000 kilometers of testing, and not have anyone become aware of it, is naive," Brawn said. "It was a private test, not a secret test, and sporting integrity is very, very important to us. Very important to Mercedes.

"And as I say I think when the facts become apparent then people can make a better judgment of the situation."

Meanwhile, championship leader Sebastian Vettel finished seventh in his Red Bull in the second practice session and predicted an open race Sunday.

"On one lap if you look at the timesheets, Mercedes was again very, very quick," he said. "And Ferrari looks competitive on both long and short runs, so I think those will be the main two rivals.

"Never forget the Lotus because they can be a surprise in the race by going further (on tires) than anyone else. So, for this race, it is difficult to say, but you need to keep an eye on all these teams I mentioned."

Mercedes' Nico Rosberg won the previous race in Monaco, where the pole sitter has a distinct advantage.

But in Montreal, where overtaking possibilities abound, only four times this century has the pole sitter gone on to win the race.

Via: Alonso fastest in his Ferrari

Monaco's F1 transformation

(CNN) -- "The last couple of weeks I've been at home have been murder with the traffic," bemoans Monte Carlo resident Jenson Button.

Like most Formula One protagonists, the McLaren man loves the thrill of racing in the Monaco Grand Prix -- it's just that he is less keen on Monte Carlo's traffic jams in the build-up to the race.

"It's been a nightmare," the English driver, who recently moved back to the principality from the British island of Guernsey, told CNN.

"Putting up the grandstands takes a long time so the city does change quite a bit.

"In the winter it's pretty quiet. You see a lot of people that you know and I train with the same people. Monte Carlo is like a quiet, peaceful village really. There's also a new Irish pub that I like -- there's a good pint of Guinness there!"

Read: Grit and glamor - the magic of Monaco

Button, Ferrari's Felipe Massa and Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton are just a handful of F1 racers who have mixed business with pleasure by calling Monaco their home. Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg, son of Finland's 1982 world champion Keke Rosberg, can boast that he grew up there.

It makes sense for wealthy drivers to live in Monaco -- after all, the independent state on the French Riviera has thrived on its reputation as a playground for the rich and famous since the late 1800s. Just as importantly its tax laws are favorable compared to its European neighbors.

But for one weekend in May the streets of Monte Carlo are not just for the well-heeled -- they are for racing on.

The precipitous, winding roads have evolved into a thrilling street circuit ready to host this weekend's grand prix.

The most famous race in Formula One -- a fixture on the calendar since 1950 -- brings a change of pace to Monaco's Mediterranean idyll.

The metamorphosis, overseen by the Automobile Club de Monaco (ACM), takes two months to complete and calls on the expertise of 200 construction workers to build 1,100 tonnes of grandstands, 900 tonnes of pit garages and 21 miles of safety barriers.

Read: Legendary F1 partners to be reunited

The street circuit has one of the smallest capacities on F1's calendar, with a total of 200,000 fans expected to watch the cars from the grandstands, hotel balconies and terraces -- not forgetting the yachts moored in the harbor -- over the weekend.

A crowd of 200,000 may sound small but when the pocketsize principality is less than two square kilometers -- half the size of New York's Central Park -- that is quite a crowd to pack in.

"The place is a little quieter the rest of the year," says Carol Olivi-Etivant, deputy manager of the Hotel Hermitage, which overlooks the F1 circuit in the heart of Monte Carlo.

"During these four days people are living day and night. There are parties in the harbor, on every terrace, so as Monte Carlo is a tiny place, every place is crowded," she told CNN.

"There are other busy weekends in Monaco such as the open tennis tournament, the boat show in September and the Red Cross Ball but for this weekend of the grand prix it is very unusual.

"Thousands of people come for the day to Monaco, all the hotels are full, the restaurants are packed and we have many yachts in the harbor. This is most definitely the busiest one.

"For the month of May, Monaco is completely dedicated to Formula One. We have stands in the streets, paddocks in the harbor, and the configuration of the city is different because we close the roads. Monte Carlo is a completely different place."

