The people have spoken and Fernando is the best driver of the season (and that's it for 2008)

The masters
1. Fernando Alonso  - 1,071.5
2. Lewis Hamilton  -  1,061.5
3. Felipe Massa  -  989

The mid-fielders
4. Robert Kubica  -  912.5
5. Sebastian Vettel  -  895
6. Kimi Räikkönen  -  488.5
7. Nick Heidfeld  -  217
8. Timo Glock  -  208.5
9. Jarno Trulli  -  194
10. Mark Webber  -  179

The also-rans
11. Nico Rosberg  -  102
12. Heikki Kovalainen  -  88.5
13. Rubens Barrichello   -  30.5
=  Sebastian Bourdais  -  30.5
15. Nelsinho Piquet - 24
16. Adrian Sutil -  18
17. Jenson Button  -  16
18. Giancarlo Fisichella 12
19. David Coulthard  -  9
20. Takuma Sato/Anthony Davidson - 2

22. Kazuki Nakajima  -  1

The Formula One Times blog best driver of the season, as voted by you, is the Asturian master, Fernando Alonso who also previously won our best driver on the current grid poll. Fernando was not my own personal choice this season but I can understand why many of you have picked him. He had a very poor car to begin with but he and Renault have turned their season round, something which is extremely difficult to do when your main competitors are moving ahead all the time. We know Fernando is among the best at working up a car and he is among the most technically-minded of the current drivers. I would say there is little doubt that he will have played a major role in Renault's improvement. Early in the season, the Spanish pilot made one or two errors - Monaco was one example. These were uncharacteristic and, in my view, reflected his mounting frustration at being stuck in a machine which he just could not make go any quicker. He could see what he wanted to do, where he wanted to put himself on the track, but he couldn't do it. Later in the season, as things improved, we saw Fernando take his chances with both hands, just as you might expect him to. The big question next year for him is very simple: will the new Renault be any good?

Lewis in second place, is about right I would argue. He won the world championship and he produced some incredible drives but he was also erratic and unconvincing at times. As I have mentioned before, I still think it is early in his career to make firm judgements about how good he is going to be. As brilliant as he is, it is almost as if he can't face driving in a boring enough way to secure safe titles. Lewis loves to race, he is probably the best racer out there but that is not always what championship-winning campaigns are about. We are being hard on him, I know. He is the youngest ever world champion, he is only the second man to achieve a title in his second season and he has broken loads of other records along the way. Maybe this title will give him the confidence, the bounce and the experience he needs to blow the roof off the sport. Let's see what happens next year. As with Fernando and everyone else, he also needs a decent car next year, so that is an unknown at present.

Felipe is in third spot. I think he had a great season. He won the most races. He confounded his critics who said he would not make it in the post-traction control era and he consigned Kimi, the reigning world champion, to the margins. Had he not been let down by Ferrari on two occasions he could easily have won the title, as he might have done last year as well. It's funny, Felipe's image in Formula One is dogged by his woeful early performances but I think, also, by the fact that he does not look or behave like a champion. He's far too nice and sporting for starters and he does not throw his weight around. Anyway, let's see what happens next season. I feel fairly sure that he will drive Kimi into the number two spot for the second year running. (That being a comment as much about Kimi as Felipe. Once you start the downslope, it is quite hard to reverse the process, though Kimi has made noises recently indicating he believes he can do just that).

Robert K in fourth. A tough competitor who needs the tools to do the job. The pressure is on at Hinwil to deliver those for him next year. It was a weird year for BMW. They seemed to reach for the sky, touch it, then run away again, as if terrified by what they had achieved. Next year they are supposed to be big-time players, alongside Ferrari and McLaren, with Kubica leading the way to their maiden championship. He could do it, can they?

Sebastian Vettel. I wish he was going to Ferrari in place of Kimi. What a prospect that would be. Maybe Red Bull will surprise us and Adrian Newey will master the new rules better than anyone. But it would come as a surprise. Vettel is clearly no flash in the pan. We know he is quick. We also know he is highly intelligent and can handle the pressures. Maybe his talent will make him unstoppable and he will grabbed by a team that can do him justice by the end of next season. If Lewis "trains on", I imagine Sebastian could be among his main career rivals.

Kimi. Very disappointing and puzzling. Has he lost that half a yard of pace (as they say in footie)? Is it a "lifestyle" issue? Is Kimi driving himself hard enough out of the car (in training) to stay at the top? Is it, much like Nick Heidfeld, purely a quali/car issue which Ferrari can solve with their new machine? Does Kimi fight as hard as his rivals to retrieve poor race positions? Does he only drive quickest when it is too late? It's weird that he has 10 fastest laps and Lewis has two(?). The season started off well for the Iceman but almost from that moment when he careered out of the tunnel at Monte Carlo and smashed into the back of Adrian Sutil, his campaign seemed to go downhill. He got taken out in Canada by Mr Hamilton and then he had that exhaust failure in France, before going 10 races with nothing better than a third place. Whether he can come back or not, will be one of the stories to watch next season.

I could go on...I leave the rest to you guys. In the meántime, thanks to "D" for some forensic collating on this poll and to IDR for the graphics. Also, this is my final contribution to the blog for this year. Don't forget you can follow all the Formula One news at Times Online and also in the paper as we go through the winter. Thanks for all your contributions. It's been an education for me and, I am sure you will all agree, it has also been one hell of a season...

Pic of Fernando (at Interlagos '08), Ed Gorman/The Times. Click on pic and/or graphics to enlarge.

Comments

[Anon (THE REAL ONE!)]

Good bye Mr. Gorman! See you next year.

Fernando is the greatest driver out there and I reall want to see a competitive Renault.

[Jose M. Doval]

Hi Ed,
In my list I included A. Davidson and T. Sato and they are not in the final list.. WHY? Both has been F1 drivers in 2008 season,... didn't they? Please, explain me why you don't include them in the final list. It's not enough bad luck to be in Super Aguri?

[Gary M]

Thanks very much Ed, enjoy your break from the racing, you no doubt have earned some rest.

A wish for 2009 is that I would like to see many of our more rabid Alonso fans to please get over it and move on so that next season we can enjoy a great rivalry between Lewis and Fernando without all the vitriol, hateful comments and same old lies repeated over and over again.

I would also hope that A Parker can find it in himself to leave the question of racism off the blog next season. Yes we all know it exists, all over the world, but F1 is for many of us a chance to forget about the problems of the real world for a few hours every couple of weeks. I am not suggesting we sweep it under the carpet but I am hoping we can leave it off the blog next year.

If Barack Obama has taught us anything this past month it is that colour is not a barrier to anything. what is much more important is that you have money. They are now saying in the USA that anybody can become president, of course they should be saying anybody with 1.5 Billion dollars can become president. That is what Obama spent on getting to the White House, $1,500,000,000!!

I mention this because greed, money and power hungry men are the real villains within Formula 1 and represent the biggest danger to our sport. Not Ron Dennis, not Lewis Hamilton nor Fernando Alonso. F1 is going through a phase of change, the sport is going to be facing some real challenges over the coming years. As F1 fans we should be able to agree on who the enemies are, what the challenges are and act together to ensure that the fans voices are not lost amongst all the money sloshing about the sport at the moment.

Yes by all means lets enjoy our rivalries but please let us not forget we are above all F1 fans and thus should not only support the sport but be willing and able to see past our love of certain drivers/teams when it is required.

