I dropped a hint in my last post that there was something new on the horizon - and now I can reveal the full extent of "Project X-27", as it was dubbed by Steven Roy. Remember all those articles on websites pointing out how all the print F1 magazines have degenerated over the last decade or so? Well, as from today, there is an alternative: all the best F1 writers on the net have clubbed together to contribute to a new online magazine entitled F1-Pitlane.
This is the brainchild of John Beamer, a long-time F1 enthusiast who has previously directed his energies into creating a successful baseball magazine on the net. Now he turns his attention to his other sporting passion and F1-Pitlane is the result.
The intention is to provide excellent, well-written articles on the background, history and latest news within F1 and the team assembled reads like a list of the foremost F1 bloggers. As a contributor and editor myself, I am honored to be in the company of such writers as Keith Collantine of F1 Fanatic, John Beamer himself, Alianora la Canta (La Canta Magnifico), Patrick Down (Motorsport Ramblings) and Christine Blachford (Sidepodcast). Add to the list some of the best-informed and articulate commenters on F1 blogs (Steven Roy, Alex Arnet and John Ferry) and we have one of the most powerful writing teams ever assembled.
In addition, we are assembling a database of F1 facts and figures which will be added to and updated constantly. We also plan to include a newsfeed so that readers always have access to F1 news as it happens.
I think it is very telling that so many F1 bloggers and writers have agreed to contribute to the magazine. That amounts to a considerable commitment of time and energy from their busy schedules and demonstrates the excellent spirit of mutual trust, respect and goodwill existing within the F1 fraternity. It shows, too, that F1-Pitlane is intended to belong to all who love the sport; it is your magazine and you can help to shape it into the publication you want to read. Suggestions, comments and contributions will be welcome and taken into account as the site develops.
Have a look and let us know what you think, either through the poll onsite, the comments or email. But, most of all, enjoy!