In two weeks’ time, Formula 1 drivers will line up for the first Grand Prix of the season. Testing concluded on Friday and has already offered early indications of how the competitive order might look in the new campaign.
Analysis of the test sessions suggests that Mercedes, Ferrari, reigning champions McLaren, and Red Bull did the best job overall. However, no team wants to arrive in Melbourne carrying the label of pre-season favorite. Ferrari set the fastest lap time, but with changes to the regulations, there was once again no shortage of uncertainty and, as a result, accusations of irregularities.
After the tests, Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies described the current atmosphere in the paddock:
“There is a game going on in the paddock right now where every team tries to shift attention onto their rivals. Our approach is to ignore that and focus on ourselves.”
In Bahrain, Ferrari was the fastest team and also presented one of the most aerodynamically intriguing cars on the grid. This week, they surprised many by running a rear wing mounted in a reversed orientation.
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur was satisfied with the work completed during testing:
“Our main goal was to complete a lot of laps, gather as much data as possible, and improve day by day. We achieved that, but we must stay focused on ourselves and try to be even quicker in Melbourne.”
Before testing began, Mercedes were widely considered the main favorites, but rival teams accused them of exploiting loopholes in the design of their power unit. Following complaints, a new method for checking engine compression will come into force in August.
Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff defended his team’s approach:
“Formula One is a meritocracy. We don’t want everyone to be the same. Our engine was developed in full compliance with the regulations, as confirmed by the FIA, and only then did our competitors begin attacking us.”
The biggest disappointment ahead of the season appears to be Aston Martin. The car designed by legendary engineer Adrian Newey is far from being competitive enough to fight for the top positions. Problems with the Honda power unit are not the team’s only concern.
Aston Martin team principal Mike Krack outlined the scale of the challenges facing the team:
“We face challenges in every area, as we have new partners, electronics, gearbox, and suspension. The problem isn’t isolated to just one aspect. If we only had to fix one thing, it would be much easier.”
The leading contenders ahead of the season are known, but the true balance of power will only be revealed at the race in Melbourne. Until then, every driver can still hope for the best. As always, you’ll be able to watch the Australian Grand Prix live for free on WeStreamF1.
