So with just 3 weeks until F1 is go - its all change for the sport this year with the new rules; 

slicks are back (yay- at long last!), the controversial KERS offers potential for overtaking but perhaps unknown dangers, reduced testing which could end some teams prospects before the season starts (especially with the new 3 race engine rule),radically revised aero packages as well as the ever continuing cost cutting and enforced budget caps.

These are the biggest set of rule changes in the sports history, particularly for the teams designers interpreting the new aerodynamic regulations. As Paddy Lowe from McLaren explains - “Almost everything - the front and rear wings, the diffuser, floor and bodywork - is affected. I don’t think there’s ever been that level of change.”

Interestingly as I write this, today there is now talk of the FOTA requesting a change to the points system increasing the reward for a win to 12 points with second place earning 9 points (third would get 7, fourth would get 5, fifth 4, sixth 3, seventh 2 and eighth 1 point.) . Will this 3 point difference be enough to encourage the drivers to go for the win rather than settle for second? I think it just might be.

It remains to be seen whether any of these changes will actually bring more excitement and overtaking. Lets hope so as the costs involved in their development seem a little anti cost cutting to me, so fingers crossed its all worth it!

Its a pretty daunting task predicting how the drivers will fair in 2009. All the winter tests have been fairly evenly balanced but with so many new elements to test, we probably won’t know exactly what the teams will have to offer until the lights go green in Oz.What we are really interested in though is how Kimi perform? One thing I know for sure is that  the real Kimi will be back this year! Many pundits and fans alike continue to write him off claiming he’s lost the ‘drive’ to perform at a top level and branding him disinterested even lazy but we’ve heard this all before and I don’t buy it!  

He’s happy with the F60 (although it was reported today he was suffering from back pain caused by his seat but Ferrari are seeking a solution) and committed to Ferrari and the sport until the end of 2010. He’s a much more relaxed guy these days and seems to have the freedom to be himself at Ferrari. How anyone could doubt his want to race after he’s taken part in two of Finland’s famous Arctic Lapland Rallies during the off season is beyond me. Maybe its time the press more on from last year, lay off Kimi and let his driving to the talking. 

Personally I really can’t wait for Melbourne, its been a long off season with much promised for 2009. I just hope all of these rule changes bring the excitement we are all hoping for. Here’s to some great racing - GoKimi!

Jemela Coventry

GoKimi Admin Team