NoOne

I thought according to the rules, those who did not make the 16 cut would NOT race at all.

Thats how they explained it. If you didn't finish the first seesions, as Kimi did not, then you cannot race because to qualify you need to be in the second session.

They said over and over Kimi's weekend was done unless he could hop in the backup car and make it back on the track to complete a lap during session 1.

Yet all those drivers were there...

freefall

Nope - just to make it beyond the first round, into the top 16 grid positions. They weren't clear on how they will grid multiple teams that do not have any timed laps though.

larryfs

I was confused too. I thought I saw michlin tires......

AU N EGL

You did. Mich and Brigstone still providing tires.

I think this year will more competitive.

That new Cosworth V8 up to 20,000 RPMs
that is 333 1/3 Revs per SECOND. That is impressive.

CrossedFlags77

I had heard at the end of last season that the teams were going to be required to run slicks, not grooved slicks. Did I hear wrong or did they change something?

BrianCunningham

For once there's a good thread in OT about the race:
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show...58&forum_id=26

davidfarmer

I love the qualifying format. Keeps more cars on track for more time, and makes it much better for the fans.

I heard it explained during the 2nd practice show AND prior to the actual qualifying, and it all makes since to me. Basically it's AMERICAN IDOL for F1 drivers

Haven't watched the race yet, so don't tell me....

TGrits10

That rule is for 2007, still on grooved tires this year.