TF109 to be unveiled on 15 January

Panasonic Toyota Racing can today confirm that the new TF109 car and the team’s 2009 livery will break cover for the first time on 15 January 2009.

However, to emphasise its commitment to overall cost reduction in Formula 1, the team will not proceed with its traditional pre-season event programme.

Studio images of the TF109 in its new 2009 livery will be made available to the media exclusively on www.toyota-f1-world.com on 15 January.

In addition, the 2009 press pack, which will include exclusive interviews with the team’s drivers and top management as well as features and information on the team in 2009, will also be released on 15 January via www.toyota-f1-world.com.

All interested media are advised to register on www.toyota-f1-world.com in advance of 15 January in order to ensure immediate access.

Panasonic Toyota Racing will begin its 2009 pre-season testing with the TF109 on 20 January, the opening day of a three-day test at the new Algarve Motor Park in Portugal.

This will be the first opportunity for the media to discuss the TF109 and the 2009 season with drivers Timo Glock and Jarno Trulli, as well as selected team personnel.

Video footage of the TF109 on track, as well as comprehensive rights-free photography, will be available to the media in week five of 2009.

20-Mar-08: BBC Secure F1 Rights From 2009

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Hi everyone, it’s the 20^th March and this is F1 Minute.

News that has made a lot of fans in the UK happy today, the BBC have secured the rights to broadcast F1 from 2009. The deal cuts short ITV’s current contract, and extends for five years including TV, radio, mobile and online deals. However, the move has been questioned by a Labour MP saying the sport is wealthy enough and doesn’t need BBC licence payer’s money.

In other contract news, Brazil track Interlagos has secured a deal to keep F1 until 2015. Supposedly organisers had to promise Bernie they would build a new pit complex and revamp the paddock and grandstands.

Part owner of Toro Rosso, Gerhard Berger, says he understands the decision to sell the team, but that he still wants to be involved, if possible. He says: “For me, it is not a question of making some money. My passion is racing. I want to stay in Formula One with the team.” He also said that Red Bull were his dream partner but he is supportive of the decision.

That’s all for today, please join me again tomorrow for another F1 Minute.