HYDROS: Atlas Van Lines latest Hotschue’

But Don’t blink, or you’ll Miss Him sticking His Boots in Lake Washington…

 

Yeah, I know we’re All getting wound-up over Ye momentous Day-Toner’ 500 upcoming this weekend.

As typical, this story got washed down sometime last year, and I just managed to finally spool-up Ye waterlogged turbine…

 

Actually managed to tune-in to Heat 3B and Seattle Seafair Final race this past August via H1 Unlimited’s Youtube channel. Which had somewhat better sound quality, only needing to crank up the volume by 16-20 levels…

 

Reading H1 Unlimited’s pathetic dribbled of News content on their website, I learned that ‘Ol JJ’, aka Jimmie Johnson would be driving the Atlas Van Lines fabled “Blue Blaster” during an exhibition run Friday afternoon on Lake Washington.

 

If this is the boat I think it is? Since have I reminded Y’all I’m Blind lately? Although I’m fairly certain having confirmed it was the first of the successful Cabover designed Unlimited Hydroplanes. Then its Uber Funny for Mwah. Since I recall always thinking the boat looked ugly!

 

As I can visually remember it having no engine cowling for the exposed Rolls Royce Merlin V-12 (WWII Airplane) engine behind the cockpit, and the boat always lunging forwards out of the water, with a dull, silver engine plemum exposed…

 

Yet that being said, it was one of the most successful Hulls in Unlimited Hydroplane racing. With Bill Muncey “Three-peating” at its tiller. Winning the 1977-79 APBA Gold Cup races, and the 1978-79 National High Points Championships. Along with a total of 24 victories aboard this Hull.

 

Yet being a devoted Miss Budweiser fan, it wasn’t until Bernie Little claimed another “Unfair Advantage” with the Rolls Royce Griffon powered Miss Bud, which ended Muncey’s streak! As the Griffon powered Budweiser itself became unbeatable between 1980-84. Although we lost the second star Unlimited driver Dean Chenoweth, when His Mis Bud Hydroplane flipped at the Tri-Cities race on the Columbia River in 1982.

 

But back to ‘Ol JJ’ and last summer’s romp in the fabled Blue blaster. Having read that Johnson was reuniting His longtime association with the Muncey family and Miss Atlas Van Lines.

 

During Jimmie’s 2024 induction to the Motorsports Hall of Fame Of America, (MSHFA) a picture resurfaced of Jimmie Age 4 sitting upon the Blue Blaster at Mission Bay in 1979. When Bill Muncey’s Hydroplane had broken down during competition on Mr. Hydro’s Home court in San Diego.

 

As this is the very same Blue Blaster that Muncey lost His life aboard in Acapulco in 1981. Which ironically I “celebrated” the 30 year anniversary the very same weekend that Danny-boy Spike’ Wheldon was meeting His maker in Las Vegas…

 

HYDROS: The Day the Sport’s King met His Maker

 

Jimmie mused His Dad used to take Him to the Hydroplane races, which fell on His birthday weekend. Watching the action from Fiesta Island. Where Muncey’s Blue Blaster floated to after retiring that day, some 46 years prior…

 

Another Motorsports Hall of Fame of America inductee, Chip Hanauer, Class of 1995. The youngest ever MSHFA inductee “reached out” to Johnson during His induction ceremonies over possibly driving the restored Miss Atlas Van Lines. Which naturally, JJ’ got very excited about!

 

As I love hearing Jimmie wryly not He’d learned where the Merlin’s redline was, and pushed the Blue Blaster up to the limit…

 

VIDEO: Jimmie Johnson Drives the 1977 “Blue Blaster” Unlimited Hydroplane

 

While you may enjoy this 16 minutes H1 Unlimited Onboard video, which chronicles the entire driving experience, i.e.; somewhat troublesome start-up to returning to the Stan Sayres Dock…

 

VIDEO: Onboard with NASCAR Champion Jimmie Johnson driving Bill Muncey’s 1977 Atlas Van Lines Blue blaster

 

As Chip Hanauer, third winningest Unlimited Hydroplane driver, including 11 Gold Cup wins served as Jimmie’s mentor. And can be heard saying Well Fucking done! At the end of the video.

 

While its interesting hearing Johnson describing how physical driving the Hydroplane was. How it wanted to hunt round and constantly moved about after getting on plane…

 

Meanwhile, Johnson’s “Day Job”, if Yuhs can call it that? Since JJ’ has only been contesting NASCAR Cup races on a part-time basis since 2023. Will once again enter this year’s Daytona 500 in His No. 84 Toyota Camary.

 

As the seven times NASCAR Champion became majority owner of Legacy Motor Club last year. With the team fielding Charter team entries for the No. 42 of John Hunter Nemechek and No. 43 of Erik Jones also driving Toyota’s.

 

As Legacy Motor Club and Rick Ware Racing (RWR) have settled their lawsuit of last year, stemming over sale of one of RWR’s vaunted Charter.