Okay, that is it for me, thanks to everybody and have a great Christmas/New Year. It has been a fun year with some great racing and hopefully more to come next year.

Farewell and Adios.

[Chris Cole]

Cheers Ed and enjoy your break. As a first-time poster but long-time reader I'd like to thank you for your insightful, and sometimes provocative, comments during what's been a great season for us viewers. On behalf of many, I'd like to say that you'll be missed and come March 09 we hope to renew your acquaintance. Cheers

[g]

El mundo a Spanish newspaper is reporting comments by Lewis praising Fernando for congratulating him personally, going to McClaren's garage after the Interlagos race, for the championship.

He is quoted as saying "I already had a lot of respect for him. But, it takes a lot of courage to do what he did".

http://www.elmundo.es/elmundodeporte/2008/11/09/motor/1226231687.html

Of course this is not reported in the Times or anywhere else in the British press, as it does not fit with their (including Ed's) agenda of portraying FA (and Spanish fans, and Spanish people!) as narrow minded racists.

Thank you Ed for allowing and even encouraging all the hate coming out in your blog vs. FA-Spanish fans-Spanish people.

(A Spanish guy living in the UK for 9 years).

[O Rygh, Norway]

See you in March Ed. If you need somebody to help you next year just send me an email. I don't mind to stop workin for a year, go around the world (I would expect some salary from the Times, of course, I have a family to feed) watch every GP. I can take the pictures for you, write in the blog, whatever...

Everybody, merry Xmas

[Hank]

Thanks for a great blog Ed. Looks like being another fascinating year in 2009.

Enjoy your break and have a good Xmas.

See you next year
Hank Sweet

[jordi]

Well Ed,
What a disappointment!!

You managed to finish this blog without publishing that F Alonso went, after the race in Brazil, to Mclaren garage to congratulate LH.

I think that this small action from Alonso speaks volumes about his personality outside the track, which you always criticised. If Hamilton fans knew about it, perhaps there would be fewer misunderstandings about Fernando.

http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/72054

"-Hamilton also thanked Alonso for the gesture of coming into the McLaren garage to congratulate him and the team after they sealed the title in Brazil last weekend.

"It was great to see him in the garage," said Hamilton. "He came over as I saw my team, I turned round and he was there - just to wish me congratulations. Then he said congratulations to the rest of the team.

"I had a huge amount of respect for him already, but it took a big man to come and do that so I was very thankful to him."-

Ed, you went to great length to undermine Alonsos character outside the track, it should be only fair to mention him when he acts in a very honourable manner, don't you think?

Take care everybody

[Alex T]

Dear Ed

A few concluding thoughts. Kindly accept my sincere appreciation for creating and moderating this very lively forum. I know from experience that the ’moderating’ component can be very trying at times

I sincerely trust that you accepted my fisking of one of your pieces, in Sept., as constructive feedback. It was never meant to be taken personally. Anyway, I hope to see you in Montreal next year (assuming they get back on the schedule). At that time I promise to take you to an Amex Platinum Fine Dining Restaurant where they definitely will not “perform”J

On this blog I attempted to make a meaningful contribution by stimulating discussions based on the vigour of logical reasoning and the rigour of arguments.

Again, I must note that I am indeed very pleased that Hamilton prevailed. He is a well deserving champion; and I hope that this is just one of many more to come. The McLaren Group, especially the beleagued Ron Dennis certainly deserve the morally uplifting symbol of the title. A lesser man along with a lesser organization would have crumbled last year or even this year.

The FIA recently announced changes to the Racing Stewards structure is certainly a step in the right direction. Although the FIA did not fully professionalized the Steward’s system, the changes are significant and should help.

Unfortunately, they did not promise to eradicate those inhumane, draconian and non-appeal-able post race penalties. Thus, the temperature around here may yet remain high.

Well, my preferred candidate lost to the Obama juggernaut. He ran a very good campaign. He also benefited from the inept campaign of my candidate as well as the financial melt-down. In general, it would appear that Americans found positive currencies in the therapeutic fatuousness of ‘change’ and ‘hope‘.

Of course the historic nature of that election outcome was duly noted. However, I could never embrace any of his broad policies - foreign or domestic. I am also troubled by his views on infanticide, his past associations and the absence of transparency regarding his background. I pray that he will be mugged by reality into making major course adjustments from inherent liberal certitudes to pragmatisms in his policy choices.

Anyway for all of you Obamatics, below is a link to a very optimistic article regarding the worldwide positively dramatic consequences of Obama Presidency. This is written by Tunku Varadarajan (a former professor, Oxford University and a former Assistant Managing Editor, Wall Street Journal):

http://www.forbes.com/opinions/2008/10/26/obama-black-power-oped-cx_tv_1027varadarajan.html

As Jordie and Anon have proven recently, it is very, very difficult for anyone to leave this site. However, this is it for me for now (my undergraduate students have been calling). But I expect to rejoin you again hopefully by late April at the end of the academic winter term; - (Of course, subject to spring-summer lecturing loads).

My one parting criticism of some of my fellow bloggers stem from the fact that they are far too rigidly defensive of their respective heroes particularly some supporters of LH & FA. This should not be the case. (This may be tautological, but I should note that my fervent disagreements with A. Parker regarding LH are well known).

Many of us on this blog are also Tennis fans; Hence, are familiar with two of the top players: Ana Ivanovic and Jelena Jankovic. The contrasting physical attributes speak for themselves. Ivanovic is strikingly beautiful while Jankovic maybe less so. Ivanovic is a very, very nice person. However, Jankovic is even nicer.

Were you to attend one of Jankovic’s matches you would be mesmerized by her dynamic personality. I often root for her to win her matches - as long as she is not playing Sharapova, Serena or Ivanovic. Jon Wertheim (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/writers/jon_wertheim/08/06/mailbag.0806/index.html) recently brought to our attention a very horrendous blunder committed by Jankovic. Regardless of how often I may’ve supported her, I did not hesitate in roundly criticizing her for this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XJRB5m9tIRE

So friends, our racing heroes too, make mistakes on and off the track. They should not be above criticisms. We strain credulity and our credibility when we pretend otherwise.

It has been a pleasure.

[Kohque]

Great comment Gary M,

Looking forward to next season and next round of posts in this blog.

[Anon (THE REAL ONE!)]

G (a spoof on D?)

I saw the story too in F1-Live.

Really makes you think the poor guy is misunderstood. Everybody yells at him for a month because supposedly he was going to ram Lewis off track. He doesn't do it; everybody is busy still criticizing him. Before the Shanghai PC, the media sneered at him saying he didn't have the balls to say it straight to Lewis. He did. The media immediately reverses direction and dramatically victimizes Lewis saying Fernando is a bully (never mind the fact that he's being egged on by an unhooked, angry McEvoy). Such a turnabout is quite hilarious. They sort of deflated and lost their cojones fast with that. Didn't expect Fernando to be a straight-talker, eh?

But then they shifted to simply calling Fernando unsporting anyway (the new definition for frank). When it turns out he was misunderstood, bah, no apologies. We're shameless anyway.

[Érico Calixto]

I think it's too easy and condescending to forgive Alonso's errors as taken by frustration.

How many drivers on the grid have had winning careers before joining F1? Do they not have the right to be frustrated their cars are uncompetitive? Do we forgive them for their errors?
No.

To be condescendent with Alonso is to ignore what he is capable of and simply lower the bar for him. Not only is it unfair to him, but it's unfair to the other pilots who do not have the priviledge of recieving the same (dumbing and mediocre) treatment.

