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	<title>Motor Sport MagazineMotor Sport Magazine  &#187; BBC</title>
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	<link>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com</link>
	<description>The original motor racing magazine</description>
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		<title>Magic of the Nürburgring</title>
		<link>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/race/sports-cars/magic-of-the-nurburgring/</link>
		<comments>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/race/sports-cars/magic-of-the-nurburgring/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 25 Aug 2011 11:34:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Damien Smith</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Editorial]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sports Cars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Allan McNish]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Audi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Audi quattro rooms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[BBC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bill Boddy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Brooklands]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Brooklands Museum]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Clive Richardson]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Damien Smith]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Damon Cogman]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dan Wheldon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dindo Capello]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Howden ‘H’ Haynes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Indy 500]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jacky Ickx]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jo Ramirez]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Karussel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Le Mans 24 Hours]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Leena Gade]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lola T70 Spyder]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[McLaren M1B]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nigel Roebuck]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nordschleife]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nurburgring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Peugeot]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[R18]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Senna]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Simon Taylor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sky]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Steilstrecke]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tom Kristensen]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[track test]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tribute Day]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Truth in 24]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vic Elford]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/?p=15273</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/race/sports-cars/magic-of-the-nurburgring/">Magic of the Nürburgring</a></p><p>It was just after midnight on a Saturday back in June when art editor Damon Cogman and I stood up ...</p></p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com">Motor Sport Magazine - The original motor racing magazine</a></p>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/race/sports-cars/magic-of-the-nurburgring/">Magic of the Nürburgring</a></p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/1802.jpg"><img class="align left size-full wp-image-15276" title="1802" src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/1802.jpg" alt="from the editor Magic of the Nürburgring" width="300" height="181" /></a>It was just after midnight on a Saturday back in June when art editor Damon Cogman and I stood up on the steep hill that looks down on Steilstrecke, the right-hander that precedes the short blast into the famous Karussel hairpin. We were panting a little, having pushed our bikes up the grassy slope, but as we took a breather and turned to look down on the track, we knew the effort had been worth it. The magnificence of the Nordschleife, at night, during the madcap annual 24 Hours, is something to behold.</p>
<p>Memories of that night – complete with the fireworks, the higgledy-piggledy campsites, the heady aroma of beer and barbecues, the drunken Germans in various states of dishevelment – will always stick with me. And they came flooding back once again when we chose the cover shot for the October issue, taken 40-odd years earlier from exactly the same place on that hillside. Out here, away from the modern Grand Prix circuit, the Nürburgring hasn’t changed at all.</p>
<p>The trip to the 24 Hours was intended to offer some inspiration for this latest issue of the magazine. Well, that was the excuse anyway. In reality, you don’t need to go there to feel the spirit of the place. The glorious photographs from the archives and the heroic – and often mentally unhinged – stories the circuit has thrown up over the years catch the imagination every time. With the help of Vic Elford, who gives us his guide to the great track, we hope we’ve tapped into that magic in the October issue.</p>
<p>Fittingly, given that some of his greatest days behind the wheel came at the ’Ring, Jacky Ickx joins Simon Taylor for lunch this month. Simon has been chasing Jacky to add to his roster of interviews for years. Each time he spoke to Jacky, the urbane Belgian would always reply politely that he’d be delighted to meet Simon for lunch – but tying him down to a date and place proved challenging.</p>
<p>Fortunately, Simon is persistent! Eventually, Jacky invited him to his wonderful home for a lunch cooked by his wife. We always knew this one would be worth the wait, and so it has proved.</p>
<p>Other highlights of the issue include a fantastic McLaren M1B vs Lola T70 Spyder track test, a revealing interview with Indy 500 winner Dan Wheldon and Nigel Roebuck’s insightful view of the Sky/BBC deal for Formula 1 TV coverage in 2012.</p>
<p>Looking ahead, we’re delighted to reveal details of our next reader evening. Following our highly enjoyable viewing of the <em>Senna</em> film in the company of Jo Ramirez earlier in the year, this time we’re delving into the sports car world – and for me, this one is extra special.</p>
<p><em>Truth in 24</em> is a fly-on-the-wall documentary following Audi’s successful attempt to win the Le Mans 24 Hours in 2008, in the face of a strong challenge from Peugeot. The film, which was never commercially released in the UK, is obviously a few years old now, but Nigel Roebuck and I only saw it for the first time earlier this year. We were both blown away by the film.</p>
