I have just returned from the last pre season Formula 1 test in Barcelona where this year's gladiators have been sizing each other up for one last time before being unleashed into the arena of Albert Park. It's a lovely time to be at the Catalan circuit. The low winter sun creates an amphitheater of silhouettes and shadows. The kind of light photographers revel in...

It was the first time that I have seen this year's cars in their 2009 spec. Over the winter break testing photos have shown the front wings to resemble snow ploughs. I'm still not convinced with this part of the cars, but the rest works for me. The smooth lines and uncluttered bodywork making up for the ugly front wing.

It seems that McLaren are struggling to repeat the performance of last year's car, finding it hard to put the power down coming out of Barcelona's cold winter corners. I'm sure they will not stay there for long...

After talking with one of the top team's chief engineers it seems that the likes of Toyota, Williams, Red Bull and Renault are closely matched which will hopefully translate to an exciting first race down under.

Brawn GP have arrived and seem to be on the pace which is great for the championship. The more competitive teams there are, the more interesting the year will be, which is all good for Formula 1.

Within the next two weeks the first race weekend of the 2009 Formula 1 World Championship will be in full swing in Melbourne, Australia. I for one cannot wait...

To view images from the test please use the link in the Formula 1 section of the website.

posted on 14th March 2009 09:00amview comments (3)leave a comment