It's no coincidence the Alonso after the German GP was much better than the one before. And half a season just doesn't cut it. Hamilton learned it in a very hard and cruel way last year and Alonso and Renault should be wary of that.

[verea]

Thanks G. Spanish press reported that next day. I´ve been waiting a week expecting british press to say something about it, french and italian press have done so. I think your are absolutely right.

[Tim]

Thanks Ed, see you in March.

[Rafa]

Still looking forward to reading about a call of Ferrari... Hi, Fernando?

See next year.

[Dean Rodrigues]

cheers ed, enjoy the winter.

[Sancho Panza]

Thanks again for the blog Ed. A happy X’mas to you and all the bloggers. And a ventorous new year, we are all going to need it in spite of Obama.
And Gary mate, you keep saying ‘to move forward’. Well darling, why don’t you?
I bet you a case of irish wishkey that next year is going to be the same. And the next. And the next after. And on and on… Why? Because Ed and co. would make sure of that. How? When things would be quite and smooth some journo would put a direct question to Fernando such as ‘hey Fernando, who’d you like to win the next race?’ Bingo! The show rolls on again.
Today the spanish press reports Lewis praising Fernando along with some comments from Pedro de la Rosa praising McLaren, Lewis and Ronaldo. Can you see/read anything about it on the english media? Nope. Because it’s not good business. The business is to stir up the ‘canon meat’ so we go on and on sending comments to blogs like this one.
I don’t mind really, I enjoy playing the game because I always keep in mind that’s only that: a game.
But some unfortunately take it as seriously as if it were WWII!
You can have a warm and sunny X’mas over there, enjoy life man!
Regards.

[Alonso' miracles]

He is indeed the best. LH is not bad neither. Really the one who should be kicked out of the sport is Ron Dennis.

Merry Christmas Ed. May Santa Claus bring you some independence and clearer views on spanish people. We are not racist. No more than brits

[Kathryn S]

A bit late to the party here on best drivers, but an excess of travels and travails has lead to very restricted opportunities for commenting on the blog for the end of the season. In addition, the decision to delete all North American races has rankled and reduced a bit of my enthusiasm for the sport. I continue to get messages that F1 is not interested in having me as a fan.

That being said...a belated congratulation to Hamilton on triumphing in the end...although I am not a fan of his, it was a well-deserved championship--his fans can revel in his success after taking it to the very end...and winning in the most stunning manner possible.

I would add that Vettel would be my pick for driver of the year. Considering the car he was driving and his lack of experience, he did an amazing job. Remember he didn't complete a race 'til the fifth round and in only one of those first four races did he actually complete a full lap.

It has been an interesting season, too, at the blog. This is a great forum and I have enjoyed getting to know many interesting personalities. I wish I had been a little bit more able to participate toward the end. If you stand by your commitment to stay away, I will truly miss you, IDR, as you have been such a steady voice out there. It will be interesting to see who populates the blog next year.

Finally, thank you Ed for another wonderful season of blogging. Your commentary adds so much to the season...and we are so fortunate for your willingness to share so many of your experiences with us. I look forward to next year with hope for less controversy and more close racing.

[D]

^
Jose M. Doval >

You're absolutely correct and thank you very much indeed for pointing it out.

I'm mortified by this - not least for Takuma and Anthony themselves, who did a sterling job for Aguri Suzuki and need all the recognition and help they can get in securing a drive with another team.

And I have, of course, asked Ed to amend the listing to include them in their rightful place.

The error occurred because a decision had been taken (for reasons which I will explain soon, in a fuller posting - I'm very busy with work today!) to limit eligibility to 2008 Formula One drivers and the very kind lady who called the votes over to me as I was listing them in a spreadsheet had been instructed by me to eliminate votes for those (e.g. Michael Schumacher) who were not currently driving in a participating Formula One team. Super Aguri was thus, as I failed to realise, not on the list of teams to which which she was referring.

I take full responsibility for this. The above is an explanation, not an excuse - the fault was mine.

Michael Schumacher once said that he allowed himself one mistake per season and this was mine. I apologise unreservedly for it - to you, to Takuma and Anthony, to Ed and to everyone else (including Michael, for whom, incidentally, William Doherty voted as #1). I hope you will forgive me.

More later...

Douglas.

[Weasel]

Massa 'won' the most races??? Does that include the race he did not win at Spa - you know, the gift from Max's unqualified boys?

Once again thanks to Ed for an entertaining and sometimes provocative seasons blogging and some equally provocative but ultimately topical and interesting posts from the faithful intelligentiae (and the amoebic) who populate this blog.

I hope that the economic woes of the world do not impact the sport as much as they impact most other aspects of life. However now that we have a government as a partial primary sponsor, one wonders how long 'sponsorship by taxpayer' will be allowed to continue. I refer of course, to ING - primary sponsor of Renault and now partially owned by the Dutch government via a bail out.

For 2009 Formula 1 needs to get out of politics and back into racing. The FIA needs to stop political meddling and focus on administering. We need to get rid of stupid proposals for 'one engine for all' rules and other hallucinogenic fantasies of EgoMeister Max, King of the Control Freaks. In fact the sport needs to get away from Max, and the best thing he could do for the sport is resign. Unfortunately he is morally bankrupt and psychologically incapable of doing so. I must admit that this has caused a waning interest in Formula 1 from me and I have come close to walking away from the whole circus, as I have done from all other forms of motorsport, except vintage racing.

So doubtless I will be back next season with my usual acerbic comments, but possible in reduced participatory format. For 2009 I hope to see less about race and more about racing.

Enjoy your well earned rest Ed and get some quality sailing time. To you and all fellow bloggers, have a wonderful Christmas and New Year and see you for the 2009 season.

[Richard]

Well, that was almost as close as last year's world title. I think Hamilton fans can feel pretty pleased that he's ranked so close to an experienced double world champion in just his second season in the category. And Alonso fans can feel happy that he's won. So I hope everyone goes into the winter happy!

The ones who came off worst are Nelson, Heikki, Kimi, Nick and DC. All are understandable except for Nick. He had the same number of podiums as Robert, and wasn't that far behind him on points. I suppose his conservative style (both personally, and in his driving) has gone against him.

ED - many thanks for providing the blog, I've really enjoyed being a part of it this last season.

Also, thanks to all those who have contributed during the year, the diversity of opinions is what makes the blog so interesting.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all, let's hope next season will prove to be at least as exciting as this one (although I can't see the finale topping this one!).

Regards

[Javier Esteban]

Thank you Ed for your blog and also to all contributors.
Gary M you should be so proud of your post and I hope everyone of us get that spirit for next season.
I hope you all a really wonderful 2009.
Regards

[Christine]

Who would have thought that Vettel would be rated higher than Raikkonen? Completely justified though.

[David]

Thanks for the blog, Ed. You did a really great job all season. Good commentary and reporting, and, most importantly, despite being British, I thought you were very, very fair. In that I mean, many British journo's were pro-Hamilton and wore UK-colored glasses. But you were extremely objective, in my opinion. Look forward to the blog again next season.

David
USA

[rafa]

Despite being a staunch Alonso supporter I don´t think it´s fair he gets the first place in this poll. The winner was Hamilton, and therefore I think that the pole position belongs to him.
overall, my opinion is that it has been a good F1 season, and the nail biting finale only added to its greatness. However I think that the quality of driving was somewhat better last year. First year Hamilton in my book clearly beats second year Hamilton, never mind the DWC title. You only need to look at the points achieved in each season. That Massa was the main contender speaks for itself.