 

Whilst I was totally unawares’ that RASSCAR’ will be racing at Naval Base Coronado, beginning this June 19-21. Until reading Jimmie’s press release for His participation in this year’s Day-Toner’ 500. Ironically making the announcement the very same day that Greg Biffle’s Jet crashed in North Carolina…

 

As Johnson, now Age 50, a native of El Cajon, California, will also compete in this summer’s inaugural San Diego Street Race., aboard His No. 84 Legacy Motor Club’s Toy-Yoter’ Camry. Thus completing another “full Circle” adventure, albeit I believe Four Lefts makes a Circle!

 

As JJ’ will plull “Double Duty” in San Diego. Also driving the No. 1 Tricom Garage’s Toyota Tundra PickEmUp’ Truck in the inaugural Craftsman Truc Series race at Naval Base Coronado.

 

Since that’s where this story all began at, Wayback’ in Gory 1979 on Mission Bay’s Fiesta Island. Arse-sumedly just a Hop ‘N Skip away from Naval Base Coronado, Righto?

 

Johnson, who’s tied with Cale Yarborough for sixth in career victories with 83 apiece, finished third in last year’s Day-Toner’ 500. With the two times Daytona 500 winner (2006, 2013) capping His 700th Cup start in last year’s Charlotte Coca-Cola 600 All Star race. 

Biffle Jet Crash update

When things go wrong in a Hurry…

 

The NTSB reported its preliminary findings upon the Greg Biffle Citation Jet crash apparently on Saturday, January 31st? But as typical, I “Missed the Memo”.

 

Dennis Sutton, the 67 year old retired Delta Captain was in the pilot’s left seat and flying the aircraft. His 30 year old son Jack was in the right Co-pilot’s seat, and Greg Biffle was in the rear of the cockpit.

 

Obviously, we’ll never know truly what caused this devastating crash that claimed seven lives, so one can only speculate. But did the fact that Dennis Sutton was only certified to fly the Citation Business Jet with a qualified second-in-command pilot. And that His son Jack wasn’t qualified. Nor was Greg Biffle, who was also in the proximity of the cockpit, since His voice was also picked up on the cockpit cabin’s voice recorder, contribute to this crash?

 

As I’ll leave it up to you to decide what happened in this truly sad event.

 

VIDEO: Biffle Family Crash – NTSB Preliminary report 

Biffle, Hamlin and North Carolina Blues

Making me wonder if Thars’ something in the Water, there?

 

What’s that old saying about Bad things come in Three’s? Although obviously this could occur in any state or locale…

 

VIDEO: Song Sung Blue

 

By now, its old news that on December 18th, a Cessna Citation C550 Business Jet carrying the Biffle family and three associates, a total of seven people were killed when their aircraft crashed and erupted into flames following an emergency landing.

 

NASCAR Star Greg Biffle, His wife Christina, their son Ryder and Greg’s daughter Emma. Plus Dennis and Jack Sutton, and Craig Wadsworth were the seven identified victims of this crash.

 

As Dennis Sutton was a retired Delta Airlines pilot, Age 67, whose son Jack was 30yrs old and had just obtained His private pilot’s license. While Wadsworth was a friend, and former Kenny Wallace Motorcoach driver.

 

The flight was intended to go to Sarasota, Florida, presumably to attend Cleetus McFarland’s (Garrett Mitchell) Bradenton Christmas Tree  Drag Races on December 20th.

 

Dennis Sutton was a Captain at Delta, and theoretically was flying the Citation 550 that fateful day. Although there has been some conjecture on whether or not He held the certification for flying the Jet in single pilot configuration? And if His son, or somebody else was in the co-pilot’s seat? While the NTSB’s onsite briefing claimed they had a pretty good idea of who was in the pilot’s left seat…

 

The Jet took off and then immediately began a return to the airfield ten minutes later. As we’ve also been told of one person aboard texting the words emergency landing before the crash. As I can only speculate to the plane having some sort of engine malady, prompting this return. Since much speculation seems to focus upon the right hand No. 2 engine…

 

I’m certainly not a pilot, nor know the correct Airplane “lingo”. But from what I’ve been told, the plane came in too slow and too low. Before clipping an airfield light stanchion and adjoining trees some 1,800 feet short of the runway, before violently erupting into flames!

 

As the incident occurred at North Carolina’s Statesville Regional Airport approximately 10:20AM local time. And the Cessna Jet was below the tree-line and light stanchion due to erratic level of flight upon approach.

 

VIDEO: Greg Biffle Dec 18th Initial Crash report

 

Gregory Jack Biffle was born on December 23, 1969 in Vancouver, Washington, and is one of only two Warshingtonions’ who’ve won races in the modern day NASCAR Cup series. The other being that ‘lil Boy from Enumclaw, WA, Kasey Kahne.

 

Local Boy Done good again!

 

Believe I read or heard somewhere that The Bif’, aka Greg Biffle was one of only 36 Drivers to have won races in all three major series, i.e.; Trucks, Busch and Cup…

 

Biffle was the 1998 Craftsman Trucks and 2001 Bush Series Rookie Of the Year. Along with winning Most Popular Honours in both series in 2000 and 2002 respectively.

