Why race if you don’t have money?

Chapter 192 I'm Not Fighting Alone
[Was Raikkonen only ranked 13th in his debut?]

Chen Xiangbei was somewhat surprised, because due to the passage of time, he did not know what Raikkonen's ranking was in his debut.

I just subconsciously thought that it should rank very high.

After all, the group of formidable drivers who emerged in F1 during the 10s were basically able to score points in their debut race, and the legendary driver Hamilton even made his debut on the podium!

"Odetto, retrieve Trulli's first-person perspective video. I plan to take a look during this break before qualifying."

Chen Xiangbei didn't say much to Briatore, but instead gave Oddo a word of advice.

He had previously reached an agreement with Trulli to share and fine-tune data, including first-person in-vehicle footage.

Regarding his racing line on the high-speed corners of the Bahrain circuit, Chen Xiangbei wanted to see if he could learn anything from the video recordings and find a more optimized cornering line to improve his speed.

"So ambitious?"

Briatore sounded somewhat surprised by Chen Xiangbei's persistence.

In the past, when he led rookie drivers, he mostly put pressure on them, trying to squeeze out their potential to achieve higher results and rewards.

The reason why Hua Bu didn't put pressure on Chen Xiangbei this time, but instead encouraged him, is because Hua Bu is genuinely satisfied with the current results and isn't just saying empty words.

He didn't need to say anything polite to Chen Xiangbei at all.

Briatore, having spent twenty years in the paddock, knew very well that the miracle of the Brawn GP team was not replicable. In most cases, for "new" teams without a car manufacturer as their parent company, finishing at the bottom was the norm.

All that talk about championship teams and dreams of winning is just PUA rhetoric from Chen Xiangbei.

Even if we take a step back and consider the Brawn GP team, it's not exactly a miracle; it's more like something unexpected yet perfectly reasonable.

A complete Honda team, plus a race car blown out of three wind tunnels with holes drilled in it—this is a configuration that a "new team" simply cannot achieve.

The real new military vehicle fleet is like those historically known as HRT and Virgin, which had no wind tunnels or large-scale R&D bases of their own. They simply purchased and assembled a "generic" race car, relying entirely on software simulation for aerodynamics!
This year, a total of 24 F1 drivers are participating. Chen Xiangbei's ranking of 12 in the third practice session means that he has surpassed 50% of the drivers and squeezed into the mid-table group of the paddock.

More importantly, he is actually faster than Trulli!

Before signing Alonso, Trulli was the apple of Florentino Perez's eye. The old rogue knew all too well what level this Italian "compatriot" was at in a single lap.

Even now that they've become "old teammates," they still maintain a position in the top ten.

Chen Xiangbei's current speed and ability have actually met Briatore's expectations and pre-match goals.

Or to put it another way, Hua Bu didn't truly believe that a rookie driver from China could become the next Alonso or Schumacher.

At this stage, this level is enough for self-promotion and publicity.

While Hua Bu was just using rhetoric, Chen Xiangbei truly had the heart of a champion!
He was not satisfied with his performance in the third practice session. Regardless of whether the problem lay with the car or himself, Chen Xiangbei hoped to make a greater breakthrough.

"Raikkonen qualified 13th but finished 6th in his race debut, proving that both the driver and the car performed excellently over the long run."

“TF110 long-distance tire management is difficult. If I finish 12th in qualifying, it’s impossible to overtake six opponents in the race, and I can’t keep the bold statement I made before the race.”

"Manager Briatore, you don't actually think I'm the only one being mocked, do you?"

Chen Xiangbei replied irritably, "The Italian old rogues are very serious about pre-match hype, and even arranged for reporters to put on a show."

Now that the competition is about to produce results, they're showing a completely indifferent attitude.

It’s really contrary to Tiangang!

"what is the relationship?"

Briatore shrugged and added, "The process doesn't matter, the result does."

"The moment you made that bold statement, I had already won."

In Hua Bu's eyes, the car team, and even the car team in general, was merely a tool for gaining profit.

If Chen Xiangbei is ridiculed by the masses, Hua Bu is even willing to add fuel to the fire, as long as the Chinese boy can mentally withstand it.