One can only wonder how this season would have been if only the Kimster still lived among us mortals and the R28 had been up to par. of the two cases, Iceman worries me the most. You can upgrade a machine or start from scratch, but there´s not much to work on a seemingly bored and unambitious psyche.

On the rest, I completely agree that Vettel is the future, but I have some misgivings on Kubica. To me he looks a slightly better version of his clone, who by the way is his team mate at BMW: they´re both tough, consistent and fast but despairingly boring as well.
My final comment goes for Massa: in my view he had his big chance this year and blew it. It is true that the team made huge mistakes, but some of his races were clearly below what would be expected from a DWC candidate. Lewis is a far better driver. I think with the years Massa will look back and realize that had he wanted it a bit more, this Championship was for his taking.

[Charles]

I was really pleased Lewis won the Championship, but equally delighted at the superb driving displayed by Alonso and Vettel. I believe the Renault team benefitted greatly from the return of Alonso and wonder whether it will turn out to be his spiritual home. Alonso seems comfortable there, with the car, the team, but more importantly with himself. I am certain he will be back at the front of the grid next season. I believe Lewis now needs to mature in his strategic game. It's all well and good racing wheel to wheel but there comes a time when keeping your powder dry is the best option. Settling for points is key, playing the long game and not getting frustrated requires maturity. Schumacher was a master of responding to an immediate change in circumstances and Lewis should take note, be ready for any eventuality and be able to respond accordingly. That is what will enabe him to challenge Schumacher's record 7 titles.

[Anon (THE REAL ONE!)]

Guess it is time for a season review.

The WINNERS

Lewis HAMILTON- champion at last! Lewis's driving this year was erratic in that it was sometimes erratic and sometimes not. But when he was on a high, it was incredible. His charges in Britain, Germany, and Belgium were all inspiring. I would not have wanted Fernando to be his teammate in Silverstone '08. Lewis drove with his heart and sometimes paid for it dearly, not for the first and certainly not for the last time either. All hail the champion!

Rubens BARRICHELLO- the most unexpected twist to the season may have been seeing a guy rip one of the most appreciated drivers on the grid to shreds after having stayed out of the points one season and out of the podiums for two. Rubens drove like a madman, and his defending against Kimi in Australia was remarkable. It's hard not to agree with him that he is driving the best he ever has in his life right now. I was so happy for podium. Imagine if he had stayed second (i.e. honda didn't mess up) and Lewis's engine blowing up... Barrichello wins the British GP, I think that would go over well in Japan, Brazil, heck the whole world. Um, expect Britain!

Giancarlo FISICHELLA- Fisico had an undriveable car and his main challenge was to beat Sutil, which he accomplished easily. He tied the rookie in qualifying, beat him in the races, and scored a better result than Adrian. Not bad for a guy who couldn't handle the Niceman. Some might say Adrian deserved to beat him because of Monaco, but Fisi led him all of the way for the rest of the season.

Robert KUBICA- this guy will be champ. You can feel it. He has the control Lewis lacks and the speed Lewis has. He is the only guy who seems just as (or even more) impressive than Lewis on street circuits. His driving his exciting (it is incredible that he got P2 with his off in the Australian qualifying). He managed his campaign well, and his only flaw is that he does not seem inspirational. But fortunately for him, he is in a team that is so down-to-earth they probably can't get inspired. I'd be surprised if BMW Sauber could even feel emotion, period.

Sebastian VETTEL- a blend of Alonso and Schumacher (young and German), Vettel has the championship already garanteed to him. His drive in Italy was Senna-esque, in that he won in a crap car against a car that finished one-two on that sam circuit in '07. His driving has been perfect and impeccable. Webber won't see what him next year.

Jarno TRULLI- Trulli had one of his better seasons, certainly better than '08. It must have felt great to think that after three races, he had already tied the work of last year. He's always teased as a hot air balloon- fantastic on Saturday, pops on Sunday. But Jarno had some great racing moments- overtaking Nakajima on the last lap of the British GP, defending against Heikki in France, and claiming a podium on the week that the team founder died. Welld one, and nice timing. However, I believe that Glock will easily outshine him next year.

Timo GLOCK- Glock started slowly but got better with time (less can be said about Piquet). His podium in Hungary was great. He rarely had stupid moments (something which Nakajima and Piquet can admire) and scored heavily. He seems pretty nice as a guy and a I like him. He only finished six points off Jarno's tail, and considering he had a rough start he should be able to bite harder next year.

The So-So Guys.

Fernando ALONSO- something is ahppening at Renault. Change is coming, yes we can, you name it. Fernnado is building the team back up in a way that nobody else ont he grid could. This season was bound to be disappointing for him, but he turned it around. His reputation also was bolstered when he stunned his critics by reducing Lewis's close rival to shreds. Lewis and Nelson were comparable in GP2. Fernando wasn't comparable to Nelson. But Fernando had some great drives. After Germany, I was worried that his only great drive would have been in Round 1 (where he was definitely star of the race). But then he struck back. He was incredible in Japan. Some say he was lucky, but fact is he wasn't. Felipe and Lewis acted retardly and probably wouldn't have beaten him anyway, considering the people they had to overtake. No, Fernando is the greatest out there. And I really hope that Renault gets better.

Nico ROSBERG- what a weird season for him. It was inconsistent, but at least he got two podiums and dominated Kaz, something it seemed he wouldn't be able to do after Britain. He better hope Williams gets back to 1992 level.

Felipe MASSA- normally, the runner-up in a championship should be labeled the loser (he is) but Felipe is an exception. He fought really hard and valliantly. He is too sporting to be considered a sportsman, but that doesn't faze him. He is definitely the fastest guy out there. Now, he loses ground on the others with his lack of overtaking (although he delivered crackers in Canada, Hungary, and Japan). He also seems to have Ferrari in his pocket. It will be mighty close with Kimi next year.

Nick HEIDFELD- four podiums should make you a winner, but Nick is having weird times. But it's easy to laugh at him. He will be very close to Robert next year. EVen with his qualifying problems he was impressive. He stacked up an impressive amount of overtaking maneuvres (Kovi in Bahrain, Fernando and Jarno in one fell swoop in GBR, Kimi and Heikki in one fell swoop in GBR). Watch this space.

Kazuki NAKAJIMA- Kaz had a decent year. His maturity was nice, although he doesn't get the concept of braking at Turn 1 very well. He better get better pace, however, if he doesn't want to be labeled the Williams-TOYOTA boy.

Mark WEBBER- Webber had another unimpressive season. At least this time 'round he dominated his teammate. A podium would have been nice, however. He's good, but can't deliver. It is incredible that he has the same amount of race starts as Fernando. One has a best result of two podiums, the other two championships.

Sebastien BOURDAIS- he fell miles back versus his teammate, but we know he has talent. He deserved three more points in Australia, three more in Japan, and two more in Belgium, and six more in Italy. He was really unlucky, but he is good.

The LOSERS of the '08 season.

Kimi RAIKKONEN- Kimi has pulled a Hakkinen. Win, then fade. A Villeneuve if you would like. After Spain, it was his to win. But he tripped up bad. Some people can sa it's "car issues"; but thast is ridiculous. Fernando had "car issues"- it wasn't fast enough. He got over it. Kimi didn't.