<p>As an insight into life within a modern racing team, I’ve never seen anything as good as this. It shows the oh-so-human side of the Audi racing machine that is usually hidden from view behind the sheen of perfection they like to project. Personally, I think it’s at least a match for <em>Senna</em> as a must-see racing film.</p>
<p>Readers will watch the documentary in the company of Audi’s star drivers Tom Kristensen and Allan McNish, plus race engineers Howden ‘H’ Haynes and Leena Gade. ‘H’ ran Tom, Allan and Dindo Capello’s car to victory in that ’08 race and steals the show in <em>Truth in 24</em>, as we follow his story from the pitwall (I won’t give any more away here…). Leena was ‘H’’s number two back in ’08, but has stepped up since then and engineered the winning R18 in this year’s 24 Hours at La Sarthe.</p>
<p>The quartet will join Nigel Roebuck and I after the film for what promises to be an entertaining forum, as we discuss all things Le Mans and gain further insight into what it’s like to live and race within the crack Audi team. We will, of course, open up the discussion to the floor to take any questions the audience might want to ask.</p>
<p>The event takes place on Saturday October 8 at the stunning Audi quattro rooms, just off the A4 in London. Tickets cost £145, although there is a special price for subscribers of £125 – that’s a 14 per cent discount.</p>
<p>To book, call the office on 020 7349 8472 or e-mail at <a href="mailto:readersevents@motorsportmagazine.co.uk">readersevents@motorsportmagazine.co.uk</a>. If you are not a subscriber, you will be eligible for the special price if you take out a subscription when you book tickets.</p>
<p>The readers’ evening, run in association with Audi UK, will offer a golden opportunity to meet two legends of sports car racing in a fabulous setting. It should be a great evening.</p>
<p>A week earlier, on Saturday October 1, you can also join us at Brooklands for the Bill Boddy Tribute Day. The event, organised by former deputy editor Clive Richardson and the Brooklands Museum, will bring together a collection of cars associated with WB’s life and career, plus some special guests, too. What better place to honour our late founder editor? For a discounted admission price for magazine readers, e-mail <a href="mailto:info@motorsportmagazine.co.uk">info@motorsportmagazine.co.uk</a></p>
<p>I hope to see you at either – or even both – events.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com">Motor Sport Magazine - The original motor racing magazine</a></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>27</slash:comments>
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		<title>The week in motor sport (01/08/2011)</title>
		<link>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/video-the-week-in-motor-sport-01082011/</link>
		<comments>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/video-the-week-in-motor-sport-01082011/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 02 Aug 2011 11:35:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ed Foster</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Formula 1]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[BBC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ed Foster]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ferrari]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hungarian Grand Prix]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jenson Button]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lewis Hamilton]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[McLaren]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Red Bull]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rob Widdows]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sky]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/?p=15096</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/video-the-week-in-motor-sport-01082011/">The week in motor sport (01/08/2011)</a></p><p>Welcome to another &#8216;week in motor sport&#8217;. There was plenty to talk about this week and I sat down with ...</p></p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com">Motor Sport Magazine - The original motor racing magazine</a></p>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/video-the-week-in-motor-sport-01082011/">The week in motor sport (01/08/2011)</a></p><p>Welcome to another &#8216;week in motor sport&#8217;. There was plenty to talk about this week and I sat down with features editor Rob Widdows to mull over the Hungarian Grand Prix and the news of new deal with Formula 1, Sky and the BBC.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Picture-1.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15097" title="Picture-1" src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Picture-1.jpg" alt="f1 The week in motor sport (01/08/2011)" width="300" height="168" /></a></p>
<p>I am sorry that we&#8217;re back to our usual editing quality, but we&#8217;re in the process of finding a budget and hope to return to the professional format as soon as possible!</p>
<p>As always, let us know what you think about everything we discuss.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/video-the-week-in-motor-sport-01082011/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p>
<p>Or, if you&#8217;d like to download it&#8230;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com">Motor Sport Magazine - The original motor racing magazine</a></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>32</slash:comments>
<enclosure url="http://podcast.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/2011/08/Week_in_motor_sport_01-08-11.m4v" length="163086697" type="video/x-m4v" />
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		<item>
		<title>BBC and Sky to share F1</title>
		<link>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/bbc-and-sky-to-share-f1/</link>
		<comments>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/bbc-and-sky-to-share-f1/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 29 Jul 2011 13:26:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Web Editor</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Formula 1]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[BBC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sky]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/?p=15058</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/bbc-and-sky-to-share-f1/">BBC and Sky to share F1</a></p><p>As I’m sure many of you have heard, this morning it was announced that coverage of Formula 1 from 2012-2018 ...</p></p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com">Motor Sport Magazine - The original motor racing magazine</a></p>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/bbc-and-sky-to-share-f1/">BBC and Sky to share F1</a></p><p>As I’m sure many of you have heard, this morning it was announced that coverage of Formula 1 from 2012-2018 would be shared between the BBC and Sky. The BBC will air half the races, while Sky Sports will show all the practice sessions as well as qualifying and all the races.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/X5J0946.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-15059" title="_X5J0946" src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/X5J0946.jpg" alt="events BBC and Sky to share F1" width="300" height="200" /></a></p>