Weichang isn't afraid of being infamous; it's afraid of people not being able to be found!
Throughout the many years of F1 history, countless mediocre drivers have come and gone, but they are not the worst group.

But they must be among the most unknown groups.

Even if you're as bad as Ma Zeping or Latifi, you can still drive for three years after gaining fame.

The reason lies in capital and fame, which can provide sponsorship revenue for the team, unless the crash is so exaggerated that the team is "insolvent".

Conversely, many mediocre drivers may appear to have a smooth and accident-free race, but in reality, they don't even make an appearance on camera and leave no trace in the paddock.

Advertisers would really ignore a driver like that!

Perhaps realizing that her words were somewhat explicit, or perhaps sensing Chen Xiangbei's subtle "killing intent," she was moved.

Hua Bu coughed lightly to cover his embarrassment, then put his hand on Chen Xiangbei's shoulder and said earnestly, "Of course, it would be even better if you could achieve good results."

"Bei, keep it up! I believe in you!"

After saying that, Hua Bu quickly patted his behind and left, as he had already made an appointment with a model to have a long talk about life.

"Heh, you're incorrigible."

Odeto observed Briatore's words and actions and made a sarcastic remark with a cold laugh.

Chen Xiangbei could only smile helplessly at this; a double-edged sword is indeed difficult to wield.

There will be a few hours of rest after the practice matches and before the qualifying matches begin.

This time is used for lunch and for the drivers to relax and adjust their condition.

In most cases, drivers will listen to music to relax at this time, or those with strong mental fortitude may even take a nap.

Chen Xiangbei was neither of those. He sat on the sofa in the lounge, watching Trulli's first-person perspective during his third practice session, trying his best to make the most of his strengths and compensate for his weaknesses on the high-speed corners.

For a newcomer, learning and even imitation are essential stages in their professional career.

Trulli had originally planned to sit in the lounge, but when he saw Chen Xiangbei intently watching the game video on the sofa, he felt a mix of emotions.

To be honest, Trulli disliked Chen Xiangbei because of his dislike of Chen Xiangbei; his first impression of Chen was very bad.

He's nothing more than a paid driver who relies on huge Chinese capital sponsorships and spends money to satisfy Briatore.

But after getting to know him for a while, putting aside the Chinese kid's talent and ability, at least in terms of hard work, Trulli, after more than ten years of professional career, feels that no one can match him!

Now, Chen Xiangbei doesn't even waste the rest time before qualifying matches.

"Kid, sometimes being too stressed isn't a good thing."

After a moment's hesitation, Trulli finally offered a reminder.

As the saying goes, moderation is key, and human energy is ultimately limited.

Chen Xiangbei's constant state of high tension is actually counterproductive.

When this thread breaks, that will be the moment when your Dao heart shatters.

"I know."

Chen Xiangbei nodded.

Then, forcing a smile, she said, "But I'm not that fragile."

Chen Xiangbei appreciates Trulli's good intentions, but he needs to make breakthroughs and improvements now.

An F1 track may seem to have only a dozen or so corners, but in reality, each corner means a standard braking point, an apex point that needs to be passed, and countless cutting lines derived from it.

Chen Xiangbei needs to memorize every detail of the track in order to be able to take corners at almost the same speed in different positions of the car.

What made Verstappen so extraordinary was his ability to control his speed on every lap over long distances to within a fraction of a second.

This means that his lap route, when placed on the track, would almost perfectly overlap!

This is due to an extremely high level of track proficiency and the muscle memory developed through long-term training.

Top F1 drivers can drive a track simulator with their eyes closed and know which corner the car is in just by the sound of the gear shifts. This seemingly miraculous feat is not a rumor.

They are truly powerful to such a godlike level!

What Chen Xiangbei wants to do is seize every minute and second to get as close as possible to, or even surpass, the gods of the racing world.

"up to you."

Faced with Chen Xiangbei's insistence, Trulli didn't bother to say anything more.

He went straight into a smaller room further inside, intending to lie down on the bed and rest for a while.

Two hours passed quickly. Looking at the clock on the wall showing the upcoming qualifying match, Chen Xiangbei stretched and moved his body.

