1999 JAPANESE GRAND PRIX

Qualifying
Well here we are again, back to the scene of great past action. I am of course talking about Suzuka in Japan, scene of numerous title deciding showdowns. Who can forget Damon Hill's memorable victory in 1996 with Jacques Villeneuve challenging for the title? Jacques however had his turn in 1997 but with Michael Schumacher's presence bearing down on him. Michael Schumacher perhaps showed him too much presence!

Last year was very similar to this, Hakkinen was 4 points ahead of Schumacher, with Michael on pole he was poised for a 3rd drivers crown - until he stalled, then had a blow-out. Hakkinen won the title. 1999 has a new challenger in the shape of Eddie Irvine, Hakkinen is there but has a 4 point deficit to make up now that Ferrari have been cleared of their technical infringements, even so they have changed the famous piece of bodywork. Irvine is very quick on this circuit and has proved it in previous races here than he can really push in a race situation (most notably in 1997 when he pulled out that big gap). Even though he was only 10th in today's practice he should qualify in the top 3 with Michael not far away to get a good result, I think this will be the case, this is what they have to do to win.

If Hakkinen wins he has the championship won due to his greater number of race wins, a strategy and race like Malaysia could be on the cards depending on grid positions, either way Schumacher is playing the supporting role and may be left to lead Irvine to the win. With Coulthard gunning for the constructors, the opposition will be tough but Schumacher is a better number 2 than he is and will support Irvine better given the right circumstances and hopefully give the best result. Jordan thankfully has their position in the constructors wrapped up thanks in no small part to Frentzen, is also in third position in the drivers championship 3 points ahead of David Coulthard thanks to his two wins in France and Italy.

Whatever the result of this years race it will be a talking point, so without further a do I say "Go on Eddie, you can do it"

Cian Hanley - [email protected]

Review on the way...

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