David COULTHARD- not much to say. He's old, I get it. Nice podium in Canada. Otherwise, bad luck and bad driving. We all love him though. I liked seeing him wave in his white suit in Brazil although he was sent packing.

Jenson BUTTON- pulling a Villeneuve except he hasn't won a championship. He has no excuse for flailing like that.

Heikki KOVALAINEN- this guy made fun of Fenrnado back in Hungary. 'Nuff said. He can now eat his own words of "McLaren is fair". His race win was lucky. In fact, he hurt his own reputation and the team's. He couldn' even finished on podium with Lewis once this year.

Nelsinho PIQUET- this guy is soooo lucky Fernando is his teammate. If not, he would have gotten the axe by Canada.

Sutil- no point to make, no points to make.

Sato and Davidson- a moment of silence for two dead careers, killed by none other than greed and incompetency of businessmen.

[Carleton Twitchell]

So there was ten points in it ...I know I onl;y voted 1x but can you honestly say you only voted once , twice , tres , quattro< Que?
@ Henka ...yes I thot I saw you in my mirrors but then I turned the rear ward -facing lasers ON !!!!!

[Anon (THE REAL ONE!)]

While were at it making lists:

The best Overtaking Moves of the Season

1.) Fernando on Heikki and Kimi, Australia

2.) Massa on Webber, Japan

3.) Heideld on Heikki and Kimi, Britain

Best drives

1.) Vettel, Italy
2.) Hamilton, Germany
3.) Hamilton, Britain
4.) Kubica, Monaco
5.) Massa, Brazil
6.) Barrichello, Britain
7.) Heidfeld, Britain
8.) Alonso, Japan
9.) Alonso, Australia
10.) Glock, Hungary

[Sergio Excéntrico]

The answer of why major part of spaniards hate McLaren.

In spanish.

http://excentricof1.blogspot.com/2008/11/por-qu-en-contra-de-mclaren.html

[hitori_de_aruku]

last couple of days have been quiet here and I already miss reading new posts... I will really miss this blog until March!

have a good break Ed. And you contributors... be patient until next season :)

all the best!

[M. Taylor]

I guess, the world is now a better place.

[javiervivaespania]

All said & done.
I guess I owed you a few words saying good bye, farewell, chaps.

Funny to see how some guys tried to do some sort of awkward JVE tribute pretending to be someone else.

I might come back next season ... as myself. That would mean Josevivanadie and not Javiervivaespania.

[Anon (from Switzerland)]

See you later Jose!

-Edouard

[Lozar]

VAMOSSSSSSSSS ALONSO!!!!!!!!
TOMAAAAA!!!!!!!!!

[Larrotcha]

Congrats Mr Gormann. You made it to Marca.com. Almost as prestigious as the Times...

[PTM]

Sergio - None of those ramblings justify the hate, only highlights 2 things ignorance and prejudice.
You can’t criticise someone for their actions and then act even worst then they do.

Best of luck to all the drivers next year may the best driver win, hope it's LH though.
Have a great break Ed!

[Lewis]

I am surprise with the outcome, beign this a British web, even when I did not vote, I am 100% agree with the result. No doubt nowdays, Alonso is the Beste Driver on the grid, he is a master a none of the rest have his impact in a car, in a team and in the F1 as he does again and again.

Sorry lewis, you must have to try harder to gain our votes.

[rubensanfe]

Well, although both English media and fans have being demonstrating a fanatical and crazy attitude during last years in many sports, even maiking a free, unfair, deliberate and malicious use of the always easy resource of racism, all of them have finally use first the common sense instead of the viscera and have recognized one thing that all the world knew, except England: Alonso is the best pilot in the present grill, the only one who was able to retire Schumacher and the only one who can win races in spite of the obstacles from teams like the dirty McLaren (which are unable to win without cheating, spying, etc.) or even having one of the worst cars of the grill. Hamilton and Mclaren for 2007 benefited from Alonso' know-how and this has been demonstrated during 2008 when Alonso, him alone, has evolved a poor car as Renault.

[Maverick]

Hi, thanks edward. I don´t know who is the fastest driver at the time, but i know who is the most complete, in my opinion Alonso.

I hope the K.E.R.S will not hide the performance of the drivers. I don´t want to see cars leading drivers, i want see pilots leading cars.

Thanks everyone (I´m from Spain, sorry for my english )

[James]

It seems that Alonso use to get winner cars in only a months. I don't know how he do it but his cars has a incredible development.

[Emilio]

I wonder why you Mr.Gorman want Vettel to go to Ferrari... Well, he's a good driver and may eventually become great if driving a good car, but it is not because that way Fernando would have it more difficult to drive a capable car??
Nice rest of you...

[JoseBelgica]

Well, at the end and despite press, we all like Alonso.

It is funny to see that Hamilton said somethings (great respect etc etc) about Alonso, but only "autosport.com" published them.

Funny to see that some british media always make references to some spanish media for bad things but none for good ones.

Anyways, a long hard dark winter awaits us all, without F1. Lucky me I recorded most of the races, so I will enjoy them again and again with a good Beligian beer.

ps:
Am i the only one whose girlfriend hates F1 ? ;-)

[Miguel]

I have to admit, In Spain had never voted Hamilton as driver of the season. So I have to congratulate you for being so unbiase and honest.
But do not get mixed. Very most people in Spain is not racist at all. Our feeling to hamilton are not related with his colour.
Thanks

[pepa]

It is good to see how the English accept their defeat.

Alonso, you are the best.

[adam]

Given that the biggest single contingent on this blog are spanish I think the results show once again that many cannot see past narrow nationalism.
Timo glock's website is currently inundated with Spanish hate mail of a kind that just doesn't exist in other countries publications.

[yanzhao]

I am a chinese fan of F1.This is my first time here.I agree with the conclution of the vote very much.It's the first season I appreciate Alonso so much,because of the discrimination to him in 05-06.I think he is not only a driver but a fighter.He can fight at any time as long as it's essential.
I trust the next season will be more splendid.I will keep paying attention on Times.
Good bye and see you next year.

[Chris]

Anon

What about the race in SPA...did you forget about that one...

Alonso overtook 4 people in te last rond...overtaking Kubica and Vettel in the last corner.....

And did you forget the move Heidfelfd made one Webber and Alonso ??
Alonso overtaking Webber and Nick overtaking them both....

[Another Chinese]

We in China all support Fernando Alonso, he has made us love F1. Until we have a Chinese champion, we will keep on supporting Fernando, the best driver in the grid.

Thanks to the English for accepting he is so much better than Hamilton.

[spaniard f1]

any doubt about it? if you had follow f1 this season you should have seen Alonso doing the 120% with the Renault. Hamilton is also a good driver, but British people must accept that he has been a lucky driver during the year and he won because he was "the less bad" driver with the fastest and most regular car. If Fernando would have been in McLaren or Ferrari he would have won the championship several races ago.
Sorry me because of my English

[daniel negromonte]

Fernando Alonso is the best pilot and a miraclemaker for sure.

[Tom]

Thank you for your blog, Mr Gorman. I have followed it avidly all year. More of the same please.

I am, however, perplexed as to how half-votes appear to have been cast in the above pole. Can you explain?