<p>This is obviously sad news as the BBC coverage has been fantastic from start to finish. However, the bigger news is the cost for F1 fans. In the Concorde Agreement it says that Formula 1 must be free to view, but I wonder whether Sky can bypass that by not making the coverage <em>pay-per-view</em>.</p>
<p>But, and this is the bad news, even if the coverage is free you still need Sky – something I do not have in my prehistoric house. A quick bit of research and I have found out the following…</p>
<p>First, I need to buy a Sky box and get that installed. This is something I can thankfully do as I can install a dish on my roof. Many people can’t because of planning restrictions. Once I’ve done that I then need to pay for the monthly sports package and that will cost, at the very least, £480 a year.</p>
<p>Of course, more news will emerge soon on how this will all work, so I am not writing off the money yet. However, this is a <em>very</em> big step for a sport that relies entirely on sponsorship and therefore viewing figures around the globe.</p>
<p>We all know how much it costs to cover Grand Prix racing and we understand that the BBC needs to cut costs. The other day, though, I read a piece in one of the broadsheets that said, ‘the BBC sent over 50 people to cover the Olympic Games ceremony while Sky managed to get away with only 11’. Something doesn’t quite add up here.</p>
<p>What are your thoughts? Will you still be watching Formula 1 on Sky?</p>
<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com">Motor Sport Magazine - The original motor racing magazine</a></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>118</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>The week in motor sport (21/06/2011)</title>
		<link>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/video-the-week-in-motor-sport/</link>
		<comments>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/video-the-week-in-motor-sport/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 21 Jun 2011 16:33:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ed Foster</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Formula 1]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[BBC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bernie Ecclestone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Citroen]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Damien Smith]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dario Franchitti]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ed Foster]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Helio Castroneves]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jenson Button]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lewis Hamilton]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[McLaren]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Red Bull]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sebastien Loeb]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sébastien Ogier]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Will Power]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[WRC]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/?p=14613</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/video-the-week-in-motor-sport/">The week in motor sport (21/06/2011)</a></p><p>Another week, and another &#8216;week in motor sport&#8217;! This time I sit down with editor Damien Smith – despite the ...</p></p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com">Motor Sport Magazine - The original motor racing magazine</a></p>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/video-the-week-in-motor-sport/">The week in motor sport (21/06/2011)</a></p><p>Another week, and another &#8216;week in motor sport&#8217;! This time I sit down with editor Damien Smith – despite the fact that the magazine is on deadline – and chat about possible driver movements in the McLaren camp, the possibility of the BBC dropping Formula 1, the situation at Citroen in the WRC and Dario Franchitti&#8217;s run of form in the IndyCar Series.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Picture-1.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-14614" title="Picture-1" src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Picture-1.jpg" alt="f1 The week in motor sport (21/06/2011)" width="300" height="169" /></a></p>
<p>We are creating an audio file at the moment so if you don&#8217;t want to watch it, just download that on Wednesday 22nd&#8230;</p>
<p>As always though – let us know what you think about all the news.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/video-the-week-in-motor-sport/"><em>Click here to view the embedded video.</em></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com">Motor Sport Magazine - The original motor racing magazine</a></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>14</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>How the BBC will tackle F1</title>
		<link>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/how-the-bbc-will-tackle-f1/</link>
		<comments>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/how-the-bbc-will-tackle-f1/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2009 08:07:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Damien Smith</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Formula 1]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Anthony Davidson]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[BBC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[David Coulthard]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Eddie Jordan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jake Humphrey]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jonathan Legard]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lee McKenzie]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mark Wilkin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Martin Brundle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Murray Walker]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ted Kravitz]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/?p=3287</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/how-the-bbc-will-tackle-f1/">How the BBC will tackle F1</a></p><p>When it was announced at the Malaysian Grand Prix last year that the BBC would be taking over the UK ...</p></p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com">Motor Sport Magazine - The original motor racing magazine</a></p>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/how-the-bbc-will-tackle-f1/">How the BBC will tackle F1</a></p><p>When it was announced at the Malaysian Grand Prix last year that the BBC would be taking over the UK broadcasting rights for Formula 1 in 2009, there was an overwhelmingly positive response from both the public and paddock insiders. After 12 years of hard work, that reaction must have hurt the ITV team deeply, but the general belief was that not only would it mean an end to those pesky ad breaks, the BBC would also do a better job – and this week the Beeb revealed exactly why that perception looks certain to become reality.</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-3288" title="vi5l0272" src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/vi5l0272.jpg" alt="f1 How the BBC will tackle F1" width="300" height="200" /></p>