 

Biffle was the 2000 NASCAR Craftsman Trucks and 2002 NASCAR Busch Series Champion. And drove the majority of His career for Jack Roush. Including His 14 Fulltime seasons with Roush Fenway Racing between 2003-2016.

 

Biffle amassed a total of 515 NASCAR Cup starts over 16 years. Claiming 19 wins, 175 Top 10 finishes and 13 Poles. And was voted one of NASCAR’s Greatest 75 Drivers in 2023.

 

Biffle died five days before His 56th birthday, making me wonder if the trip to Florida wasn’t to also celebrate His upcoming birthday, as well as the Holidays…

 

As Biffle’s plane crash was preceded by Shigeaki Shigi’ Hattori’s death on April 9, 2025, in Huntersville, North Carolina. When Shigi’s car crossed the centerline and was involved in a Head-on collision.

 

Then just three days prior to New Years, we learned that the home of Dennis and Mary Lou Hamlin, parents of Denny’s, was engulfed in fire Sunday evening. (Dec 28th)

 

Although the couple escaped the fire, Dennis, Age 75 was pronounced Dead following the incident. With Denny’s 69yr old mother Mary Lou in Critical condition and taken to Hospital. Presumably for serious Burns from the fire. While I haven’t read anything further upon Her condition…

 

As I’ve waited posting this, hoping to here what the NTSB’s preliminary findings report would say. Which should theoretically have been published 30 days afterwards.

 

Yet due to some Comedian at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. Thars’ a lack of competent Federal Employees working these days! As these findings seem to now be taking 45-60 days or more to be released.

 

And that’s before any “partial” Government Shutdowns or invading Foreign countries like I dunno, Grenada?

 

Ah, I love the Smell of Narcissism in the Morning! 

The Road to Hell is paved with Good Intentions

Ferrari 512BB LM in action at Monza. (Image source: Bin.com/Dreamstime.com)

 

“this Ain’t no technological breakdown, No! This is the Road to Hell!”

 

As typical, I struggled Ah-Mighty’ to find a “suitable” Ferrari racecar image that I could successfully upload onto Ye Blog!

 

As Classic & Sports car had the perfect story title to fit with Chris Rea’s penchant for vintage Ferrari racecars. Titled to Hell and Back in a Ferrari 512BB LM…

 

Ferrari 512 Berlinetta Boxer, 24 Hours to Hell and Back

 

Since if Y’all don’t know from Messer Rea’s obituary. Arse-sumedly one of His biggest “Hit” songs was the aptly titled Road to Hell from the same 1989 Album.

 

As Chris was smitten with Wolfgang Von Trips and owned at least four vintage Ferrari’s. Including the custom built Sharknose 156 Monoposto… 

Chris Rea: A long ago, Forgotten Musician

Who was a true Racer at Heart…

 

Perusing the New York times Obituary section on December 24th, I heard the name Chris Rea, which immediately grabbed my attenzione.

 

A self-taught slide guitar virtuoso. Following a Short illness, Rea died on Monday, December 22nd at age 74.

 

I was introduced to Chris Re’s delightful gravelly Yorkshire voice sometime in the early 1990’s. Arse-sumedly on Sunday Night Blues on an “Ol, defunct Seattle Radio Station.

 

Having first purchased His The Road to Hell CD, His 10th studio album; His most successful, having been certified 6X Platinum. And then gravitating to On the Beach, my second Chris Rea CD, before I lost track of Him…

 

VIDEO: The Road to Hell Part 2

 

Born on March 4, 1951 in Middlesbrough, North Riding of Yorkshire. (England) Chris was one of seven children, whose  father owned a series of Coffee Shops and Ice Cream Parlours.

 

Chris worked for His father’s Ice Cream Parlours along with being a Bricklayer. Before a friend introduced Him to the James Gang when He was 20 years old. With Chris claiming He played that record so much He wore holes thru it! Went out to buy a guitar and the rest was History…

 

Enjoyed Chris’s quip about He studied Motorbikes instead of the Pen in Secondary School, which He was kicked out of.

 

In His last interview with John Earls of the Daily Express, Rea mused how He’d just been banned from driving when the song Driving Home for Christmas was released. Claimed He’d written the song for Van Morrison in 1978, but never heard back from Him. So eventually, eight years later, He recorded it Himself and released it as the “B” side to the ‘Hello Friends single. Before a re-recorded version arrived two years later. Then in 2021, the song reached No. 10 in the UK, becoming His second Top 10 single.

 

Rea claims people say you can hear His infectious tone in the song, noting He was in a good mood when recording it…

 

VIDEO: Driving Home for Christmas

 

Rea also once stated in an interview how He’d gone into music simply because He liked music, not to become Rich ‘n Famous. As He always knocked on the Musician’s door, and not the Rock Stars door.

 

Musical influences included Sonny boy Williamson and Muddy Waters, which somewhat clashed with His Albums genres…

 

Chris’s first band was Magdalene, a local Yorkshire Band whose previous members had included David Coverdale, before He departed for Deep Purple in 1973

 

In 1978, Rea began His Solo career with the Hit song “Fool if you think it’s over”. His biggest U.S. Hit, reaching No. 12 on the Billboard’s Hot 100. Being nominated for a Grammy in 1978 for Best New Artist.