[rafa]

I have to agree with Adam. This seems the "practice yer English" section of Marca, what with so much Spaniards. At the same time, one has to admire them for posting without any regard whatsoever for their command of the language. Anyhow, Mr Gorman had it coming to him the day he ill-advisedly started to rant about Spain, he should have remembered common wisdom: "know thine enemy". Hehe, we´ll have him regret it by sheer force of stubbornness. Mr Gorman, in order to endear yourself with such an important Spanish fan base, may I suggest next year´s line of blogging? "Gibraltar is not Britain" or "Trafalgar: a senseless victory for the British Empire?" would suit the endeavor. The second suggestion is specially interesting, because if all Britons adopted the notion, an extremely well known Plaza in central London would produce a vacancy in its naming, thereby creating a window of opportunity for relabeling it: "Lewis Hamilton Square".

Well, it´s been loads of fun. See ya come March.

[Peter Hansen]

Alonso the best, of course!

[D]

^
Hi, all,

Here are some things you might like to know about the processing of the poll. Sorry for the delay: I’ve been ill.

THE POINTS SYSTEM.

There wasn’t time to debate how they should be awarded and I felt (after consulting Ed) that the least controversial way to do it was a straightforward 10,9,8,7,6,5,4,3,2,1 points basis, in descending order.

Alternatives could have been on a weighted system or - for those who submitted less than ten drivers (several nominated only six) - a graded system commencing with one point for the final driver in each voting list and rising by one point for each additional driver nominated further up that list. The latter has some merit but, ultimately, I felt that it would be fairest to the drivers to give each one the same number of points for being nominated in the same position on people’s lists.

Not everyone managed successfully to count from one to ten correctly, so a few people’s listings had to be adjusted to comply with the basic rules of mathematics. Nobody got to vote for more than ten drivers unless they nominated more than one driver in tenth place (or more than two in ninth, or more than three in eighth, etc.). Additional drivers nominated in surplus of that rule were given no points.

The half points, incidentally, and in case anyone is wondering, arose solely from JLK helpfully insisting on dividing the season into two parts and voting for different drivers in each one.

THE ELIGIBILITY OF THE DRIVERS.

Despite the open manner in which “The Top Ten Drivers of 2008” is worded, it rapidly became clear that virtually everyone was limiting their choices to Formula One.

To obtain the most accurate ranking among the Formula One drivers and avoid their valuable points being diluted and distorted by nominations for such as “James Bond” and “Chris H” on his tractor (who classed his performance this year as inferior to Robert Kubica but superior to Fernando Alonso) the decision was taken to exclude from the poll those drivers who did not compete in Formula One this season.

There are some (and I am one of them) who regard Sébastien Loeb as being the finest driver of all, these last four years - indeed, he’s been World Rally Champion for the last five! - but better that Sébastien be given the massive respect he deserves as one of the all-time Greats among drivers, and be excluded from this particular poll, than that he suffer the insult of being ranked among the also-rans of Formula One drivers who’ll never be a Great if they continue for another twenty years and could probably be beaten in a racing car by Sébastien’s co-driver Daniel Elena if he put his mind to it. So Sébastien was not included in this poll - and nor was Mikko Hirvonen, for the same reason.

WHAT QUALIFIED AS A VOTE?

Here we also had to make a rule. It was clear from Bob M’s and Ed’s own comments at the opening of the thread that what was sought from all in this poll was comparative listings of drivers So, simply posting “Lewis Hamilton is the Messiah” or “Fernando Alonso walks on water” earned neither of them a vote. It wouldn’t have been fair to treat postings like that (of which there were only a few) as 10 votes for one driver and none for any other. This was, after all, a poll in which drivers were being rated and in which most people took time and trouble to compile a full and considered listing of ten drivers. They deserve not to have that debased and distorted by those who could not be bothered to name more than one driver. To keep things fair and representative, then, only entries which contained votes for at least three drivers were included in the count. (And, yes; all those who indicated their rankings clearly in their text, instead of expressing it in a vertical list, did have their votes counted and included.)

THE COUNT.

The noon, Sunday deadline had to be imposed for logistical reasons (Ed’s) and votes posted after that time were not counted nor included in the result.

The only exception permitted to this was for Pablo, who needed to correct his previously posted list of votes because (as I had already noticed) he had omitted to nominate anyone in third place on his numbered list of ten (I hope he is not short of any fingers or toes). Pablo wanted to remedy this a few minutes after the poll closed (you can see his posting) and was allowed to. It gave 8 points to Lewis but did not alter the final rankings.

As the poll drew to a close it became clear that the result was going to be far closer than most people were expecting. I was entering the votes on a spreadsheet and watching the running totals rise while, in parallel, and with some amusement, reading the predictive comments people were posting about foregone conclusions!

It was not unlike like watching a grand prix unfold: Fernando gained an early lead of about 30 votes and pretty much kept it at that margin almost throughout, until quite near the finish when Lewis closed to within an ace of him.

An “ace” is quite an appropriate expression to use, actually. Lewis lost by only ten points.

That was a margin of less than 1%, so I felt I owed it to him, to Ed and to everyone here, to then do a full recount of every vote cast, before finally giving Ed the result. Hopefully you will be re-assured to hear that it tallied! The inadvertent initial exclusion of Jose M. Doval’s vote for Tacuma and Anthony in ninth place on his list arose from a single misunderstanding by my assisting companion of their eligibility for inclusion, not from any carelessness with the counting.

SOME ADDITIONAL STATISTICS.

Of the 127 contributors who posted valid votes, 56 placed Fernando at the head of their list, 23 rated him second and 15 considered him third.

Lewis was first on 41 lists, second on 24 lists and third on 21.

Felipe was first on 21 lists, second on 35 lists and third on 25.

Robert was first on 7 lists, second on 16 lists and third on 30.

And you all recognised the remarkable talent of Sebastian Vettel: first on 2 lists, second on 18 lists, and third on 27. Not one person rated him lower than sixth.

Compare that with your opinions of the reigning World Champion of 2007, Kimi. It would perhaps be kindest to say that not everyone (indeed, not anyone, here) shares Luca di Montezemolo’s prodigiously expensive admiration for him. Not one of you placed him first, one person rated him second and four of you put him third. From there, it just got worse... Two people gave him tenth and 28 of you didn’t consider him worth voting for at all. Still, his bank manager will have little to complain about. Let’s just hope the Iceman didn’t bank in Iceland.

A FINAL, SPECIAL, VOTE - ONE OF THANKS, FROM ME.

Thanks to Bob M for proposing this poll and to Ed for hosting it.

Thank you all for voting - especially those of you who did so in a list rather than burying it deep within the text of your posting. With a lot of votes to count, that was extremely helpful.

And thanks in particular to our very dear friend IDR for his two marvellous graphics, prepared on a day when he was hard at work on other things. (If you haven’t done so already, you really should click on the first one to see it full size and find the little jokes he buried in it!)

After the two other, different, polls we had mid-season, I think this was a very good one to hold at the end of it. Let's do the same again next year!

[Henkka]

D,
Thanks for all the hard work. Ed (and his managers!) should be proud.

However, I'm still wondering about your dislike of Kimi. With all respect, your latest comments remind me of the eternally ongoing and unfruitful debate about LH and FA.

Can't you agree that some people having a specific talent can also look bizarre for us mortals? (E.g. Mozart dying in the age of 30+. Btw. have you listened the Requiem lately?)

Yes, let's meet again next year,

Best Regards,
Henkka (the Son will be 5 yrs)

[Xeron]

Adam, you had your chance to vote for your favourite driver, Alonso won, that's it.
Poor old Timo, everybody in Spain knows he didn't do it on pourpose.
This is just a sport, let's enjoy it.
BTW congratulatons to Lewis from Spain,ok he is not an idol here, but he deserve the championship.

