2012 European Grand Prix Qualifying: Vettel takes pole with Hamilton alongside

The 2012 European Grand Prix on the street circuit in Valencia sees Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel on pole position with Lewis Hamilton’s  McLaren alongside. Slowly, but not yet completely, Red Bull and McLaren seem to be getting a handle on the topsy-turvy 2012 Grand Prix Circus. Despite serious challenges in final qualifying, it was Sebastian Vettel who set a blistering time to take pole, his third pole of the 2012 season, 33rd of his career and third at Valencia.

VIDEO: Andrea Zagato and his 1957 Alfa Romeo 1900 SSZ

Our friends over at Petrolicious have gone and produced another beautiful video, this time focusing their lens on Andrea Zagato and one of his father’s creations, the 1957 Alfa Romeo 1900 SSZ. Shot both in Zagato’s Milanese facility and also on the road, Essential Beauty is a visually stunning and also insightful film into the philosophy of a company that, even though now in the hands of the third generation of family ownership, is unwavering in its ideology. If your Italian’s not quite up to scratch, head to YouTube and turn on the English subtitles.

Ed Balls faces driving ban

SHADOW CHANCELLOR Ed Balls could be banned from driving today as he answers a summons for failing to stop after bumping another car. The case, which arises from an incident in the Morley and Outwood MP's constituency on April 5, will be heard by magistrates in Leeds, although the Labour front-bencher is not expected to attend court. Mr Balls's office has said he will be responding in writing and will not contest the charge.