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Tuzla, Istanbul.
11/05/08
2007 winner, Felipe Massa
58 laps
GRAND PRIX OF TURKEY
FIA Formula 1 World Championship
ISTANBUL
An unfamiliarly early date with unseasonably cool weather in Turkey produced caused some surprises in qualifying, Ferrari not enjoying the expected advantage. However, it did not stop Istanbul specialist Massa sticking his car on pole, with Raikkonen disappointed in p4 behind both McLarens. Race day was similarly cool and after a long delay at the lights Massa got away cleanly while Hamilton slipped by his team mate who - in pinching the faster starting Raikkonen - picked up a rear puncture that put him well down the field and dropped the Finn behind Alonso and Kubica. Massa eased away from the McLaren initially but on the softer tyres seemed to struggle later in the run. It soon became apparent Hamilton was going to three stop to better utilise the 'hard' tyres while the Ferrari preferred to two stop and use the 'soft' tyres. Hamilton was quickly past the leading Ferrari on the track as again the tyres grained but as the pit stops panned out Massa was able to comfortably retake the lead and a third consecutive victory at Istanbul. The McLaren's pace was just enough to keep ahead of Raikkonen completing the podium, with the BMWs trailing behind.