Today will be spent travelling back home across France, so do not expect much in the way of posting. I will ponder on the way home whether or not it is worth the effort allowing comments to be made on this blog. I am not willing to be abused by people when I am simply trying to explain to fans (free of charge) what is happening in the sport. To be insulted and accused of all manner of things is simply not acceptable. This is not because I am unhappy that people disagree with me or that I will not listen to other opinions. It is because I need to feel that what I am doing is worth doing – and when I get attacked by people who are armchair experts, it is very hard to find the motivation to be charitable.
Yesterday I gave my opinion about the Schumacher incident. This is a blog, it is not a straight news website. Thus to be attacked as a bad journalist shows a lack of understanding form readers about what a blog is. As it turns out I was right in my assessment, which is of little real significance except that it might convince some of the noisy doubters that they might not know what they are talking about…
Who knows? There is obviously a level of subjectivity in this particular question and the FIA Court of Appeal could possibly see things differently. I doubt it, but we will see in the fullness of time.
Hi Joe,
Sorry to hear you’re getting abusive comments. I always find the same tiresome thing with forums. A few extremists often spoil it for the rational amongst who just like to hear an interesting commentary and occasionally add a little of our own thoughts.
I hope the experiece doens’t stop you blogging. I’m sure the vast majority of your readers really appreciate your posts. I’d be sorry to lose your blog.
joe, i know that being abused on your own blog is not what you look forward to… but mate, u have fans like me in india, who read all of your postings, with greatest of anticipation and admiration… we don’t get to be a part of events like “evening with Joe”.. it is just some fanatics spamming the blog.. i hope the interest and good wishes from fans like me, will keep you motivated enough to keep posting…
ps: some people have no idea abt your credibility, so pls ignore them and keep posting , huge fan of u r book as well
cheers
kishan
I hope you can keep the comments. The problem is that it tends to be people with an opinion (and more often than not an opposite one to the author) who leave comments. There’s no indication of the much greater number of people who find your blog a very valuable service which is very very much appreciated.
Joe, please don’t be downhearted. Most bloggers that I know have learned to not read comments posted to their blog for exactly the reasons you mention. There are some idiots out here who think that their views are important, but can’t be bothered to set up blogs for themselves.
Joe,
I cannot understand how people are insulting one of the most interesting voices of the trade. You are providing an astonishing service and insight into all things f1. I adore your passion for the sport and I always prefer “opinionated” over the he-said/she-said stuff thats all over the net.
Andi
Joe — don’t let the knockers, bigots and fools get you down. Your opinions, insights and tid-bits are greatly valued and appreciated. If comment moderation is a problem, I’d be pretty certain that you could find a few appreciative (and responsible) readers who could share the moderation task with you. Your blog is the centre of an enthusiastic community. Community members support each other.
Richard.
As they say it is always the minority that spoil it for the majority. I completley understand your opinion, you are very well regarded F1 journalist whom is giving something to the fans for free. Bloggers need to remember this, and if they disagree reply in an articulated adult manner, this is not the playground! Whatever happens please don’t stop the blog, I guess it isn’t easy to implement a 3 strikes and your out policy as I guess your software isn’t able to recognise and refuse access to reply to specific computers. May be it will be a necessary evil to limit access to the website or at least access to reply to GP+ subscribers? This could even make the blog a money spinner so you get a positive out of a negative! Changing the subject when is the next London evening with Joe?
Joe
There are always people with partisan views who are unprepared to accept that their view is not the prevailing view.
There are also fundamentalists that believe their view is the ONLY view.
It is not a reason to hide away for the rest of us who want to have a discussion about issues.
Please keep open, you lead a treasured life, and we all live vicariously through you and others like you.
You are our eyes and ears and we need to talk to you.
My two cents for what it’s worth…
Allow the comments but do not take them personally. The great thing about blogs is that they allow you to put forward your perspective than allow people to agree/disagree.
I actually think this blog is at it’s best when there is a bit of debate. It shows the passion in F1. This blog would be a shadow of itself without the comments of others – be they critical or supportive.
Hi Joe,
Personally I really appreciate this blog and the insight that it brings for me sitting out here in Australia. No matter where you stick your neck out there are always those of little grey matter who will attack. I value what you have to say, not what comments others may make in response.
Please continue with this blog, I for one appreciate it.
Best regards
Adrian Tyson.
Joe,
This is your site and you are entitled to set the rules as you see fit.
If you do decide to leave commenting open then can I suggest that you publish the set of standards for behaviour you find acceptable, commenters will then know what is expected. You will probably still have problems with trolls, etc, but would have grounds for banning them.
However, this all requires some form of moderating, and you may decide it’s more effort than it’s worth.
I hope you leave commenting open despite the way you feel after recent comments here. They are a very good tool for building a community around your site, and getting feedback and opinions from the public (however ill-informed some may be!).
I value this blog for the news / opinion it gives and barely ever look at the comments. I wouldn’t miss it if you disabled commenting.
Don’t stop the blog though, I really value the opinion, rumour and extras we get on here compared with Grandprix.com
Hi Joe,
This incident is making lots of people emotional. Autosport Forums initially closed a thread about it, then had to re-open it when they got hundreds of comments on the general Monaco thread.
I supplied the info on rule 40.13 to BBC Radio 5 via Twitter within minutes of the race end and, like you, took some flak from other Twitter users for daring to point out that Schumacher had broken the rule.
The new rules are poorly drafted – you can end up with green flags at a Safety Car finish – and the drivers involved each have a dedicated fan base. I just wish that people wouldn’t get personal when arguing for their favourite.
Whatever you decide about allowing comments on your blog, your views will always be highly valued, whether I agree with them or not.
Joe, your efforts are priceless. There will always be people who’ll mindlessly attack or blame you of sour reporting. Being an F1 blogger myself, I know that first hand. I’ve been following the sport for 17 years now, since I was 9. You would obviously believe that, with those many years, I would know a thing or two about what I write. Yet, there are people who often accuse me of wrong or biased opinions and things like I don’t know what I’m talking about.
It’s no wonder considering the fact that there are people who do the same to a respected journalist like you! The truth, as you would know, is that the people who say such things are the ones who hardly know much about what they’re saying. These are the kind who speak only out of favouritism and their short=sighted, fanboyish mentality. There’s nothing wrong in supporting your team or favourite driver, but being biased and and talking out of typical fanboy ignorance doesn’t make you a fan of the sport.
So, I’d say it’s not worth wasting your time thinking about such people and definitely not worth doubting your efforts to make a contribution towards helping the general fan know more about the sport.
I’d say, please ignore the ignorant who refuse to learn. There are a whole lot of people who really appreciate your efforts and hold your opinion in high regard. Its those people that you should be thinking of rather than the ones who go about mindlessly bashing and accusing almost every writer or blogger who said anything which doesn’t glorify their supported spots in the sport.
Joe,
Please don’t remove the comments section. I totally agree that it is totally wrong and unreasonable for people to use this facility to be insulting and rude, when as you say, you provide this free to real fans. Anyone who does this is clearly a fool.
Having worked for a great deal of time in WRC and had my fair share of meetings with stewards, I went straight for the FIA rules yesterday, and I could see this one going either way. Every time I read or heard an opinion, I could see what they meant. I imagine that’s why the decision took as long as it did.
You were just expressing your balanced and educated opinion based on years of knowledge of how these things work. I didn’t put a comment on your original article as I thought it was just another contribution to the debate. I love the fact that we can debate your articles and put our own interpretations out there to be viewed.
I have been reading your work since back in the early 80′s at Autosport and attended the Evening with Joe event in London. I genuinely appreciate what you do to give F1 fans a better understanding of what is going on inside the sport.
Safe journey home and I hope the trip allows you to re-consider taking away the comment section.
Joe, keep up the great work & blog. I can’t let a day go by without checking your blog! To hell with those jokers…
Joe,
I thoroughly enjoy reading what you have to say. I very rarely comment on your blog and I almost never read what the other punters have written in reply to your posts.
There are plenty of other websites where ‘fans’ can tear strips out of each other, or journalists, and the comments never, ever, add to the articles.
Even if I don’t agree with some of your opinions I will always come back to your blog. If you want to get rid of the comments section, be my guest.
Completely understand your pain Joe, but I genuinely hope the impact of another Schumacher scandals doesn’t spread its wings into the blogsphere!
That said it would probably make more sense to enable comments on those posts you want to stir debat, and disable them on others…then at least you maintain outright control over when you want to hear the fanatics sprout their views.
I just skimmed through the comments on the post you mentioned. They are kind of sad, indeed. I would understand if you closed commenting on the site.
However, I would be disappointed if you’d stop blogging altogether — you are at least in my top 5 of F1 sites. So, thanks for the efforts and keep up the good work!
Hi Joe
I have always been distressed at the level of insight that some Formula 1 “fans” show when confronted with the activities of a certain driver. Although I am indeed one of the armchair experts to which you referred I stopped posting long ago on F1 message boards in response to constant irrational aggression at my views from fans of that driver.
It saddens me to see your work called into question by these same “fans” of the sport, particularly in your own “house”, so to speak.
Although, I almost never comment on your blog i do read it everyday and value it immensely. I am one of those lucky enough to do what most do for a hobby as a profession and so F1 is my passion in my private life. Your insight into that world is the reason why I check here everyday. Comments or no, I hope that you will continue.
Yours Sincerely
Rhys
For what it’s worth: As a frequent reader of your blog I do enjoy your blog very much. I usually get the idea that most of the people who comment here actually add a little to the blog. Sometimes comments show another side of the same picture, sometimes they elaborate a little and sometimes they give you the option to either tell us why that other side seems interesting, but is actually wrong or to elaborate a little because of questions raised in the comments.
As an armchair expert myself, I understand that any attack must be highly frustrating. I guess for some those comments were made in the heat of the moment. Which doesn’t make it right, but perhaps a little understandable. Anyway, from my point of view, what you’re doing is worth doing.
Dear Joe,
I am working with Dieter Rencken for Motorsport-Total.com in Germany and I have made similar experiences from time to time.
Always a pleasure to read your thoughts and I hope people will realize that F1 sometimes is a bit more complex than they seem to think.
I am sure you are not opposed to constructive cirtical comments (as am I), but when it gets insulting, it’s really when the fun stops.
Keep up the good work.
Regards,
Christian
As I said yesterday, Joe, I hope you don’t suspend comment. I and many others greatly appreciate what you do, and the fact that I sometimes learn things from the commentors too – a very rare thing in my experience. Easy to be philosophical from the outside, I know, but in a way it’s a compliment to the nature of your ‘voice’ that people feel comfortable and confident discussing things – albeit to the point of over-confidence from time to time. Which makes it no less impolite – I agree with all you’ve said here.
Joe
As a long time follower I can’t believe you even have to post this! Folks it’s a blog for goodness sakes and reading the personal opinions of a journalist with such insight into the sport is what makes it such a great blog.
By all means disagree and have a well constructed debate. But personal abuse is what leads to a post like this and could result in all of us losing the privelege of such an insightful blog. I’m a subscriber of GP and also enjoy Joe’s journalistic prowess as a GP reporter who is very professional in his writing.
If you don’t like this blog and need to vent your frustrations in a personal manner go and join a forum and leave us people who don’t want to lose this insight alone.
My God Joe ! I am shocked to hear you recieved negative comments on your blog.
Your insight into a world I love – but am incredibly distant from – is one I value a great deal.
And the fact that your “opinion” of the rules was ratified by the FIA appointed stewards shows that your views should be respected, even if it is not agreed with!
Should you continue with the comments? Fair question, but I know for myself I enjoy feeling that little bit closer to the sport I love by being able to offer my own (hopefully considered) opinion
either way, keep the blog… you know who has “the voice” and who doesn’t… you where right… On mercedes-gp.com ross brings up the 2009 melbourne race… when button won under the safety car… the video shows yellow flags being shown on the sides of the track, but the tv lap counter on the screen changes the yellow color for the last few seconds of the race…
I apologize for them misinterpreting the freedom of speech… They were only few different opinions… It happens a lot on every road…
It would be a shame to loose the comments from your blog Joe. There will always be people with strong opinions, and unfortunately it appears that incidents involving Schumacher tend to bring these people out of the woodwork shouting and screaming.
Don’t let them get to you!
I guess showing green flags as soon as the Safety Car is in is a normal automatic procedure, would you think this will be amended for this type of rare situation? If they had waved yellows from Rascasse on, nobody would be arguing.
However I’m having a hard time buying the Brawn “Oh, we saw green so we went”, that move was planned not a spur of the moment decision taken as the SC went in.
Just a suggestion, but why don’t you simply delete comments that contain ad hominem attacks? You’d certainly be within your rights to do that, and as a WordPress blogger you have the capability to delete comments of that nature (or any nature you choose, for that matter). I don’t think that could reasonably be called unjust censorship, as most online forums and blogs make clear that, while opinions that differ are fine, they will not tolerate personal attacks.
Sadly one of the disadvantages of the net is the abuse given by those that hide under anonymity. Certainly I won’t agree with everything you say and I think that’s quite healthy but I’m sensible enough to realise if I do and I comment it has to be in a constructive, adult fashion. Unfortunately sections of the human race aren’t as sensible as me !
I enjoy your blog, as I do with Adam Cooper’s and James Allen’s. I appreciate the greater insight you can provide on here rather than the more formal Grandprix.com and that’s where the value lies for me. It makes me feel more involved and it’s good to somehow be in contact with someone who is there and knows the people I’d otherwise only read about in re-hashed press releases or magazine features.