<p>In a press conference in White City this week, the broadcaster welcomed the media to meet its F1 team and explained how it plans to offer a new level of service that will revolutionise the way most of us watch Grands Prix.</p>
<p>Senior producer Mark Wilkin, who has editorial control of GP coverage across all BBC media, revealed that 200 hours of F1 will be broadcast this year. Qualifying and the races will be live on BBC1 (repeated later in the day for those with an early start), plus there will be a one-hour highlights package shown on BBC3 at 7pm on the evening of all races except for Brazil. So far, so ITV.</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-3289" title="img_1395" src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/img_1395.jpg" alt="f1 How the BBC will tackle F1" width="300" height="200" /></p>
<p>But it is the BBC’s ‘Red Button’ option that has really opened up the opportunities to give a greater depth of coverage.</p>
<p>All practice sessions, including those on Friday, will be shown live via the Red Button service, with commentary coming from Radio 5 Live. On race day you will be able to choose from the TV commentary or the radio equivalent, while split-screen options including on-car footage and a leaderboard will also be available.</p>
<p>An hour of analysis will be shown via the Red Button after the main network coverage of the race ends, all of which will be backed up by a wide-ranging service on the BBC’s hugely popular website.</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-3290" title="_i4v5899" src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/_i4v5899.jpg" alt="f1 How the BBC will tackle F1" width="300" height="200" /></p>
<p>Online, we can look forward to live video streaming of all on-track action, leaderboards, live text commentary and various interactive options. Extra coverage will include an ‘F1 mole’ diary-type blog and features with commentary legend Murray Walker, who is returning to his spiritual home this year to bolster the BBC’s line-up.</p>
<p>And if you miss a weekend’s action, the BBC’s popular iPlayer option will allow you to catch up for seven days after the race.</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-3291" title="_mg_6374" src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/_mg_6374.jpg" alt="f1 How the BBC will tackle F1" width="300" height="200" /></p>
<p>Wilkin explained that the BBC must “de-mystify F1” for its mass audience, but with so much coverage on offer the die-hard fans who read magazines such as <em>Motor Sport</em> should also be satisfied.</p>
<p>The broadcasting team, who all attended the press conference, has been known for months now. But here’s a rundown once again: the main commentators will be Jonathan Legard and Martin Brundle, news from the pit and paddock will come from Lee McKenzie and Ted Kravitz, and anchorman Jake Humphrey will have the job of marshalling outspoken pundits David Coulthard and Eddie Jordan. Additionally, out-of-work driver Anthony Davidson will join David Croft in the 5 Live commentary box.</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-3293" title="_h0y2159" src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/_h0y2159.jpg" alt="f1 How the BBC will tackle F1" width="300" height="200" /></p>
<p>Oh yes, and they will be using Fleetwood Mac’s <em>The Chain</em> as the theme tune – and it won’t be re-mixed or ruined in any way!</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-3292" title="05ausport_35" src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/05ausport_35-198x300.jpg" alt="f1 How the BBC will tackle F1" width="198" height="300" /></p>
<p>But some of the biggest questions remain unanswered. For example, how will we be informed when the drivers are using their KERS power boost and trimming their wings each lap, new innovations in 2009 to improve the racing spectacle? Legard and Brundle admitted they’re asking themselves exactly the same questions.</p>
<p>Perhaps they’ll get their answer from the Formula One Teams Association, which has been discussing ways to make the sport more accessible. Expect details of how F1 could finally do itself a favour this year and open up to the fans in a FOTA press conference scheduled for March 5 in Geneva. It should be great news for all of us.</p>
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		<title>Calling all young mechanics</title>
		<link>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/miscellaneous/calling-all-young-mechanics/</link>
		<comments>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/miscellaneous/calling-all-young-mechanics/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2009 13:14:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ed Foster</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[BBC]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/?p=3182</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/miscellaneous/calling-all-young-mechanics/">Calling all young mechanics</a></p><p>X Factor, Flop Idol, Britain’s Struggling to Show Any Talent and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Oliver have taken the nation by ...</p></p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com">Motor Sport Magazine - The original motor racing magazine</a></p>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/miscellaneous/calling-all-young-mechanics/">Calling all young mechanics</a></p><p><em>X Factor</em>, <em>Flop Idol</em>, <em>Britain’s Struggling to Show Any Talent </em>and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s <em>Oliver</em> have taken the nation by storm and in return, the nation has taken their winners into their hearts. Well some of them anyway.</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-3183" title="lat200810240313" src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/lat200810240313.jpg" alt=" Calling all young mechanics" width="300" height="200" /></p>
