Why race if you don’t have money?

Chapter 121 The Real Enemy of the Track (Part 2)

After signing a few autographs, Chen Xiangbei saw more and more fans flocking towards the parking lot, so he quickly stopped what he was doing and left under the "escort" of A Yong and other members of the car crew.

Otherwise, given the number of fans at the scene, Chen Xiangbei wouldn't even need to participate in the main race; he could have done enough just signing autographs here in the afternoon.

At this moment, Chen Xiangbei finally experienced what it's like to be a celebrity.

Upon arriving at the team's pit garage in the pit lane, Liang Chi and Hiroki Sawano, who had arrived earlier, were discussing something in front of Chen Xiangbei's No. 13 Renault race car.

"Sawano, after the qualifying race last night, the mechanic team found many dents and scratches on the chassis during the inspection."

"During the follow-up inspection this morning, a noticeable crack was found in the rear section of the race car's chassis. It's unclear whether it was caused by stress release or by a hidden injury from a collision on the track."

“We’ve already secured pole position in qualifying, and the race will place greater emphasis on long-distance stability. I suggest changing the setup to raise the chassis!”

Liang Chi is now the team's chief mechanic, and he has a certain say in the car's tuning and setup.

In fact, similar tuning biases are more common in F1 racing.

Many F1 teams, especially some smaller teams, often adopt extreme setups that favor qualifying in order to gain a front-row advantage.

However, since the FIA ​​has explicitly stated that car settings cannot be changed after practice sessions, a setup that is extremely biased towards qualifying will likely result in significant tire wear during the race.

This means that in order to maintain grip, drivers must adopt a frequent pit stop strategy, frequently pitting to change to new tires, otherwise they will be constantly overtaken and lose their place.

This explains why, when watching F1 races live, you often see smaller teams surge into the top ten in Q3 of qualifying. However, they quickly fall behind during the race, while the big teams consistently score points at the top.

These are the distinctive characteristics of smaller teams such as Haas, Toro Rosso, and Williams.

Especially the Haas duo of 24, Hulkenberg and Magnussen, whose qualifying speeds and rankings were mostly good, but who did not score many points in the race.

Besides the performance differences between the race cars themselves and the characteristics of tire wear, tuning also plays a significant role.

The reason why the smaller teams still chose this tuning scheme is that they are well aware that, based on the absolute performance of their cars alone, they cannot outrun the "Martian cars" of the big teams over long distances. If they want to get points, they have to take a gamble with a risky mentality and take a chance!
Betting on a track accident resulting in a yellow or red flag can free up time for a pit stop and tire change.

If you add a track where it's difficult to overtake, the advantage of starting from the front can lead to a big score if you gamble successfully!

Of course, in reality, nine out of ten gamblers lose.

As a result, you often see the team pulling off a series of flashy and outrageous maneuvers, which outsiders see as nothing more than a clown circus performance, ultimately exhausting the drivers...

Renault races will not incur penalties or shutouts for changing setup settings, meaning there are no concerns.

Liang Chi believes that Chen Xiangbei has secured pole position with an extreme setup that is more suited to qualifying, and given the current level of damage to the chassis, he may not be able to sustain it for the next few dozen laps in the race.

If the bottom is severely damaged, it will not only affect winning the championship, but even getting points will become a problem!
Hiroki Sawano, as the competition engineer, could understand the potential problems with the chassis and Liang Chi's concerns.

But he has to consider all aspects!
The old racecourse at Donington Park is bumpy and narrow, making overtaking extremely difficult.

Chen Xiangbei's chassis damage was most likely caused during the qualifying race when he was overtaking Mansell, taking an unconventional driving line and aggressively driving on the curb.

The FIA ​​penalty for this confrontation was a 50/50 split, with both teams being penalized by five places in the starting grid.

The problem is that Mansell's car was damaged in qualifying, and his valid time in the previous lap was at the bottom of 20th place, so whether he is penalized or not, relegated by five places, is meaningless.