The stands were already full, and many fans who couldn't get tickets gathered around the Bahrain Sakhir circuit, chanting cheers in hopes that their supporters would hear them.

This is the opening game of the new season, which has extraordinary significance.

"OH~~~! The Bahrain circuit is packed to capacity today. Even the sweltering summer heat couldn't dampen the enthusiasm of the fans. I'm sure the opening qualifying session will be even more electrifying."

F1 commentator James is using his passionate words to warm up for the qualifying session.

"Emil, what are your thoughts on this qualifying session? Who do you think will get pole position?"

Today's commentator is a local Bahrain host. James brought up a topic and began his opening remarks.

"Today is a year of major rule changes, and three new teams have also entered the F1 paddock. I believe it will definitely bring a lot of freshness to the audience."

"As for who will get pole position, I agree more with the veterans."

Emil gave a knowing smile.

When the veteran isn't specifically referring to anyone, there's no doubt that it's Schumacher!

"Of course, Schumacher is already a legend in the paddock, and I am equally looking forward to his first performance after his comeback."

"Between the newcomers and the new team, who do you think has more potential?"

"Bruno Senna of the Lotus team!"

Emil gave a resolute answer.

For middle-aged commentators like them who experienced the Senna era, the racing legend is like a faith in their hearts.

Now that this surname has returned to the paddock, we must do everything we can to support it.

Moreover, Bruno Cena ranked eighth in the three practices and first among the rookies!

"James, who do you think is the best?"

James hesitated for a moment in response to Emil's question.

Then he replied, "North of the HRT team."

"north?"

Upon hearing this answer, Emil subtly curled his lip, clearly looking down on the Chinese driver.

"James, his ranking in North Third Practice has dropped drastically. This is the closest simulation test to the seeding games. Do you really think he can become Rookie of the Year?"

“I have witnessed miracles in Beishang.”

James didn't say much; the F3 support race at Spa had left a very deep impression on him.

At that time, Chen Xiangbei displayed a dominant level of strength, especially the unstoppable momentum when overtaking, which destined him to be extraordinary!
"A genius in lower-level formulas is merely the threshold to witnessing F1."

"What is called a miracle is nothing out of the ordinary in F1."

Emil calmly replied.

He was just a little confused. Logically speaking, James had been a commentator for many years and should have seen a lot of big events.

How can anyone believe that low-level equations possess the value of "miracles"?
The two commentators' conversation didn't last long before their attention was drawn to the roar of engines on the track.

As the countdown to qualifying began, Jenson Button of McLaren was the first to drive onto the track, greeted by applause and cheers from the crowd.

This is a privilege reserved for the defending champions.

However, when a silver race car drives onto the track, even the defending champion has to give way.

He is Michael Schumacher from the Mercedes team!

The racing legend's return to the track sent long-awaiting fans into a frenzy, screaming and cheering with all their might, just to let their idol feel their fervent faith.

"Come on, Schumacher, take pole position, take the victory, take your eighth championship!"

"The strongest driver in F1, bar none!"

"Schumacher, you are my god!"

As the Mercedes engine roared, the cheers and whispers from the stands filled the track.

Every driver who witnessed this scene couldn't help but show expressions of longing and envy.

This is the true essence of a groundbreaking driver. Even if he has been away from the track for three years, the moment he returns is destined to be a triumphant return!
Chen Xiangbei also gazed at the scene around him with a dreamy look in his eyes. It can be said that compared to Senna, Schumacher was the enlightenment figure for Chinese car fans, even transcending racing itself!
Many people don't even watch F1, yet they know who Schumacher is.

Just like many people who have never watched professional boxing, but have heard of Mike Tyson.

However, that dreamy look in her eyes quickly faded, replaced by a clear gaze.

"Odette, shall we prepare to depart?"

Chen Xiangbei asked a question, already infected by the atmosphere of the racetrack, his blood boiling.

The driver is about to step onto his own ultimate stage!
"Last train to depart, let's gamble on one round."

Odeto directly informed the team of their strategy, giving Chen Xiangbei only one lap.