 

Progress has been slow, since I haven’t gone out of my way to promote myself. If I’d been into Show Biz, it might have helped pay the bills. But then again I might not be making the music I’m making.

 

In 2000, Doctors stated He most likely had Pancreatic cancer, electing to have His  pancreas and parts of His stomach removed. Choosing to have a risky Whipple procedure performed in 2001, making Him a diabetic.

 

Following His recovery, Rea released His 17th studio album, Dancing Down the Stony Road in ’02.

 

His record company refused to release the album. So Rea set up His own company Jazzee Blue and released it independently as a double CD album. Edel Records released a shorter, single CD album titles simply Stony Road in Europe,. The album reached No. 14 on the UK Album Charts.

 

Naturally, Chris was very pleased when it was certified Gold, having sold more than 500,000 copies, after its initial rejection. As Rea had pledged to Himself that He would return to His Bules roots if He recovered, and knew His Fans wouldn’t have a problem with it…

 

Rea studied Journalism in College, before dropping out. Saying He’d fancied writing about motor racing, but chose music instead…

 

His 1993 album Espresso Logic was partially promoted by appearing in a non-Championship British Touring Car championship (BTCC) “TOCA Shootout” event.

 

He wrote and produced the 1996 film La Passione, inspired by His boyhood passion of Formula 1 and Ferrari driver Wolfgang Von Trips.

 

Rea was passionate about Historic Car Racing and raced a number of vintage automobiles. Including a Ferrari Dino, Ferrari 328, a 1955 Lotus 6 and a 1964 Lotus Elan 26R. Plus the Caterham 7 featured on His Auberge album cover,  which He sold for Charity in 2005. With all proceeds going to the NSPCC.

 

His Ferrari 330 was used as the donor car for the 250LM replica in La Passione. And in 2014, He was finishing a 22 year restoration of an original replica of a Ferrari 156 Sharknose.

 

Chris also wrote and recorded the song Saudade in honour of Ayrton Senna in 1994. Although it was the final song on The Very Best of Chris Rea compilation album in 2001.

 

Reportedly, the word Saudade roughly means the “Feeling” of emotion and euphoria of a certain moment…

 

VIDEO: Saudade

 

Rea sold over 30 million Albums worldwide, but never toured the United States. Preferring to stay home with His family; wife Joan, who met as teenagers. And their two daughters Josephine

and Julia. With both daughters having songs named after them.

 

Although Rea refused to tour the United States, I did learn He appeared on Late Night with David Letterman, apparently twice?

 

Stumbling into Rea and Letterman kibitzing over Formula 1 upon performing in New York sometime late summer of 1991. With Dave pleading to hear The Road to Hell…

 

VIDEO: Looking for the Summer – Live on Letterman 

Three Japanese Trailblazers

Who left their indelible mark upon Motorsports and Automobiles…

 

Like many stories here upon Ye Isle ‘O Nofendersville. This one has been growing barnacles along thoust rocky shoreline, where All the ‘lil Creatures play in their Tide pools…

 

Yet before the 2026 racing season begins in earnest, I’d like to honour a few men who made a difference upon motorsports, which I’ve been neglecting awhile. As Marshall Pruett’s words still resonate with me, even if it now some ten months since hearing them, when I first began thinking about this.

 

Reflecting upon Shigeaki Shigi’ Hattori’s death last April. Marshall said He was embarrassed over His Dickishness towards Shigi! For which I say Kudos to Marshall for “Manning” up to this, since I surely also fall afoul to! Since I’m guessing I would have lambasted Shigi during His brief tenue at Bettenhausen Motorsports Wayback’ in 1999.

 

Think about this, Hattori came to the U.S. in 1995 after winning the 1994 Toyota Racing Series in Japan. And at Age 32! Was a rookie in Indy Lights, driving for Dorricott Racing.

 

Hattori’s teammate was Jeff Ward, with Shigi finishing 13th overall. Scoring a best finish of fourth at Toronto; amassing seven Top 10 finishes.

 

Following a sophomore slump driving for Lucas Place Motorsports, with His only Top 10 finish coming at Long Beach. (9th) Hattori moved to Indy Regency Racing in 1998 for His third Indy Lights campaign, which began brilliantly! As Shigi dominated at the season opener, leading the most laps enroute to His maiden Lights win at Homestead. Hattori followed this up with another dominant victory at Gateway, while ultimately finishing P14 overall.

 

For 1999, Shigi joined Bettenhausen Motorsports in CART, contesting only eight races. With a best finish of 15th at Gateway. Unfortunately after a spate of crashes, CART Steward Wally Dallenbach revoked His IndyCar Competition license. While its worth noting that Bettenhausen was running the then uncompetitive Mercedes-Benz in a year old Reynard chassis. And these racecars were known for their brutal horsepower…

 

Hattori then migrated to the Indy Racing League (IRL) in 2000. Making over two-dozen starts between 2000-03, with a best finish of sixth at Texas Motor Speedway. Along with two Indianapolis 500 starts in 2002-03. Driving for Bradley Motorsports and A.J. Foyt Enterprises respectively. With a best finish of P20 in 2002.