Conversely, Chen Xiangbei, who was penalized for pole position, needs to overtake five of the drivers in front of him in a real way.

If it's this track where even a mediocre driver like Mansell is so difficult, then overtaking the top five drivers in the first row will be even more challenging.

It wasn't that Hiroki Sawano lacked confidence in Chen Xiangbei; his reason told him that if he changed the car's tuning settings, he really wouldn't be able to overtake him!
Faced with this dilemma, Hiroki Sawano hesitated for a moment before finally handing the decision over to Odette.

On one hand, he is the team leader and the highest-ranking person in management.

On the other hand, Odette is also a former member of the F1 strategy team. Whether it's Super Aguri or Ferrari, his experience is definitely far superior to that of Hiroki Sawano, a Japanese man.

"The calibration plan remains unchanged."

Without the slightest consideration or hesitation, Odeto gave his answer.

"Team Leader Odeto, can you explain this?"

The Super Dream Racing Team is not only learning and improving with Chen Xiangbei and Liang Chi, but also, to some extent, the Asian team members including Hiroki Sawano are striving to absorb advanced European racing technology and experience.

Hiroki Sawano wanted to understand what Odeto's underlying reasons were.

"The original tuning is fast."

Odette crossed his arms and replied casually.

Hiroki Sawano was taken aback by this answer; it was far too simplistic and blunt.

“I know you can run fast, but…”

Hiroki Sawano wanted to delve deeper, as he knew that tuning in ranked matches was obviously faster.

However, qualifying only requires one or two flying laps, while the race consists of dozens of laps.

A few laps and the chassis developed cracks. How can you guarantee a smooth finish in the race?
"No buts!"

Before Hiroki Sawano could finish explaining his reasons, Odeto interrupted him.

"Sawano, you know this track is difficult to overtake. If we raise the suspension and slow down, will Kita's chances of finishing the race and winning increase?"

Faced with this rhetorical question, Hiroki Sawano was momentarily speechless.

Changing the car's setup only ensures a more reliable finish and points; it doesn't mean increasing speed to compete for the championship.

"If you can't win the championship, what's the difference between maintaining your ranking or finishing the race and improving your position by one or two places, and having to withdraw due to chassis damage?"

"Even if you don't win the championship, second place is still the biggest loser!"

In competitive sports, people only remember the champions, and this is the biggest lesson Odette learned in his decades-long career.

He doesn't care about the extra points from a higher ranking; he'd rather be a gambler who either wins or loses. The championship is the only worthwhile goal in Odette's eyes.

Meanwhile, Odette did not forget Chen Xiangbei's bold statement after the previous race: he would win the championship at Donington Circuit Park, and even Jesus could not stop him!

Once you've made a promise, you have to do everything in your power to keep it.

Odeto always kept Chen Xiangbei in a high-profile position, but this was based on his strength and achievements.

Otherwise, those grand pronouncements will become boomerangs, ultimately turning into a laughing stock!
Just as Odette made his decision, Chen Xiangbei had already changed into his racing suit and walked out of the lounge.

He didn't mention the car setup, but simply asked, "Are you ready?"

"Ah."

Chen Xiangbei nodded.

Will a strained arm muscle have any impact?

Odeto asked again, "Lu Xiaoman reported the situation to him last night."

After all, Chen Xiangbei might be able to endure a few laps of qualifying, but he might not be able to withstand the long hours of high-intensity driving in the main race.

Team leaders must understand the drivers' physical condition and prepare contingency plans in advance.

"I received a nerve block injection."

Chen Xiangbei considered the intensity of the main competition and ultimately decided to take a pain-relieving injection to ensure everything went smoothly.

This kind of pain-numbing technique is common in sports events and is considered a safety net.

"OK, get ready to depart."

Odeto offered neither comfort nor encouragement, but simply issued orders in a flat manner.

However, there was an undisguised admiration in his eyes. Chen Xiangbei's inherent persistence and ruthlessness confirmed to him that the Chinese boy shared the same ideals as himself.