Curtail the comments if you want but please don’t stop the blog.
Obviously upsetting to you, but this, Joe, is the internet.
Please keep on with Blog posts Joe. Don’t take the comments personally. I write a blog and often get people being idiots on my comment section. I ignore them unless they are from people who are regular commentators.
Re: Schumacher/Monaco – you post yesterday was perfect. It set out the rule in a simple and straightforward manner, which allowed me to be informed ahead of the Stewards decision. It is exactly this kind of knowledge that I value from you vs. all the other websites out there…
PS: Would love to see you ‘Tweet’ more!
Dear Joe,
I’m absolutely sure that if you can implement a “think it over” button for users to press before posting a comment you would never see the comments you saw yesterday.
I think google had something similar, providing email senders a second chance before sending a message. I hope you can read between the lines.
For all of us who enjoy freedom of expression protected by respect and like the sport I suggest you to please take a rest, let the views of the french countryside wash the sourness, and keep on posting.
Best regards,
Alex
Just avoid saying anything bad about Schumi or Alonso and they’ll leave you alone…
I think there’s two cohorts here – there were some posters reasonably putting the other view, which was also the view of Brundle and Coulthard (and EJ once he realised which way the wind was blowing). There were also some – as there seem to be quite regularly – wanting to put the boot in to you personally.
Blogs of all kinds attract this kind of green-eyed troll. The internet has done great things for democratising media, but gives a (near) equal platform to both the seasoned pro and the ill-informed blinkered misanthrope. If anything, you’ve done well to get away without their attentions for as long as you have.
I read this blog and James Allen’s. I suspect most of your readers are the same. I prefer this one for three reasons
(1) it isn’t quite as ‘establishment’ as JA can sometimes be
(2) it’s (mostly) free from trolling and ill-informed casuals cluttering up the comments with cut-n-paste rants (JA has the quantity, JS has the quality)
(3) it seems to have a smattering of insiders and ex-insiders commenting (they may be on JA too but if so they are less obvious)
It’s your blog of course Joe, but I find the informed comment to be an essential part of it. I know up to now you’ve resisted blocking the ad hominem comments, but I think 90% of your readership would be happy for you to do so. The 10% of trolls can and will get their kicks elsewhere – they’ll soon get bored and stop attempting to post them – while the grown-ups can continue to have a civilised conversation.
The other alternative is perhaps to migrate to a GP+ subscribers-only environment, though it may be that you prefer to use it to custom into GP+.
Anyway back to the fun stuff – backflip into the swimming pool then a leap into the harbour. That’s a proper racing driver.
It would be a real shame for the vast majority of fans to be denied the opportunity to discuss, comment and share opinions about the sport and your posts. I for one, look forward to your posts more than any of the other journalists. I only see well written pieces, always impartial and factually as accurate as you can be. Its very easy to be brave when you are sitting behind a screen. Don’t let them get to you Joe.
Don’t let them get to you Joe, if they knew half as much as they think they do they’d only serve to make your blog stand out even more. Your great work here keeps me amused an in the loop!
Dont worry about the punters Joe,
they know not what they do,
your blog is great, opinion is good, much more interesting than straight news that can be got anywhere
Mark Webber is really asserting himself. He is giving Vettel a bath . Hope he can stay on top mentally in the Red Bull garage.
Great work mate, keep it up.
Hi Joe,
The problem with people who frequent internet forums, and the comments section of blogs like this seem to forget that just because they have an opportunity to make a comment, doesn’t mean they should. And if they do, they have absolutley no idea what they are on about most of the time.
How they can question someone with a proven record who actually works in the sport is beyond me. I am an anorak, I have strong views about all aspects of F1 but I would not question someone who works in the sport. I sometimes wonder how some in the F1 media (who will remain nameless) can be “on the inside” and still be so clueless…but that is a separate issue.
Please don’t deny us (who appreciate) your informed analysis and comments because of the few who think that they know better. I am a GP+ subscriber and would never have discovered the magazine without your blog, so don’t write it off just yet, even if it is a lot of aggro for no direct financial reward.
And to anyone who thinks I’m brown-nosing, i’m not. Experienced campaigners like Joe and Nigel Roebuck are able to add experience to simple reporting to illuminate Formula One to people like us who see it mostly through images and text, and occasionally from a great distance at great expense. You are of course allowed to disagree with their views, but that doesnt mean you have the right to deny the rest of us. Grow up.
Hi Joe,
I’d just like to reassure you that we, the silent majority, are definitely infavour of you carrying on. We don’t get in a flap about your views or even your explanations of the rules as you see them, even if we don’t fully agree always.
With only 25 comments I don’t think it was a high proportion of your reader base that really got steamed up over it.
Rule interpretation seems to get most “fans” going. Though I didn’t know the rule before it was broken I personally think the Stewards’ interpretation was correct and that in turn so were you.
For those that decided to add an aggressive 2p comment about Joe’s opinion, this isn’t the Times or the Telegraph…this is a blog, it’s opinion based on that persons’ experience, understanding and knowledge at the time of writing.
Chill out people, if you disagree thats fine, please continue to comment by questioning in a calm and open manner.
Leave your personal attacks at the door.
Thank you silent majority!
I feel a great deal better now.
Hey Joe
i can totally understand your feelings on comments made by people who dont do a damn thing other than eat popcorn and pass comments. Having said that, i think that you should treat these people in the most fitting manner. Dont care less…
I read your previous post and do disagree with the decision as i feel that the Barichelo action was a lot more dangerous than Schumi catching Alonso sleeping. I do think that Schu really thought that they were racing again, he saw an opportunity and he went for it…. I hope mercedes wins the appeal and they let it be as it is, schu can be put back behind Alonso, the rule clarified and people go on with their business of racing.
As for this blog, i find it very informative and love your writing style… so dont stop these comments, just ignore it totally
Cheers Mate
Joe,
As others have said, your blog is one which is devoid of the immature nonsense that appears on many. You know your subject and write about it intelligently and in an interesting way, including perspectives that are unlikely to appear elsewhere.
Others will not always agree with you, you would not wish it otherwise, but it is deeply regrettable that in disagreement some choose to illuminate their lack of education and manners and resort to insult.
I hope I speak for the majority in saying that yours is a great site, and to lose the interactive comment would be a sad day.
All the best.
Hi Joe,
This is the first time that I have ever posted a comment, and I simply wish to express my gratitude for your journalistic endeavours. As for allowing comments, I read your blog for YOUR opinions alone.
Keep up the good work,
With kind regards.
Comments are not important, you can turn them off. Your blog however gives us original content and is very interesting – I do hope that whatever course of action you take that you continue to express your opinion in this blog.
If you decide to continue with the comments maybe add a ‘like’ and ‘don’t like’ feature which bumps comments up or down (like the economist newspaper’s website). I’d only be interested in the most thought provoking comments. However your content is most important.
Hi Joe,
I’ve been reading your content for over a quarter of a century now and still remember your amusing reports in Autosport from the ETCC in the mid 80s. The web is an unforgiving place. You can’t please all the people all the time. However, most of the time I enjoy your insights very much. I am sure many other people feel the same way.
Keep going.
Joe, you may not want to publish this because of a comment I will make later, but I completely agree with you here. I have noticed people getting a lot nastier this year with more personal attacks not just here, but on other blogs and fora.
Some have even decided it’s not worth the hassle of it anymore as it takes the fun away from the blogging.
I suspect a lot of this has to do with Schumacher – especially those who are his fans. It seems that with the Schumi-istas that he can do no wrong in their eyes and they end up justifying all of his actions or becoming an apologist of sorts.
I do hope that you don’t let the actions of a few people who should know better before posting ruin what has become a brilliant resource for the rest of us. I am sure I am not the only one who loves to read your insight and opinions from inside the world of F1 and I hope you find a way of allowing us to interact with you and filtering out the bad apples…
Joe,
I would echo Peter F’s comment on the ‘schumacher’ post and encourage you not to stop comments on your posts. Like him I regard this (and the grand prix plus magazine) as the best place to get F1 insights and enjoy the comments of the readers that typically complement the stories quite well.
It was unfortunate yesterday that some readers choose to disparage your reporting integrity rather than focus on what happened in Monaco. Reading the comments over again it seems to me that they are actually quite mild by the standards of the internet (Look at the comments on cnn..) but obviously it is up to you to decide where you draw the line on comments that are aimed at you directly.
Of course this debate is not unique to this site and is something that comes up wherever comments are allowed from the public. In my experience it is amazing the vitriol that can come even from something as dull as public transport! In the end it is a balance between the engaging, stimulating and enthusiastic debate and the occasional times when people cross the line.
For me this site stands out as one where the standard of debate as a whole is quite high, encouraged by the strong editorial line that you take (such as on Flavio). This will always stimulate feedback which will occasionally be somewhat passionate (It’s all about the passion, right?) and in the heat of the moment people often say things that they later regret.
Joe, ultimately the decision is yours but just wanted to add my piece.
Donal
Joe, thank you for your time and efforts going into this blog. I have been reading for about a year now and I often enjoy not only your usual race reporting but the often un-heard of bits / sides of F1 that doesn’t get much air time.
Having read a lot of the comments on F1Fanatic and than seen more of the same on here, it just amazes me the gall and stupidity of some commentors.
I don’t blame you for disabling comments but I do hope you continue with your blogging as there are some genuinely grateful followers out here
Dear Joe,
YOur predicament can be understood. Sports usually does bring about some strong emotions, and when we speak of iconic sportspeople like Michael Schumacher, then we are a different plane all together.
Call it karma or fate, or the polarized opinion on the issue, what is regretable is that they rules have a grey area that allows for varying interpretation.
Along with rules will be the import of the message from the race director and the response by the on the field stewards.
We donot know if there was comm with the pitwall before Michael made the move.
Given the grey area, i think the point situation should have stood with alonso 6th and michael 7th.
Sincerely,
SK Anand
Joe,
Not always a supporter of your views – but then life would be boring wouldn’t it – but you had it spot on here. I wasn’t aware of this rule until I read it, and i suspect – rather disconcertingly – that some of the teams were unaware of it, too. Quite clearly, the rule says that if the safety car begins the last lap, the race will finish under safety car conditions. End of story.
Joe, it’s a shame but I think I understand your position above. I am only sorry that a vocal few fanboys and armchair experts have led to this. The vast majority of us either agree or disagree with your opinion but would not stoop to criticise your journalistic skills or integrity. For me, those are without question. The insight and access that you and (let’s be fair), James Allen, bring on your blogs is invaluable for this fan and long may you both continue.
If you feel the way forwards is stop the blog comments, then so be it. Have a safe drive back.
A blog without comments is really of not as much interest.
Yeah, people are tools, and will reflexively foam at the mouth when they read something they don’t like. That’s the internet.
But at the same time you will get many erudite responses which help enrich people’s understanding and/or perspective of a topic.
It would be a shame for you to kill comments outright. Perhaps a better alternative is to get a friendly volunteer to help see off the bad eggs. Think about how many comments James Allen has to parse through on his blog.
As your one grows in popularity and readership, dodgy comments are of course going to increase. But killing them off altogether, will probably push readers away. You may or may not care about that, but these days people expect (rightly or wrongly) to be able have their say.
Hi Joe,
Although comments are not esential to your blog, they certainly add to the content, some posts give useful insight into other parts of F1, or they may open up a whole new point of discussion. However I can understand why dealing with the rubbish that people seem to think they can post due to ‘free speach’ could make you turn them off and if you do that would be a shame but understanderble.
Anyway keep up the good work on your blog posts which are always worth a read.
PieMan
Joe, it is your blog and you can do as you wish. On mine I simply don’t allow the insulting comments to be published. But, I would have thought a degree of interaction with the fans was one of the main reasons for a blog format.
I think for the most part the comments you get on this blog are a long way removed from the gnomelike rantings that are evident on other F1 sites. Just remember that the vast majority of us fans do appreciate your work and your efforts to bring the “inside story” to us. Whether you shut down comments or not I hope you continue to post here.
Have a safe trip.
The thing is, you could put up a post that simply says 2+2=4 and you’d get abused of being biased. There are a lot of disgruntled idiots out there who seem to derive an immense amount of joy from shouting other people down; they probably targeted you because you have their dream job, for which they clearly have neither the talent nor the temperament.
Hope you don’t let a few idiots ruin a great blog.
P.S. IMHO, the fact that green flags were waving at the final corner means Schumacher was perfectly entitled to overtake Alonso. But I understand the arguments against…
Hi Joe.
I click onto your blog at least one every couple of days and while I have never left I comment I feel I should express my gratitude to you for what is a very interesting and informative ‘insiders’ blog.
I havn’t read the comments you refer to, I prefer to just dip in and out of the blog, but it is obvious to me that any negative comments are left by ‘arm chair experts’, and there are many of them around..
However, these particlular ‘commentors’ are in the vast minority, so please keep up the excellent work!
Regards..
Don’t do it Joe! I work in an industrial unit in Swindon, your blog and the occasional witty comment make the day go that wee bit quicker..
Joe – I think it’s a shame people don’t have the sense or capability to make constructive reasoned comment and instead fall back on abuse – I think it says more about their short-comings than anything else.
For me the main thing is please ignore them and do not take their comments as in any way representative of the majority of people who read your blog.
For what it’s worth your blog is my first port of call for reading anything about F1. I found you through Sidepodcast, and really enjoy the Aside with Joe series and GP+ (and Saboteurs!). I come to your blog (in fact before I go to GP.com) specifically because you offer informed opinion rather than just reporting the facts. For me it’s an easy differentiation to make between your sites – news/facts vs news/opinion/insights.