 

Shigi capped off His driving career with a partial season in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck series in 2005, making ten starts. Before forming Hattori Racing Enterprises (HRE) in 2008, competing in NASCAR and ARCA.

 

As a team owner Shigi reached His zenith in 2018, when HRE won the Trucks title with Brad Moffitt driving. With the team winning a total of 14 Truck races. While HRE also raced in Xfinity and ARCA, before the team closed its doors in 2025, following Hattori’s death.

 

Sadly, Shigi died on April 5, 2025 at Age 61 when crossing over into oncoming traffic in North Carolina, succumbing  in the Head-on collision

 

While Marshall rightly points out, Shigeaki came to America to do what He loved, racing cars. And Shigi, Dr. Jack Miller. Or “King Hiro”, (Hiro Matsushita) Dennis Vitolo or whomever we as Fans lambast can drive one Helluva lot better than we can! Which you can check out Pruett’s comments in the link below.

 

MP1595: The Week in IndyCar, April 9, 2025

 

Whilst karmically, a day after revisiting Marshall’s podcast above. I ran across an old Car & Driver magazine article by Rich Zeppos, noting how He got His Arse kicked contesting His first Short-track Oval!

 

I got My Ass Kicked in my first Short-track Oval Race

 

Robert Clarke was Honda Performance Development’s (HPD) very first employee, Known today has HRC US. (Honda Racing Corporation U.S.) Clarke was instrumental in turning Honda into the IndyCar Juggernaut of today as HPD’s founder…

 

Clarke was responsible for the formation of HPD in Santa Clarita, California, when their was no facility. As Honda had decided to return to Open Wheel Racing Stateside in 1994, in Championship Auto Racing Teams CART PPG IndyCar World Series.

 

As Clarke would lead Honda from unsatisfying initial results with the HRX 2.65-litre turbo lump’. Before Cheep’ (Ganassi) scored Honda’s first of six consecutive IndyCar Championships in 1996 with Jimmy Vasser.

 

Clarke shepherded Honda to it’s first, elusive Indianapolis 500 victory in 2004, along with its maiden Indy Racing League (IRL) title that year. Followed with a second “Double”, i.e.; IRL Championship and Indy 500 win before Honda became the IRL’s sole engine supplier in 2006.

 

Before retiring from HPD, Clarke was responsible for Honda’s very first racing engine built outside of Japan, with the Acura Sports Car engine. As Clarke would become Head of De Ferran Motorsports in 2008, overseeing its Acura LMP2 Sports Car effort. While Clarke was also president of the SCCA for two years.

 

Clarke died on September 20, 2025 at Age 75 from Heart failure.

 

Ironically, on the very same day Clarke’s death was being announced. (Sept 22nd) Tsutomu “Tom” Matano, the “Father” of the first generation Miata’s obituary was also being published.

 

Although graduating from Seikei University as an Engineer. “California Cool” called, with Matano attending California’s Art Center of Design in 1970.

 

After stints with GM in Australia and BMW in Germany, Matano joined Mazda’s Design Studio in California, and the rest as they say, was History…

 

Matano “penned” the first generation Mazda MX-5, which Mazda Brass had desired to revive British Sports Cars of past, i.e.; MG, Triumph, but without their legendous’, porous reliability!

 

And then Matano was instrumental in the third generation Mazda RX-7, arguably the best looking RX-7 of all.

 

As Tom was known to be warm, engaging and willing sparing His time with the legions of Mazda Fans worldwide. Joking He’d lived long enough to become the Miata’s Great Grandfather. Before dying at Age 76 this past September. 

Another Quiet weekend in January

Before All Hell broke loose at Daytona International Speedway!

 

Purely by happenstance, I stumbled into the Mexico City ePrix being shown on CBS, Sunday, January 10th at 1:30PM. (Pacific) With my Zap-2-It TV Guide telling me it was 1.5hrs duration. Further learning it was a truncated 90mins “Highlights” package of the day’s outing. Including a pre-race preamble, discussing Andretti’s new arrival Felipe Drugavich – who they interviewed. Then Qualie’ result and the entire race, albeit cut up into numerous, annoying 9mins “chunks” before the next commercial break, Spew!

 

As I hadn’t paid any Attenzione to Formula e at all since last scribbling in “earnest” about Portland’s ePrix Wayback’ in the summer of 2023…

 

A Quiet Day in the Rose City

 

Whilst I’ve got zero clue when the last time I sat and “watched”, Err listened to an ePrix race was? Other than many, many years ago…

 

Being Blind Y’all, have I mentioned that lately? Although my ears pricked up over several items. But I must confess, Formula e’s the most difficult racing series to follow for Mwah, due to its lack of any relevant racecar noise.

 

The first thing that caught my Attenzione was Hey! That voice sounds familiar! As it was indeed IndyCar Pit Reporter and IMSA “colour” Commentator Ryan Marin as the lead Announcer. Whilst I swear that had to be Karun “Cowboy” Chandok reporting from Pitlane and hosting the post-race podium interview, Ole!