<p>However, what happens if you don’t have a talent that’s worth a multi-million pound record deal? Well, you strut your stuff in front of the <em>Britain’s Got ‘Talent’</em> judges I suppose, but even then you either have to be an opera singer, amateur knife thrower or a man with a puppet monkey. What happens if you’re a mechanic? It would be an uphill struggle to capture the imagination of the audience, let alone the judges, while explaining that the ignition needed to be retarded.</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-3184" title="03_wallpaper_1_1280x960" src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/03_wallpaper_1_1280x960.jpg" alt=" Calling all young mechanics" width="300" height="225" /></p>
<p>So to fill this gap in the market, BBC Three has launched a new series called <em>Young Talent of the Year</em>. Dubbed ‘Chop Idol’, the show wants to celebrate our country’s young, unsung heroes whether they are a young chef, hairdresser, butcher or mechanic.</p>
<p>So the search has begun – if you know of a young (16-25 apparently) mechanic that you feel deserves some recognition then get in touch with the BBC by emailing <a href="mailto:youngtalent@bbc.co.uk">youngtalent@bbc.co.uk</a> and asking for an entry form or by posting a SAE to the Casting Team, BBC TVC, Room 3136, Wood Lane, London, W12 7RJ. Alternatively you can call 03700 101 616 (calls cost no more than calls to 01/02 geographic numbers although calls from mobiles may vary). Closing date is March 15.</p>
<p>It’s about time mechanics were given some recognition of their tireless work, whether it be in the pits or the garage.</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-3185" title="image" src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/image.jpg" alt=" Calling all young mechanics" width="300" height="49" /></p>
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		<title>The Beeb&#8217;s new team</title>
		<link>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/miscellaneous/the-beebs-new-team/</link>
		<comments>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/miscellaneous/the-beebs-new-team/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 28 Nov 2008 09:40:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Rob Widdows</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[BBC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[David Coulthard]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Eddie Jordan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Martin Brundle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Murray Walker]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/?p=2336</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/miscellaneous/the-beebs-new-team/">The Beeb&#8217;s new team</a></p><p>All we seem to hear about, as we head into winter, is recession, downturn, crisis and imminent Armageddon. Come on, ...</p></p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com">Motor Sport Magazine - The original motor racing magazine</a></p>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/miscellaneous/the-beebs-new-team/">The Beeb&#8217;s new team</a></p><p>All we seem to hear about, as we head into winter, is recession, downturn, crisis and imminent Armageddon. Come on, there must be some good news. Well, there is, and here it is.</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-2337" title="murray01" src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/murray01.jpg" alt=" The Beebs new team" width="300" height="210" /></p>
<p>Martin Brundle has joined the British Broadcasting Corporation’s team that will cover Grand Prix racing for the next five years. Alright, this is not exactly new news, but it is most certainly good news. Brundle is one of the many reasons for watching Grand Prix racing on the television.</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-2338" title="img_8619" src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/img_8619.jpg" alt=" The Beebs new team" width="300" height="200" /></p>
<p>And there’s more. The BBC team will also include David Coulthard, Eddie Jordan and… yes, good old Murray Walker. All three, in their very different ways, will bring insight, controversy and humour to the coverage next season. DC and EJ will be on board as expert observers while Muddly Talker will communicate with the audience via the worldwide web, answering questions and no doubt venting a few opinions.</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-2339" title="img_1395" src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/img_1395.jpg" alt=" The Beebs new team" width="300" height="200" /></p>
<p>There have long been whispers that Martin Brundle had become disillusioned with all the politics and shenanigans that infest the modern F1 paddock. Maybe he had, and certainly his relationship with the FIA has, on occasion, become a little frosty. But good sense has prevailed and the man who stepped from the cockpit into the commentary box will continue to entertain us with his no-nonsense approach to the business of motor racing on TV. Let’s hope he starts the new season in the pithiest possible form with all the humour, honesty and expertise that we know he can throw at us on a Sunday afternoon. We don’t yet know if there will be the right chemistry with race commentator Jonathan Legard but Brundle must be allowed the space to do his thing. His grid walks for the ITV coverage were a joy to watch – it is much more difficult than it looks to ‘door-step’ folk on the grid just minutes before the start of a race.</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-2340" title="3q6b3128" src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/3q6b3128.jpg" alt=" The Beebs new team" width="300" height="200" /></p>
<p>David Coulthard will, I believe, surprise many people with his broadcasting skills. His easy manner, quick wit and intelligence, not to mention his very recent experience in the car, will add a new dimension. As for EJ, well, the only surprise will come if he is not his usual self – that is over the top, controversial and straight down the line. And, if I’m not very much mistaken, the amazing Murray Walker will be well worth reading as he taps into the BBC F1 website. The man is so damn enthusiastic and energetic at a time of life when most of us might be lifting off just a little.</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-2341" title="dsc_5358" src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/dsc_5358.jpg" alt=" The Beebs new team" width="300" height="199" /></p>