I think it’s great that through the comments I get to read others’ informed opinion – you have some very knowledgeable people contribute. Unfortunately you have some other people too. I would completely understand if you chose to turn off the comments though – fair enough, it’s not like anyone is paying you for this service.
Whatever happens though please keep blogging – I imagine there is a huge fan base out there, I certainly recommend the site to anyone who gets into an F1 discussion with me.
For what ever it is worth, as an X team owner I fully concure with your thoughts and concern. UNFORTUNATLY SOME BLOGGERS HAVE EGOS BIGGER THAN THEIR BRAINS. Please keep up the EXCELLENT WORK. You and James Allen have the most intellegent approach to what is going of any of the blogs and are sorely needed. Surely, at least, In my opinion you have attracted, a brighter following, but it only takes a couple of jerks to ruin it for the rest. You never take the approach of some journalists, that is: “Creating News” and clearly do your “Homework” Thanks again for your past and future work! Sincerly, Chuck Jones……..
Keep blogging Joe, don’t stop blogging because of people that doesn’t know how to accept others opinion!
Cheers from Portugal
Firstly, you should pay no heed to the armchair pundits. The rise of freely available web based discussion (or bickering) has led many to feel that they can vent their frustrations, and air their views at the expense of others. Forum rants have grown, just as manners have shrunk.
You do a sterling job providing your time, knowledge and opinion, and write from a position of knowledge, experience and proximity rather than the ramblings of ill-informed and prejudiced driver biased armchair expert ‘fans’. You deserve a bit more respect.
I come to sites like this for reasoned opinion from someone who knows the sport, and find blogs from experts such as yourself, and others such as f1fanatic, and even the dreadful James Allen, a refreshing change from the main F1 sites who seem more and more to rely on regurgitating Reuters and the teams own press releases, rather than presenting their own considered opinion.
Personally I have no bias on whether you should allow comments or not. I read what you have to say and leave it at that.
I fear the recent Schumacher incident has an added element which no one seems to mention.
Schumacher left the sport at end of 2006 because he was tired. Not of racing, but of all the rubbish that goes with it. Whether you love him or loathe him, his effect on the sport over the years is the largest the sport has ever seen, and his return this year has been the biggest story of the year. My concern is that this incident and the bruhaha it generates in the media could hasten his eventual exit from the sport for the second time.
The British media were still sniping at him regarding the first Rascasse incident over the weekend, now they will have another thread to pull.
And I think all those passionate supporters of F1, whether you love Schumacher or loathe him, will find a sport a duller place without him. Irrespective of my opinion of him, I feel that as the most successful driver of all time, he deserves a little more respect.
Joe, please keep the comments.
Other posters, keep it civilised. If you disagree with something, say so, offer your opinion, but don’t criticise Joe’s motives or experience. He’s been to many more GPs than any of us ever will.
Hi Joe,
Very long time reader and first time commenter. Your writings are massively appreciated and your opinion certainly rates above those of us who are not part of the circus. Please keep up the good work, thanks again.
Geoff
Joe,
In my experience these people mostly add comments of this nature to provoke a reaction. Within the web world, it’s known as ‘trolling’.
I’ve been left similar on my site, and I just ignore them. Treated as small insignificant ramblings. Someone once told me a great line, apt in these situations: “Don’t argue with idiots, they drag you down to their level – and best you with experience” I’ve found that to be true. On many, many occasions.
This blog is by far one of the very best out there, and for the more ‘informed’ fan a great place to come and learn more about the inner workings of the sport we all love, and find others who share that passion.
Don’t let a few idiots spoil your enjoyment, certainly not because of one Michael Schumacher!
Keep up the excellent work Joe,
Adie
Don’t go all Stephen Fry on us Joe! I don’t think people were unhappy with what you posted, but I think they were unhappy with the rule which is a rather confusing mess and typical of F1.
I suspect the Schumacher fans weren’t too happy with “Michael Schumacher decided to ignore the rules” as many of them won’t have known about article 40.13 (Schumacher didn’t appear to?). Perhaps that wording alone made people think you were against Michael and they re-acted in a childish manner.
I feel this is the most interesting and insightful F1 blog out there, so I’d be gutted if you stopped blogging or stopped allowing comments. I saw similar arguments after the Hamilton/Kimi incident at Spa, where those who knew the rules were lamblasted for not saying it was fair etc. Don’t let it get to you, and remember that 99% of your visitors come here to discuss your insight and experience based view on F1.
Hi Joe,
I, along I’m sure with the majority of F1 fans, really appreciate the insight that people like yourself and James Allen give us for free.
Unfortunately the internet is a medium through which people feel it’s ok to act in a manner that they would never consider if they were not protected by the cloak of anonymity.
However, for everyone internet idiot there are probably a dozen like myself who do not comment on your blog but enjoy reading your views even if I don’t always agree with them.
Keep us in mind rather than the vocal minority and don’t let the b@stards grind you down
Cheers
Rob
Hi Joe
First time I’ve left a comment.
Been reading your work for some time, I remember your great reporting from ETC way back in the 80′s ?, always thought you brought a more intelligent view to the sport.
One of the reasons I didn’t like James Allen on TV was his propensity to skew events to fit his views, he’s doing it more now on his blog too. He also fell foul of that Murray W trait, being part of the circus and generally following the hounds.
Your blog in contrast always speaks with a fresh and independent voice. Keep going. There’ll always be muppets who want to chuck their handbags around.
Regards,
Mike
Hi Joe,
As mentioned in the media centre yesterday, I would be very sad if you decide to stop your blog. Furthermore, if you decide to make it a subscription only blog, I would be prepared to contribute. I know there is a donation tab on the blog, but when something is avaliable for free, that’s just not going to happen. I’d rather buy you a drink or something. Have you had lunch in our motorhome yet? Canada?
I also think that just stopping comments on the blog would be a reasonable move. Anybody that knows you can contact you anyway. More casual readers have the possibility to vent their feelings on various forums.
I value the unique perspective that your knowledge, and continued presence in the paddock, brings. I hope you continue.
Geoff
Well it would appear that you called it right before the penalty was handed down and fair play.
There is a good article on F1 Fanatic which I am sure a lot of the readers of this site also look at.
I am sure the MSC did the move in good faith and was given permission by the team. I am not a fan of MSC in any way at all. In fact whilst I was pleased to see him back his domination at the start of the century in a 1 man team was not good for the sport overall.
I also note that Massa wasn’t punished for cutting a corner that kept him ahead of Lewis. If he had continued to brake and made the corner then he would have lost the place.
Lewis got a penalty for the same offence in Spa in 2008.
Posters should have a little think before they tap away.
Well I assume there were a number of more abusive or insulting comments you chose not to approve on those stories since I dont see anything that explains your reaction.
Regarding comments in general I dont think they work too well in their current form. You get a little feedback and the occasional correction but theres little if any debate or conversation in them since all comments need to be manually approved by you. It might be nice to see this changing if the software running the site allows for it. Others able to approve comments or another way of keeping out the “junk” while allowing comments to be posted live more quickly would help alot.
Youve always been happy to state your opinions whether here or on grandprix.com. People wont always agree. Your job is made tougher by the generally poor standard of TV coverage the majority of your readers are watching. Sadly their “experts” – whether former drivers or former team owners – simply do not have a sufficient understanding of the rules to be able to properly explain whats happening to their viewers. When people come here having been told one thing by Brundle, Coulthard & co they dont react well to your opinions.
Its all your fault for actually reading & understanding the rules!
As things stand the appeal may be very interesting. Any thoughts from me beyond that likely serve no purpose here.
There is no way, my friend, that I would allow the verbal bullies to force a decision upon you such as disallowing comments.
I genuinely believe that great, silent majority appreciate and respect your blog for what it is. Your insight and thougts are always worth reading. I guess one day I will disagree with something you write and may well wish to let you know that. I would, however, do so with respect and manners.
Please don’t let the yobs win.
I, and many others, I’m sure, use this site to get accurate, insightful and entertaining news on Formula 1 and related matters. It’s always the first site I go to to get my racing fix.
It’s your words I come here for, Joe. I rarely read the comments so, if you were to lock the comment feature, it would be no loss to me.
It’s a shame that some of the commentators took such antagonistic tones in their posts. I thought you readers were more intelligent and open-minded than that.
Please keep up the good work.
Dear Joe, friend,
I couldn’t agree more. With you that is …..
Down here in the antipodes Joe any information that comes from within is greatly appreciated. I can only hope that you can ignore the usual fools who inhabit the internet and continue to provide information for those of us who truly appreciate it.
There is indeed some ambiguity in the rules. If the rules are taken literally in the last lap of a race under SC we are faced with a situation where the track is declared clear by green flags (§ 40.11 SR) and the cars are not supposed to overtake (§ 40.13 SR).
One needs to know exactly what track clear means. Appendix H of the ISC says green only indicates that the track is clear of the dangers that are indicated by yellow flags. This also means implicitly that the track is not released to racing.
The racing flags have a different meaning to traffic lights of a highway code. A green light on a city street is a sufficient signal for the traffic to proceed.
A green flag in the ISC is only a necessary signal to commence racing. It is not sufficient to authorize racing. The sufficient condition is the SC crossing the SC line in the pit entry lane without any lights on the SC and the green flags being waved at all but the ultimate laps of the race.
This is a really messy legal situation. It can be explained by logic but it isn’t satisfactory in terms of transparent rules and exciting racing.
Hi Joe, first off, I’d just like to say that your blog is unequivocally the best F1 related site out there. I read your blog every day (and am always disappointed when there isn’t a post!) and find it fascinating, interesting and educational on all things Formula 1 related. I have not left a comment on an article before as it never entered my head to do so, however reading the comments left after your take on Schumacher’s illegal overtake at the end of the Monaco GP left me feeling I had to leave a comment of support!
As usual you were right about the fact that the stewards would view Schumacher’s move as illegal and he would probably be punished by a time penaly after the race and lo and behold you were correct!
Now, I am a big Schumacher fan but I am an even bigger Formula 1 fan so what I am most concerned with is that the stewards act in a proper and just manner and I believe they have done so here, it just happened to be against Michael Schumacher, if it had been the other way round and Alonso had made the move, I’m sure they would have penalised him exactly the same way. The rule is clear and Michael Schumacher broke it, that’s how the stewards viewed it, hence the penalty.
Mercedes seems to have a different view however, the confusion seems to be about the fact that race control had issued a ‘SC in’ message before the chequered flag and whether this meant that the race ended under the SC or not.
The rule says you cannot overtake if the race ends under the SC, but this seems to be open to interpretation by Mercedes (which I’m sure is why they are appealing). I think race control may have messed up by putting out the ‘SC in’ message on the last lap, there was no need to do it, it was the last lap of the race, so why did they issue that message to the teams?
So Joe, for the sake of your fans, please ignore the abusive comments left by the few, and embrace the positive comments left by the many, hopefully this way you will feel it worthwhile to leave commenting open on your blog.
…oh, and keep up the good work!
Joe,
I totally aggree with you and more, people must respect journalists like you that are always double checking before publishing anything. I know that for a fact. There are very few in the paddock doing what you do.
You were 100 per cent right on Schumacher’s penalty yesterday. The rule is very clear.
For those of you that don’t like to read the truth, please at least respect Joe and his professionalism.
Jayme
Joe,
a) Don’t get discouraged
b) It’s a fact of life of blogging that some folks ar vociferous and less than polite in their comments, whether knowledgeable or not.
Those that value the blog will ignore or have sideline arguments with the impolite. You have to simply accept that human nature aint as gentle as you/we might like.
The value of the good comments outweighs the bad for those that appreciate this blog.
Comments or not, hang in there.
Just a quick line from someone who, I suspect, is one of a silent majority – I thoroughly enjoy your blog and, as a disillusioned F1 fan, it is one of the two sites I regularly visit to keep up with news and opinions. Obviously I don’t always agree with what I read but the articles are packed with interesting insights and it would be a huge shame if this informative source was to dry up.
All the best
Joe
I wish I had the number of comments you have on my blog. But then I only post every leap year.
You can disallow comments or you can only allow the ones you like or you can say to hell with it and allow them all.
What you might think about doing is not responding. I like to think there are some out here who can read between the lines and realise that someone is posting tat. To my mind you are only giving credence to the tat by responding.
Have you read Clyde Brolins book? Are you “waterproof” or are you a “sponge”? I suspect like me, you are a “sponge”.
I am an ardent fan of yours, and would check your blog and the gpp pdf more than any ‘armchair’ blog that tries to make f1 ‘not boring’. Please know you have great supporters on your efforts. Your GPP is simply the best F1 stuff out there
When people call Priuses overgrown prams they’re mainly joking – don’t throw your toys out!
Joe,
Thanks for a very interesting and valuable blog. I read it daily – even when there are no updates
About the comments: The web exposes any blog writer to near-instantaneous feedback from all sections of society – some pleasant and some unpleasant.
Before computers – we simply never heard from most of them because it was harder to write a letter, put a stamp on it and email it. Now, anybody can send you whatever they want to say with the click of a button.
My suggestion is that you enforce the moderation process, i.e don’t allow comments until you approve them. This is your blog – you can censor whatever you want, and you should.
Thanks for your “window into F1″
Joe, let’s accentuate the positive – there are lot’s of us who really appreciate your take on events and the insight you have. It would be a boring world if we all agreed all of the time, I don’t always agree with your specific view point either. However, don’t let a few rude and impolite people spoil what is a great blog. Chin up my friend!