Read: Pirelli admit tire testing 'inadequacies'

The locals, known as Monegasques, are prepared to put up with a month or two of disruption because the grand prix is very good for business -- and, perhaps more importantly, for Monaco's global brand.

"The grand prix is one of the things that helps distinguish Monaco from other Mediterranean destinations and gives it an additional layer of glamor which its rivals lack," Christian Sylt of Formula One Money told CNN.

"The race keeps the principality in the public eye, which in turn attracts tourists and business conventions. The race itself directly brings around $120 million into the principality, with the bordering towns, such as Menton in France and Ventimiglia in Italy, taking a total of $12 million annually."

Kissing the barriers

For businesses like Olivi-Etivant's five-star hotel, the allure of the grand prix adds extra cache for its clients all-year-round -- and the race weekend enables it to raise its prices, with a four-day package starting at $10,400.

The Monaco GP -- the brainchild of local Anthony Noghes and first run in 1929 -- is also important to the global money-making juggernaut that is F1.

While other countries have spent millions and millions of dollars on new circuits in Abu Dhabi and Austin, Texas, for example, the Monaco race is so intrinsic to the image of F1 that race organizers the ACM have a special arrangement with the sport's promoters.

"Monaco is the only race on the calendar that doesn't pay a race hosting fee to the Formula One Group," explained Sylt. "With some rival circuits paying more than $60 million, it's a big saving.

Tech guru Lowe back in the fast lane

"Monaco's history and glamor make it a very important part of the F1 calendar. The race is well-known around the world and is a magnet to the rich and famous. This is great publicity for F1 and also means that there are many potential sponsors and investors in attendance, making it a once-a-year opportunity for F1 and the teams."

Although money and glamor grease the wheels at the Monaco GP, it does not necessarily follow that the event is a profitable enterprise for Prince Albert II's sovereign city-state.

"The total budget for the race is around $35 million and the state provides a subsidy of $7 million towards this," Sylt added. "However, the cost of preparing the circuit for the grand prix means that even without paying a hosting fee the race rarely makes a profit."

With so much as stake at this weekend's GP -- including the small matter of the 2013 drivers' championship -- it also helps that the quality of racing around the streets of Monte Carlo remains undiminished.

Read: Alonso enjoys 'emotional' home F1 win

Apart from modifications to improve safety, the two-mile loop through the narrow, winding streets, past the majestic Casino, through the tunnel and along the harbor brimming with boats has presented the world's fastest racers with the same rollercoaster challenge for the last 70 years.

It is the slowest and shortest race on F1's calendar but for many drivers it is the most thrilling. Brazil's late triple world champion Ayrton Senna -- winner of a record six Monaco grands prix -- said he entered a trance-like state when racing on the limit between Monte Carlo's narrow barriers.

"Monaco is unlike any other racetrack in Formula One," said Button, who triumphed there in 2009 on the way to winning the world title.

"A qualifying lap around here is an exhilarating experience for a driver; you turn into corners on the limit and you kiss every barrier at the exit. It's a great challenge."

For the month of May, Monaco hums with the rhythm of F1, and the drivers, fans and Monegasques alike anticipate the high-octane pleasures to come at this race.

"I was born in Monaco and in my life I've missed one grand prix," recalled Olivi-Etivant. "I was very sad when I missed it.

"We are very proud. Very. This is a legendary event and is really very important. It's an atmosphere that you feel, an incredible excitement. As a Monegasque I also enjoy it very much."

Via: Monaco's F1 transformation

Mercedes and Pirelli facing sanctions

(CNN) -- Just 10 days after the celebrations of winning the Monaco Grand Prix, Mercedes is facing the possibility of sanctions after being called to the International Tribunal of Formula One's governing body.

The German team and the sport's tire supplier Pirelli have been summoned to explain an alleged illegal tire test to the FIA's disciplinary body.

The tribunal has the power to impose fines and bans, including exclusion from the F1 world championship.

The FIA began an investigation after rival teams Red Bull and Ferrari lodged an official protest on the morning of the Monaco race after discovering Mercedes had helped Pirelli carry out a three-day development test in Spain, which was reported by the stewards.