That is the championship, that is the only goal to pursue!
Back when Schumacher fractured his left leg at Silverstone, a 30-centimeter metal plate was implanted to fix the broken bone. Just six weeks later, without removing it, he bravely returned to the paddock to try to compete, but was dissuaded by the team and doctors.

Schumacher, who was already quite successful at that time, worked even harder than Chen Xiangbei is today, because he was unwilling to give up the opportunity to compete for his third world championship.

Without that almost obsessive champion's heart, one cannot achieve the greatness of a racing king!
……

The Donington Park race started on time at 3:20 p.m.

The race control center issued an order for the twenty cars to proceed through the pit lane and stop in their starting grids in the order of qualifying.

However, Chen Xiangbei's No. 13 car did not stop at the front pole position, but instead retired five places and stopped at P6.

Compared to the few dozen Chinese spectators at yesterday's qualifying round, there were areas with red flags waving in the stands today for the main race, with a rough estimate of at least several hundred Chinese supporters.

Although a few hundred people may seem small compared to the total audience of tens of thousands, they are not many.

In fact, this is the first time that Chinese drivers have been seen surrounded by crowds of supporters on European circuits.

Chen Xiangbei is no longer fighting alone!
"No, Chen Xiangbei was clearly in pole position, so why is he stopped at P6?"

At this point, a supporter raised a question, pointing out that many of them were not actually professional car enthusiasts, and had not even paid much attention to Formula racing before.

I only learned about the Chinese driver joining the F1 team through the media and the internet, so I rushed to Donington Park for the race to cheer him on.

According to race news reports, Chen Xiangbei secured the pole position and broke the track record, so he should have started from the first pole position.

"The FIA ​​penalized dangerous driving behavior, and Chen Xiangbei and Mansell in car number 9 were each penalized five places."

"That number 9 car was already at the bottom of the pack, so what loss does he suffer by being penalized and relegated?"

"No, but that's just how the rules are."

The FIA's decision to penalize him has been met with skepticism not only from the spectators but also from the trackside studios.

James was still the official commentator this time, but his longtime partner Mike was replaced by a guest commentator. "It's a real shame for North. He got pole position, but was penalized five places and started from P6. Given how difficult it is to overtake at Donington Park, it will probably be hard for him to defend his title."

James's tone was slightly regretful; through commentating on these few games, he had grown to "like" this Chinese kid.

He lacks the conservatism and weakness often seen in Asian drivers; in fact, compared to European drivers, Chen Xiangbei displays a more assertive and aggressive style.

As the rules of Formula racing continue to improve, the sport is moving towards a more conservative approach.

The race cars slowed down, there were fewer overtaking maneuvers, and even the drivers became timid and hesitant.

James often couldn't help but miss F1 in the 80s and 90s, when there were no environmental policies or political correctness, and every driver was full of aggression.

They are always pushing the limits of the track and speed, always teetering on the edge of losing control.

Even superstars like Senna and Schumacher still have the courage to go to their deaths rather than slow down – that's the untamed spirit of a race car driver!
"Even starting from pole position, it's still not easy to win the championship again."

"Whether it's Magnussen, Verne, or Costa and George, they are all prepared to snipe."

"This race is about the glory of European drivers; the North is the enemy of that track!"

Compared to James's neutrality, Mike had a sense of superiority typical of older white men and never thought highly of Chen Xiangbei.

The more flamboyant and assertive the Chinese driver is, the more he will face united resistance from other European drivers on the track.

The "conflict" with Mansell, in particular, touched a nerve with many local viewers, who saw it as a challenge to the dominance of European motorsport!

Just as Mike said, the pre-race press group focused their interviews on Magnussen, who started from the front row, and Mansall, who was at the back of the pack.

As the camera focused on Magnussen and his face appeared on the big screen, thunderous screams and cheers erupted in the paddock.

Chen Xiangbei's popularity has indeed risen rapidly, attracting many supporters.