[Rubeniken]

congratulations Hammi, from a spanish alonso's fan!!!

[Sergio]

Only one thing from spain
spanish people were with Obama.
So, there is not racism.
The things with Lewis are the same that british people with fernando.

Do british hate "whites"?

That's all, next year more and better.

Ed, I think you do quite well. In spain reporters are less objective.

sorry about my english.

[castellano]

Sorry for me english in advanced.

Fernando, you are the best driver, and it is very good that all the english people in this blog recognise the superioriti of you above the english-jamaican driver, Lewis Hamilton.

You has conquered the hearts of chinese people too. And that is the future. Good done!

Lewis has won, and we congratulate you for this in spain even if you must thank Glock, but Fernando drove better with a worst car. Like in horse running, there must be a right handicap system for better justice.

[Anon (THE REAL ONE!)]

Thank you D!

Chris: yes, those were good too. Especially since the scon incident was between Nick, DC, and Fernando in Malaysia. Overtaking DC is difficult these days without finding yourself with him in the barriers (ie. Italy DC v. Nakajima, Australia DC v. Massa, Bahrain Button v. DC, Spain, Glock v. DC) etc.

[Anon (THE REAL ONE!)]

http://en.f1-live.com/f1/en/headlines/news/detail/081116133703.shtml

Wow!

[Valkiria]

Well, well there were plenty of posts from the spanish fans!! No surprise...

I would like to say: Thanks Ed for a very intersting blog. It has been lots of fun reading it and I am looking forward to 2009!

Congratulations to Lewis for the WDC! Well done!! And to Fernando Alonso: What a great man you are! A true gentleman ...surely the Best!!!

Merry Christmas to everyone and see you next year!!

[Jorge Lardone]

No surprise with this poll since this blog is of spanish fanatics, so no comon sense in his votes.
Anyway, a great F1 year, a very nice and talented champion (Hamilton) and others great drivers show their capacities, like Vettel, Kubica, Heidfeld, Glock, Trulli, and of course Massa and Raikkonen.
Alonso? is Ok. Just good luck, good driver, not great at all.
Next year will be more amazing I hope with all that changes!
Happy new year to all F1 lovers, see next year.

[Cardi]

Thanks for the always amusing blog Mr Gorman. In a conspiracy-obsessed readership, I'm surprised nobody has tried to analyse the unprecedented mid-season turnaround of the R28. Nothing to do with the pack of Mclaren design data that went to Renault at the end of last season I suppose? You, remember - the pack that was iffed down to 4 drawings by Mosley, that 4 being the ones that were admittedly placed on the Renault intranet and examined by the entire design team at Enstone. The data must certainly have given some insight into how to adapt from Michelin to Bridgestone, the key problem.

Cardi

[Javierg]

@Jorge Lardone

I have seen the very same poll in french and international forums (www.f1-live.com, let´s have a look) and you have the very same result everywhere, and there are no spanish voters.

Well, only one (me!)

[Anon (THE REAL ONE!)]

Does anyone agree with me that a medal-system instead of a point system is one HORRIBLE idea!

How RIDICULOUS is that? F1-Live are saying it might happen!

It SUCKS!

1.) It would make run-away championsips even more uneven. Kimi in '03 would never have been able to challenge Schumi on the gold medal system. Felipe would be champ now. And the resuls of '05 an '06 would come down to second places, even though they were won with substantial margins, and '06 was exciting anyway.
2.) Under that system, DC beat Webber this year. ANd Glock beat Trulli. ANd Nelson led Fernando for a while.
3.) IF YOU WANT PEOPLE TO GO FOR WINS, MAKE A WIN GO FROM 10 POINTS TO FIFTEEN. NOW THAT HARD!!!!!!

If they do that, I'll quit watching F1. I love reading on the official website the results of the drivers and the points they get. Reading "bronze-silver-gold" isn't cool.

So no. Not to mention that teams like Force India can quit, they have no chance to make podium.

Retarded idea. Fire Bernie fast. I hope F1-Live are totally wrong about it.

Anybody disagree/agree?

[higgs]

ANON

It is most likely that Bernie is having a laugh. (I hope that is the case!)

[Mathias]

These debates are good because they allow us to vote and voice our opinions, but how do you measure 'the best driver'? In my world the best is measured by finishing at the top of the pile. Finish as number one and you are the best, obviously not that's not the case to most of you voters!! Interesting

[Anon (THE REAL ONE!)]

Higgs: hope you're right, in which case Bernie and I have very different senses of humor...

[Oliver]

I agree. Alonso, Hamilton and Massa are the masters.

Have a nice winter, Mr. Gorman. See you all next season.

[james b]

Hi Anon,

I have seen some of the articles and I have to say I am actually in favour of the idea of attemping to put more of an emphasis on Race wins. I am not sure about the medal ideas as I feel that seems rather tacky!

I do agree that the new system has made the championship battle more entertaining but I feel it has diminished the value of a race win. This to me though is the whole point of racing and when I saw Hamilton being criticised for Spa and then not racing in Valencia or Singapore or Brazil because he had to think of the championship I was saddened.

I do think that the current system does allow for more competiive driving down the field. I would be cautious to do away with a system that encourages battles for 8th place so I would propose a scoring system of 12-8-6-5-4-3-2-1

[higgs]

Off topic, but there isn't much going on at the moment.

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/b72de65e-b4c4-11dd-b780-0000779fd18c.html

[Teleko]

I agree about Alonso is just the best and there shouldn't be any doubt about it, ant it seems that British thing the same(I'm Spanish)

[Javier]

Please, don't listen to the Spanish guys who posted here, they are full of resenfulness and can't even write in English properly.

A Spaniard.

[hammie duckson]

When driving idetical cars for Mcclaren, Hamilton proved the better driver, but when Alonso is driiving an inferior car, he is voted the better driver. Something is afoot.

[Verbal]

Hi Ed,
I thoought during this winter season, when only the solitary F1 engine can be heard here and there and the lakes are frozen, keeping your maiden on her moorings maybe you could find out for us where one can aquire some dvds of all the F1 races since 1990 ???
much appreciated

[Pinaster]

Hammie, you dont get, do you?
Hamilton just proved the Rons privileged.
Guess who was the left out and who paid the bill.

[Giuzeppe]

Agree with the top spot, but I would have placed Kubica second!

[egc]

@rafa, Rafael..........
I would like to read the english-speaking people posting on spanish forums....
Cheers.

[Arthur]

Alonso is the best. There is NO other driver that can wear his OLD shoes! Only reason Hamilton looked good last season, was becoz Alonso set the cars up, & Ron carried it forward this season! Alonso will be the next World Champ again next year. Lewis in turn will have a 'Kimmi 2008' type season!
Go Alonso!

[Isambard Kingdom]

So if ,say Carlos Ghosn, head of Nissan were to say , 'invite' the F1 drivers to take part in a warm-up race with stock Nissan Gtrs (remember the BMW M1s?) ,on the day before the race ..which would get the most TV spectators do you think. The winner gets to keep the car .No medals . No points .Maybe a hot date , or two?:)

[chris reader]

hamilton humiliated alonso in his rookie year, he inherited a couple of races this year. itv kept stating that alonso was the best driver on the grid, this has influenced the vote. if judging by kov'linen's results, it seems clear that hamilton in a ferrari would have demolished the field.