Joe,
I am a regular reader of your blog. I do not always agree with you. But do I have to? Your blog is reflecting your personal opinion. With substance. An asset I wish some of the other (non blogging) journalists would display more often.
I think your writing is highly appreciated by the vaste majority of your frequent readers. Many a times your views and opinions expressed proved to be right on target.
Leave everything as it is.
Joe,
Your blog, you dont have to accept any posting if you don’t want to. I have submitted comments in the past that did not make it. F1 is a sport of passion and when a fan favorite is knocked down the supporters will blow up. Accept that it is a fact. I actually support your comments, read them after the race and had no problem with them so felt no need to comment. Sure hundreds more did the same, the silent majority. Chin up Joe, keep up the good work and keep the comments on the blog with editing/rejection for the offensive comments. Set the standard and the tone for the blog, just like it is a discussion in a class room!
let’s face it, there have always been rules for F1 and there have been rules for M Schumacher, sad as it is. As far as abuse is concerned, don’t get worked up on this, it/they is/are not worth it, those sitting at home always know best – they think.
have a pleasant drive ‘up north’, a good lunch should solve most worries.
Those resorting to personal insult are usually not intelligent enough to construct a reasoned argument. Sadly weblogs are often used in this manner. Also, such people usually hide behind anonymity.
Perhaps you can ban people who resort to personal insults? Or not accept such posts in the first place?
I very much hope that you do continue to accept comments on this blog but I feel you would be justified if you decided otherwise.
I support you. This is your blog and you ought to be able to post what you want without some jerks lambasting you.
Those “armchair quarterbacks” need to get a life.
Thank you for writing the blog, you do a fantastic job.
Mr. Kris B. Mandt
Des Moines IA USA
Corner Marshal, USGP at Indy all 6 years
Hello Joe, I’m sorry that you are considering stopping this blog.
Clearly there are some very “opinioniated experts” out there that want to have dialogue with a celebrity, you! about the events that they are also passionate about.
However, the equity you have built, including an evening with Joe, will all be wasted if you stop.
While I might not agree with some of the things you write, it is a blog, your opinion. I respect that, as indeed you respect what I post here when I’m moved by something you write, because you leave it posted!
It’s “only” a Grand Prix! I suspect that one day you might be moved to write about some of the very underhanded moves made by M.Schumacher that you clearly remember and the “new” fans that read this site will never know about, unless you stay in the game!
I suggest you un-cork a bottle from the cave and consume quite a lot.
As my old friend M.Dernie often told me, one bottle is never enough and two is too many, each!
I would honestly miss this blog if you stopped, because you do offer an insight that has been slowley disappearing from F1 racing. Arm chair “experts” are often right, the day after the event! I suggest the “experts” remember what a blog really is and think long and hard about what living in a world without censorship means!
Hang in there, Joe! Your blog is good and enjoyed by many, don’t let a few people put you off or deny those of us who want to hear your opinion.
Joe,
Sorry to hear there are people who allow their feelings about a particular driver to override their common sense. I happen to be a Schumacher fan, but even I knew he’d made a rookie error when he made that last corner pass at the end of the race. Or was it a rookie error? You’d think both he and the guys on the pitwall would know that positions had to be maintained to the start/finish line, which in this case meant he was locked into 7th place…and …what?…4 points under the new scoring system? Instead he got what he deserved…no points. As for what you do here on the blog, make no mistake…those of us who appreciate your efforts and look forward to your posts on a daily basis (and your contributions to Sidepodcast as you see fit) far outnumber the wankers who don’t. Keep up the good work…here in the States, it’s the personal insight from guys like you that makes F1 so much fun for a lonesome US fan across the pond.
Cheers,
David
Dear Mr. Joe…
A while back you were feeling the same, if I recall, about comments and the way people were behaving. At this point, I’m torn between arguing for those of us who like to and enjoy having civil discussions with people like yourself who have great insight into these matters, and agreeing with you – too many people display little or no respect to others when online.
If these same people were to somehow attend one of your ‘evenings’ I doubt they would be so rude in person, but then again too many people are being raised without being taught basic manners so they could have the same effect in person.
I know it won’t make the choice easier for you, but a lot of the more intelligent, technical and ‘advanced information’ websites I frequent have been going through the same process as far as commentators go. Ars Technica, Wired, Jalopnik, and a half dozen others have made it a point to address these issues recently. The difference, of course, if that they’ve got legions of hands on deck and a lot more content in which these comments are posted, so it isn’t in one concentrated lump like here.
Basically, it seems that the huge amounts of people joining in online communities have no regard for civil discourse, all over the net. Eliminating comments may be the only option you have to keep it ‘professional’ on here. As a semi-regular commentor, and daily reader (your blog is the first stop when I’m waiting for the coffee) I’d rather see you continue posting about F1 than give up because of these people who take your services for granted.
My two cents. The majority of your visitors would probably agree. You can delete this comment, I simply wanted you to know you’ve got the support of the more reasonable among us. Again. I know how easy it can be to lose sight of the positives when so many are intent on negative, destructive behavior. Too bad they’re not signed in with a facebook account, then we’d know who these people really are…
Now, I can’t wait to hear how boring Turkey is going to be… Maybe you can find something positive from the race this year? Yeah, I know, you don’t do miracles…
Just wanted to show my support for the blog and work you do Joe. I don’t mind if you turn off comments – Before this, I have never felt inclined to post anything and I usually don’t care to read what other people have posted either. Keep up the great work!
Hi Joe,
I have not yet read the comments on that issue yet but I am sure I will be cringing in about 5 minutes. There is no need for abusive comments and if it ruins this great blog that I look to for informative reports it will be very sad. Whether they agree or disagree with you, comments should be put in such a way that they further discussion and enlighten. They should always be respectful to the author and other posters.
To me it IS worth it Joe to do what you do and I for one appreciate what you share on this blog at no charge. You need to make the best decision for you though to continue doing your day job so I understand. A great shame it has come to this.
Hey Joe,
You are right, it is very unfair that people attack you for your opinion. Sadly it happens all too often and from the years I have spent on F1 forums I can say the most heated arguments I have seem always seem to centre around a certain M Schumacher somehow.
You were right and I knew you would be, once they read the rules even the guys on the BBC said he would likely get a penalty. Clearly though this situation hasn’t come up before but they will know for next time, that’s for sure.
Please don’t let a few nasty comments ruin something a lot of us enjoy. I have never felt the need to comment before, I just read and move on but I felt I should say please don’t stop, I for one would really miss you.
Hi Joe.
Being a regular reader for a long time, and also devotes my time to write about the greatest sport in the world, I too was disgusted that so many “experts” saw it fit, to explain to you that you were wrong.
In the dying seconds of the race, as we saw Michael Schumacher overtake Fernando Alonso, immediately yelled that “that´s a penalty!”
I write live commentary for my own page on FB, and enjoy it very much. I too got that abuse, that I was wrong and MS was right to overtake. Unfortunately there a more “arm-chair experts” out there than, dare I say us, but they should just do what you do: Start their own blog and then they can moan and complain all they want.
Great job as usual!
Jakob Schmidt
Hey Joe,
Remember the words of another Joe: “Non carborundum illegitemi.”
Scott2335
It’s your blog and I read it for your views of the race. You are at the race unlike those who comment. You have worked covering racing as a professional unlike those who comment. I read your blog for your insight into the race, insight most other racing sites do not offer. Turn off the comments if you want, I come to read your views not others. I doubt one of the former commenters will quit their day job to fly all over the world to start their own F1 blog. Thanks for posting the blog and don’t let a few comments get you down, you know the old saying “Opinions are like a$$holes……”.
Maybe you just could brand gratuitously nasty commenters with a scarlet letter, ‘A’ for abusive or some such. Or perhaps a modest subscription fee would be sufficient to weed out those who feel lively debate and civility are mutually exclusive…
And let’s hear it for Webber. I’ve known him since he raced FF in Oz and spent quite a bit of time with him in his F3 days. I’ve seen more naturally talented drivers, but never one as strong mentally. Like his compatriot Alan Jones, I believe he will just build and build on this momentum. I certainly hope so, as I also feel he would make a terrific champion and ambassador for the sport. One need only look at his charity efforts and role in the GPDA to see that.
PLEASE KEEP DOING YOUR VERY GOOD JOB !!
I’m sure there are lot of people like me depending on your comments and remarks to understand better F1 and have your comments first hand.
Ignore the imbeciles , they will be always there unfortunately.. Think of all of us around the world who are so grateful for the good job you’re doing.
The great thing about the internet is that it’s like a party to which everyone is invited. The downside of the internet is that it’s like a party to which everyone is invited.
I follow very few blogs, but all of the ones I read contain sensible, informed, and sometimes provocative commentary. And all of them attract plenty of responses that are anything but sensible or informed, and are ‘provocative’ only in the most juvenile way. This commentary invariably comes from people who do not use their real names, and – unlike the blogger – are not genuinely accountable.
Unfortunately, this seems to go with the territory. If you want to have a blog, you have to subject yourself to such behavior.
Good luck with your decision.
I hope that you don’t get rid of the comments mate. Personally I love reading them and occasionally contributing – makes me feel like I’m a little closer to F1 and often the comments are very insightful.
I really enjoyed the recent discussions about the possible NY Grand Prix
Joe,
I sympathise. Due to recent work related issues (Toyota recalls) I was invited, via so-called social media channels, to kill myself. To be fair, I was also offered supportive reassurance by old colleagues. Both were unexpected, only one welcome, but I guess neither would have been possible without the ability for folks to freely say what they think via the web.
Outside of work, I have helped run a forum for several years and as a consequence I have a good insight to the seemingly limitless bravery (i.e. rudeness) of those sitting behind a keyboard and a modem. When all else fails we simply block IP addresses. Who needs the grief? Probably not so easy in a more commercial situation like yours.
However, the point you raise does touch on a bigger issue, namely the future of journalism and the relationship of journalists and readers. In the past a journalist could pretty much state any opinion they liked and privately deal with or even avoid the relatively few readers’ letters that might get through. Now you get instant, direct feedback that’s there for the whole world to see.
Dealing with this is an intrinsic part of the modern media landscape and the etiquette is not yet clear. The advice I get is basically ignore it, or at least don’t respond to it. It’s likely to be time wasted on an argument you’ll never win and left alone it can be judged for what it is by other, more reasonable eyes. One of my favourite quotes from fiction (Illusions by and Richard Bach) covers it quite well; Live never to be ashamed if anything you say or do is published around the world, even if what is said is not true.
Scott
Joe,
For each of those idiots who cause offence, there are thousands of us who really appreciate what this blog is about and who enjoy constructively adding to the discussion.
Don’t let the few spoil it for the many!
Joe, as much as I respect you for your years of experience and the general quality of this blog, I cannot say anything other than you must respect a reaction on any opinion you give.
You presented your opinion on the matter, an opinion on which many disagree with. You stated that you were trying to help, which is true, but on providing you own opinion on the matter, you open yourself up for disagreement. In one of your own comments, you state:
“It is simply reading the rules and explaining them as they should be interpreted.”
This in itself is a huge opinion. By saying such you open yourself up – you should have said that it was simply reading the rules and explaining them AS YOU interpret them. Telling people that this is how they should be interpreted is very different and it is regrettable, but no wonder why people would respond in the manner they did the face of this.
It’s not bad journalism in the slightest Joe, it’s simply poor understanding of the general public psyche.
Keep up the good work.
I have a blog–on a completely different topic; my painting career–and people say the nastiest things. I used to just let them pop up. Now I edit out the mean-spirited ones. I read them, yes, and sometimes that is painful regardless. But it doesn’t take much work and it solves, to a degree, your problem.
On a larger point, this site is a tremendous boon to F1 fans all over the world, Joe. Don’t let a couple of jerks get under your skin. Your accomplishments, in this arena at least, and credibility almost certainly outweigh theirs. They are likely just blowing smoke out of their asses.
Joe, the work you do is a treasure to the sport. Don’t be dicouraged by a few ignorant people who probably have enough money to hire someone to operate their computers for them, since they don’t seem to have a clue. Your site is the first place I go to get info on what’s happening in the world of F-1. Thanks for your due diligence and hard work.
Hi Joe
As allways, I think that the reasonable way is neither to right or to the left, but in the middle.
An easy solution will be for you to only “moderate” the comments, refusing the unkind ones. That way legitimate fans will still have the chance to express themselves and the mad ones won’t.
And this won’t be a censorship. After all you are the owner of the blog and you are not supposed to fire yourself.
I am a big fan of you and hope to attend one of your open meetings very soon. I would be frustratred if you just close the blogs to comments and I am sure most of your legitimates fans feel the same.
I am not a journalist and attended a few F1 races personally, but lost almost no one from 1972. I slightly disagree with your remarks about armchairs specialists. I am a scientist and believe that people can learn something by themselves if they put enough effort, even without all the means that are usually necessary. I don’t consider myself as a specialist, but I am not naive either. And I think that many of your readers fall in the same profile.
(By the way, on the last century I was responsible for Atlas F1 Brazil
)
Let me tell you something. And I hope you take this for good. It is very frustrating and hard to understand the lack of posts from your part during races weekends. Sometimes I wonder what is the point being there if the only reports are about tests and races results
) Don’t take it bad please, it is just feedback from someone who opens your blog page at least 10 times a day.