However, compared to rising European stars like Magnussen, his fan base is clearly much smaller.

"If it weren't for the FIA ​​penalty, the pole position shot would have been taken by Brother Bei."

A-Yong, who was standing to the side holding the tire and pushing the cart, muttered something with a hint of sourness.

"It's alright, they won't be cheering for long."

Lu Xiaoman, while holding the water bottle, replied with a disdainful expression.

Perhaps inspired by the cheers of the crowd, Magnussen made a "1" gesture towards the camera, announcing to the world that he was going to win this race!

The crowd at the track was completely ignited when they saw Magnussen's move; this is the confidence and fighting spirit that a rising European star should have!
"Come on, Magnussen, prove yourself at this stop."

"It's time for you to step forward. Don't let us down!"

"We still have Magnussen, the Chinese kid can't dominate the track!"

In contrast to Magnussen's silent declaration, Mansell, on the other side of the camera, simply turned black into white.

He accused Chen Xiangbei of maliciously overtaking during qualifying, and that his emergency swerve caused the accident that resulted in him crashing into the wall. He expressed extreme dissatisfaction with the FIA's punishment!
Furthermore, it was stated that Chen Xiangbei's dangerous driving behavior should result in a ban from racing, and that by yielding, a larger double-car accident was avoided, for which the FIA ​​should commend him.

Even Western audiences found Mansell's shamelessness unbearable after hearing this.

As the son of "Lion King" Mansell, a symbol of British courage, he should at least try to maintain his dignity even in defeat.

Do you really think the tens of thousands of spectators at yesterday's qualifying race were blind?
Just then, Hank from Sky Sports appeared out of nowhere, a playful smile on his face, and pointed the microphone at Chen Xiangbei in the cockpit, asking him a question.

"North, what's your take on Mansell's accusations?"

Chen Xiangbei shrugged and replied, "Let Mansell criticize if he wants to. He has a mouth, what can I do?"

Upon hearing Chen Xiangbei's reply, Hank unconsciously frowned.

This is somewhat out of character for a tough Chinese guy. Does it mean he's backing down in the face of the "Lion King's" son?

But then a mocking smile appeared on Chen Xiangbei's lips as he added into the microphone, "But I'm definitely going to beat Mansell. If we meet again at the next stop, I'll beat him."

Using the most nonchalant tone, uttering the harshest words!

This surprised not only Hank, but also caused an uproar among the entire audience.

In the past, Chinese boys were just a bit overconfident, spouting boastful and extravagant remarks.

Today's answer, however, was like a sword drawn from its sheath, revealing its sharp edge.

Knowing full well that this is Britain's home ground, and knowing that the other side is the son of the "Lion King," why are they still so ruthless?
"Shit, even if Mansell is a bit shameful, this Chinese guy is way too arrogant!"

"Driver North, don't be too arrogant. Remember, this is Britain's home ground!"

“You’re not worthy to humiliate the son of the ‘Lion King’! Believe me, Mansell will knock you off the track at the next race!”

Hearing these indistinct shouts, Chen Xiangbei's mocking smile deepened.

Son of the Lion King?
A tiger father and a dog son!

The shouting brought Hank back to his senses. Just as he was about to press his advantage and ask a few more questions, the whistle to clear the track sounded, and all irrelevant personnel were to evacuate.

"Brother Bei is awesome."

Before leaving, A Yong secretly gave Chen Xiangbei a thumbs up.

Soon, only Odette, the team leader, and Liang Chi, carrying an external ignition system, remained next to Chen Xiangbei's race car.

They were among the last technicians to leave and had to wait until the second whistle blew on the track.

"Kid, the commentators call you the 'public enemy of the track,' which makes me feel like I'm going to be targeted and focused on. How should I deal with that?"

"No, you're the team leader who's in charge of the strategy, and you're asking me how to handle this?"

Chen Xiangbei replied, half-laughing and half-crying, "Odetto is going against the Heavenly Gang!"
"That seems to be the case."

