Wow. Fernando Alonso just getting nipped by Kimi for the pole!!! I had a feeling that Alonso would step up in Spain - his home GP. I was suprised that Hamilton got pushed to 5th. The pressure may be getting to him.

How about Super Aguri collapsing mid-season!?

Exciting stuff. Here is my podium prediction:

1. Kimi
2. Hamilton
3. Alonso

 

No way the Renault finishes on the podium. He must have almost no fuel on board. I'd be shocked if Alonso finishes top 5. That was a great lap though.

 

That's a fine point about the fuel load in Alonso's car. I am no Alonso fan. In fact, after his temper tantrums last year over Hamilton's rise, I quite dislike him. But he is a two-time World Champ and is at his home GP. If he is ever going to take a podium this year, it will be now. Plus, he tested so well earlier in the week with a variety of tire and fuel load options, I think the potential is there - maybe even for a win. Even Piquet "Don't Call Me Jr." did very well. We'll have to see.

I am shocked that Hamilton didn't do better. I think that Massa and Kubica may also have light fuel loads. I think Hamilton will catch them both tomorrow.

The qualifying times were all so close. I love the competition that is developing this year.

 

i just don't buy that the Renaults are even close to the Ferrari/McLaren/BMW pace. I think it's way more likely to assume that they knew they couldn't really make an impact in the race, but that with very low fuel in Alonso's car at his home GP they could maybe squeeze out a pole and get a lot of buzz.