Latest news on the incoming F1 Powerboat season

by David Sewell - f1boat.com on 18 Feb 2008
The new season is fast approaching and many teams are keeping their cards very close to their chests inasmuch as who is racing with whom. We know our new world champion Sami Selio is joined by Massimo Roggiero and they should provide a serious threat to the opposition assuming 'Rog' can rejuvenate his form from five years ago.

We believe Sami's 2007 partner Stanislav Kourtsenovsky might be joining Guido Cappellini in the Tamoil line-up, a team he has previously raced with. 'Big Stan's form at the latter end of last year was electric and he will pose a serious threat to rivals while possibly the most improved pilot from 07, Philippe Chiappe remains with Duarte Benavente in the Atlantic team.

Qatar's Jay Price knows he will be joined by at least two Qatari partners this term but the 'New Orleans Vigilante' hasn't a clue who they will be. The Emirates look like running the same formidable three boat format from last term with Thani Al Qamzi attempting to secure the world title for Abu Dhabi although team mate Ahmed Al Hamli will be challenging providing he breaks the habit of 'jumping the gun'.

We've heard little news from Scandinavia regarding Norway's Marit Stromoy staying in F1. We understand Fabrizio Bocca might be looking for a new team mate so perhaps Stromoy fits the bill. As the only lady driver in the fleet she was a big hit in the last four races of the year so hopefully she can find a seat this season.

Jonas Andersson's Team Sweden looks like it will remain the same as 2007 with Frenchman Philippe Tourre as the number two driver. Australia brothers Trask are back with a vengeance and Dave is hopeful of at least a top three place at the end of the campaign, preferably with the gold medal. The team most determined to improve on last year is Philippe Dessertenne and Linwu Peng who endured a torrid season while Francesco Cantando in still undecided who will partner him this year. We will have to wait and see what happens in the Fabio Comparato camp. Last year, the Italian struggled throughout while his team mate Swede Pierre Lundin looked very consistant, finishing 4th in the table.
The action kicks off in Doha, Qatar in late March but more will be revealed on the 2008 championship when the F1 promoter hosts his annual pre-season press conference in Italy on 26th February.

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