Obviously it is only very early in the 2011 Formula One season. but after testing and the Australian Grand Prix, its already becoming increasingly evident that Hispania are going to struggle to remain in F1 during 2011. While both Team Lotus and Maurissa-Virgin have taken a step forward in development (albeit not majorly closing the gap to the established teams as hoped) Hispania are nose diving into the depths of washed up F1 teams along with Super Aguri and Prost.
Hispania are stuck in a viscious cycle which has begun during winter testing. They were unable to drive a single Kilometer at Jerez or Barcelona, with the team only revealing their 2011 challenger (With a huge lack of sponsors) at the final test in Barcelona. Imagine if Bahrain hadn't been cancelled, HRT likely wouldn't have made the race and the FIA would have consequently fined them majorly.
The F111's debut at Albert park during the 2nd practice session was far from riveting, with Liuzzi driving an out lap, and that's it. Questions we're already being raised by English and Australian commentators about the 107% qualifying rule and whether HRT would be able to race, with the well respected Martin Brundle describing both F111's as "moving chicanes".
Qualifying wasn't a surprise for the world as both Liuzzi and karthikeyan qualifying well above the 107% limit. Which leads me to my point:
Hispania have designed a terrible car which 2 moderately experienced drivers struggle to pilot. I'm sure the world will be surprised if any of these drivers ever qualify for a single race this year. As a result, its unlikely that any sponsors are going to sign with Hispania due to their little track time, depriving HRT of the cash they so desperately need. As we move through 2011, and the F111 drifts further away from its competitors, HRT are going to continue to hemorrhage money and eventually fold. I wish them good luck for surviving until the Belgian Grand Prix, they'll need it.
Credit: The F1 Times (www.thef1times.com)
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