They've left a 1.27.6 behind there. This says car is about a second a lap faster than anything last season. The Aston performance says that merc engine is up there somewhere, not sure if it's 2nd or 3rd based on some scratchy no 2 drivers. Lets see what comes but it's all about suspension and ground effect airflow and a complete new design for merc
Gee whizz. That sort of time difference is a trick aspect that people haven’t figured out. We’re in Brawn double diffuser territory here if that’s the pace differential. Honda also a superb PU now and I’m led to believe from a fuel and ERS deployment is kicking Mercs arse. Looks like Aston might be onto the secrets somewhat - wonder if they can develop to make this a fight? Doesn’t look like Ferrari or Merc are quite ready.
Quite a few cars out of position, should make for some interest in the race. I’m anticipating bigging up Norris all season so in the interest of balance: not his finest hour today, interesting given that Piastri was close to his pace, could be a sign he’s having to lift his game?
Interesting vid comparing Lewis and George. They could have matched up the cars locations better as they became out of sync a little but interesting to see different techniques.
Russell & Domenicali trying not to piss themselves laughing at the Saudi band doing the Saudi National Anthem
Interesting that for once Merc have split strat with George on Mediums and Lewis on Hards, could be interesting later in the race.
****ing speed on these Red Bulls. Imagine investing millions and millions in closer racing and then locking in an engine freeze where Honda is the clear ****ing dominant engine. I’m so peed off with this era- it’s got all the potential but has been policed pathetically. Merc domination in 14,15 was just as bad and now we’ve managed to repeat it but change the leader. <Doh>