 

The other bit that caught my No. 4 wire, was the mention of Autodromo Hermanos Rodriquez only being 1.6 mile lengths. (1.619m) Or as Professor Steve Matchett would say is 2.606Km in “New Money”. As the Formula E circuit is some 1.5 miles shorter and features 16 turns vs. the Gran Premio cicuito’s 17 turn layout.

 

And without going thru everything, albeit a la Formula 1. This year’s 12th season of Formula E is the longest, with a record 17 races. With Mexico City being Round 2.

 

There’s a total of 10 teams. With Nissan’s Oliver Rowland sporting the No. 1 plate as the series defending Drivers Champion.

 

The other nine teams are: Cutra Kiro, DS Penske, Jaguar, Lola Yamaha, Envision Racing, Mahindra Racing, Citroen Racing, Andretti Formula E, and Porsche Formula E Team.

 

There’s a total of three American “flagged” entries, with Andretti Formula E and  DS Penske being familiar. As the latter is owned by Jay Penske, son of El Capitano’, nee Roger Penske.

 

Yet I’ll admit that this mystery Cutra Kiro name is totally foreign to Mwah, which I’ll scribble about a different day, as this No Fenders yarn is starting to unravel…

 

And although I know very little about Formula E, I must admit I was pulling for Pascal Wehrlein and Edoardo Mortara for different reasons. Mortara having won Formula E’s 50th and 100th races, with Mexico City being the series 150th ePrix. Which obviously would have been a great symmetry.

 

Whilst Wehrlein was for sentimental reasons. Including being a former formula 1 driver who never got His due with a proper F1 team. Having driven for the struggling, Minnowesqe Manor alongside Esteban Ocon Wayback’ in 2016.

 

As both drivers were Mercedes Werks’ Pilotes, both winning DTM titles before being elevated to Formula 1. With Ocon still racing F1 a decade later…

 

Although there was typically no sound emitted from these impressive Gen 3’ Evo racecars, other than the associated whine of mechanical parts and tyre noises. It was interesting hearing Wehrlein breathing heavily when conversing on His In-car radio due to the track’s high elevation. With Mexico City being at some 7,350 feet above Sea level, Aye Karumba!

 

The other bit to get used to and understand was the required usage of two separate maximum Overtake modes, Err Attack Mode. Which we’ll All be learning about in Formula 1 this season.

 

As Formula E’s Attack Mode boosts car performance by 50 KW, to a maximum 350 kW. (Kilowatts) Including All Wheel Drive! (4WD)

 

Which if I understand correctly, Ci? Drivers can choose how to utilize the two Attack mode sessions. Either in a 2+6, 4+4 or 6+2 minutes duration during the race.

 

And whilst both Wehrlein and Mortara took there turns in the lead. It was an uber impressive victory by Nick Cassidy for Citroen Racing, storming from 13th place. As look Ma, No David Cassidy jokes Thar, Hya!

 

Fittingly, although planned ahead of time. Porsche ran a special tribute livery at the Mexico City ePrix. As both Wehrlein and teammate Nico Muller’s Porsche’s were running an all silver throwback livery. Commemorating the 75th Anniversary of Porsche’s involvement in Motorsports.

 

Porsche Formula E Team marks 75 years of Porsche Motorsports with Carrera Panamericana tribute livery

 

As the special livery tribute was most Apropos, with legendous’ Porsche driver Hans Herrman having died the day prior at the remarkable age of 97, Ja Volt!

 

Having just learned that Herrmann finished third overall, and first in the under 1.5-litre Class in the grueling Carrera Panamericana in 1954 behind the wheel of an iconic silver Porsche 550 Spyder.

 

Whilst I love the story about Herrmann, a Baker by trade’s racing instincts during the 1954 Mille Miglia.

 

Approaching a railroad crossing’ lowering gate , and deciding it was too late to brake! Hans simply knocked on the back of navigator Herbert Linge’s helmet to make Him duck! As the pair barely made it underneath the lowering gate, And the Porsche 550 Spyder rocketed past the train to the stunned crowd’s approval! With Herrman and Linge winning the race’s 1.5-litre Class.

 

Although I did know from my extensive five part Triple Crown Winners story, that Herrmann was the first of nine drivers who’ve won le 24 Heurs du Mans, 24 Hours of Daytona and 12 Hours of Sebring overall. Which Y’all can read in the following No Fenders link below.

 

LE MANS 100C: Celebrating Drivers who’ve Claimed the Triple Crown of Endurance Races 

F1: Dawning of the Latest Era begins

Although behind Closed Doors…

 

Testing

Jan 26-30: Private test at Circuit de Barcelona

Feb 11-13: First “Open” Test at Bahrain International Circuit

Feb 18-20: Bahrain Final Test

 

2026 Formula 1 Pre-season testing has begun this week in earnest, with the commencing of a five-day private test for all 11 F1 Teams at Circuit de Barcelona Catalunya. With teams permitted to run any three days of the five.

Whilst I don’t know how much information we’ll receive, or how much results will truly resonate with the season kicking off Down Under at Melbourne on March 8th.