Under normal circumstances, the later the qualifying session starts, the greater the advantage of road conditions.

The unique desert conditions of the Bahrain Sakhir circuit amplify this advantage even further.

Odette needs the cars in front of it to drive, clearing away the gravel on the track and leaving enough rubber particles to improve grip.

Smaller teams don't have much leverage in the game. If they want to beat larger teams with stronger performance and more established track records, they inevitably have to take greater risks. To put it bluntly, they can only gamble on the lap with the best track conditions.

At noon, Odeto did not rest either; he worked with Hiroki Sawano, Sho Mizutani, and others to analyze data.

After three practice sessions and comparing data from the twelve teams in the paddock, Odette can basically conclude that the TF110 car is not as competitive as the RA109 prototype from last year.

His absolute speed is roughly around fifth or sixth in the paddock, which matches Chen Xiangbei and Trulli's ranking in the third training session.

Although the TF110 boasts cutting-edge technology, it has never been able to solve the heat dissipation problem.

Meanwhile, the delay in wind tunnel construction has prevented many aerodynamic kits and upgrades from undergoing airflow simulation testing, essentially leaving the project stagnant after the winter testing.

In the first qualifying session, the top fifteen drivers will advance, and theoretically, the TF110 race car has sufficient performance.

However, there are no absolutes in motorsports, and Odette first needs to ensure he advances to Q2.

As for advancing to Q3, that's currently outside our immediate goals.

This is the "tragedy" of small and medium-sized teams: if they lose at the starting line, they have to give it their all in every race.

The starting point for large convoys may be the finish line for small and medium-sized convoys!

"receive."

Chen Xiangbei nodded, sat in the racing car cockpit, and stared at the broadcast screen hanging on the wall.

The first qualifying session lasted only 18 minutes. Considering the warm-up lap, traffic congestion, and the high tire wear on the Bahrain circuit, most drivers could only complete a maximum of two timed laps.

Race cars sped by, and the lap time leaderboard kept getting updated.

三练最快圈1分31秒379瞬间就被打破，榜首的红牛车队的维特尔，直接提升了0.4秒，干进了1分30秒的领域。

Upon seeing this number, the HRT crew members' expressions turned serious.

The strategy team members, in particular, anticipated that other drivers would hide their crotches, but they didn't expect it to be this extreme.

At this rate, it's no surprise that the track record will be broken.

As if to confirm the strategy team's idea, the top spot on the lap time leaderboard was constantly changing drivers with an exaggerated improvement of almost 0.1 seconds.

Schumacher, Alonso, Hamilton, Massa.

Familiar names are constantly breaking records for the fastest lap time.

However, Chen Xiangbei's goal was not the fastest lap, but rather the record of fifteenth place.

If you can surpass the driver ranked 15th, it means you can advance to Q2.

The current lap time is 1 minute 30.879 seconds, which is almost 2 seconds faster than Chen Xiangbei's fastest lap time in three practice sessions.

"North, the time's up, exit the station!"

Odette's voice came from beside his ear. Chen Xiangbei, who was already prepared, stepped on the gas and drove the race car out of the pit lane.

Compared to the cheers from the crowd for Schumacher, the audience's attention was entirely focused on the drivers' duel on the track, and very few people noticed that the HRT team was leaving the pits to warm up their tires.

But this is for the best. Chen Xiangbei could foresee that he would likely be greeted not with applause and cheers, but rather with ridicule and boos.

But the reality was different from what Chen Xiangbei had imagined.

When he arrived at the exit of the pit lane and faced the main grandstand on the side of the track, he saw a small "red" pattern, which was Chinese fans holding up the national flag to support them.

"Chen Xiangbei has entered the race! Finally, a Chinese official F1 driver has appeared in the opening race!"

"That's right, it's our Chinese driver!"

"Keep it up, Chen Xiangbei! Don't let those foreigners look down on you!"

"Chen Xiangbei, no matter where you are, you will always have us!"

The shouts weren't very loud; they were even drowned out by the roar of the engines.

But Chen Xiangbei could feel that enthusiasm through the helmet visor.

I'm never fighting alone!
(End of this chapter)