Credit; Wikipedia, Dirk Goldhahn
The 2012 Formula 1 season has been exceptionally entertaining, with seven different winners in the first seven races. When F1 arrives at Germany’s picturesque Hockenheim circuit this weekend, huge crowds of spectators will gather for what should be an entertaining race in an unpredictable season.
Hockenheim F1 Drivers and Teams
Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso goes into the race as the leading driver, currently on 129 points and he will be hoping for victory at the Hockenheimring, following wins at the European and Malaysian Grand Prix’s. Mark Webber driving for Red Bull Racing-Renault, won the last F1 race at Silverstone UK and is currently in second place on the drivers table with 116 points. Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel, the reigning world champion has seen a redesigned car increase his pace at the European Grand Prix in Valencia, Spain and is amongst the race favourites.
McLaren-Mercedes former world champion, Lewis Hamilton and teammate Jensen Button should also feature at the head of the race if car problems in earlier races can be eliminated. The improving Lotus-Renault team, who have featured regularly on the podium in 2012 will be hoping former world champion Kimi Raikkonen and Romain Grosjean can challenge for victory.
Two practice sessions take place on Friday 20 July, the third practice and qualifying race then takes place on Saturday 21 July, followed by the actual race at 1pm on Sunday 22 July (UK time).
Grand Prix Spectators
Former World Champion Michael Schumacher’s fans usually show strong support throughout the race weekend, with many joining those who choose to camp in the forest around the Hockenheim track. Situated in the south western region of Germany, accommodation options for spectators include camping, or traveling to hotels in nearby towns, including Speyer and Heidelberg.
History of the German Grand Prix
Formula 1 racing dates back to 1970s at Hockenheim, the German Grand Prix alternates yearly between the Hockenheimring and German’s other great race track, the Nurburgring. Originally built as a test track for Mercedes-Benz with two long straights and two sweeping bends, the Hockenheim track has been redesigned throughout its history. Long straight areas of track through the surrounding forest have been eliminated, slowing the track, but increasing visibility for spectators.
Hockenheim Track Information
Originally built in 1939 stretched over eight kilometers, or five miles. Reductions in the length of the track now see a track length of 4.574 kilometers, 2.8 miles. 2012s race is scheduled for 67 laps, a total race distance of 306.458 kilometers, 190.424 miles. Finland’s Kimi Raikkonen holds the record for the fastest lap of 1:13.780 set in 2004.
Photo credit; Wikipedia