 

Thus, following the conclusion of the 2025 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, I immediately began wondering about the intricacies of the much ballyhooed 2026 F1 regulation changes, before I settled in for my long winter’s nap…

 

Each team was allowed to run one “Mule” chassis with a lead driver at the post Abu Dhabi Young Drivers test, along with the requisite “Youngster” driving the 2025 chassis, held on Tuesday, December 9th.

 

Although several teams split the day between their current two drivers aboard the 2026 Mule chassis.

 

While I knew that the chassis would be smaller, lighter and “nimbler”. With increased electrification and smaller Pirelli tyres.

Erroneously, multiple websites reported that wheels rim sizes would “shrink” from 18-inches down to 16-inch diameter, Say What?

 

As let’s delve into these “Lean, Mean, Fighting Machines”…

 

First off, the wheel rim size will continue to be 18 inches with reduced size, “Skinnier” revised Pirelli compound range rubber, designed to give bigger compound separation.

 

F1 2025 Post Abu Dhabi test: Pirelli’s first major run with 2026 tyres

 

The new Power Units or PU’s will still utilize the existing 1.6-litre single turbocharger configuration introduced in 2014. But the Internal Combustion Engine )ICE) will be “Detuned” from a maximum 850bhp to 540bhp, running on 100% sustainable Fuel.

 

But it’s the electrical energy side that gets “Charged” up! As the Motor Generator Unit – Heat (MGU-H) is deleted entirely, while the Motor Generator Unit – kinetic

 (MGU-K) increases significantly. With the MGU-K’s power increasing to 470bhp from 150bhp, tripling power-wise. With a total power output o 1,010bhp on tap.

 

According to Formula1.com, the chassis wheelbase length shrinks by 200mm to 3400mm, the size of your reusable “Drinks” bottle. Width reduces 100mm to 1900mm, the size of a chocolate bar, albeit Arse-sumedly these are European sizes. So don’t know how they differ Stateside?

 

Minimum chassis weight decreases by 30kg to 768kg, along with new moveable front/rear aerodynamics. Most notably the removal of the DRS. (Drag Reduction System)

 

Yet what I found most frustrating was the lack of current information preceding the first official closed door test. Since as of Boxing Day, (Dec 26th) everything I could find was from June, 2024, WTF!

 

Since along with the racecar’s smaller size, the biggest change occurs with the new Active Aerodynamics, which feature moveable front and rear wings. Which I don’t know if we’ll still be using the initial “Z-mode”, or Zed mode )Zulu) cornering high Downforce, wings closed configuration. And “X-mode” (X-Ray) straight-line low Drag wings opened configuration designations during racing this season? As both front and rear wings are dramatically different.

 

Z-mode and X-mode Active Aerodynamics explained

 

While more importantly, the full Ground Effects era is discontinued. With a partial flat floor section returning. With a larger diffuser with larger openings, and a overall higher minimum ride height mandated. Which should hopefully cure the undesired and dreadful porpoising effects we’ve previously encountered.

 

Overall Downforce is reduced by 15%, with lap times expected to be two seconds slower. Although as typical, Engineers will claw back these decreases, which normally occurs over a regulation “life cycle”.

 

 Yet probably the hardest part to get used to will be the use of the new terminology of Overtake, Boost and Recovery modes.

 

Recovery’s the most obvious, meaning the car is “Harvesting” or recharging its electrical system.

 

Boost mode is when the stored electrical energy is deployed for either offensive or defensive “Driving” modes.

 

While Overtake mode is when a driver can “manually” enact the Boost mode provided they’re within one second of the leading car for “Attacking” the driver ahead…

 

As here’s a pretty good “primer” short video covering all of the complex 2026 F1 regulation changes.

 

VIDEO: Everything You need to Know about the F1 2026 Regulations 

F1: Post Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Young Drivers Test results

Y’all remember that test outing from last December, Don’t Yuhs?

 

Now that IMSA’s “Super bowl” 24 Hours of Daytona is somewhat in our rear view mirrors. And NASCAR Fans are getting wound-up over the impending Cookout clash, or whatever it’s called? And the impending Day-toner’ 500.

 

Lost in all of the Hubbub, is the fact that Formula One’s currently testing behind closed doors in Barcelona. Before a pair of three-day tests take place at Bahrain in February. Followed by the season opening Australian Grand Prix on March 8th.

 

Thus, suppose its time to shift gears and begin focusing upon Open Wheel Racing, Eh? Since after all this Blog is called No Fenders. Which I scribble about occasionally, Chuh-ching!

 

Yet as always, your Haggard, Humble No Fenders scribe Tomaso is behind thoust proverbial 8-ball! Definitely at least one lap down…

 

Garnering almost zero Attenzione, especially with last year’s title decider Showdown. Nonetheless, the yearly post Abu Dhabi Young Guns test results always intrigues me.

 

A total of twenty-five drivers took part. With teams allowed to run current Grands Prix drivers in their 2026 “Mule” Car, in order to finalize Pirelli tyre compounds for next year.