<p>So, yes, you can probably tell that I like the look of the new team. I am qualified, I think, to pre-judge this new era, having spent 25 years of my life in the business of making TV programmes. ITV did a good job, brought some new ideas, and the advertising breaks allowed time to make a cup of tea, fetch a beer, or whatever. The BBC will have to work hard to bring a new dimension. Steve Rider, a consummate professional in front of camera, thinks the Beeb will do a very good job. He should know, having worked for the Corporation for many, many years.</p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-2342" title="_h0y7162" src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/_h0y7162.jpg" alt=" The Beebs new team" width="300" height="200" /></p>
<p>And finally, as they say, let’s have more pits-to-car radio, more insight into those all-important tactics and more of that new helmet camera that we saw in Brazil this year. The trick, with sport on TV, is to take the viewers inside the fence, lead them right in there, amongst the noise, the brake dust, the muck and bullets. You can’t beat being there but it’s the next best thing.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com">Motor Sport Magazine - The original motor racing magazine</a></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Taking care of business</title>
		<link>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/race/events/taking-care-of-business/</link>
		<comments>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/race/events/taking-care-of-business/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 01 Apr 2008 09:00:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Rob Widdows</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Aston Martin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bahrain]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[BBC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Honda]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jaguar]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Magazine]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Manchester United]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Subaru]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[<p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/race/events/taking-care-of-business/">Taking care of business</a></p><p>Firstly, the news that the BBC has captured the TV contract for Grand Prix racing inspired the biggest response to ...</p></p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com">Motor Sport Magazine - The original motor racing magazine</a></p>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/race/events/taking-care-of-business/">Taking care of business</a></p><p>Firstly, the news that the BBC has captured the TV contract for Grand Prix racing inspired the biggest response to any of my Motor Sport blogs so far this year. Thanks to everyone who contributed some intelligent and pertinent debate.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/zk5y3818.jpg" alt="events Taking care of business"  title="Taking care of business" /></p>
<p>As I write this latest contribution to our platform for debate, I have half my mind on preparing to travel to Bahrain for the F1 Business Forum. The what? Do I hear some yawning out there? I hope not because it’s not as bad as it sounds. Yes, we all dread going to conferences, or ‘forums’, don’t we? Whatever job we may be doing. They are always held in some horrible hotel near Heathrow airport, or in some Holiday Inn in the middle of several unnavigable roundabouts, at least that’s the way it’s always been for me. Too much central heating, no air and piles of files and notepads, jugs of water and cheap ballpoint pens to take away and never use. And have you ever come away from a conference feeling a better person, better empowered to do your job? Probably not.</p>
<p>Anyway, in Bahrain next week – as the teams prepare for the third Grand Prix of the season – many of the F1 fat cats will be taking time to speak at the Motorsport Business Forum. I went to the last one in Monte Carlo at the end of last year and it was good, even very interesting. Max Mosley spoke about his master plan for Formula 1 and Jackie Stewart responded with some carefully worded criticism of the president of the FIA. All good stuff and nice to see someone, especially Stewart, putting the case for the opposition.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/f107japzk5y9519.jpg" alt="events Taking care of business"  title="Taking care of business" /></p>
<p>This time, in Bahrain, the FIA is not to the fore, except of course that it is running the Grand Prix at the Bahrain International Circuit. This time the speakers will be, in the main, from the teams. The ‘keynote’ speech will be given by Ron Dennis (above), a man I have always much admired and whose life has been devoted to McLaren and the sport he loves. Ron is an enthusiast, a racer and – when he has to be – a politician. What he has to say will be worth hearing and – I hope – worth reporting in the next Motor Sport. Also on the panel of big cheeses will be Nick Fry from Honda, Christian Horner (below) from Red Bull Racing and David Richards (bottom) from Prodrive/Subaru/Aston Martin/You-name-it-he’s-involved-in-it. This man is a dynamo and let’s hope he succeeds in bringing his own team into Grand Prix racing despite the misgivings that others may have about customer cars. What about an Aston Martin F1 team? There is no doubt that Richards would make a terrific job of that – doing everything Jaguar should have done with its attempt.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/08mal_26y0541.jpg" alt="events Taking care of business"  title="Taking care of business" /></p>
<p>The point of the forum in the desert is that the Gulf means business, the Gulf is awash with cash, and a consortium of Bahrain business folk already owns a big chunk of the McLaren Group. You may have seen the London taxis bearing the message: Bahrain – Making Financial Connections. What does this mean? I have no idea, but all will become clear next week in the course of the build-up to the Grand Prix. I will be talking to Messrs Dennis, Richards, Fry and Horner about the importance of this region, the significance of new finance in the sport and – oh, yes I nearly forgot – the racing itself, the season so far and all that stuff.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/img_8341.jpg" alt="events Taking care of business"  title="Taking care of business" /></p>
<p>Many of you may be asleep by now, not caring much for the business of sport. Well, it is here to stay, it is how Manchester United can afford Ronaldo, it is how Tiger Woods earns squillions of dollars and it is how President Sarkozy gets to kick a football on the hallowed turf of the new Emirates stadium. Personally, I preferred Highbury, but that’s all irrelevant now. You can make your own judgement in next month’s magazine when I will attempt to penetrate the fog that so often seems to hang over the business of modern motor racing. You can be assured that one of the big men will say something of real interest. If not, there’s always the cars on the track in the sunshine outside.</p>