"The conditions of this testing may constitute a breach of the applicable FIA rules," the governing body said in a statement.

In-season testing has been banned in F1 since 2009 but Pirelli has an agreement that says it can run 1,000 kilometers of testing with any marque during the season -- as long as every team is offered that opportunity.

After gathering evidence from the Italian tire manufacturer, Mercedes and the other 10 teams, the FIA has decided that Mercedes has a case to answer -- though a date has not yet been set for the hearing before a 12-man panel.

Mercedes' rivals objected because it used race drivers Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg to carry out the test in the team's 2013 car -- and it is primarily for these reasons the sport's governing body is bringing the case before its tribunal.

The rival teams have accused Mercedes of gaining a significant competitive advantage from the test and of conducting it in secret two days after the Spanish Grand Prix, where both Rosberg and Hamilton suffered tire problems despite the German having started in pole position for the second successive race.

Read: Pirelli admit tire testing inadequacies

Mercedes has struggled all season with tire degradation despite being quick in qualifying.

Rosberg took the team's first grand prix win of the season at the Monaco Grand Prix, held on a slower, street circuit that is not as harsh on tires.

Pirelli tried to assuage the situation by issuing a statement, prior to the FIA's summons to its International Tribunal, explaining the controversial tire test.

"The use of the car utilized by Mercedes, in particular, was the result of direct communication between FIA and the team itself," the statement read.

"Pirelli did not ask in any way that a 2013 car be used: not of Mercedes nor FIA nor the teams which, during the year, were offered the opportunity of participating in tests for the development of tires for 2014.

"Pirelli, in development testing with teams carried out in 2013, has not favored any teams and, as always, acted professionally, with transparency and in absolute good faith."

Pirelli's contract to supply tires to F1 runs out at the end of the season. The company had been close to securing a new three-year deal, but a new contract could now be in jeopardy.

In light of this, Pirelli stressed that the recent tire testing had focused on developing tires for 2014 when significant rule changes governing engines will be introduced.

Read: It's all about the tires

Ferrari was also asked to explain a tire test carried out at the Italian team's private Fiorano test track in April.

It used a 2011 car during this test and, for this reason, the FIA concluded the team -- which used to be managed by FIA president Jean Todt -- had no case to answer.

The governing body explained that "a 2011 car is not deemed to contravene the applicable FIA rules."

The topic of tires has dominated the 2013 F1 season with many teams, including world champions Red Bull, criticizing the current specification of rubber and the number of pit stops seen during the races.

Pirelli is trialling a new "medium" compound tire at this weekend's Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, which it then plans to introduce as the race tire for the rest of this season.

It is hoped the new tire will be safer and not split into layers, as has been seen on four occasions this season.

While Pirelli hopes to solve one problem on track, it will be left to a tribunal in Paris to rule on the tire controversy that has split the F1 community.

Via: Mercedes and Pirelli facing sanctions

Rosberg emulates dad in Monaco

(CNN) -- Like father, like son.

Nico Rosberg won an incident filled Monaco Grand Prix on Sunday 30 years after his father Keke's victory on the famed city circuit.

Rosberg, the pole sitter, led from start to finish in his Mercedes to give the team its first victory of the season. He had been on pole in Spain and Bahrain, the previous two races, but didn't manage to make the podium as tire issues surfaced.

Reigning world champion Sebastian Vettel of Red Bull overtook Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton early in the race and grabbed second, nearly four seconds behind Rosberg, and ahead of teammate and last year's winner Mark Webber.

"It's amazing," Rosberg said. "This is my home. I've grown up here all my life and it's really special."

The race was stopped for about 20 minutes after a crash involving Pastor Maldonado and Max Chilton because a barrier had to be repaired. Chilton was assessed a drive through penalty.

Maldonado walked away and later spoke to reporters.

"It was scary," he said. "Chilton crossed my line and it was very dangerous."

Ferrari's Felipe Massa also crashed in a similar incident to his accident in practice Saturday. Massa, starting last on the grid, had to be fitted with a neck brace.

