Have you spent the past few weeks wondering why all Formula One cars seem to have grown (what can only be called) a phallic appendage at the front and why they are so damned quiet? You are not alone, but thankfully an Irish company may be able to provide the answers to these and many other questions.
The vStream Group has launched a unique online initiative for the McLaren-Mercedes Formula One Team and SAP called 'Mission Control'. Essentially a clever video website, Mission Control allows users to interact with the 2014 McLaren-Mercedes and learn about the key differences for the new season. But that's not all, as Mission Control also gives users behind the scenes access to the team for the entire season.
Launched in time for the Malaysian Grand Prix in Sepang, Mission Control is fronted by TV presenter Kirsteen O'Sullivan, whose job it will be to guide fans throughout the season and help them win more points. Yes, the fans win points not just the teams, with the top scorer at the end of the season winning a money-can't-buy -tour of the McLaren Technology Centre in Woking.
Anything else?
Commenting on the announcement of Mission Control Online, Andrew Jenkinson co-founder of the vStream Group said, "This initiative is a dream for technology and F1 fans. The access that users are permitted to have to this level content has never been seen before in Formula 1. As a motorsport fan, I am so excited to bring something like this to the market, as it will draw McLaren's global fan base closer to the team."
To sign up for Mission Control Online, you can log on to www.mclaren.com or www.onlinemissioncontrol.com and sign up via Facebook or email.
TV presenter Kirsteen O'Sullivan explains Mission Control in a video here.