<p>I’ve got my pad, I’ve got my biros and I’m sure there will be some jugs of icy water. I just need to put my towel on a seat in the front row and make sure I’m close enough to hear between the lines.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com">Motor Sport Magazine - The original motor racing magazine</a></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Back on the Beeb</title>
		<link>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/back-on-the-beeb/</link>
		<comments>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/back-on-the-beeb/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 26 Mar 2008 09:00:20 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Rob Widdows</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Formula 1]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[BBC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Editor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ITV]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ITV F1]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[James Allen]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Jeremy Clarkson]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lewis Hamilton]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Manchester United]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Martin Brundle]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Murray Walker]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Richard Hammond]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Steve Rider]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Top Gear]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[<p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/back-on-the-beeb/">Back on the Beeb</a></p><p>My Editor has asked me to approach my weekly blog in a different way. He’s the Boss, so I will. ...</p></p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com">Motor Sport Magazine - The original motor racing magazine</a></p>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/f1/back-on-the-beeb/">Back on the Beeb</a></p><p><img src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/zk5y0522.jpg" alt="f1 Back on the Beeb"  title="Back on the Beeb" /></p>
<p>My Editor has asked me to approach my weekly blog in a different way. He’s the Boss, so I will. He wants me to be more controversial, nothing too extreme you understand, but just a bit more opinionated, perhaps. Also, he would like me to keep it shorter. So here goes.</p>
<p>My background is in commercial television so I am at least a little qualified to have a view on the news that the BBC is to renew its association with Grand Prix racing from 2009. On first hearing the news – I was not in bed at the time like my friend Murray Walker – I was not so very surprised. Not because I thought ITV was doing a bad job but because I knew the BBC was keen to get its hands on a major international sport at a time when almost all other sport seems to be slipping from its grasp. I was aware too, that ITV was determined to capture as much top line football as it could afford in the knowledge that the big European games are very popular with both advertisers and viewers alike. So, the news that the BBC had done a deal with Mr Ecclestone and that ITV had beaten its rivals to the best of the European football pretty much confirmed the rumours that have been swirling around in recent months.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/vy9e7272.jpg" alt="f1 Back on the Beeb"  title="Back on the Beeb" /></p>
<p>I look forward, as most people do, to watching a Grand Prix without the tiresome interruption of mortgage and mobile phone advertising. I am not, however, convinced that the BBC, as it is today, will do a better job of the actual race coverage than ITV is already doing. I say this because – apart from their irritating obsession with Lewis Hamilton – I think ITV has done a generally excellent job of televising Grand Prix racing to the general public. Of course the real racing aficionado will never be entirely happy because he or she probably knows as much about the sport as those who front the programmes. The coverage is not primarily created for us real, long-time enthusiasts – it is designed to appeal to a far wider audience and this, I believe, it has succeeded in doing.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/yy2z1056.jpg" alt="f1 Back on the Beeb"  title="Back on the Beeb" /></p>
<p>I simply wonder if the mooted ‘Top Gear’ approach to Grand Prix racing will work. The Clarkson/May/Hammond take on life does work for ‘Top Gear’ and its loyal audience. But the complex business of GP racing requires, in my view, a more studied approach. We get this on ITV from both Martin Brundle in the commentary box and Ted Kravitz (above) in the pits. Martin knows his stuff and delivers it in pithy and humorous style while Kravitz gives us the facts and figures we need. When he doesn’t know something, he finds the answer. Commentators are always in the firing line and I know from experience just how hard this job can be. James Allen may not have the populist appeal of Murray Walker but that is not the point any more. He, like us, is an enthusiast and his partnership with Martin Brundle may well be a safer bet than the rather more tabloid approach of Messrs Clarkson and Hammond, should that come to pass. Call me contrary, but I also think Louise Goodman does a great job behind the scenes. Tell me when she last missed getting hold of a driver just retired from a race.</p>
<p>I prefer Steve Rider on my football coverage but whatever he does in front of a camera, he’s totally professional. If I had to knock the ITV F1 show, I would only ask for less news on Hamilton and more news about the other 21 cars and drivers. Yes, I know Lewis is a remarkable new discovery – and a refreshingly raunchy racer – but even Manchester United is so much more than Cristiano Ronaldo.</p>
<p>But it’s a done deal, a deal that Mr Ecclestone finds to his liking. Let’s just hope the BBC brings something really special to the party apart from the largely unwanted “added value” of podcasts, mobile phone updates and Internet streaming. Most of us watch on telly. And I do know that throwing the ‘Top Gear’ format at Grand Prix motor racing will not be the answer.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com">Motor Sport Magazine - The original motor racing magazine</a></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Audi v Peugeot – the gloves are off</title>
		<link>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/race/sports-cars/audi-v-peugeot-%e2%80%93-the-gloves-are-off/</link>
