Another year has passed and our beloved sport continues to soldier on, as you would expect. It has not been without it’s ups and downs however.
Reflecting on the season, we saw Lewis Hamilton win his second drivers title in the magnificent Mercedes F1 W05 Hybrid. We also saw Mr E defend his position of F1 supremo despite the many challenges including a failed attempt by his pay masters to replace him.
We saw the long knives deployed bountifully in Ferrari-Land as housekeeping cleared out not only Stefano Domenicali but also the adopted son of Enzo – Luca de Montezemolo. Gone too are Fry, Marmorini, Tombazis and Hamashima.
The biggest loss may well prove to be their stalwart performer over the past few years as Alonso finally ran out of patience. Quadruple world champion Sebastian takes his vacant seat, but there is no doubt that the road to the top step will be long and difficult for both the team and their new driver recruit.
Of course the tougher side of Formula One sport was also showcased in 2014 as the Caterham and Marussia teams joined the defunct HRT and have left the grid. This battle may now continue for Sauber, Force India and Lotus into the new season unless a new deal is found or the EU Commission intervene.
However, the darkest day this season was the day of the Japanese GP when Jules Bianchi lost control of his Marussia and crashed into the back of the tractor that was moving Sutil’s stricken Sauber to safety.
All in all this was a season of intrigue and interest, despite Mercedes being the most dominant team for over 20 years.
So, it just remains to thank the TJ13 Jury for all your contributions in both articles and comments and to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
With over 30 years of experience in Formula 1 as an insider journalist, I have built trusted connections across the paddock, from race engineers and mechanics to senior team figures. At The Judge 13, I and a handful of trusted colleagues share exclusive Formula 1 news, expert analysis and behind-the-scenes stories you will not find in mainstream motorsport media.
Thank you TJ13 and friends. Merry Christmas and happy New Year.
#forzajules
Thank you TJ13 and all the contributors, and the people who comment here, for making Formula1 more interesting and enjoyable for all of us. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to us all. 😀
🎅 Happy Christmas all at TJ13 Towers. Thanks for all the hard work.
I wish you all the same as this year. Only better 😉 cheers to the TJ13 team. Keep the good work going!
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all the TJ13 team. Looking forward to more of the same next year from both F1 and your excellent team.
Hehe great present for Fortis, John
merry christmas to the whole tj13 fam!!!
A slightly belated Happy Christmas to all.
Happy Christmas to all of my friends at the Palace of Righteous Justice, or, rather, TJ13 Towers! Hope everyone gets what they want in the new year, whether its a recalibrated wind tunnel, some aero upgrades, or more tokens for the engine. Looking forward to another year of intrigue, politics, gossip, and general skullduggery. Oh, and some racing!
Time for another mince pie. Ciao!