I understand that you have a family (as I do) and other projects too and need some free time. But when someone as influent as you starts a blog we, the readers, keep adicted to it and want news all the time. This is the price that the Internet puts on your shoulders. On the old times a column per week on the newspaper was enough, now we want news over and over
))
Keep your wonderfull work. I am one of your hard supporters.
” It is because I need to feel that what I am doing is worth doing…”.
Joe – I really enjoy your work. Esp. GP+ is a jewel which shines. Also your blog & your contributions to Sidepodcast.com. Would happily pay for both!
But that said, you should be sufficiently proud of your work not to feel bad (or insulted) when a few people off-load counter opinions. That really comes with the territory in this medium, doesn’t it?
Moreover these opinions (on a hotly debated point) have nothing to do with the quality of your work and by extension shouldn’t undermine your feelings with regard to the value or worth of what you achievements. Keep up the great work!
Cheers,
Andrew
PS Now I should put my money where my mouth is and click on the “donate” button!
At first I thought the stewards were spot on. But – doesn’t Brawn have a point?
The rule under which Schumacher was penalised states that if the race is to end under safety car, it will come in to the pits and the cars will then proceed to the finish line without overtaking. Presumably this was in part devised to ensure we didn’t get the disappointing spectacle of races finishing behind the safety car.
But the Monaco GP did not end behind the safety car because the track was cleared, the green flag was waved, and the SC lights went out. So on my reading Schumacher was cleared to overtake.
Arguably, the race director should should have seen the last lap anomaly in the rules and decided to end the race behind the safety car, and thus made no formal decision to call it in. But he did call in the safety car; so it is not possible to say that the race was ended behind the safety car.
This is why Schumacher’s return is great for the sport – he arouses such passion and emotion in fans and journalists, and forces other drivers to lift their game. He brings out the best and worst in F1′s stakeholders!
One day we’ll realise how lucky we were to see him in action in 2010…..some of us already realise the same thing applies to this blog. Joe’s insights are invaluable, and for me at least, make F1 compelling.
Keep up the great work Joe – you are the Schumi of the F1 blogosphere!
Mr. Saward,
I have enjoyed your blog and view point for a long time now.
I am a bit confused at the apparent disparity in penalties handed out this weekend. I don’t think it would have made any difference to Mark Webber’s race, but I think the customary penalty for pit lane speeding is a drive through.
Then there is Rubens Barrichello’s tantrum that so far has gone unpunished. I don’t have a problem with the penalty handed to Michael Schumacher but Mercedes may be able to make a case for prejudice.
I was really hoping the decisions from the Steward would be more consistent this year.
Thank you for your continued efforts.
Mike Butler
Joe, I’m going to resist the temptation to say this is a “disappointingly sour-sounding post.” :p
Instead let me offer my hearty thanks for your years of such great writing and insight you have provided over the years. Your comments are always spot on. Count me as a supporter of your decision if you must disable the comments by the nattering nabobs of negativism.
Joe,
I agree with you 100% on your assessment of MSC yesterday. But you may be too sensitive. This type of behavior happens all the time on blogs and internet forums. If you had sided with MSC, the other half of your readers who do not like him would call you the same types of names for being a stooge of MSC. That’s just how it is.
98% of your regular readership appreciates your insight and gets a kick out of reading other readers’ comments to your posts. Ignore the trolls and please bring comments back!
You are obviously the only person who really can decide if comments are allowed or not.
Here’s a suggestion: what about finding some volunteer comment moderators?
I am not volunteering btw.
I would hate to lose the opportunity to respond to your thoughts directly. I hope those who seek to attack, be it with regards to tobacco or sporting events or whatever seek to channel their interest into responses that are not simply accusatory drivel (“Well you are pro smoking!”?) I can understand your frustration, but I would be saddened if those of us who care about your thoughts and the sport and are constructive on the blog lose out.
I would suggest, if it is possible, to simply selectively post responses, it may not be democratic, but what really is!?! If you can just put up responses that are thought provoking, a-ha moments, or interesting insights and cut all the fat out.
I would be happy to see a selection of the best insights rather than the 100 plus responses to articles that become cannon fodder for insults you could clamp them down earlier and just internalize what is said. Granted you will still then have to read it, and the attacks with hit you personally, just not become public.
Its tough, it really is. I for one would accept a system of control, much like a newspaper selects the best reader comments for a ‘letter to editors’ section.
We will collectively accept whatever it is you determine is right. I understand it is still an experiment at this stage. Some of us appreciate the insights provided, and the time that is required.
The next site I click to after posting had this and I thought it was fitting
http://www.xkcd.com/
It might be a coincidence: the German F1 news site Motorsport Total switched off the possibility to comment shortly after the race yesterday as obviously matters got out of hand. This might have something to do with anything controversial that involves both Alonso AND Schumacher (and their respective fans) always stirring up quite a lot of dirt and aggression. In shadow of that other incidents happening in the race (e.g. Barrichello throwing his steering device onto the racing line, Trulli’s interesting line into Rascasse) fell by the wayside.
In light of this I hope you don’t overestimate some people’s reactions given mere seconds after the race had ended.
Then again this is a blog, and it’s your blog and yours alone, not a discussion room where everyone can behave or misbehave the way they wish to. Arguing with some of these people doesn’t make a lot of sense. Almost everyone seems to think that because they more or less manage to drive a car themselves they are free to give their view on anything in F1 and to show their disrespect to those that dare to have a different view on things happening in Formula 1 or even criticise their favourite driver.
Switching comments off seems wise to me. Many will complain and some of them might leave. But there are plenty of other opportunities for them to express their views in whichever way they prefer.
Perhaps you are able to replace the comments with the possibility for readers to ask you questions now and then to keep up some interactive element which I think is absolutely necessary.
Joe,
I would like to echo other commenters on this site and say please do not stop commenting, I agree it is not fun having to deal with the armchair experts, but there are many many more readers who value, respect, learn and derive real satisfaction from your knowledge. As in many aspects of life, it’s an unfortunate truism that you will never receive all the positive feedback you deserve, only the brickbats. This website, and Grandprix.com are the two websites I turn to when I want factual concise reporting, or informed opinion from a journalist with many years of real experience in the pitlanes around the world. Keep up the great work.
Totally understandable Joe… But sometimes the comments are funnier than your posts, even !
If I were you, I’d leave them as is and stop moderating, or at least intervening in the comments. Post your (great) blog articles, and let the rest of us fight it out in the comments
Hi Joe,
It’s your old friend Leo here mate. Please don’t give up the site. It’s not your fault that F1 has become like football (that awful BBC Radio show ’606′). Just remember ‘Opinions are like a—holes, everyon’e got one”! There are loads of football type F1 fans who will not listen to reasonable arguments or respect the rules. People generally don’t listen anymore and it saddens me that Damon Hill’s name has been brought in to this… Anyway, all the teams and drivers of F1, agree to abide by the rules, and must respect them. Sometimes they’ll try it on to test these rules, it’s always been so. But the rules are the rules, so Mercedes will lose their appeal. By next week this’ll all be over and we’ll have another scandal. Monaco was nailbiting and I’m enjoying the season, despite any earlier fears. Keep it up!
Joe, rest assured your blog IS worth reading. Comments are interesting, usually informative, often amusing, relevant, occasionally rude, rarely deeply insulting.
The blog would be a lesser medium without feed back. Stay cool.
If I didn’t know better I would say I was reading a NASCAR blog comment section. The rule seems pretty cut and dry.To me the blame for this screw up goes to Race Control they gave the wrong message to the teams. Ross who should know the rules must have told Schumacher to go once to SC pulled into the pits. To everyone saying the pass was legal, why didn’t anybody else try to improve their position?
Joe
Don’t be down about it. There are a lot of knowledgeable people valuing everything that you write. As for those cowards who hide behind the web and believe that abuse is their right, rest assured that any of their comments that get through earn them wide spread condemnation.
We don’t need any comments to value this blog, cut them out and save your time moderating them, just put a counter on to let you see how much support that you are getting.
kindest regards
Joe, I would be sad to see you stop doing what you do for us fans but I would understand your reaction when I read some of the comments of certain readers of this blog.
In the meantime, keep up the excellent work and please take note that there is a need for this kind of input in the sport.
Off-topic: I live 1 hour from Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve but can’t make it to the race this year, Arg! I hope we get an exciting race and that fans will enjoy the show.
Understand your feelings Joe, lots of uninformed loudmouths in F1, as evidenced by the bulletin boards and chatrooms existing around the sport. That is why so many value your experience and insight. Often the comments are interesting and bring a depth of perspective. But I notice since MSC returned there is more animosity than usual. Whatever you decide, keep up the great work which is of great value. GP is great, but the blog is part of my daily diet! Thanks and I guess just ignore the occasional uninformed and biased comment.
Cheers and see you in Montreal!
Stephen
Joe, I hope you will continue. I enjoy your writing immensely.
There are assholes in every walk of life. Ignore them and move on. It’s your blog. Moderate the comments as you see fit to keep the conversation civil and productive.
Drive safely.
Joe, FWIW I sometimes find that your articles sound a bit opinionated rather than neutral. It bothered me initially, but I’ve learnt to live with it because
1) This is your blog and you have more rights than anyone else (who leaves comments) to be opinionated
2) You provide certain insights and inside stories that no one else covers (like the continuously updated coverage of the teams and others struggling to get back to Europe from China)
3) I like the overall blog enough that I shouldn’t bite the hand that feeds it
I love your blog. Keep up the good work. Thanks.
Dont feed the Trolls.
Well Joe, I hope you don’t close off means for discussion. I for one value your judgements and opinions, even if I don’t always agree with them. And it’s nice to have an exchange of views on these things, in a friendly way, of course.
Two other things :
1 – the people who get abusive on here are usually playing personalities – they’re fans of Lewis and hate everyone else, or Fernando, or Michael etc. and so they think that everyone, including you, must have their little axe to grind too. Perhaps it shows the lamentable state of much journalism that they expect this. We need proper journos like you to correct the balance.
2 – As far as the Monaco thing is concerned, you certainly got the judgement right. Some of us are a bit frustrated that one of the best bits of the race was declared illegal, but there you are.
The ultimate fault surely lies with the stewards. All they had to do was to keep yellow flags to the end, having announced that they would, and there would have been no dispute. They seemed totally unaware that different rules seemed to say different things. And Schumacher would have kept the 7th place he’d earned. What do you think ?
Joe,
I have been a reader since the early days of grandprix.com. I think it would be a shame to lose the comments. Blog comments are insightful and worthwhile; sometimes I find the commenters illuminate your writing even further. If the purpose of a blog is to enlighten and to entertain beyond “mere” facts, then a certain amount of parry and thrust is to be expected. You are not shy about stating your true feelings about F1, but you are a professional and this is your bread and butter. For those who follow the sport and are equally passionate, the comments are a means to enter the fray. You are in control of which comments are seen, but I think at the end of the day the site is better for it, even if some people should measure their remarks.
There are different opinions on the Schumacher/Alonso thing, but the fact is that the lights went green and green flags were waved. This implies that the race did not finish under safety car conditions. On the one previous occasion that I remember the race finishing under safety car – Melbourne last year – the safety car went into the pits, but the SC boards were still out and yellow flags were waved all the way to the line.
Green lights mean the race is on.
There were two other incidents which have not even been discussed.
Massa crossed the yellow line on pit exit after his stop – no penalty.
And worst of all … Alonso passed Chandok under yellow flag in the tunnel on lap one AS they passed by Hulkenburg’s wrecked car. Chandok was pushed out onto the dust and could easily have crashed at 150mph into the back of the Williams.
I haven’t seen that mentioned anywhere.
Hi Joe,
Comments are a double edged sword and as I run some blogs myself I know what you speak of. While in some ways a pain to maintain, putting out a clear commenting policy I think will help. People need to stay on topic and avoid personal pot shots at you or any other commenters. If they don’t you ban them.
While I speak only for myself I am sure that many would agree that as F1 fans it is absolutely a thrill to be able to talk to a true F1 insider. A blog is a conversation between people sharing their opinions on a mutual topic and there will always be some who abuse the priveledge. Leave the comments on but ban where neccessary.
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts. Keep up the great work as usual.
Take care.
Mark Boudreau
Montreal, Canada
I would not blame you in the least if you were to disable comments. I very rarely leave them.
The people who are the ones who on Internet forums argue incessantly about subjects about which they have little or no knowledge, just personal opinions or prejudices.
I read your blog
frequently but do not usually bother with the responses you’re getting (not here for the discussion really), so cannot assess that aspect by experience. However, seeing your remarks about the “insulting” nature of feedback regarding the “Schumacher incident” I took a look at that particular exchange. The negativity and (should we say) irreverence therein seemed decidedly tame in comparison to what is standard fare elsewhere – this I can state with some conviction having participated in motorsport messageboard discussions elsewhere.
Some F1 related issues seem to elicit irrational and emotional responses almost without fail, perhaps as personal reflections of the larger structural and social absurdities of the sport. Whether you or I like it or not, that is an existant part of F1 culture also; severing a specific form of connectivity here will not abolish this reality from the larger context. Your work is being and will be consulted and discussed elsewhere. Sometimes appreciation and recognition takes surprising forms; not every challenge is an invitation to defeat(ism).
Joe
Too many people use a forum (or comments) section as a mouthpiece for their own views, with their own bias.
The journalistic responsibility of telling the truth and being objective is sadly lacking when everyone has a mouthpiece, just look at the fan biased rantings on other forums.