And Romain Grosjean, who lost control of his Lotus throughout practice in Monaco, hit the back of Toro Rosso's Daniel Ricciardo in the latter stages.

Read: Monaco results and championship standings

Again the safety car was needed.

Through it all, Rosberg never relinquished his advantage as the pole sitter in Monaco won for the ninth time in the past 10 editions in the principality.

The slow pace suited Mercedes' tires.

"The whole weekend went perfectly," Rosberg said. "I had a terrible start and I was close with Sebastian and Lewis but after that I controlled the pace.

"The car was really good, the tires held on OK and that was really the key, so a massive thanks to the team. I'm ecstatic.

"We've had such a difficult time the last couple races and dropping back so much. That was a little bit in the back of my mind but it was OK. I hope this is going to last."

F1 interactive: Discover the secrets of Monaco's circuit

Vettel increased his lead atop the individual standings to 21 points over Lotus' Kimi Raikkonen, who finished 10th.

Vettel didn't seem to like the less than quick pace.

"Overall, I'm happy and pleased with the result," said Vettel. "We know it's difficult to overtake here. Congratulations to Nico. He had the pace and the tires. We had a fantastic start, but there was no room to overtake and I had to lift.

"I was surprised by the slow pace of the opening laps. You expect two silver arrows in front of you and we had two buses in front going for a cruise."

Hamilton was pleasantly surprised Saturday that he managed to claim second in qualifying. But he slipped to fourth on race day, not helped by the intervention of the safety car following Massa's crash.

"I don't put it down to bad luck at all," he said. "I wasn't good enough this weekend. Big congratulations to Nico and the team, they did a great job today and I have to keep working harder."

Rosberg's victory came hours after Red Bull and Ferrari lodged a protest over tire testing done by Mercedes with Pirelli following the Spanish Grand Prix earlier this month. Testing in season isn't allowed.

Rosberg, meanwhile, will attempt to make it consecutive wins in the next race in Montreal in two weeks.

Via: Rosberg emulates dad in Monaco

Champion Lorenzo claims Italian treble

(CNN) -- Jorge Lorenza kickstarted his MotoGP title defense on Sunday as he won the Italian Grand Prix for the third year in a row.

The Spanish motorcyclist overtook pole sitter Dani Pedrosa at the first corner at Mugello and never surrendered the lead as he trimmed his rival's championship advantage to 12 points after five races.

"I knew it was going to be a really hard race because it got much hotter than it had been in the morning," Lorenzo told the MotoGP website.

"Dani was following me for about 13 laps, but on the 13th I pushed a little bit more -- to be about three-tenths faster -- and it seems he gave up a little bit, so it was much easier from then."

Pedrosa had to fight off his rookie Honda teammate Marc Marquez, who dropped to third in the standings after suffering another one of the crashes that had marred his practice and qualifying sessions -- and this time ended his race.

Read: Pedrosa snatches pole at Mugello

Pedrosa claimed second place ahead of Britain's Cal Crutchlow, with German rider Stefan Bradl fourth to match his best career result.

"I didn't feel fully comfortable in the race today, but I'm happy because I was able to gain a large number of points," said Pedrosa, who had won the two previous races in his native Spain and France, and was second at Mugello last year.

"In general, this was a difficult weekend. The back tire was giving me a lot of problems with grip but taking 20 points from this race and maintaining the lead the World Championship is something positive."

Marquez had been aiming to become the first newcomer to finish on the podium in the first five races of a season, but he suffered his seventh crash since stepping up to motorcycling's elite division.

Read: Motorcycling champion dances with danger

"After three difficult days of setbacks and hard work, I finally felt good during the race," said the 20-year-old, who dropped 26 points behind Pedrosa.

"I don't fully understand why I crashed, as I lost both the front and the back at the same time and was unable to save it. It's clear that we made a mistake, but we can't go looking for excuses.

"We can't forget that this is my first year in the class and I am here to learn how things are in MotoGP. In spite of everything we were still fighting for second place, which is a reason to be happy."