Odeto nodded, agreeing with Chen Xiangbei's statement.

He then bent down and pointed to the race car in the P5 starting grid ahead.

"Actually, the solution is very simple: overtake him at the start, and then overtake all the other drivers in front of you. That way, you'll be the champion."

Holy crap...

Chen Xiangbei thought Odeto would come up with some constructive strategy, but he just said something pointless.

If it weren't for the team leader and the elders, I would have really wanted to give them the middle finger in return.

Just as Odette finished speaking, the second whistle of the track sounded, and he turned and left with great style, leaving only twenty cars and drivers on the track.

Chen Xiangbei snapped out of his daze, put on a cold expression, pushed off his helmet visor with a "snap," and then fixed his gaze on the starting indicator light.

Although the old man Odeto's words were simple, he did not make any mistakes in explaining the process.

To win the championship, you have to surpass your opponents one by one!

The indicator lights above the track went out, and one race car after another started to enter the warm-up lap rhythm.

Overtaking is not allowed on the warm-up lap in the main race. Unless you want to cause trouble like Schumacher did back then, there is no need to do something meaningless and punishable.

The short warm-up lap, lasting just over a minute, quickly ended, and the twenty cars returned to their starting grids. At this point, the drivers behind Chen Xiangbei not only focused on the starting indicator lights but also kept an eye on car number 13 out of the corner of their eyes.

Commentator Mike's phrase "public enemy of the track" was not an exaggerated gimmick.

Indeed, many European drivers in this Renault race set their sights on defeating the young Chinese driver.

Nobody likes being dominated by an outsider on their home turf in Europe.

Unfortunately, this person is a Chinese driver who has always been at a disadvantage!

As the last car, number 9, finished its tire warm-up and came to a stop in the starting grid, the roar of its revving engine began to echo across the track, igniting the passion of tens of thousands of fans at the scene.

The beeping sound rang out, and the five departure indicator lights lit up one by one until the last moment when the manual shut-off button was pressed.

The moment the lights went out, Chen Xiangbei stepped on the gas, using the paddle shifters to quickly shift up and accelerate.

If you had an overhead view at this moment, you would see that Chen Xiangbei's car started much faster than the car in the P5 starting grid on the opposite side; the word "rushed" perfectly describes it.

Furthermore, Chen Xiangbei gave his fellow drivers no chance to fight back. Taking the lead at the start, he suddenly turned the steering wheel to the left, directly blocking car number 17 in the P5 starting grid behind him.

Chen Xiangbei carried out Odette's casual instruction perfectly, overtaking the driver in front of him as soon as he started!

"NICE, Chinese driver Bei's start was as smooth as ever, he directly left driver number 17 William behind."

"It should be noted that William comes from the long-established powerhouse Clem Racing and has even won the French Karting Championship title, yet he seemed to be no match for the Chinese driver Bei."

"It looks like today's race will be extremely exciting and full of tension. Let's see how many opponents driver Bei can overtake and whether he can finally have a showdown with Magnussen."

James's commentary was very excited. He knew that Chen Xiangbei, this Chinese kid, was full of aggressiveness and would definitely not be content with his P6 position.

James didn't expect that Chen Xiangbei would defeat the French Karting Championship champion right from the start!
Not only was James surprised, but William in car number 17 was also completely out of it.

He originally wanted to take advantage of his starting position to change lanes and block Chen Xiangbei from behind, suppress the arrogant Chinese boy, and make the audience cheer for him!

As a result, William's seemingly smooth start proved to be no match for Chen Xiangbei.

He really didn't know how Chen Xiangbei's No. 13 race car managed to overtake from behind. He had already coordinated his throttle and clutch perfectly, and if he had pressed the throttle a little harder, he might have slipped and burned out.

At this point, William understood why Mansell was outmaneuvered by Chen Xiangbei in the corner, then lost control and crashed off the track.

At that moment, Mansell's mind was probably just as shocked and blank as it is now, completely unaware of how to fight back!
(End of this chapter)