That’s why I come to you, for may years (80′s ETC onwards) I’ve respected your balanced views.
If the comments section is going to descend into uninformed vitriol, I fully respect your decision to stop it.
Sorry Peter F but your comments bear repeating to Joe
‘Peter F
Joe – although I’m unimpressed at the lack of respect commentors sometimes show, given all the work you put in, it would be sad to stop the comments because of this. I follow your blog because of your informed, intelligent take on things, and because most of the comment is so much more interesting and thoughtful than the “Alonso is sh*te”, “No, Hamilton is cr*p” rubbish that one sees on most other sites. Although there’s been some disagreement over this is issue, your blog still remains the least-affected by moronic comment that I know of.’
He’s absolutely right – whether you allow people to comment is up to you but it would be a shame to lose what are mostly reasonable – and unlike me – sometimes I suspect – fellow f1 people adding their comments.
I know its hard when you get the diatribes but I would rather for the good of this site that you just put up with them
Somewhat ironic I thought that Alonso should get something along the lines of what he did to Massa done to him – and of course the decision was just as you said it would be Joe
keep up the blog please Joe – the vast majority of us love It I am sure – I am also a fan of James Allens site – but you put a different slant on the subject which is great
Joe, please dont stop the blog which is greatly informative, aswell as gp+ and sidepodcast chats. I must admit i dont agree with your “Michael Schumacher decided to ignore the rules” line. The rules clearly arent clear as the rulebook contradicts itself. Thus, i cant imagine he would have elected to deliberately break the rules. I hope this isint abusive. Please continue to allow comments. I know you’ve probably heard all this before but you are in a privilaged and unique position. As an “armchair expert”, I crave as much info from inside the paddock as possible and you are one of the best providers. Yes, the blog doesnt make money but GP+ does, as well as the chats with joe which I am planning on attending at silverstone.
Joe:
I am a regular reader of your blog, a subscriber to your GP+ magazine and a listener to your sessions on Sidepodcast. Do not be offput by a few complainers in the Comment section. Obviously Schummi is a lighting rod for emotions and his supporters will see what they want (and hope) to see in his actions.
Please continue to allow comments as I believe it only strengthens what is an excellent and informative read !!
Joe, this is your blog and you are free to do with it what you want but have you considered moderating posts before allowing them to go live on your site?. I think well reasoned discussion between viewers adds to this blog and it would be a shame if the actions of a few spoil things for the rest of us.
You are not being all that thin-skinned, it is simply that the Web and the internet have evolved less into the “information highway” that many of us envisioned “way back in the day” and has become more akin to an open sewer line.
Personally, there is no way in hell if I were to write a blog that I would allow comments such as the format you have here. If you want am endless stream of dumbass, snarky remarks and ad hominem attacks, then post on one of the cesspools of the internet, a forum. If you wish to state your opinion on things as you seem them, then blog without comments.
The comments certainly do not add anything to a blog, yours or that of anyone else as far as I can determine.
Should you decide to cut the comments, just do it. Don’t explain, don’t apologize, just do it.
Nearly 20 years ago I was at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and was using the internet and email when few even had a clue about such things. Part of my work was on the digital library, the dream of my program manager. Reality seems to have a way of getting in the way of dreams. Write your blog as if it were appearing in a print journal and don’t look back.
Again, I recommend pulling the plug on the comments and letting it go at that. It is not a “feature” that even is remotely a “necessity.”
Just my opinion.
Joe,
Keep your chin up mate. There are those of us who follow your blog that can tell you are an excellent journalist, dedicated and with vast experience in your profession. I must add that I hope that this whole saga doesnt wreck the good idea of using ex-drivers as stewards. Remember Hamilton trying to break Petrovs tow in Malaysia? Lots of noise that the ex-Mclaren test driver gave him the benefit of the doubt. Keep up the good work!
Abi
Joe
keep up the great work
from time to time with my own blog it seems that some people are from a different planet -its just how it is
the vast majority of peole appreciate what you do thats why we read the blog!
dont let them get you down
regards
Peter
I hope that you continue with the blog. I think it’s fantastic and it’s a regular part of my race weekend. I never read the comments, so I wouldn’t care if you turned those off. I only come here for your opinion.
I did go back and read the reactions to your Schumacher post. I’m baffled as to why people attacked you. Your post seemed pretty straight forward to me.
If people are arguing, they’re engaged. That’s a good thing, and (I think) you should embrace it.
My favorite example of this is Michael Tomasky in the Guardian. He gets some vicious comments, mostly he ignores them, or just says “They’re all mad”. Sometimes he admits they made a good point and engages. http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/michaeltomasky
I’m sure this will be but one small voice in a chorus saying much the same thing…
Commenting is a privilege and not a right, and as such you can withdraw the feature if you choose. But I will miss it if it goes – while you have been invaded by some particularly fatuous people of late, the general standard of discussion on this blog is in a class above.
If the problem is with those commenters who are rude and personally offensive, rather than those who provide an engaging opposition, have you considered rules for commenting?
While depressing in concept, having a static page or sidebar explaining that comments will be moderated, and those deemed offensive will not be posted, is effective.
Your readers can then continue to enjoy the lively debates, while the aggressors will eventually learn to contribute or depart altogether.
Joe,
With all due respect to you and what you have accomplished, I, for one, would be somewhat hurt, if you decided that the, (substance induced), wranglings of a few, had such a negative impact on your perspective.
I have beaten you up only once in the past. It was just to get your attention, to be honest. After you replied, I did reply in a far more intelligent manner.
If you were to shut this down, it would leave you a little more time to focus on the reporting that makes you money.
The end result is, it is still up to you to decide. No one can tell you how to proceed. You have to decide that for yourself.
I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.
…and by the way, Joe, I think you are a very good journalist and I like to read your opinions on here. I usually agree with them, but don’t in this case. I think that maybe someone screwed up in race control by putting the green lights on if they meant it to be a safety car finish, but the fact is that they did and so the drivers could race.
Hi Joe,
First of all, I would like to say that I became a fan of this blog in a fairly short time since i discovered it. I hope you keep carry on the good stuff because the real fans know that you are one of the best journo’s whom follow F1 around the world! I hope you can keep ignoring those insulting mails because I know that there is a real gathering here that would see you continue!
Kind regards from Holland,
Wichard
Well Joe if anything I miss more posts from you as I like to read them but not used to comment.
So please do not give up and keep up the good work!
Regarding the penalty on Shumacher it is unbelieveable how people can argue about it, the rule is so clear…
The only problem with this rule is that is a bit absurd due to the green lights
Furthermore people who earn in one year more than we can earn in our whole life should know the rules to the letter so no excuses, and this is just a sport, so calm down folks!
Joe, ignore the few morons who are unable to make polite observations. Your site is the best.
I think people get unduly emotional about MS, and it is just something we have to take in our stride Joe.
I personally disagree with you over the issue. Not in the sense that the ruling was necessarily wrong, but when you said that the issue was clear, which I don’t think it was. I don’t think we can say that MS cheated, as it was his team who told him he could race. Nor do I think that Mercedes Brawn were necessarily wrong, as there seems to be a lack of clarity in the rule.
The fact that Race Control told the teams that the safety car would come in must have had some significance. If the race had finished under yellow, then the SC would have gone into the pits under the rule and the race would have been yellow and there could have been no overtaking, even after the white line. And there would have been no need to tell the teams that the SC was coming in, because under the rule it would come in anyway.
But in fact, the teams were told the SC was coming in, the race went green, green flags were waved. Logically the only reason why Race control could have needed to tell the teams that the SC was coming in would be if the race was going green. And as it went, the rule that was quoted arguably no longer applied.
I get the impression though that it was Race Control who got confused. They may well not have intended the race to go green, but the fact is that it did. To penalise MS seems harsh, but equally for FA to lose a place seems harsh.
Either way, your blog is excellent, your views are always well-informed and interesting, even though I reserve the right to not always agree with you. I hope you will just shrug off stupid comments and carry on regardless.
Joe: I think that many people got too worked up and excited over the Alonso/Scumacher controversy yesterday. There was mud-slinging on virtually every blog and forum on the web that touched on the subject, with tempers running high and a poorly worded rule (IMHO) helping to stoke these heated arguments. Having said that, I feel it would be rash to eliminate our chance to comment on your blog because you were unfortunate enough to be on the receiving end of this mud-slinging contest. Much of the charm of these sites lies precisely in the interaction between all parties, the possibility of asking questions to those who know more than the ordinary layman, reading differing opinions, seeing how people from different countries or different parts of the world react in different ways to a single situation, etc. I hope you see this point and reconsider. Perhaps your temper also ran a little too high…
Joe,
What you’re doing is definitely worth it. You provide good information and a forum for people to talk about F1.
Not everyone is going to agree and sometimes people will be rude about it. Don’t let it get you down.
I think there’s always going to be the possibility of some negative responses with a blog. It’s inherently a mix of news and your opinion at times. Write what you think. It’s your blog. But, sometimes people are going lack civility. It’s too bad, but hopefully you don’t decide to scrap the comments because of it. In my opinion, the large majority of comments are from knowledgable people that stimulate intelligent conversation about F1.
I’d also like to appeal to people to curtail the personal attacks on Joe. Agree with him, or not, there’s no reason to resort to personal attacks. Disagree, fine, but do so in a civil manner.
Cheers,
John
Joe,
It would be regrettable if you were to end commenting, but totally understandable. I think that the responses you got to your take on whether Schumacher’s move was legal went overboard. How many of those folks really know the rules or have someone with whom they can confer regarding what the rules mean, or have had the experience that you do.
Some polite questions as to clarification would have been appropriate, but the bullying action by some commentors on that post and those who insisted that you must have been a smoker or hack schilling for Tobacco would drive me to shut off commenting also.
I would miss some of the interesting comments to your unique perspectives that you have. I would miss the removal of good comments the same way that I miss the regular activities of your friends at Sidepod Towers.
Joe- I’d encourage you to leave comments open.
We love your blog and your insights or we wouldn’t be here.
It’s very apparent who the baseless ranters are on the internet, and I quickly ignore them.
Keep up the superb work (please!)
Speaking of penalties, any suggestion on why Rubens didn’t get one for tossing his steering wheel into the path of Chandhok?
Well, it is up to you, but I think generally people here are very well behaved and appreciate your work.
Also, his incident really is a contentious one, just look at the 468! comments JA’s blog article about the incident. The latter even felt obliged to change the headline so as not to appear to make it look like a revenge of Hill against Schumacher.
Joe
Sadly there are a few people who sit at their PC’s / laptops and dash off a load of rubbish, launching various accusations of bias / dishonesty / stupidity at you.
They forget – shooting the messenger makes no difference to the message.
I very much appreciate that you report what you see, and know to be truthful based on your considerable knowledge of the sport from the inside. I also appreciate that sometimes you have inside knowledge (confidential / unofficial etc) which cannot be exposed but which will undoubtedly affect the outcome of a situation.
And so what if you offer an interpretation of an event – if you simply reported facts without any interpretation of them 99% of readers would not understand what is going on – it’s the same with any news report.
I would only accuse you of one thing, and that is being totally passionate about the sport – for which I applaud you. Keep it up!
Nick
Joe,
I wanted to provide some compliments. Over the last year of getting to listen to you from Sidepodcast your wealth of knowledge has allowed me (an F1 fan of only 2 years) to feel in the know and have background that I never could have dreamed. I have just applied for Grand Prix+ and cannot wait till I can check it out and am sure my wife will continue to not believe what a raging F1 nut her husband continues to become.
I appreciate you vastly and thank you for all of your hard work.
Sincerely,
David
joe, just a quick note to support your comments. I check your blog first thing in the morning and then four/five times a day. what I cannot fathom is why you would put up with all the cacá that gets flung your way. thank you for your blog which is always informative and well written. perhaps we would lose all the fanboys if they had to put their hand into their pockets to read your blog. just a thought…
It would be a real shame if the unkind words of a select few resulted in a complete severing of the communication lines between you and your readers.
I find that many F1 journalists are truly “in the bubble”, completely isolated and mostly unaware of the of the feelings of their readers and the F1 audience at large. Were more F1 journalists to participate in discussions with their reader base, I feel they’d suffer far less from this paddock-centric isolation.
That said, a pretty thick skin is a prerequisite for any sporting blog that allows comments. A few rabble rousers will always seek to unsettle and attack those with opinions they don’t share. It simply cannot be avoided.
Don’t let them win.
My advice, get someone else (a volunteer moderator perhaps) to vet reader comments before you even see them, deleting or editing any personal attacks. It won’t stop the attacks, it will will stop you being bothered by them.
I can fully understand your feelings after some idiots have been insulting your opion (as per normal you were spot on). All I can say is that many of us really understand the commitment you give to your blog and keep us all so well informed. I also like reading your blog as it is YOUR opinion, not just news! Sad that some people are so narrow minded and maybe a little misguided. Thanks for all the info, hope to read more from you soon.
A large rabble brings more breadth of opinion along with more incivility and churlishness. Some blogs and forums are interesting from time to time because of that spectacle. For others such as yours, the comments add nothing at all.
I would prefer to see the comments suppressed or moderated and continue to enjoy your thoughts and reportage here.
From the many popular F1 websites, newsprints and blogs that I read on a frequent basis (James Allen, etc), they all have a profound respect for Joe Saward. They’ve reiterated the fact that Saward is a GOLD standard within F1 journalism.