[Sancho Panza]

Gazzetta dello Sport
Sunday 28th December 2008

'Fernando Alonso has signed a deal with Ferrari from 2011 til 2014.
As the first driver'
http://www.gazzetta.it/Motori/Formula1/

Just thought some of you might be interested.

Happy New Year everyone.

[Ivan C.]

Hi ED, I am not surprised at all that you are surprised by this result, indeed, the Champion had the title to back him up, and let's face it, you do not like Fernando all that much since he mentioned his tyres surprisingly had different pressures...

Nevertheless, looking at the results of the season, on ho weach car has performed, we cannot scape to perceive that, one of the yellow cars, was significantly quicker this season, and that the hands directing its wheels were from that Spaniard who basically clashes with the modern term for hipocresy, "Political Correctness". i sometimes wonder, how is this? You cannot say I am a hipocrit, but can perfectl say I am politically correct... I guess it selfs define.

Hamilton is the reigning champion, a good champion he is too, he did keep his cool under circumstances other human would have collapsed (himself a year earlier) and is, the youngest ever champion in History, something not easy to achieve.

Putting this into perspective, we need to note, Hamilton started his career on one of the 4 quickest cars of the grid, and even counted with full support of his box, when sharing it with the reigning world champion at the time (F.A.) not only this, but, that despicable Spaniard who have been thrashed, by the media. Won his title against Shumi 7 times world Cahmp, while driving a Renault, instead of against Massa.

On a final note, only to highlight the pain inflicted in the media to Spanish People. Based in mistraslation lack of researh and stereotyping. I still remember when in Euro 96 English Media talked about Spanish women having moustach, only because we played footie against the English Team.

Be Political Correct, as much as you want, but, do not try to distract us, by this perfect term, what it really stands for is hipocresy.

[Sam]

Let me start by stating I have been living in Madrid Spain for the better part of the last 15 years and I think that qualify me in giving an opinion on this Fernando Alonso, Lewis Hamilton and the Spanish people/media debate. First while those of you who claim the honorable intentions of the Spanish people/media in respect to Lewis Hamilton you obviously don't pay attention to your own culture and media. I have never witness such unwarranted hatered and vitrol toward a sport figure by a society and its media that is currently pulsing through Spain against Lewis Hamilton. Fernando Alonso left McClaren over a year ago and still the bias against Lewis continues. Don't believe me pick up any newspaper that has an article on F1, Fernando Alonso and it will have something in it to slack off Lewis Hamilton. I have asked friends about it and they cannot give a real reason for the apathy. They just do like Lewis Hamilton. Printed media, talk radio, you name it whatever the media, it is the same theme anti Lewis Hamiton. To get to the point the person responsable for this is Fernando Alonso. He is the person that gives life to these stories and attitudes. I have never seen a sport figure that solicits unwarranted sympathy as this guy. I hope he goes to Ferrari and they give him 6 Driver titles just so he'll stop crying. The Spanish media give them credit they know how to beat a dead horse to death. Same theme, same topic over and over again. It seems they print it so it must be true and the British media follow lock in step reporting it. Fernando Alonso personally I don't get the fuss. He won 2 driver titles and now he is the best driver in the world. The arguement goes he did it in a Renault well if I remember correctly the Renault for the first title was illegal and everyone knew it. For the second title having removed the illegal part, the Renault barely won only after a Ferrari mechnical failure something that had not happen in more than 3 years. So please put things in perspective with this guy, Lewis Hamilton I am sure has his faults but no sport figure has ever acted out like Fernando Alonso and gotten a pass for his behavior. Think about it he went to McClaren and just could not handle the pressure of the home grown boy in Lewis Hamilton. Of course there was going to be bias toward Hamiton, he started in McClaren as a kid but instead of being a champion Alonso acted like a coward. He should have stayed at McClaren and beat Lewis Hamiton in spite of things that is the only way this saga should have played out. No, he threaten his own team with blackmail and he gets a pass. A true champion should always be that because at the time he represented the best of F1. The spanish media/people cultivate this perception of the wounded champion unfairly treated and Fernando Alonso allows this perception to grow. That is the problem a lot of people have with him and the Spanish media/culture on the subject of Fernando Alonso and F1.

[Sancho Panza]

Well said Sam!
You certainly sound no biased at all.
Maybe you should try to live another fifteen years in the UK and afterwards give us another unbiased point of view.
Happy New Year.

[Oliver]

Happy new year, everybody!

[pinaster]

Ivan, sorry, I didnt get you right in the first time.

[The Catalan]

It's funny to see some spanish people embarassed for their english level.Don't worry people,I'm sure the britons will have a few more problems with their spanish writing in spanish media.The few of them who can write it.I'm used to see some simple issues,which could be resolved with a little common sense,becoming hard just because they come from another country,and then begin the dialectic about us vs. them.This happened with both english and spanish people.Stupid and ignorant comments by many of them,a little hatred,a few lies...the usual.Our instincts tell us to defend 'our people' when they are attacked by foreigners,being right or not.That's what happened with this hatred pushed by brit and spanish media,talking ill things about the foreign driver and his contrymen.Spanish and brits accusing each other of racism,unfair play...nothing new under the sun. Well,Fernando is the Best for me,no one could do the same as him.Many people think his car was sabbotaged by the mclaren team to allow LH to be always in front of him.RD made it clear,'racing fernando' and not the team's rivals.For me it's fun to see some english media giving for granted that LH will achieve Schumi's championship record,and still beat it.As they say,don't sell bear's skin before hunting it.Next year we will probably see the Asturian winning his third championship.

Alonso you are the best

[pinaster]

Sam, dont think of yourself more highly than you ought to. I dont know what you mean with "living in Madrid Spain for the better part of the last 15 years and I think that qualify me in giving an opinion", but for sure you dont mean "impartiality", "equanimity" "unbiased", "fairness", "sound judgment", and "discernment". I suppose that the reason is that you have being "living in Madrid Spain for the better part of the last 15 years" sorrounded by people of your own kind. It is natural, dont take me wrong, nothing wrong with choosing your friends. But reading words like "biased", "perspective", "cowardice" and "culture" is the joke of the century. You should have published it 3 days ago (Holy Innocents), or in April Fools' Day.
Have a good day, and please accept advice: change you reading material, your friends, or both. In addition to the foerigners that have being living here for the best part of some years, even in Spain live some intelligent people.

[John Fisher]

We desire to watch racing drivers - that is why we respect the best 'racing' driver - Hamilton. He'd have won the championship in his first year, if his car hadn't had a 'strange' software problem. His winning would have upset a large number of average F1 drivers.

[terrie cairnes]

Heikki Kovalainen should definitely be high on the list. He finished seventh in the drivers standings and did a great job. He is one of the most underrated drivers and i think we are going to see this star shine even more in 2009.
Terrie

[Josua Cleator]

Hello,

Fernando is the best of the year due to thing he achieve. Talking about driving is the best. It's not the best talking about team. The best driver-team is the world champion, Lewis-Mclaren, but remember that he win it in the last race and last 10 seconds, he hasn't been a killing champion, only a lucky strike one.

[adam]

The team principles have voted Hamilton the best driver of 2008 in the Autosport poll.
He also won the ING Worldwide driver popularity poll. Alonso was a distant fourth.

[Roger Carr]

"...in that part of New York where the gentle western edge of the Village flakes off into silent waterfront warehouses,"

Cool, Ed! Thank you... as the sounds of the cars at Albert Park seep into my study through this hazy, autumn air, and the words above say, hey! maybe you should get back to that novel parked on the desktop.