Lorenzo's Yamaha teammate Valentino Rossi was another casualty, with Italy's seven-time world champion retiring only three corners into the race after being hit by Alvaro Bautista.

Rossi's previous team Ducati gave the home fans something to cheer as Andrea Dovizioso, Nicky Hayden and Michele Pirro were fifth, sixth and seventh respectively.

The sixth race of 18 this season is the Catalunya Grand Prix in Barcelona in a fortnight.

Via: Champion Lorenzo claims Italian treble

Pedrosa snatches pole at Mugello

(CNN) -- Championship leader Dani Pedrosa claimed his first pole position this season after stunning MotoGP titleholder Jorge Lorenzo with a scorching late lap at Mugello.

The Honda rider will head the starting grid for Sunday's Italian Grand Prix, having relegated his fellow Spaniard Lorenzo to second for Yamaha.

Andrea Dovizioso secured the final place on the front row for home team Ducati, despite angering Pedrosa with his tactics in Saturday's qualifying and receiving a shake of the fist during the session.

"He was trying to follow me," Pedrosa told the MotoGP website after clocking one minute 47.157 seconds to clinch the 25 pole of his career. "I understand his position. It was not only him, he was just one of them, but everything is alright.

"It was a hard session at the end. I could not really find a space to do a lap time -- many riders were behind me. I was not high up in the order before my last lap, but was able to do a great lap."

Read: Pedrosa claims title lead from Marquez

Lorenzo, who trails Pedrosa by 17 points in third overall, had been seeking his third pole in five attempts this year.

However, motorcycling's two-time world champion missed out by 0.069 seconds despite beating Pedrosa's record lap time from last year.

"I was surprised by my lap time, that was really impressive and I didn't expect it," said the Mallorcan, who won last year's race from Pedrosa. "I also didn't expect the lap time from Dani on the second try. I expected to be on pole, but that happens sometimes...

"We have to try to make a good start to lead the race at the beginning because we have strong pace on the first two laps. It is going to be really difficult, as Dani and his team have improved the bike so much and he has improved his riding style."

Read: Marquez becomes youngest MotoGP winner

Dovizioso, who injured his neck after crashing on Friday, sympathized with Pedrosa but said he had done nothing wrong to his former teammate.

"He complained because too many riders delayed him, but I can understand him because he was fast and wanted a clear track to try and do the best," the 27-year-old Italian said.

"But when you haven't disrupted his fast lap, he can't say anything."

Britain's Cal Crutchlow heads the second row in fourth for Monster Yamaha Tech 3, ahead of Germany's Stefan Bradl on a Honda LCR.

Pedrosa's new Honda Repsol teammate Marc Marquez will start back in sixth after three crashes in the past two days meant he did not qualify in the top-10 and had to go through the eliminator for the first time in his rookie season.

The 20-year-old is the only rider to have finished on the podium in all four races, and trails Pedrosa by six points in the standings.

Read: Lorenzo wins MotoGP opener

"Sixth place today was the best that we could have hoped for and I am very happy with this result," he says, having missed out on the front row while equaling his grid position of the season-opening Qatar Grand Prix.

"At the end of qualifying I was able to put in a hot lap, but the race tomorrow is going to be difficult and tough. I won't be 100% physically because I'm bruised and sore; my shoulder is bothering me the most and we will see how it responds tomorrow."

Marquez will start one place ahead of seven-time world champion Valentino Rossi, who had been third for Yamaha until he was bumped down the times late on.

"Unfortunately I have to start on the third row but I'm quite happy because my pace is quite good, so I think with a good start I can do a good race," said the Italian, who won seven times at Mugello between 2002-2008.

American Nicky Hayden was eighth fastest on the second Ducati, with Spain's Alvaro Bautista rounding out the third row.

Via: Pedrosa snatches pole at Mugello

Pirelli admits testing 'inadequacies'

(CNN) -- Formula 1's sole tire suppliers Pirelli -- whose products came in for yet more criticism during Sunday's stop-start Spanish Grand Prix -- have admitted that some of the testing they conduct on their tires is "inadequate".

