I just checked and Mclaren made it to race 7 in 2015 before getting penalties. Though I think they were allowed 5 changes then.
Looking like Ferrari is going to be the car of the season, far to early to say for sure obviously but it's just sneaking it on a mix of circuits so far. Their only down side is how they are going through PU components, who knows, it could work out brilliantly, Ferrari fastest but having to work for it through penalties. It's a fine line and early days, but I fear Sunday at least will be a Ferrari walk in the park.
Well then, this race is looking like a Ferrari walk over. Unless they've changed strategies and Mercedes have gone for race pace.
Pretty much what I was thinking, in my opinion Mercedes whole design philosophy since they came back to F1 has been about that 1 quali pace and getting to the front, knowing that it's almost guaranteed to win. The new tyres and aero rules have changed that a bit so it isn't the almost guaranteed win it has been. Massa flying again, how long will Stroll last?
hmm, I dunno about that, they have an extra .5 in the tank for quali, and Hamilton hasn't done a good flying lap all weekend, he's been very scrappy. I could see him stealing pole, though I think Bottas will have the better race. This race could prove the truth of Mercedes and team orders..
Eddie J making some predictions. McL to run Merc engines and Sauber to run Honda. Says that McL were considering using a Merc after summer break but will now see out season with Honda. Also saying that Alonso going to Renault. Interesting speculation. Always fun to hear Eddie.
Both depend on what Honda do during the season because Ron was right, McLaren won't win a championship as a customer team. Be funny if they swapped and started getting beaten by a constant Q3 Sauber. I want a merc pole by a couple of tenths, then I think we'll see a race tomorrow.
With Mercedes engines you'd think they'd be decent at least. Would be a weird time for Fernando to leave.
Still think Mercedes will take the sandbags out and get Pole. Think it's Vettels race to lose though.