		<comments>http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/race/sports-cars/audi-v-peugeot-%e2%80%93-the-gloves-are-off/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 12 Mar 2008 09:00:20 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Rob Widdows</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[History]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sports Cars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Allan McNish]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/2008/03/12/audi-v-peugeot-%e2%80%93-the-gloves-are-off/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/race/sports-cars/audi-v-peugeot-%e2%80%93-the-gloves-are-off/">Audi v Peugeot – the gloves are off</a></p><p>(1971 Le Mans 24 Hours, Pedro Rodriguez &#38; Jackie Oliver (Porsche 917 LH) leads Gerard Larrousse &#38; Vic Elford (Porsche ...</p></p><p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com">Motor Sport Magazine - The original motor racing magazine</a></p>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.motorsportmagazine.com/race/sports-cars/audi-v-peugeot-%e2%80%93-the-gloves-are-off/">Audi v Peugeot – the gloves are off</a></p><p><img src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/71lm_917_021.jpg" alt="racing history Audi v Peugeot – the gloves are off"  title="Audi v Peugeot – the gloves are off" /></p>
<p><em>(1971 Le Mans 24 Hours, Pedro Rodriguez &amp; Jackie Oliver (Porsche 917 LH) leads Gerard Larrousse &amp; Vic Elford (Porsche 917 LH), Mark Donohue &amp; David Hobbs (Ferrari 512M), and Jo Siffert &amp; Derek Bell (Porsche 917 LH))</em></p>
<p>Do you remember the great days of Les Vingt-Quatre Heures du Mans? When an annual pilgrimage to the little town in the Loire was something not to be missed? If you couldn’t be there, you’d tune in to BBC radio for those brief news reports, the late night bulletins always the most atmospheric, romantic even, with the sound of the cars wailing past the pits. If you were lucky, you’d get to see some pictures on BBC television, usually the start on Saturday afternoon and the finish on Sunday with the cameras lingering on that famous clock as the hands ticked round to 4pm. Remember when Ford took on Ferrari, when Porsche came with the long-tail 917, the arrival of the glorious-sounding Matras, the big yellow Renaults and the ceaseless scream of the Mazda? That’s all fairly recent of course. We could go back further, to the triumph of Jaguar and the heroics of Duncan Hamilton, the almost military presence of Mercedes-Benz and the night Phil Hill danced his Ferrari through driving rain to a last-gasp victory.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/1954_33.jpg" alt="racing history Audi v Peugeot – the gloves are off"  title="Audi v Peugeot – the gloves are off" /></p>
<p><em>(Left-to-right in the Jaguar paddock at Le Mans in &#8217;54: Peter Walker, Peter Whitehead and Duncan Hamilton (with a bunch of bananas). Behind include Mrs Lois Rolt (seated), Tim Seccombe and Mary Walker (behind Hamilton))</em></p>
<p>These were the days when the 24 hours of Le Mans was truly the most famous motor race in the world, when people bought cars because the manufacturer had won at La Sarthe, thinking they must be both rapid and reliable. Us Brits travelled in our tens of thousands to France that weekend in June, pitching our tents, watching in awe at the speed on the Mulsanne and tramping through the woods to see the cars flash through Indianapolis corner. The food was good, and the wine, for this was France and those catering vans at Brands seemed a planet away. OK, you were so tired – and sometimes soaked – by the end of Sunday that you swore you’d never go again. But you did. It was fun, romantic, exciting and knackering.</p>
<p>Things are different now. The race still runs for 24 hours, and the wine still tastes good though the exchange rate has done for the price. But the long blast down Mulsanne has been broken up with chicanes, and wire fences force us to watch the cars at a distance. Health and safety. For us, and them. And then there’s the Audis, the diesel-powered Audis. Much to the chagrin of legendary Le Mans heroes like Henri Pescarolo, the silver cars have come, conquered – and stayed.</p>
<p>I mention all this because next weekend sees the running of another famous endurance race. We’re off across the Atlantic to see the Audis at Sebring, where the mighty German cars have won every time this century. Extraordinary. A mirror of Le Mans in many ways. Sebring has a fine history, it’s one of the classic long-distance events, and the old airfield circuit remains pretty much as bumpy and basic as ever it was according to Allan McNish, who aims to win yet another one for Audi at the weekend. But this year could just be different. Peugeot is entering a single car, in preparation for Le Mans, and in the hope of getting one over the Audis in this duel of the diesels.</p>
<p>We know the beautiful Peugeot is quick. We saw that at La Sarthe last summer. If it was as fast as it looks, it would win by miles. This is surely one of the best-looking racing cars of the modern era. But can Peugeot get on terms with the sensationally reliable Audis over a 12-hour period, let alone double that distance in June? We don’t know, but it will be worth watching, and it will be some kind of guide to what’s in store at Le Mans. Peugeot is desperate to win in France, of course, while Audi is in no mood to give up its hard-earned reputation as the fastest diesel in the world (we’re not counting the JCB Dieselmax world land speed record machine).</p>
<p><img src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/06sebringrd71-1.jpg" alt="racing history Audi v Peugeot – the gloves are off"  title="Audi v Peugeot – the gloves are off" /></p>
<p><em>(March 16 &#8211; 18, 2006, Sebring 12 Hours – Allan McNish in the Audi R10 leads the pack)</em></p>
<p>To Sebring then, and memories of reading about Stirling Moss’s great feats around the wide-open runways, remembering pictures of headlamps lighting up those warm Florida nights, with drivers in shirtsleeves and sneakers and shades. All very Steve McQueen. Like Le Mans though, it will be different now, if only because of the new world order in long-distance sports car racing. Audi dominates, Peugeot challenges, the fans long for a battle. Which TDi will they want to buy on the Monday morning, believing that racing can only improve the breed? Well, I have owned both marques, and both were damn good in their different ways. I will be there as an impartial observer but I have a gut feeling that Peugeot will have to wait until June before it gets a proper crack at making a dent in Audi’s armour.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.motorsportmagazine.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/rk4o1107.jpg" alt="racing history Audi v Peugeot – the gloves are off"  title="Audi v Peugeot – the gloves are off" /></p>
<p><em>(2007 Le Mans 24 Hours, Pedro Lamy/Stephane Sarrazin/Sebastien Bourdais (no 8 Peugeot 908 Hdi FAP) leads Lucas Luhr/Alexandre Premat/Mike Rockenfeller (no 3 Audi R10))</em></p>
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