In 100 minutes of driving in Barcelona this weekend, a total of 82 pit stops were made by the field of 22 drivers -- prompting many involved at the top end of the sport to launch frustrated tirades about how intense tire degradation is ruining F1 racing.

Milan-based Pirelli have revealed they are announcing changes to their range of F1 tires on Tuesday, which may delight those who point out that many of F1's biggest stars sometimes lap slower than their counterparts in GP2.

"Winter tests are inadequate and carried out in conditions far from the reality of the season's races," Pirelli spokesman Francesco Tarallo told CNN.

"The cars are much faster this year than last year (as well)."

The admission of the inadequacy of the testing will increase the pressure on Pirelli, who were tasked in 2011 -- when they took on the sole supplier role -- with designing a less durable tire in order to force more pit stops and so create more unpredictable racing.

Read: Alonso enjoys 'emotional' home F1 win

Red Bull team boss Dietrich Mateschitz says this policy has gone too far, with the Austrian deeply critical of what he sees as the debilitating effects of fast-wearing tires after Sunday's fifth race of the season.

Ferrari's Fernando Alonso won on home soil, with Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber finishing fourth and fifth respectively.

"Everyone knows what is happening," Mateschitz told Austrian reporters. "This has nothing to do with racing any more. This is a competition in tire management."

"Real car racing looks different. Under the given circumstances, we can neither get the best out of our car nor our drivers. There is no more real qualifying and fighting for the pole, as everyone is just saving tires for the race.

"If we would make the best of our car we would have to stop eight or 10 times a race, depending on the track."

Barcelona's Circuit de Catalunya is always tough on tires, but even Pirelli's motorsport director Paul Hembery felt that the level of pit stops -- with Alonso changing tires four times -- was too much.

"Strategy was again at the forefront of the Spanish Grand Prix, which as usual was very demanding on the tires because of the unique characteristics of this circuit," the Briton said.

Read: Tire worries for dominant Mercedes

"This is why we saw high levels of degradation, which should not be seen again to this extent for the rest of the year. Our aim is to have between two and three stops at every race, so it's clear that four is too many: in fact, it's only happened once before, in Turkey during our first year in the sport."

In that 2011 Turkish Grand Prix, Red Bull duo Vettel and Webber finished first and second respectively but the German, a three-time world champion, concedes that his team's driving is having a negative effect on the Pirellis.

"The first three cars were a little bit too fast for us and regarding looking after the tires, they did a better job," said Vettel, who leads the championship by four points from Lotus's Kimi Raikkonen (who finished second on Sunday).

"We need to catch up; we're not going the pace of the car, we're going the pace of the tires and obviously we do something to make the tires wear more."

Tire degradation was the major talking point on Sunday, with Force India driver Paul Di Resta so bewildered by the number of stops that he radioed his team during the race to ask: "Can anybody tell me what is going on?"

Di Resta was the highest-placed Briton in the race, finishing seventh, just ahead of compatriot Jenson Button --- who shed further light on the effects of the tires in his post-race comments.

"When we're going round doing laps three seconds slower than a GP2 car did in qualifying, and only six seconds quicker than a GP3 car did in the race, there's something wrong," the McLaren driver said.

"This is the pinnacle of motor sport. We shouldn't be driving round so slowly to look after the tires."

Button added that even the thrill of overtaking has diminished considerably, since drivers know that they are often going past because "the other guy's tires are destroyed", while the need to ensure that the tires do not get too hot or cold demand extreme concentration from those at the wheel.

So drivers may be buoyed by the changes that Pirelli are set to announce on Tuesday.

"We'll be looking to make some changes, in time for Silverstone, to make sure that we maintain our target and solve any issues rapidly," said Hembery.

Before the British Grand Prix takes place on June 28-30, there are two more races where the drivers will have to use the existing tires.

The first takes place on May 26 in Monaco, where tire degradation is rarely an issue given the narrow streets and slow corners, whereas next month's Canadian GP may well throw up similar issues to the pain in Spain suffered by most drivers on Sunday.

Via: Pirelli admits testing 'inadequacies'