Joe, as a longtime fan of your work, I hope you continue to post and allow comments within this blog. There will always be haters or critiques of your work. But I’m pretty sure you have a lot more positive fans than negative ones. Like many other F1 blogs, the haters are more likely to comment or post a gripe within the comment section and cause the most amount of noise.
Keep up the great work!
Joe, I don’t think it really matters – leave the comments up or not. Some of those who write in are informed, some not, some are just plain idiots – it’s a great deal less nasty then most of the blogs out there. You don’t have to, nor need to, respond to any of them – let it roll off your back.
The main thing is that you keep writing and posting. It’s a great blog with loads of good insight, commentary and “inside info.” That’s what keeps me reading – certainly not the comments that follow each entry.
I don’t understand why Schumacher couldn’t pass Alonso as the green flag was waved, however I doubt that the FIA Court of Appeal removes the penalty (even if it happened to Trulli in Australia).
I hope you will continue your blog Joe because your point of view and your news are very interesting.
Think they made a bit of a mess with that sc restart but rules are rules no matter what, you was bang on joe well done, very quick.
No, Joe, please don’t stop the comments. We that come to this site for the opinions of a man in the know do so because we value your opinion, whether we agree with it or not.
Please don’t let a few trolls and anonymous ignorants stop the excellent service that you provide. I am sure most people here agree with you regarding these trolls and AIs, but I think most of us try to filter them out. I know that might be hard for you when they start attacking your integrity, but I think most of your readers are able to see them for what they are; meaningless.
Best regards,
Ingve
Joe,
The web is a perfect place for people to throw stones from the shadows, and this is sad. I hope you do allow comments to keep being made, but if they continue being abusive, or even unappreciative, then I would not blame you for stopping them. It is not as if people are paying for your blog, so the least they could do was be nice.
Peter.
Hi Joe,
Great site. I read it everyday. I rarely read the comments so I didn’t see it until your post. Unfortunately you are not going to please everyone, and unfortunately there are some people in this world who continually have there eyes closed for whatever reason. I’m currently living in Thailand, there’s battles and gunfire in the streets of Bangkok. There are many, many photos and videos of protesters firing guns, shooting M79 grenades, destroying property, and in one case assassinating a soldier with his own weapon. I can only assume the soldier didn’t use it since he didn’t think it was appropriate at that moment. It’s ridiculous that some will insist that the protesters are unarmed and peaceful. It happens in every walk of life, you just happened to be the target this time…
You just have to ignore some of the idiots and keep your head down and keep doing a great job.
Press on!
Joe you are one of the most knowledgable and passionate men in motor sport. Do not listen to these fools and keep on with your good work. I read only 5 sites daily because there are only 5 good ones but always you first and that is because you find your own angle. There is far too much rubbish written out there about F1 and filtering the news from the crap is always a struggle. The guys with the red passes like you are the ones that uncover and write the news, the rest just syndicate it and those that are important amongst your readers are well aware of this
Good Job
J
I completely understand how you feel, Joe.
It is quite amazing to see people going nuts over certain events that take place in the course of a GP. Obviously, these people have never been involved in racing in any capacity, let alone driving, and have no understanding of how racing is conducted.
It seems that these people think that if they don’t like a rule, or don’t agree with it, it should therefore not be enforced. And how can anybody dare say otherwise!
Who needs this aggro?
Don’t even read the negative ones.
The internet enables so many positives, unfortunately it also seems to give people a feeling of freedom to unleash their anger anonymously and without restraint. It’s a bummer that some people tear down what, as you mentioned, are free contributions. Especially the more followers you get, the more mess people will sling at you. Throw ‘em out. Your work is much appreciated by many!
Never mind the noisy ones, Joe
For every one of them there are gonna be hundreds or thousands of readers out there who utterly enjoy your reports, thoughts and brilliant extrapolations! Keep up the good work, *please*.
Forgot to say: I’m a paying subscriber of grandprixplus.com, but for me the backbone of your work (the part which is accessible to me and feeding my need for daily updates on the F1 stomach feelings and inner workings) still remains your blog, joesaward.wordpress.com . And I’m also regularly recommending it to non-F1-nerds, as a single site where they’re not gonna miss out on anything of interest in F1, even if they haven’t got much time to spend on it.
Joe,
I’d like to add my voice to the no doubt many others who will implore you not to shut down the comments facility on your blog.
It’s human nature that some people will bitch and moan about things, that’s just the way people are. It’s also human nature to complain about a perceived wrong, but when that perception is proved factually incorrect, not to proffer an apology for taking a position before fully establishing the facts.
Put it down to jealousy – we’d all love to be doing what you’re doing, travelling around the world being paid to write about the sport we love, and inevitably some people think they could do it better. That, also, is human nature.
I’m not saying I agree wholeheartedly with everything you ever say, that would be ridiculous. But I agree with you much more often than I disagree and I continue reading because I enjoy the debate that contemporary F1 brings, as, I suspect, do you.
Keep it up.
Joe, I would much rather see the blog continue without comments than not at all, and I completely understand your reasoning. Unfortunately internet sites attract these “trolls” who seem to think abusing people one their web sites is OK. It becomes especially heated with a controversial figure like Mr Schumacher (no, not Ralf). I would like to think we could just ignore the negative, but I’m sure its hard to do so. Keep it going, with or without comments – the news is the important thing. Your site is my “go to” internet place now. There are plenty of other places people can go to shout at each other.
Also, where is the post about your meetup? Melbourne was fantastic, I would loved to have been at Monaco, and would like to hear how it went.
I’m a student in mechanical engineering, and I dream of one day working in motorsport, especially F1. A lot of the people in the same condition as me think that if you learn how to calculate stuff you’ll get hired by some major F1 team interested in a young genius.
I think that to design a car without really know how things go in context is like trying to compose a song without knowing how to play the instrument. Two things have helped me to learn the instrument: buying a racing simulator and reading your blog, which is one of the best things I’ve found since I decided which career I wanted for me.
I’m the type that likes to listen more than speak, so that’s why I’ve only posted once before here. To me, you have already done a great deal of difference, and the blog just keeps getting better and better. Reading it makes me think I’m part of the circus, and that maybe some day I’ll actually get there.
Thank you for doing this!
Joe,
Part of the value of your blog is the ability for people to leave comments. If you remove that, you devalue your blog.
There are plenty of experts (with much larger followings than yours in fields other than F1) that will back this up.
JA has “the rules of the blog” which basically state that posters have to obey some civilised rules. The rules allow disagreement but not personal abuse.
JA does on a routine basis sensor small parts of individual posts (often accompanied by a reminder to read the rules of the blog). On other occasions he completely ignores postings by certain people that are just over the top (you won’t find this on the blog but you can detect it between the lines – I am not a casualty of that system as far as I am aware although I know of one poster on his blog that is pretty much absent these (and I am pleased about that fact)).
I think you should do the same. Have some rules. People that abuse, censor their posts and mention why.
Want to destroy this blog? Disallow postings. That will remove what community spirit you have, prevent valuable feedback etc.
I haven’t read any of the comments over the weekend, so I have no idea what you’ve been accused of, but rise above it, after all you are going to be racing for Ferrari next year aren’t you? along with 200 members of the UK public! Or was that Robert Kubica?
Joe, Your work is greatly appreciated by at least me
I’ve been on line long enough to realize that there are trolls on all forums and blogs whose sole purpose in life is to incite…. go ahead and delete the ‘comment’ opportunities for your peace of mind, and continue blogging in the knowledge that the silent majority reads on….. Cheers.
Ian in Montreal, Canada
I agree with you Joe, please DO NOT allow comments on your excellent blog.
We want to read expert opinion, not red-neck clutter.
I had to stop visiting James Allen’s marvellous site simply because of all the foul language in his comments section.
How can we invite our children to follow motor sport on the internet when they are confronted with disgraceful comments and behaviour.
Please keep your site comment-less, save yourself the aggravation, and us the nuisance.
Hey Joe, I just wanted to say that your blog is a wonderful insight into the other side of F1 and i for one appreciate each and every post you make. Keep up the good work. Ben
Joe
I am a recent ‘convert’ to your blog.
Please just continue as you are – your comments and insight are valued and respected.
F1 is a partisan sport – there will always be those who have a degree of blindness in following their preferred driver/team etc and their comments will reflect this.
Please do not let this get you down – its a hard ask since you can see it as a personal ‘attack’ against you – but keep playing it with a straight bat as you do and the vast majority will continue to appreciate you and support you.
Best regards and also best to continue avoiding air-travel these days – written from USA and concerned as to whether it will be ash clouds or BA strikes that nail my travel plans.
Hi Joe,
Even if this comment doesn’t make it to print i hope that you read it, I would hope that you keep the comments on your blog going! i am sorry that some people have upset you but you are always going top get that with the way the net is set up (faceless)! i really enjoy coming into work every morning and logging straight into your blog to see what is going on, and part of that experience is reading the comments from all the posters and fellow reader! i wouldn’t take it as people trying to make you look stupid more as a compliment that people have actually bothered to come here and read your thoughts and make a contribution (i know not all are positive but they never will be!) Anyway i hope that you still allow it and please dont take what some wanker on the end of a keyboard says to heart! Beau
I know what you mean about abusive and silly comments, anyone with a blog seems to have to put up with that sort of garbage from time to time.
It would be a shame to not allow comments at all, as the majority are well thought out and most that disagree with you do it in a manner that is legitimate and well thought out.
Easiest way around the problem is to “moderate” the comments in your wordpress dashboard. That way you simply delete the abuse and can leave any valid comments (both positive and negative) on your blog.
Thanks for a great blog and keep up the good work
Joe, I enjoy your blog. I can’t tell you how many times i’ve been verbally abused, in a post, by someone who hasn’t even read the rules. Our Sunday F1 meeting group had no doubt Schumacher’s move was illegal and couldn’t believe he had done it. Our fight was over what the penalty would be.
Hi Joe,
I just thought I’d say how much I enjoy your blog, and also (mostly) the contributions of others in the comments section.
I especially like the ability to ask a question and see the reply.
Sure, there’s always some idiots, and obviously it’s your blog and you are free to turn off comments if you choose… I just hope you wont.
Keep up the good work either way… I’ll still be back.
joe
i could not agree with you more on this point. i have read over 300 comments on this small but extremely controversial part of the race, and i am amazed at the in-accurate points of view in regards to what is right and not right. not to mention the heated reply’s in regard to schumacher, alonso and hill. for the record, you have a great site/blog ( i go to it everyday ), very fair and insightful. i always learn something new from your posts. keep it up and don’t let the “armchair experts get to you.”
Joe, everyone here enjoys your blog a LOT. I am sure your reaction to some dick-headed comments probably reflects some fatigue after an exhausting F1 weekend in the Principality
Spend some time posting on a well-known motorsport magazine BB (the name of which starts with ‘A’), to find out what real internet nastiness is like. You’ll develop a skin like leather in no time at all………
I have followed F1 since 1967 having grown up near Watkins Glen. Certainly appreciate your blog. Don’t really care to see readers’ comments. Don’t publish them! Who needs the grief.
Dont let the dogs get to ya mate, keep up the good work. I enjoy your sense of humour and your writing style. Also you dont give off that elitist vibe which I cant stand from anyone, regardless of the industry.
Opinions based on reasonable thought will always be highly respected in my book, even if I dont agree I can appreciate a well thought out piece of journalism.
Hi Joe, I think you should disable the comments. Some make me feel so darn aweful, and they’re not even directed at me! You don’t deserve to be insulted from the very small but vocal minority, most of whom probably spend their free time picking arguments all over the internet.
I understand the need to feel that your work is appreciated. I have really enjoyed your free blog for quite a while, yet this is the first comment I have ever made. I I don’t have anything to add, so I read and enjoy, then leave. Which highlights the problem: Those that enjoy it are silent, those who don’t…complain and insult. If there was a link at the end of an article to click to say I enjoyed the article and to thank the author, I’d click it every time.
I hope you find the motivation and validation to continue your great work.
Joe, Please do not let this get you down. I and many others value your insights and know full well that you are often making a personal comment or opinion. Those who do not understand the distinction are not worth worrying about. Unfortunately there are lots of ‘fans’ out there who have liitle idea of reality and fair play, judging by the rubbish that appears on some web sites!
Rob Saward
Joe,
I am sorry to hear that others are posting negative things about you. I enjoy your blog and hope that you continue it. Who knows why some folks bother to express negativity the way they do. I submit perhaps they are miserable in thier own sad lives. To see you post on something you love so much – especially as an uncompensated blogger – enrichens my life through you. I hope you do not choose to give up the bunch over a few rotten apples.
Ignore the idiots Joe. there are many of us who truly appreciate the (free) service you provide to us. I for one thankyou, and i for one also wish to see the morons who cannot grasp the concept of blogging and the RULES of F1 vanish.
Hey Joe,
who does the moderation on the site, I always assumed it was you? one reason i like this blog is that you don’t get the Massa is the greatest and Hamilton is crap garbage from the idiot repliers…….. At least that has been the case mostly till just now.
Also it allows us, the genuine fans to be a bit closer to the races and the F1 world through this blog. To have you answer a reply from a well thought out question is a highlight of this type of media. By all means kick out the knuckleheads and the abusers but keep it going please.
To everyone else out there i very much enjoy Joe’s GP+ emagazine. if you support him there I am sure he will keep this blog going as well.
Keep up the good work Joe and don’t let the turkeys get you down
Hi Joe. I completely agree with you. There are some people in the world who do not understand the concept of “discussion” or “debate”, and resort to personal abuse rather than using clear-thinking to address the issues raised.