While the second chassis was the 2025 specification, allotted to drivers who’ve only participated in a maximum of two Grands Prix.

 

As the top five positions were held by Formula 1 “Young Guns”, albeit due to the 2026 Mule chassis designed to be slower then the contemporary racecars…

 

Bosom Buddies George Russell (Mercedes) and Max Verstappen, (Red Bull) along with both Aston Martin drivers Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll didn’t participate. With the other current 10 F1 teams splitting morning and afternoon sessions driving duties between their current two drivers.

 

Once again, Pato Who? Was seventh quickest overall, Ahem Mark Miles, cough-cough! Although who knows what testing programme Pato was carrying out, eh?

 

Rookies/Young Gun Drivers

(Overall position/Driver/Team)

1) Jack Crawford, Aston Martin

2) Paul Aron, Sauber/Audi

3) Luke Browning, Williams

4) Frederick Vesti, Mercedes

5) Ayumu Iwasa, Red Bull

7) Pato O’Ward, McLaren

8) Ryo Hirakawa, Haas

9) Dino Beganovic, Ferrari

17) Arvid Lindblad, Racing Bulls

22) Kush Maini, Alpine

 

Mercedes Kimi Antonelli was quickest of the regular season F1 drivers, in sixth place. (+1.404) With McLaren’s Oscar Piastri rounding out the Top 10. (+2.333)

 

Positions P11-15 were filled out by Lewis Hamilton, (Ferrari) Lando Norris, (McLaren) Alex Albon, (Williams) Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) and Carlos Sainz. (Williams)

 

Although I wouldn’t “read” too much into the results, especially with the Haas’s of Oliver Bearman and Esteban Ocon some four and seven-plus seconds behind. Which surely won’t be the case come March in Melbourne…

 

2025 F1 Post Abu Dhabi Test results

 

Once again, the lone Yank’ on the grid was Jack Crawford, having finished runner-up to Leonardo Fornaroli in the 2025 Formula 2 Championship, driving for Dams Lucas Oil. Set to become Aston Martin’s latest reserve driver this season. As Felipe Drugovich departs for a Formula E race seat at Andretti Global for the 2025-26 season.

 

Frederik Vesti continues racing as Cadillac Whelen Engineering’s “third” endurance driver. Aboard the No. 31 Cadd-Oh-Lac’ V-Serioes.R IMSA GTP racecar. Alongside Jack “Achey Breaky” Aitken, Earl Bamber and Connor Zilisch.

 

As 19yr old teenager NASCAR Cup rookie Zilisch was making His IMSA GTP Rolex 24 debut. Having won both the Rolex 24 and 12 Hours of Sebring in LMP2 in 2024 driving for Era Motorsport.

 

Aitken, who made one Grand Prix start for Williams in Bahrain, 2020. Had His pole winning time deleted. As the car was disqualified for its rear skid block falling underneath the minimum clearance allowance and started P11.

 

Aitken got off to a rocky start. Given a Drive-thru penalty for jumping an early race’s full course caution. But redeemed Himself nicely over the race’s final hour’s stint. Hounding Felipe Nasr for the win, coming up just a scant 1.569 seconds short of victory!

 

Red Bull’s newest Circus Maximus’ (Verstappen) “wingman” Isack Hadjar made His debut for the Big Bulls’, presumably getting up to speed. Since I’d like to not read too much into His P21 result, +3.749 seconds adrift…

 

Meanwhile, Newbie’ Arvid Lindblad, who’s made FP session outings for both Red Bull and Racing Bulls in 2025, tested fir Racing Bulls, where the 18 year old will be the only rookie on this year’s F1 Grid.

 

Of the ten Young Guns participating, only three were new “recruits”. With the appropriately named Dino Beganovic at la Scuderia, and Kush Maini at Alpine. Along with the aforementioned Lindblad.

 

21yr old Swede’ Beganovic made His Formula 2 debut at season’s end, alongside Jack Craford at DAMS Lucas Oil.

 

For 2025, He switched to Hitech TGR, as teammate to Luke Browning. Beganovic scored His maiden pole position at Imola, and captured His first F2 win during the Baku Sprint race.

 

Dino is a member of the Ferrari Driver Academy, having joined in 2020. Making His Formula 1 debut at Barcelona, last January aboard an SF23. Before making His (Free Practice) FP session debut at the 2025 Bahrain Grand Prix.

 

A further FP outing occurred at Spielberg, before completing 122 laps during the post Abu Dhabi GP test. While Dino’s “Day Job” for 2026 will be racing for DAMS Lucas Oil in F2.

 

Kush Maini is the younger brother of Arjun Maini; Santino Ferrucci’s Bosom Buddy! As Maini became a member of the Alpine Driver Academy in 2023. Getting His first crack behind the wheel of a Formula 1 racecar at Spielberg, driving an Alpine A522.

 

Further test outings followed, before joining the logjam of test and reserve drivers for Alpine last year. Then at Abu Dhabi, He drove a current Alpine A525 for the first time, running 128 laps.

 

Maini has made 81 starts in Formula 2, with two wins, seven podiums and one pole. And will contest His fourth F2 season this year for ART Grand Prix.