Perhaps the law is vague, but it exists and was applied appropriately, and that is all you said. Please do not be discouraged by these people. Their inadequacies only add to your argument. Unfortunately, if you choose to stop allowing comments on your blog, this will only add fuel to their irrationality. Such people permeate society and we all have to deal with them on a daily basis. I can only suggest you do as I do; take a deep breath, and rejoice in the fact that you are rational, clear-thinking, and capable of having an opinion that is based on observation and logic. Keep up the great work!
For what its worth Joe, I think it would be a shame to see comments stopped because of a few fools that think they know better than you, and had to say so in the worst possible way.
Personally I didn’t see anything wrong with your original post, I thought you just explained things very simply, though perhaps more bluntly than other journalists. But then as an Aussie I don’t mind a bit of bluntness.
Go Webber!
Don’t be disheartened, Joe.
The silent majority loves the blog, and don’t let a few uncouth bigots put you off.
Unfortunately the internet seems to have reinforced the view that everyone’s view is equally valid, and that everyone should have their say.
Independence and objectivity are sadly lacking – which makes your independent and objective view even more important.
How about a charge of €1 to post a comment, thru PayPal, to defray your costs of running the site? Then when the great unwashed shout ‘shall’ / ‘shan’t', ‘was’ / ‘wasn’t’ you can sit back and watch, and think about which wine to spend it on.
And, your heroes like Williams and Benoist endured more and pressed on regardless.
Have a good trip, and maybe we can use the time ponder on whether the right colour flags were being shown or not. Yellow means safety car, green means you can overtake, I wonder if Ross has a point that the intent might have been one thing, but the signals said something else…..
Don’t sweat it. The simple fact that people get worked up means that they are paying attention to what you say, which is a good thing. It would be worse if no one cared.
I don’t always agree with your opinions, but I always read them because you have informed, intelligent points about this sport. Don’t stop doing what you are doing.
Hi Joe,
Why one would choose to make any negative comments towards you is beyond me, they can simply choose not to read this blog. No benefit comes from attacking anyone regarding an opinion, everyone is entitled to it.
for the record I miss your work in autralia when you were writing for Motorsport News, it was my favourite item to read (about anything) as you write with such passion and insight as well as intelligence.
As for making attacks, don’t let it upset you (those people are allowed their opinions too but if we let it get to us then they accomplished their mission).
Please keep up the brilliant and informative work you do in a world where media make headlines just for the sake of making headlines (and then all copy each other in the process). I am happy to say you definitely stand out as a leader in your field (from my perspective).
Kind Regards
John
Your blog is much appreciated Joe. The insight you give, both with the current and the historical snippets are great to read. You provide us with information which won’t be covered elsewhere in a style which keeps us all coming back for more. The personal tales regarding travel and communications also add a welcome touch to an informative blog.
Incidents such as these will always get the “fanboi’s” arguing. Unfortunately that is the way the internet has gon. People think they know best and have an easy and, (I think key) an anonymous, way to put their blinkered view.
Put it down to the incident rather than your post.
I rarely come back to read the comments on posts, only you can decide if the occasional thread and rabid responses like this incident cause more pain than it’s worth to keep the other responses, questions and interaction on the other, less emotive, posts.
But please keep going with your blog. Despite years or reading blogs, this is the first time I’ve put fingers to keys to comment on one.
R
Joe,
I do not think I would be the only one to be sad if you ceased the commenting. The comments, and your responses, often add an extra dimension to the blog.
If you state an opinion, of course people will disagree, and of course this will vary from the reasonably argued to the abusive.
Obviously, to some extent you take it personally, but apart from blocking the rudest comments, could you just not try to let it go? Just let people disagree, argue amongst themselves, not respond unless a good point is raised or clarification is needed, and let people make up their own minds? The high regard your writing is held in amongst the sea of blogs is hugely self-evident.
As it happens, as an arm-chair enthusiast, I have carefully read the rules and disagree with you and the stewards over the Schumacher penalty, and have argued that viewpoint on my blog. That is not to say I do not highly respect both your opinions and inside knowledge, but surely disagreement is allowed?
You play to a large room. You are bound to get a few mindless hecklers. These people condemn themselves with their rudeness. Please remember the vast majority of us realise that.
Hi Joe,
Greetings from downunder!
I have enjoyed your writings over the years.
I am sorry that there are a few people who have chosen to abuse you over your blog.
I have only recently discovered your blog, and check it out every day.
Please keep up the good work!
PS do you think that the F1 paddock is now re-evaluating Mark Webber now that he finally appears to have the car to get the job done???
Take care,
Stephen Luckins
Melbourne AUSTRALIA
you have my support Joe, its a great site – its my daily read, religiously. Unfortunately you will get these people from time to time, hopefully it won’t put you off – continue the good work eh.
Just found this on Autosport.com… Any truth?
Briatore also returned to the F1 paddock for the first time since the Renault Singapore Grand Prix race fix controversy – having lunch with Bernie Ecclestone on Friday’s rest day and then returning once again on Sunday. Word has it he may soon be working for Ecclestone to help in promoting the sport…
Joe,
Firstly this blog is a great resource for every F1 fan, your time-served knowledge and contacts are evident in your writing. As a long time reader I believe that the comments are largely a good thing. Questions can be raised and you can answer often providing extra insight.
It is poor form and frankly rude that people insult you in this way. However, anonymous opinion has no substance and I would guess it is ignored by most of your readers.
Keep up the good work and I will continue to visit your blog whatever format you decide upon.
Hi Joe,
I read some of the comments that get left on your site. Very unfair.
I would guess your readership is far higher than the people who comment. Most of those come here for your insiders point of view. Or at least I do. I don’t always agree but then you are there, I am not, unfortunately.
This is the first comment I have left. But I certainly don’t read them anymore!
If you want to see nasty then start a forum!!!
joe,
your site is one of the most informative and interesting f1 sites there is. people who abuse you do not understand or appreciate your depth of knowledge and incite. whatever you decide regarding allowing comments or not, i hope it does not lead to you removing your blog.
keep up the fantastic work.
Joe,
Hang on in there! You’re doing a great job, and lots of us benefit from your views on the blog – don’t let the naysayers get you down!
Georg
I read your piece with concern. I also read the comments and could see nothing that could be classified as insulting or against your reputation as a Journalist/blogger.
Blogging is putting your opinion in print. Good. That is your prerogative and the response to that is equally justified whether correct or incorrect or opinionated. I was involved with F1 from 1972 – 1975, in the paddock, with the teams ,and I cannot remember anything from those days which involved such complication in the rules and regulations( you may do however )
It would seem that there is too much controversy over small matters. In any sport the referee’s decision is final whether is it is right or wrong. Your interpretation of the regulations , from the acres of comment passed , would seem to be right – according to the book.
BUT I am not a referee just an armchair viewer. I have not read the regs nor it would seem do I want to. I have to note however that if the green lights were illuminated and the flags were green then it would appear that the race had been restarted. My opinion.
I don’t think you should be concerned by whatever people
write to put forward their opininons. It is your blog and if people want to question your blog then let them. At least you can say you have created a discussion.
Kind regards
Joe,
I just read the article and comments leading up to this article. I watched the race on TV and Schumacher’s pass caught me by surprise since it seemed the end had been decided. It seems odd that there is another line for similar circumstances that occur during times other than the last lap. Appeals sometimes work and sometimes don’t. There is clearly some ambiguity here. That’s what a legal system is supposed to resolve. If it becomes clear the intent is to preclude any further passing, then the wording may need to be changed.
Regarding the less than polite comments, one of the reasons I read this site and only one or two others is that most comments are thoughtful and constructive – I don’t always agree with you. I don’t consider myself an armchair expert even though I am a retired engineer and have followed F1 for a few decades. Nevertheless, a disagreement on interpretation is not an attack – I had presumed that some comments that are similar to other forums with the ** and ## and such would be weeded out as they should.
It appears Damon Hill himself agrees that the driver should be there to add some reality to he steward’s deliberation but most assuredly, a driver’s license doesn’t bestow some preternatural ability to interpret a rule that many clearly find ambiguous.
We’ll see how the appeal goes. Meanwhile who is going to appeal the lack of response to Barachello’s irresponsible and reckless behavior. Where was Mssr. Hill’s input for that. What about Chandok dragging the steering wheel around the track a bit. Chandok didn’t deserve that. If Rubin’s really was in a rush he would not have sat in the car so long after tossing the wheel on the racing line. He also could have tossed it in almost any other direction. Seems kind of petulent to me.
Robert & others
The reason that you may not understand what I mean by abuse is that I did not publish the abusive stuff. I read it but why on earth would I agree to publish the unpleasant opinions of people who do not understand what a blog is and think they have a right to abuse people because they think they know better. I have nothing against constructive criticism but I am not wasting my time on this sort of stuff. I am not going to publish abuse. The blog exists to give fans a chance to see F1 from the inside. If they do not like that, then I will not bother.
In all honesty Joe; I have found your comments to be the most NEUTRAL in the entire industry. You not only don’t take sides but call things by their name. A bunch of guys/gals from my town here in Calgary appreciate inmensly what you are doing.
Keep it up, do not get bog down by some ignorants out there who cannot differenciate right from wrong.
We feel you are doing a great job !!!!
Regards and look forwards daily to another great write up.
Juan Julian
It seems you are not alone Joe, Damon has apparently also received abuse. I always thought this level of blind “loyalty” was restricted to football, unfortunately that doesn’t seem to be the case.
If you do stop the comments I just hope you don’t stop the blog entirely.
Joe, I think you should eliminate the comment section. You’re a fine journalist and it should be enough for all your readers simply to enjoy your knowledge of the sport we all love.
We met at Indy many years ago through another journalist.
I think the noise of the mob is annoying and bothersome and the slanders are too much (and who doesn’t think that?) …. just eliminate this section.
You’ll have more time and more peace.
Joe, a reader here from Brazil, and I am sure I am just one of many.
Your work is superb, light hearted and serious nonetheless. I love to come here to read stuff I can’t read anywhere else and I really appreciate your gigantic effort to read and approve every single comment made on your blog for the sake of not disrespecting the readers who actually understand and value your take on F1 as a whole.
Thank you and if you think blocking any kind of comment is better for your work’s fluency, let it be. I don’t mind as long as you keep writing and informing us.
Thank you.
Joe,
Yours and James Allen’s are the 2 best impartial and very informative blogs.
Comments are very useful as they generally keep the discussion going and offer other views, but I do understand that we do not see all the comments that you do not feel are fit for publishing.
Please do keep up the blog – and if possible comments.
I have just subscribed to GP+
Chris.
Hi Joe,
It really is a shame that there are people out there that have a pressing need (and or desire) to be abusive on sites such as this.
I have experienced the same on sites that I have worked on in the past and it is never a pleasant feeling.
Recently I have adopted the attitude of shrugging my shoulders and ignoring digital flame throwers – in the end, they are only making fools of themselves.
I do sincerely hope you continue with both the blog and the comments – as a regular reader and commenter (and a satisfied attendee at the London evening), it is wonderful that there such an informative site freely available to fans of the sport.
It is sites such as this one that add so much more to the sport that I love greatly.
Best,
Joe,
Just want to add my voice to the chorus in support of you and whatever you decide on the comments.
Re the abusive posts you discard, I have actually been surprised in the past at some of the things you do deign to let through — nasty comments about your photograph and such similar Nobel-winning idiocy.
I echo Kitchen Cynic’s comments — I read you and James Allen regularly for F1 comment, but your independent perspective, and the fact that you seem to attract a better, sharper class of commenter, make this blog the first choice.
Please keep it up!
My god, 220 comments about comments…:)
Seriously though, do what you feel is right but like others have said, it would be a shame to have a blog with no comments.
I think any nonsense should just be deleted and i.p’s banned so the rest of us can enjoy your thoughts and insights everyday and also interact with you in this section.
Hopefully a few bad apples wont spoil it for the rest of us.
Joe,
Thanks for not posting the abusive stuff. It is not constructive and takes away from the civil discourse the comments section should be.
I think the comments are one of the best parts of blogs especially when the blogger also adds their comments like you do.
Other than watching the races on Speed and listening to the Live 5 podcast your blog is my main source for F1 news and going ons.
GREAT JOB!
Joe, I assume that you are keeping the forum alive, we all thank you. I’m one old dog who thoroughly enjoys everything you choose to write about, you know what is really important in F1, you are a real professonal! Almost all of your following are from people 40 to 60 years younger than me. Bridging the generation gap is a challange for guys my age but the the quality of your work and the overall comments that it attracts sure make that easier and leaves me comfortable about our future, F1 or any thing else!
Joe, you have the best blog of all I think, with or without the comments.
Joe – I have you from grandprix.com to your own blog and really appreciate what you do.
If you need to remove commenting, so be it – but please continue posting. The insight is wonderful.
Dave.
Hi Joe, having read a lot of the responese to this post, i agree with the majority, u have the best blog on F1 , keep up the good work !! I know I always go to your site first every day
Joe,
please do not stop issuing the most sensible blog over our favorite sport
Cheers from France
Hi Joe, very sad to hear of the ignorance you experienced. I’ve only been reading your blog for a few months but very much appreciate you taking the time to write (1 of my homepages). It sometimes takes a thick skin to put yourself out there and I hope you can see your way through to simply ‘flushing’ the ignorance. We so enjoy reading your postings.
Don
Montreal, CAN.
Joe don’t go!
You are an important part of the F1 scene and your blog is important to many more people that you may even begin to realise.
Regards
Dave